WALKING GROUP -
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2024February 7th - Lakeside and Wollaton ParkWe took the bus and tram to The Lakeside Centre at Nottingham University, where first stop was the café. After our drink we followed the lake and walked through the campus, stopping at the lovely Edward Lutyens house surrounded by a Gertrude Jekyll garden. Crossing the busy road we entered the grounds of Wollaton Park, first stop being to see a great oak tree that rivalled the Major Oak. We were lucky to see the deer in the distance as we made our way to the Hall. Here we had our picnic in the courtyard before going inside to see the Miniature Masterpieces exhibition of Dr Willard Wigan's work. You needed the microscopes to see the works that he had produced in the eye of needles. The exhibition of stuffed animals also brought back happy memories for some people. A great day and we were very fortunate with the weather. More pictures Photos 2024
January 3rd - localThis should have been our annual New Year's walk to Gunthorpe and back. However, flooding completely stopped us in our tracks. We ended up with a short local walk then over to The Wheatsheaf for coffee and a planning session for this coming year.
2023December 6th - SouthwellWe travelled by bus back to Southwell for a walk through the Minister Gardens before going to a beautifully decorated La Parisienne for a lovely lunch. More pictures in the Gallery Photos 2023
November 1st - SouthwellThis should have been a walk to the Netherfield Lagoons but after the recent flooding the ground is still waterlogged. Instead we took a bus to Southwell and followed the trail up to Norwood Park, where we stopped for coffee, then continued along the trail The Final Whistle before an early bus back to Burton Joyce. Despite the forecast rain we had a lovely sunny morning.
October 4th - Gedling Country ParkThe Group walked out of the village from the top of Lambley Lane and onto Gedling Country Park to see the new Holocaust Memorial
September 5th - SouthwellOn a really hot day for September we went to have a look at the Gardens at Southwell Minister, which have improved a lot since the new Head Gardner arrived and managed to get 14 volunteers to help her. Following a brief look inside the Minister the majority of the group had a picnic and found a place near the war memorial on the Burgage to watch the Tour of Britain Bike Race go through the town. More pictures in Photos 2023
August 15th - Bilborough and StrelleyThis was a walk originally taken on 5th October last year when during the whole day the rain didn't stop pouring down. This time 12 members again started at St. Martin's Church, Bilborough to see Evelyn Gibbs Murals of Mary and Joseph and received another lovely welcome. Then we walked on to Strelley Hall for a welcome drink in their courtyard. Leaving there we walked across the fields for a picnic beside the Water Tower at Kimberley, finishing with another drink at a favourite café before the 2 buses home. More pictures in Photos 2023
July 5th - GunthorpeA dozen of us, plus Mabel the dog, set off from Burton Joyce Village Hall to walk beside the river to Gunthorpe. Once there we headed straight for La Vague for a welcome drink, and for some a toasted teacake. The return journey was dedicated to picking up all the litter we saw on the way. The haul included a deflated football, a number of plastic bottles, and discarded wrappers etc..
June 7th - Thurgarton PrioryA return to a favourite walk up to Thurgarton Priory on a circular route. We stopped at the sheep dip for a drink and to practice some of our monthly meeting entertainment for the next evening. We finished the walk at The Red Lion where they couldn't have been nicer in getting us a quick drink before our bus back to Burton Joyce.
May 3rd - Ploughman's WoodThe day was ideal for walking the only downside was the mud after previous rainy days, initially it didn't create many problems until we were in the woods on the lower paths by the perimeters with the fields when we "hit" some difficult parts especially on our return path close to the entrance gates into the wood, but with help from each other we managed it!
April 5th - Bennerley ViaductThe start of our walk along the Erewash Canal to Bennerley Viaduct. The rain came heavier as we went along so after the viaduct we decided a nice warm break in a lovely café, The Oat Shed at Kimberley was just what we needed. See more pictures at Photos 2023
March 1st - City walkThree Railways and a Picture - We followed the route of three long gone railways that used to crisscross Nottingham and in doing so found parts of the city we didn't and with some lovely views. More pictures Photos 2023
February 1st - AttenboroughWhat a great walk we had on Wednesday. It was rather windy but it was still enjoyable. There weren't many birds at the beginning of the walk but, when we got closer to the Visitor Centre there were more. More pictures Photos 2023
January 4th - GunthorpeAs is now getting into a habit, some of the members of the Walking Group met for a New Year walk down to Gunthorpe for fresh air and a welcome coffee at La Vague before the journey back home. It was muddy and windy but they all seemed to enjoy it. More pictures Photos 2023
2022December 7th - SouthwellWe had a leisurely start to the day by catching the 10.08 bus from the village to Southwell. There we got off the bus on Allenby Road to walk through the grounds of Norwood Park. We stopped at the Golf Club there for a welcome coffee then continue via Maythorne to The Final Whistle for a cob and a glass of mulled or ordinary wine. It was a lovely fresh sunny day just perfect for our Christmas stroll. More Photos 2022
November 2nd - CarltonWe took the bus to Florence Road Gedling, then walked across Jubilee Park towards Netherfield lagoons. We did not go round the lagoons but continued on to Stoke Lock and followed the Trent to Stoke Bardolph for a welcome hot drink at The Ferryboat. From there it was back to Burton Joyce. More pictures in Photos 2022
October 5th - Bilborough and StrelleySeven members took 2 buses through to Bilborough to visit St. Martins Church to see the murals painted by Evelyn Gibbs during the Second World War, and which were uncovered in 2009 when workmen were doing some rewiring work. After leaving the church six of us walked through the pouring rain to Strelley Hall, where we had a welcome lunch. More pictures in the Gallery Photos 2022
September 7th - TutburyTutbury and Rolleston on Dove, (a lovely area with some interesting properties).
