Daffodils

Friday 14 March 2025

4.8 miles Leader David d.

Weather 7°C. Chilly / bright.

No on walk 22 + four dogs

A bright, but rather chilly start to the walk along the canal path as far as Aqueduct Cottage.   The walk improved somewhat, once we entered the wooded hills above the Cromford Canal, making our way, on this now annual pilgrimage to see the wild Daffodils, in a natural woodland setting. We had our fifteen-minute break sitting, surrounded, in that place, with the best show of Daffs, we have seen here for some time. We made our way back along the high Nightingale path, pausing to view the Nightingale Seat (pictured). Once across the road at Lea Bridge, we entered Bow Wood, eventually to pass under the bent Beech, mentioned by Alison Utley in one of her children’s novels. Once past Castletop Farm, Utley’s home, we descended the road, bearing right to cross the pastures to walk through Wood End. Here taking long flights of steps down to Lea Road, carefully negotiating, the stile and a big step down onto the narrow pavement. After a quarter of a mile and having crossed over the bridge over the River Derwent, we entered the car park, around twelve forty-five, with all, seemingly pleased with the days offering. Thanks to all for your attendance and kind words.