The weather forecast was for rain later and they actually got it right, as we got about half way, to just before morning break time. We took our break at the wonderfully restored and preserved Wingfield Station. No trains stop here now, but the adjacent lines, carry high speed trains, whizzing past the fenced off platform at full speed. I tried to take a picture, but it was just a blur. The station probably the focal point of our walk, amazing place and it’s incredible the work they have done to the east of the car park, which, incidentally was full, with visitor’s vehicles, stopping by to look and to take the benefit of tea and cake in the historic station building. There’s also a separate room set aside with a model railway system set out. Many of us to, took advantage of the facilities and something to eat and drink. We must make a note to visit here again, in drier times, as there is now plenty of picnic tables and seating in a delightful woodland setting just off the car park.

The route. We walked up the park to pass by the rear of Alfreton Hall, the estate dating back to Norman times and the Hall was held in the Morewood family name from around the eighteenth century. It was acquired by Derbyshire County council in the 1960’s and has been used for commercial uses, such as a wedding venue. In 2006 it was taken on by Genesis Social Enterprise, which benefits the town and local area. After walking through the churchyard of St. Martins’ we took the well-used track and path to Oakerthorpe, crossing over the road near to The Peacock. We followed the field paths which eventually brought us to the aforementioned Wingfield station. From here we crossed over the Wessington Road to walk the path, south, beside the railway line, until reaching Shaw Wood Farm. Here we took the upper path through the woods, to reach the communication mast atop David’s Hill. Downhill now, slippery in places to Hollybank House to cross over the B6013. We carried on ahead, into Nix Plantation and Nature reserve, walking betwixt, Alfreton Beck and the golf course. On reaching Highfield House, we took a small path, created by the owners of the house, which allowed us to reach a footbridge and boardwalk, easily crossing over the infamous swamp, which had been the curse of walkers for many a year. We passed around the newly built estate, crossing the busy Oakerthorpe road and so to our cars. By now it was raining quite heavily, so it was a relief to divest ourselves of our wet gear and drive home in comfort. Thanks to Bill and Julie for putting on this walk, filling a gap in our walking calendar at short notice.