We were very lucky with the weather as rain was predicted but came literally as we were getting on the train for the return journey and was torrential especially in the Derby area but once we returned to BJ there was none. More pictures in Gallery Photos 2022 August 3rd - Rolleston13 members of the Walking Group went to Rolleston, via a change of buses at Southwell, to follow the Kate Greenaway Trail which we had heard about from our speakers at our July monthly meeting.
Following the trip around Rolleston we walked over to Moreton for our lunch picnic, then back across the fields into Southwell for the bus home. More photos in Photos 2022
July 6th - EpperstoneGoing to Epperstone on the local bus from Lowdham on a lovely July day our ladies had a good walk, and someone proved to be a dog magnet.
June 1st - Radcliffe on TrentThe well deserved treat at The Unicorn, part way through the walk along the river from Radcliffe, crossing at Gunthorpe then home along our side of the river bank. More pictures Photos 2022
May 4th - Ploughman's WoodBluebell time again and 11 members of our Walking Group, and 2 small dogs, headed out of Burton Joyce up Bridle Path, over to Lambley, then on to Ploughman's Wood. There in the centre of the wood there was time for a well earned drink. More photos in Photos 2022
April 6th - Gedling Country ParkNow that the Gedling New Road is complete, we walked up to Gedling Country Park so see it in action. Photos of road in Out and About
We had had a sunny walk over the hill to Lambley, which was enhanced by the May blossom. It was a lovely clear day when we got to the Park and from the viewing point we could see Lincoln Cathedral for the first time. However, the wind got up and after we had stopped for a drink we had to head home in a shower of rain. More photos in Photos 2022 March 3rd - GunthorpeAs a number of our members were taking part in the County Welcome Walk at Bleasby two days later, the members met at BJ Village Hall and had a walk down to Gunthorpe for coffee at La Vague, and back again.
February 3rd - LowdhamCarol, one of our members who lives at Lowdham kindly arranged for our group of 14 to meet 2 ladies from FLAG (Lowdham Flood Action Group) to learn about what is happening with flood defences on their playing field and the action group which monitors the flooding in the village and helps their vulnerable residents. More photos Photos 2022
January 5th - Nottingham City walkIn the lovely sunshine but bitter wind, we did a circular walk from Parliament Street, through Hockley, and up to the Castle for coffee in their new café. Then around The Park crossing Newcastle and Lincoln Circuses and up Tunnel Road back into the City. Crossing town again for lunch at the café at the Broadway Cinema before back to Parliament Street for the bus home.
2021December 1st - BleasbyJust a short walk to-day from Thurgarton to Bleasby to have our Christmas lunch at Bleasby Tea Rooms before walking back to Thurgarton for the bus back to Burton Joyce.
November 3rd - 2 Mills WalkThis photo shows Gonalston Mill which was the first stop for 12 members of our walking group to learn a bit of local history. On through the unspoilt village to the architect designed church before crossing over fields and the A612 to Hoveringham for a look at their Mill.
From Hoveringham we walked through Caythorpe to Gunthorpe for refreshments and lunch, then followed the river back home to Burton Joyce. More photos in the Gallery Photos 2021
October 6th - SouthwellWhat a great walk we had today with the WI walking group. The weather & views were absolutely perfect. We started at Brackenhurst, down Cundy Hill and joined the Robin Hood Way to Westhorpe, then going across Norwood Park. Time for coffee at the Golf Club, absolutely delicious & very quick service. After crossing the Southwell Trail we headed along the Robin Hood Way through Maythorne. Eventually we reached the Community Orchard where we had a picnic. We then traced the first Bramley Apple Tree & finally headed to the minster where we looked at the window commemorating the bramley apple. S.B.
Lots more photos in the gallery Photos 2021 September 1st - Gedling Park14 walkers went from Burton Joyce to Gedling Park to see how the new road was coming along. More photos in Out and About
August 4th - ThurgartonWe set off on the 9.40 am bus and got off at Thurgarton. Walking up to Thurgarton Priory we continued up the hill for a rest by the old sheep dip, then did a circuit back towards the village to have our picnic. More pictures in the Gallery Photos 2021
July 7th - Southwell TrailThirteen members set off on the 9.40 am bus to Southwell. First stop the gym in the park, then on to the Minister Coffee Shop where another 2 joined for a lovely get together. A few went no further but the rest then set off for a 4 mile walk around the Southwell Trail.
