Firestone Lay By

Friday 2 August 2024

4.7 miles Leader Lyn B.

Weather 25°C. Quite warm!!

No. on walk 19 +2 Dogs

We maintained a steady plod, not wishing to over exert, as we made our way towards Duffield and circling back through Hazelwood, forever seeking that little bit of illusive shade. We started by walking North Lane, eventually taking the steep path down, to walk beside Chevin Golf Course, admiring the tenacity of those pulling their golf carts around, on what seems like the side of a mountain. We stopped for the morning break, in a shaded spot, just shy of the club house, where beneath the trees, we enjoyed a chat and a cooling drink. We then made our way to cross over the Hazelwood Road, taking the path to the rear of the cemetery, then to cross the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway. On our way to it, we heard the toot of a steam train approaching the foot crossing, to warn any pedestrians of its imminent arrival. Unfortunately, we missed seeing it on its way up, but we did see it as it made its return journey back to Wirksworth. We could then identify the steam locomotive as The Duke, (circa 1940’s) recently restored (thirteen plus years of volunteer time) hauling the service today. We watched it chug its way toward Wirksworth, some seven miles distant, smoke rising from the funnel and the distinctive smell drifting our way as we moved on to Hazelwood, for a final stroll through a Wheat field, exiting in Goodman’s Lane. Then a short walk back to the cars, left sweltering in the heat.

Good walk with some great views over this wonderful countryside.