We love England
This weekend is something of a tradition, as we join our friends Debbie & Adrian for a walking weekend in Derbyshire. Derbyshire, and the beautiful Peak District, is Phil’s homeland. He grew up with this country on his doorstep.
Actually this time we are billeted just across the boundary in the village of Waterhouses, in Staffordshire, but the tradition is interrupted still more by the English weather. Saturday is an utter washout, driving rain all day and temperatures only reaching a maximum of 10, this is not summer!
So instead of our usual long day hiking, we escape the rain and cold by visiting Chatsworth , undoubtedly one of England’s most wonderful stately homes, seat of the Duke of Devonshire and with a wonderful history. The gardens are just stunning. Chatsworth really is a wonderful place.
After Chatsworth we visit Bakewell, picking up a traditional Bakewell pudding. The modern day version, dry by comparison and topped with icing, bears only a passing resemblance to the real thing, which is a wonderfully satisfying treat available throughout the town of its origin.
Sunday is better. We manage an 8-mile hike around Grindon and the Manifold Valley, sun shining and the day wonderful.