June 2nd - Bleasby to Burton JoyceEight of us set out on the 10.08 train from Burton Joyce to Bleasby. Here we lost 1 member who had come along to meet up with everyone again, whilst the other 7 set off along the river to Burton Joyce via a stop in Gunthorpe. It was a hot and sunny day, Gunthorpe looking a bit like the seaside. However, we found some shade under a tree for our picnic lunch then continued on to La Vague for ice cream and coffee before the final lap back to Burton Joyce.
2020November 4th - Netherfield LagoonsOctober 7th - Biondi's GunthorpeThe three groups set off again this month. This is a photo of the group going to Gunthorpe.
September 2nd - Netherfield LagoonsThere were 3 separate groups set off for walks on the 2nd September, one to Biondi's at Gunthorpe, one to Gedling Park and the third to Netherfield Lagoons. Everyone had a good time, but I only have photos of the Netherfield party.
MaySome more lovely sights on members local walks.
One of walkers again found some bluebells, this time on a circular walk in the Vale of Belvoir starting at Croxton Kerrial.
AprilSadly due to the Coronavirus our trip to Derbyshire had to be cancelled. However, members have still been taking their exercise locally and some have been to see how lovely Bluebell Wood is at the moment.
March 4th - Clifton to WilfordThirteen members went by bus into Nottingham and from there took the tram to Clifton South. The first stop was a memorial to men from Clifton who lost their lives in the armed forces. The latest being a young man of 30 who fought in Afghanistan with the West Mercian Division and died in 2005. From there we went through old Clifton, seeing Clifton Hall and the old church. Our walk then took us down to the river for the walk to Wilford for lunch at The Ferry Inn. After lunch there was a convenient tram stop for the journey back into Nottingham.
February 5th - Beeston canalTwelve members of the WI caught the 9.30 bus to Nottingham and then on to Beeston using the tram - a new experience for some people.
We made our way through Beeston Rylands, over the railway line and through part of the Attenborough nature reserve and along a short stretch of river to Beeston Lock. This brought back memories from a few years ago when we did the Trent Valley Way. Members will be pleased to know that money has been raised to save the Reserve. At Beeston Lock there are two cottages which have been renovated by the canals and rivers trust (was British Waterways), where there is a very nice tea shop and a small shop selling canal information and mementos. There is also an exhibition upstairs showing the history, creation and maps and photos of the canals in Nottinghamshire, which I had arranged with the curator to see. Unfortunately the exhibition had been covered over with a new exhibition of quilts; this was of great interest to some of the craftsmen amongst us! After suitable refreshment we the set off along the canal to Nottingham where we were intrigued to see places from an unusual angle. The benefit of this walk was that the paths were very good after all the rain we have had over the last months and walkers were amazed to hear we had covered 6 miles. More photos in Gallery Photos 2020 January 8th - Gedling ParkOn what turned out to be a lovely sunny morning, 9 members and Cassie the dog set out from Burton Joyce and walked up Lambley Lane and over to Gedling Park. Following a trail around the park they were able to see a beautiful vista as well as the work for the new road which will go from Mapperley to Burton Joyce. We then met up with 3 other non-walking members for refreshments at the cafe. More photos in Gallery Photos 2020
2019December 4th - GunthorpeOn 4th December we had a yearly get together to discuss walks for the following year. After the meeting we had a lovely sunny walk along by the river to Gunthorpe and back for lunch at Biondi's.
November 6th - Cotgrave to Bingham11 ladies took 2 buses to Cotgrave and had a rather clarty walk along the Grantham Canal to Cropwell Butler, where we had a picnic on the village green amongst some lovely willow trees. From there we continued to Bingham for a very welcome hot drink and cake before the journey home.
October 2nd - Matlock8 ladies caught the train from Burton Joyce to Matlock and went for a walk up Lumsdale Valley to see the old mill works.
September 3rd - Creswell Crags11 members set off on the 10.00 am train from Burton Joyce and travelled to Creswell via Nottingham. We all headed to the Crags Visitors Centre where we stopped for coffee and scones before a walk through the area.
August 7th - Hucknall and Linby14 of us set off on the 9.02 bus into Nottingham with the intention of then getting the tram through to Hucknall. Unfortunately due to a problem with the tram line we had to get a replacement bus to the Forest before getting on our tram. In Hucknall we walked through the town to St. Mary Magdalene Church which is the location of Lord Byron's tomb and a number of renowned Kempe stained glass windows. We had a very enthusiastic guide who kept us there well over an hour. From Hucknall we left the town and were soon out into countryside, stopping near the Lapwings WI Garden of Reflection for a peaceful picnic. After lunch we did a circuit round back into Hucknall for our journey home. More photos in Gallery Photos 2019
July 3rd - Oxton WoodsSetting off on the 9.40 bus to Lowdham, 10 members met the 747 at Lowdham to drive through the villages to Oxton where we alighted some 40 minutes later to join Marion who had gone by car to Oxton Village Hall. We set off in glorious sunshine and walked by the playground and eventually found the gate onto the bypass. The walk took us through woods, past the eerie Oxton Bogs and arrived at the Memorial to the Polish airmen who had crashed on return from a manoeuvre in France. A short distance further brought us to a delightful spot on the edge of Calverton pit tip where we were able to sit and enjoy our picnic, taking in the views and the wonderful display of wild flowers. A rapid walk back to Oxton meant we were just in time to catch the return 747 (sounds like a plane, but it is a small bus which just had space for us all!)
June 5th - Bleasby to BJ A group of 7, plus 2 dogs Mabel and Cassie, caught the 9.59 train to Bleasby. It was an ideal day for a walk and we had a picnic by the Trent before reaching Gunthorpe and visited Biondi close to Guntorpe Lock for coffee before finishing the final stretch to BJ.
May 1st - Ploughman's Wood and WoodboroughSticks in hand a group of 12 set off from Burton Joyce to walk over the hill to Ploughman's wood to see the last of the bluebells. We were also invited to enjoy our picnic lunch at the home of one of member's daughter's home in the glorious sunshine. This was lovely, and we were for part of the way back by our hostess and Mabel the Jack Russell. We did 9 miles by the time we reached home. More photos in Gallery Photos 2019
April 3rd - Southwell to Edingley with visit to Halifax Bomber siteWe went on the 100 bus to Southwell and then took the 28 Mansfield bus as far as Farnsfield. Our first stop was on the outskirts of Farnsfield where we visited The Memorial for the Halifax Bomber which is beautifully situated in green fields. Barbara placed a poppy by the main memorial from the BJ WI. The area has information about the Bomber but also memorial seats (for other relevant people) and special trees linked to the crew of the plane including oaks and maple ( for a Canadian crew member of the Halifax Bomber).
We then continued along country tracks towards Edinley and Halam and had to negotiate some difficult stiles, one especially which was high with just a single step and bordered by a barbed wire post on one side and holly on the other! We briefly went into Edinley Church yard before crossing over the main road to have a picnic in a field. After this we headed for the Southwell Trial which previously had been a railway line and then went for cakes and coffee/tea at Maythorne by the lake which were pricey but a fabulous resting place. The final part of the walk brought us back onto the Southwell Trail and into Southwell ideally timed for our return 100 bus to BJ. It was a great day with ideal weather and stunning scenery. More photos in Gallery Photos 2019 March 6th - Nottingham Architectural Ale TrailEleven members set off on the train from Burton Joyce into Nottingham. From the train station we headed across Carrington Street to the Vat and Fiddle inn owned by Castle Rock Breweries, this is a 1930's building which still has a lot of original features. From there we went up to 2 1890's canal side warehouses which are now the Canalhouse and Fellows Morton and Clayton pubs. The Trip to Jerusalem was next where we were joined by 2 more members for a visit to the caves under the Trip which are used as cellars for the beer barrels. This was also a welcome coffee stop. The Trip dates back to around 1680 but is not the oldest ale house in Nottingham, that is the Bell Inn. We did managed to see 7 pubs then had a picnic lunch outside the Playhouse but the rain started just as we were finishing and the rest of the tour was postponed for a sunnier day.
February 6th - Leicester SuffragettesSixteen ladies travelled by train to Leicester to see the new statue of Alice Hawkins their local suffragette and to visit the New Walk Museum for the Alice Hawkins and Votes for Women exhibition.
January 2nd - 10,000 Steps walkNine ladies, and two very well behaved dogs, departed the village hall on a lovely fine January day, and took the Meadow Lane path, down to the river and followed this path round the bend and on to Biondi’s,where we all enjoyed a good cup of coffee sitting in the shelter at the back of the cafe. I think this was measured as about 7000 steps, so well on track for 10,000 which was the objective of the walk. Christine and Marlene left our company after coffee, both having enjoyed the walk so far, but needing to get back. We then retraced our footsteps as far as Green Lane, where we then diverted and followed this ancient track back to Burton Joyce. A good walk, delightful scenery in lovely weather conditions and excellent company – all the ingredients for a successful walk.
2018December 5th - Planning Meeting and walk to Biondi's, Gunthorpe for lunchNovember 7th - SouthwellWorking hard at the outdoor gym.
November 3rd - Children in Need WalkA very successful day with nearly £300.00 raised. Pictures of the morning in Photos 2018
October 3rd - Sherwood ForestOn another lovely day nine of us went to the new Sherwood Forest Visitors Centre and after a coffee we had a 5 mile leisurely walk and picnic in the Forest.
September 5th - Rolleston to ThurgartonEleven of us caught the 9.59 train from Burton Joyce to Rolleston and had a leisurely walk back over to Morton for coffee in the garden of the Full Moon. The walk then continued to Bleasby where a table had been booked for lunch (see photos below). After lunch we did a circuit through the fields to Thurgarton then caught the bus back to Burton Joyce.
August 1st - Bomber Command Centre, LincolnEight of us headed out to Lincoln on the train to visit the fairly new International Bomber Command Centre at Lincoln which tells the stories of all the people involved with the fight in the air during WW11 via film shows, artefacts and video memories. After lunch in their cafe we walked out to the memorial and the lists of the thousands of people who gave their lives. All very moving. Though we had taken the bus up the hill to the Centre we then walked back to the city for the return train.
June 6th - Jacksdale DolliesBJ WI walkers caught the 9.24 bus yesterday to Nottingham, and then the number ONE bus to Alfreton, arriving at Jacksdale about 11.25, where we were met by 4 friendly ladies from the Jacksdale Dollies WI. We were soon away and walking by the Cromford Canal and around the Codnor Park Reservoir by a very able Dorothy, who was able to relate the history of the area and its industrial heritage – the Butterley company being the huge employer responsible for ironworks, coal mining, brick making and the creation of its own village – Ironville. It was a lovely dry day, not too hot and not too far; we were eventually led back to their meeting place, the United Reformed church where they served us very welcome cups of tea and delicious cakes! It was soon time to retrace our travels; a very happy group so pleased to have met up with another WI. We hope that they will come to BJ to see some of our heritage and also sample our hospitality
May 2nd - Bluebell walkIn a week of sunshine, Wednesday 2nd May was the day it was teeming of rain all morning. About 5 hardy souls waited until late morning and then, discounting the muddy woods, walked along the farm road from Burton Joyce to Gunthorpe. They had a lovely lunch in Biondi's and strolled back in the sunshine that had now appeared.
April 4th - NewsteadThis picture was taken at the cross in Linby village, details are:
Bus to Nottingham, tram to Hucknall, walk through Hucknall to Linby, Papplewick and on to Newstead Abbey parkland. Coffee at the Abbey before the walk through the park to Mansfield Road, where we caught the bus back to Nottingham. We stayed mainly dry, the day being typically April showers. March 7th - GedlingWe were joined by our Guide Steve for a Heritage Walk to Gedling Country Park which is on the site of the old Gedling Colliery. Here we learnt all about coal-mining, and the train lines to carry the coal, in the area.
February 7th - LowdhamTaking the 100 bus to Lowdham the group went to see the snowdrops on a cold sunny day. The walk then continued to Hoveringham and ended at Gonalston.
January 3rd - ColwickWe caught the 9.02 am bus to Hooton Road on the top of Carlton Hill, then set off towards Bakersfield and Colwick Wood. Through the wood and down the hill we arrived at Colwick Hall for coffee in its lovely Byron Brasserie. After our break we continue along the river to Colwick Pond and stopped for our picnic, before walking back to Netherfield and catching the bus back to Burton Joyce. More photos in the Gallery
2017December 7th - Radcliff-on-TrentFrom Burton Joyce we took the bus into Nottingham and then got another bus to Radcliffe-on-Trent. We walked along the cliffs at Radcliffe and arrived at Shelford exactly at 12.00 noon in time for coffee and lunch. After lunch we set out again to walk across the fields to Gunthorpe, then along the river back to Burton Joyce.
October 4th - MatlockWe travelled by train from Burton Joyce to Matlock and then guided by Katherine found our way up the Lumsdale Valley trail, coming down again past the ponds, waterfalls and beautiful derelict buildings of the Valley's industrial past. Then back to Matlock for lunch in their lovely park that had a childrens' paddling pool, a boating lake, bandstand, tennis courts, but most importantly a cafe. After lunch there was time to browse the many shops before the 3.38 train home. More photos in Gallery, Photos 2017
September 6th - EpperstoneWe drove to Epperstone and parked at the Cross Keys Pub and began a circular walk from Haggs Lane, returning at the back of pub for our lunch.
August 2nd - Robin Hood WayWe restarted the Robin Hood Way from where we left off at Moor Green. A lot of this walk was through Bestwood Park. We returned to Nottingham on the tram from Butler's Hill.
July 5th - Southwell to MortonWe took the bus to Southwell and went to visit the WI Hall as Southwell WI are celebrating their centenary this year. We then walked over to Morton for a coffee before returning to Southwell for our picnic, it was a very hot day! More photos in Gallery, Photos 2017
June 7th - Lincoln Knights' TrailWe took the train to Lincoln, via Newark, and spent a very pleasant day following the trail of painted Knights around Lincoln, which included a lovely picnic in the grounds of the Castle. More photos in Photos 2017
May 3rd - Erewash ValleyApril 5th - Robin Hood WayWe took a bus into Nottingham and then another to Kimberley where we joined the trail. We walked to Hucknall via Watnall and Bulwell. Lunch was a picnic on a hill and we ended with a welcome cuppa at Nottingham Golf Club in Bulwell Hall Park.
March, 1st - East BridgfordLovely sunny day for the walk to East Bridgford
February, 1st - County House and circular walk Newark to Farndon
January, 4th - Maid Marion Walk, Nottingham and Tour of Malt CrossIn the caves under the Malt Cross, more photos in Gallery Photos 2017.
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Eight members set off on the 9.24 bus into Nottingham then caught the Sherwood Arrow bus from Victoria Bus Station to Sherwood Forest Visitors' Centre. First stop a drink at the centre and then off to see the Major Oak and a circuit walk of the Forest with a picnic on the way.
More photos in the Gallery. |
August, 3rd - Burton Joyce and Lambley
Seven members started from Burton Joyce War Memorial and were quite surprised when the first stop was for coffee just up Padley's Lane. After a nice break we continued over the hill to Lambley and on a circular route which brought us back into Bulcote where we had our picnic at St. Luke's Church. After lunch we continued through Bulcote and along the river back into Burton Joyce.
July, 6th - Thurgarton
Eight members travelled by bus to Thurgarton then set off up the hills into the countryside, stopping on the walls of an ancient sheep wash to have a picnic.
June 7th - Pat Tavener Walk, Cromford
Twelve members of the Trent Valley Walkers and the Craft Group went by train to Cromford where we met up with Pat's husband, Graham, and 4 old friends. Graham took us on a tour of the town, including Arkwright's Mill, before the group split and the serious walkers went up the hills into the countryside and the others took a leisurely stroll along the canal.
May 4th - Rufford
It was a bit of adventure because the A614 Rufford was closed all day and the bus was going round the villages and not to Rufford. We were well on our way when we found out.But we managed to persuade the bus driver to drop us at Wellow and then we could reverse our walk
It was a beautiful day and the bluebells were magnificent.
April 6th - Attenborough Nature Reserve
Walkers gathered at Burton Joyce Train Station and took the 10.04 train to Attenborough. It was lovely and sunny as we left the station and walked to the Nature Reserve cafe. The sunshine lasted while we had a drink and then set off for the walk around the reserve, however, we had only gone a short distance before the heavens opened and the rain lashed down for the next hour. Thankfully it had stopped before we ate our picnics and walked on to Chilwell where we caught the tram to the Lakeside Centre at Nottingham University. Another drink and a look around the art exhibition then on the tram again into town for the bus home.
March 2nd - Tram to Clifton
For the March walk they had taken the bus to Nottingham then tram to Clifton South to walk through Clifton Village, in the rain, and along the river, it was dry by now, to Wilford, stopping for lunch at the Ferry Inn before getting the tram back into town.
February 3rd - Sneinton Walk
More photos in Gallery - Photos 2016
Our February City Walk took us back to a pre-Norman part of the town, Sneinton, and included visits to the birthplace of the founder of the Salvation Army (William Booth museum), the only surviving windmill in Nottingham where George Green worked on his mathematical formula and St Stephen’s Church – a church of interest and having the burial place of Green. We also followed a route around the Victorian streets viewing the architecture which came about following the expansion of the city after the Enclosure Act of 1845, see our walk below.
Our February City Walk took us back to a pre-Norman part of the town, Sneinton, and included visits to the birthplace of the founder of the Salvation Army (William Booth museum), the only surviving windmill in Nottingham where George Green worked on his mathematical formula and St Stephen’s Church – a church of interest and having the burial place of Green. We also followed a route around the Victorian streets viewing the architecture which came about following the expansion of the city after the Enclosure Act of 1845, see our walk below.
January 6th - Nottingham City Walk
We set off on the 10.04 am bus to town, then the tram to the Forest with the intention of following all of the green open spaces given to the city people at the time of the Inclosure Act of 1845 ( that spelling is correct according to the Friends of the Forest) and walked via Waterloo Terrace, the General Cemetery, the Arboretum, Elm Avenue, Robin Hood Chase to St Ann's Well Road, through St Mary’s Rest Garden, The Victoria Park and on to the Lace Market where we had a delightful, and very welcome, lunch stop on High Pavement – the Hungry something or another – down to the station and then followed Queens Walk to the embankment before we caught a tram back to the city centre. A walk of about 6 miles.
The photo is of Abednego’s lion which marks the burial spot of the prize fighter – Abednego (William Abednego Thompson).
The photo is of Abednego’s lion which marks the burial spot of the prize fighter – Abednego (William Abednego Thompson).
2014-2015 - Visiting villages where the WI meet in the Nottinghamshire Federation
For the August walk we caught the bus into town and walked down to the Broadmarsh Bus Station to catch the 10. 30 Kinch 9 Loughorough direct bus . This is another nice ride through the countryside. We got off the bus at Hoton which is in Leicestershire and walked through the the fields to Rempstone on a well defined path.To avoid a large field with a large herd of cows with calves we walked along a quiet country road before joining the footpath and had a picnic in a sunny field. The next part of the walk was across the fields and down into Costock in time to catch Kinch 9 back into town. |
We are almost there just another 4 villages to visit and we have made the 100. Some we have walked through, some we have travelled through on bus or train and occasionally in the car. On the whole, most of the days have been warm and sunny ,even in winter . But every wallk has been full of fun and full of chatter and good company..
1.East Leake ,West Leake and Gotham.
Sitting upstairs on the number one bus to East Leake we had a spectacular view of the new Tram Terminus being built at Barton Green ,Clifton. After walking through the woods a fairly steep walk took us up on to the ridgeway and we had a clear view across the fields to Ruddington and Bunny. The path joined the lane to West Leake where we turned left and walked on to Gotham through the golf course . Lunch was at the Cuckoo Bush in Gotham before catching the bus back to Nottingham.The plan for the next walk was hatched at the pub.
2East Stoke and Elston.
It was necessary to use cars for this visit as we called in at the Eden Hall Health Spa for the day to recover from all the walking!!!
3.Blidworth and Rainworth WI
This time we caught the bus to Southwell and then the bus to Farnsfield.The walk took us through the village of Farnsfield and across the field eventually to the A614 which we had to cross.Armed with a high vis jacket we almost stopped the traffic but everybody managed to cross safely. Another sunny day meant we could have a picnic on the edge of the woods and wander up into Blidworth to catch the bus back to Southwell to pick up the pathfinder 100.
4.Bottesford and Scarrington,Orston and Thoroton.
The bus for this journey only goes from Lowdham to Bottesford on a Tuesday or a Friday.For most of the journey we had the bus to ourself and we managed to keep the driver company.He was very obliging and stopped the bus for our photographer to get off and take pictures of the WI Hall in Orston and Thoroton. We visited the lovely church in Bottesford and had a picnic lunch by the stream.It was imperative that we all caught the bus back that day becuase the next one was not until Friday afternoon.
5 Laxton,Kneesall and Egamnton
No buses available for this one, so we took our cars and parked them on the edge of Laxton so we could walk across the fields to Beth Shalolm, the Holocaust Memorial Museum.A lovely summer day meant that we could have a picnic lunch in the rose garden. We passed through the other two villages. Country File came from Laxton on the following Sunday .The village is the only one in the country still using the open field system of farming.
6Caunton and Norwell
We walked acorss the muddiest fields ever from Cauton to Norwell. But it was a glorious cold but sunny day. Lunch was at the Caunton Beck .The day was made more interesting by sharing it with one of our group,s daughter who was over from the states.
7.Worksop. Worksop Wonders, Thievesdale, Sutton in Ashfield[Sutton parkway] Kirkby in Ashfield
Its getting more difficlt to get to the northern regions of the county so for this one we took the train and paid a visit to Mr Straws House in Worksop.Not too much walking but it was the hottest day of the year and we could almost cool down on the train.The journey took us through Mansfield,Mansfield Woodhouse, Sutton and Kirkby.
2013-2014
The next challenge after the Trent Valley Way ,which took us through several villages with WIs was to visit as many of the other Nottinghamshire villages with WIs as we could, using public transport and walking. Here are some of the villages and walks we have done so far::
1.Lambley and Woodborough
This was a walk up and over to Lambley and across to Woodborough for a pub lunch at The Four Bells,
2.Epperstone, Oxton,Calverton and Arnold.
We caught the number 5 bus to Epperstone and walked over the top to Oxton. After lunch at The Bridge we walked to Calverton and caught the bus through Arnold to Nottingham. Back home early on the pathfinder bus.
3.Cotgrave, Cropwell Bishop, Cropwell Butler and Tithby ,and Bingham
Cotgrave Connection bus goes from Friar Lane. We walked alongside the Grantham canal to Cropwell Bishop. After picnic lunch at the Cropwell Butler cricket ground we walked to Bingham . A fast bus took us back into town.
4.Farnsfield, Halam and Southwell
The 100 bus from the Post Office, then coffee in Southwell. We caught the Mansfield bus to Farnsfield ,passing through Halam.We walked along the Southwell Trail ,had a pub lunch and caught the Pathfinder Bus on Kirklington road back to BJ
5.Wollaton and Bramcote
Into town to catch the pink 34 to Wollaton Park gates. Following coffee at the hall we walked to Bramcote going through the Holoucaust Memorial Garden,. We caught the Derby bus back into town after lunch.
6.Eastwood and Brinsley,Kimberley ,Nuthall and District.
The Trent Barton bus Blue 1, from the Victoria Centre took us to Eastwood in time for our guided tour of D H Lawrence’s Birthplace Museum. After lunch at The Sun Inn we went to The D H Lawrence Heritage Museum then the followed The Blue Trail through Eastwood. The buses were all on time that day.
7.Newstead Abbey Gates,Hucknall and Leenside
The 10 past 10 Mansfield bus from the Victoria Bus station took us to Newstead Abbey gates . After coffee at the Abbey we walked through the park to pick up the Linby Trail to Hucknall. On the way we had a picnic lunch at Papplewick and caught the tram from Hucknall back into town and the Pathfinder bus was waiting for us.
8.Bunny and Bradmore, and Ruddington.
The Loughborough bus from the Broadmarsh Bus Station took us to Bunny .The path through the village led to Bradmore where a kind gentleman gave us all a booklet on local walks. After walking through Ruddington Park we had a look at the local church. Lunch was at a café in the village and a double decker bus brought us back to Nottingham.
9.Southwell Town Trail.
We followed the Southwell Trail looking at the heritage of Southwell and ended the day at the Bramley apple for lunch.
10.Nottingham Heritage walk. The Park
After a very interesting vist to the Council House we went on a guided walk through the town then through The Park ,via the old hospital and through the tunnel.,.
11 Nottingham Walk The Lace Market
This walk started from the very old centre of Nottingham and then into the centre of The Lace Market to look at the fine architecture .After lunch at The Nottingham Contemporary Art Gallery we had a visit to the Galleries of Justice. This visit gave us real understanding of the history of Nottingham.
12. Southwell and Upton
We caught the bus from Southwell to Upton and had coffee at the Clock House at the Horological Society.
Walked from Upton to Southwell and had lunch at The Hearty Goodfellow. Followed by a visit the Workhouse, National Trust Property.
1.Lambley and Woodborough
This was a walk up and over to Lambley and across to Woodborough for a pub lunch at The Four Bells,
2.Epperstone, Oxton,Calverton and Arnold.
We caught the number 5 bus to Epperstone and walked over the top to Oxton. After lunch at The Bridge we walked to Calverton and caught the bus through Arnold to Nottingham. Back home early on the pathfinder bus.
3.Cotgrave, Cropwell Bishop, Cropwell Butler and Tithby ,and Bingham
Cotgrave Connection bus goes from Friar Lane. We walked alongside the Grantham canal to Cropwell Bishop. After picnic lunch at the Cropwell Butler cricket ground we walked to Bingham . A fast bus took us back into town.
4.Farnsfield, Halam and Southwell
The 100 bus from the Post Office, then coffee in Southwell. We caught the Mansfield bus to Farnsfield ,passing through Halam.We walked along the Southwell Trail ,had a pub lunch and caught the Pathfinder Bus on Kirklington road back to BJ
5.Wollaton and Bramcote
Into town to catch the pink 34 to Wollaton Park gates. Following coffee at the hall we walked to Bramcote going through the Holoucaust Memorial Garden,. We caught the Derby bus back into town after lunch.
6.Eastwood and Brinsley,Kimberley ,Nuthall and District.
The Trent Barton bus Blue 1, from the Victoria Centre took us to Eastwood in time for our guided tour of D H Lawrence’s Birthplace Museum. After lunch at The Sun Inn we went to The D H Lawrence Heritage Museum then the followed The Blue Trail through Eastwood. The buses were all on time that day.
7.Newstead Abbey Gates,Hucknall and Leenside
The 10 past 10 Mansfield bus from the Victoria Bus station took us to Newstead Abbey gates . After coffee at the Abbey we walked through the park to pick up the Linby Trail to Hucknall. On the way we had a picnic lunch at Papplewick and caught the tram from Hucknall back into town and the Pathfinder bus was waiting for us.
8.Bunny and Bradmore, and Ruddington.
The Loughborough bus from the Broadmarsh Bus Station took us to Bunny .The path through the village led to Bradmore where a kind gentleman gave us all a booklet on local walks. After walking through Ruddington Park we had a look at the local church. Lunch was at a café in the village and a double decker bus brought us back to Nottingham.
9.Southwell Town Trail.
We followed the Southwell Trail looking at the heritage of Southwell and ended the day at the Bramley apple for lunch.
10.Nottingham Heritage walk. The Park
After a very interesting vist to the Council House we went on a guided walk through the town then through The Park ,via the old hospital and through the tunnel.,.
11 Nottingham Walk The Lace Market
This walk started from the very old centre of Nottingham and then into the centre of The Lace Market to look at the fine architecture .After lunch at The Nottingham Contemporary Art Gallery we had a visit to the Galleries of Justice. This visit gave us real understanding of the history of Nottingham.
12. Southwell and Upton
We caught the bus from Southwell to Upton and had coffee at the Clock House at the Horological Society.
Walked from Upton to Southwell and had lunch at The Hearty Goodfellow. Followed by a visit the Workhouse, National Trust Property.
2012-2013 - Trent Valley Way Challenge
Some members took part in the BIG WALK LITTLE SPLASH and decided they would like to take up a new challenge, but what to do? Then one member came up with the idea of walking the TRENT VALLEY WAY.
So on the first Wednesday in October 2012 the challenge began. A lot of research was done to get us to the start of each section using buses (passes came in very handy) train and cars, always looking for a good picnic spot or even better a public house for the most important comfort break. On our journey across Nottinghamshire we became aware of what a lovely county we live in. Starting our journey at Long Eaton, passing through Attenborough Nature Reserve, then on to the heart of the city along the Victoria Embankment to Radcliffe-on-Trent. The next section from Gunthorpe to Newark-on-Trent was familiar to many members.
As we walked further to the north of the county the landscape became very rural passing through lovely farmland and sleepy villages.
We had many adventures on route, the weather was very varied, a lift in a dumper truck, no bridge to get us across a stream, no bus to reunite us with our cars (kind gentleman came to our rescue), but as we all know the WI is never beaten.
We had so much fund and laughter on route and finally finished on Wednesday 4th September 2013 with much celebration and a well earned glass of bubbly!!!!
So on the first Wednesday in October 2012 the challenge began. A lot of research was done to get us to the start of each section using buses (passes came in very handy) train and cars, always looking for a good picnic spot or even better a public house for the most important comfort break. On our journey across Nottinghamshire we became aware of what a lovely county we live in. Starting our journey at Long Eaton, passing through Attenborough Nature Reserve, then on to the heart of the city along the Victoria Embankment to Radcliffe-on-Trent. The next section from Gunthorpe to Newark-on-Trent was familiar to many members.
As we walked further to the north of the county the landscape became very rural passing through lovely farmland and sleepy villages.
We had many adventures on route, the weather was very varied, a lift in a dumper truck, no bridge to get us across a stream, no bus to reunite us with our cars (kind gentleman came to our rescue), but as we all know the WI is never beaten.
We had so much fund and laughter on route and finally finished on Wednesday 4th September 2013 with much celebration and a well earned glass of bubbly!!!!