Something new for Rushden Ramblers was a New Year’s Eve Morning Walk around Pitsford reservoir and although we unfortunately did not attract any from our tortoise group, 9 members from the Ramblers section, plus a lovely 10 year old, met up on at the causeway car park and set off. The weather was grey with rain clouds on the horizon, however we did manage to get 2/3rds of the way around, before the light rain started. Walking across the dam, we were all acknowledged just how much rain our county had experienced of late as the water was rushing over the overflow, which was a sight to behold. We took a lunch stop within Brixworth Country Park and the rain returned heavier than before. However as we were on the last leg back, and our spirits boosted by our stop, we completed our walk, returning to the cars. We completed the 7 mile walk in 3.5 hrs and felt good to be out on a walk, laughing and enjoying the company of like minded friends, we returned home thankful that 2023 completed and hopeful that 2024 will bring another full year of walks & talks with friends.

We turned right out of the carpark passing Irthlingborough Cross making our way to the A6 and the crossing.  Then we walked on the old road and over the river bridge to the entrance of Stanwick Lakes.  Keeping to the old railway track until we passed the assault course and turned right walking with a lake on the left to the Information Centre Café where we stopped for refreshments. Heading back after our break we turned along the old railway track until the entrance to Stanwick Lakes. Here we crossed the old A6 road and continued on the old railway track to a crossroads with The Greenway.  Turning right we walked back into Irthlingborough and the start. Six of walked on a day that was rain to start with but for most of the walk was dry though cloudy.

On a dry and bright day with some blue sky 8 walkers started from Duck Street and then into the High Street.  Just before reaching ASDA we took the Greenway all the way to the industrial area.  We passed Wicks on the right and Waitrose on the left then crossed at the crossing which led to the foot bridge over the A45.  On reaching Rushden Lakes we headed for the Visitor Centre where we followed the path around the lake. Greggs was our stopping place where we had a welcome cuppa before heading back the way we had come.

On the morning of the Club’s Christmas lunch eight members embarked on a damp, icy-in-parts, walk in Stanwick.  Starting in Aris Lane (Partrick’s Lane to the locals) we passed the Bowling Club and Recreation Ground, taking the path to the left of the hedge with views of the Nene Valley (albeit rather foggy).  Turning right along a bridle way we eventually crossed the Amos Lawrence sports field, through a housing estate and left into London Road, Raunds. A short way on, a left turn took us into Hoggs Dyke when we followed the brook for some time.  Through a gate at the end of the path we turned left into Meadow Lane then left before the A45 underpass.  We then travelled a muddy path before turning left into a large field and traversing two sides, turning right then left on to the footpath previously travelled at the start of the walk.  A right turn then took us back towards the lane where we had parked. The walk was short, 3¼ miles, but thankfully with only a little rain.

On a grey autumn day 12 member’s walked out from our starting point outside the Plough Public House in Bruntingthorpe We set of along Church Walk, passing alongside St Mary’s Church, into a beautiful woodland pocket park. The footpath passes behind a very modern home that had flocks of Jacob Sheep. Our path took us onto across farm fields but although heavy rain, in the days leading up to the walk, it had drained sufficiently not to be too sticky underfoot.  The path continued in to a wooded area, with a stream at the bottom of the slope.  Although the area was boggy, someone had laid pallets down, so care was taken going across these, it saved getting our wet feet. That footpath, comes into Peatling Parva, opposite St Andrews Church, were we took our first coffee stop. From here we went and took the right hand path, walking across mainly grassy fields with flocks of sheep grazing, however in this section there were several stiles to negotiate. The only muddy sections we found was near the gate entrances, were the farmer’s machinery, tore up the ground. At the junction were the Mere Road track crossed our journey, 4 members decided to walk the track as there were double & triple stiles in the next section, but this proved to be their own challenge of keeping dry as there was a lot of standing water they had to circumnavigate. We met up again on Gilmorton Lane and walked through the village of Willoughby Waterways, were in the playground we took another coffee break, to warm up.  The temperature was dropping and just as we were leaving it started to mizzle with rain.We then crossed the road and picked up the Leicestershire Round pathway to Peatling Magna, passing St Mary’s Church on our left hand side.  As we were now on the Round, the stiles changed to steel kissing gates, a welcome sight for several of us. We turned right at the top of the hill, to walk to top section of Mere Road track, before turning left and continuing over grassy livestock fields into Peatling Magna for our lunch break, in the wonderful welcoming The Cock Inn.We could not have been more welcomed, hot drinks or a pint was had by all, and being allowed to eat our pack up inside, was a great treat.  Eleanor (land lady) and staff were a delight to work with and can recommend to anyone to stop here. Dragging ourselves outside, we found the mizzle had stopped, making the last section better. Circling around All Saints church, we picked up the pathway back to Bruntingthrope again mainly grassy field with only 1 cropped field that we decided to walk the edge of it, beside a pretty stream. The last stile into the village itself, was a trial for even our tallest members as it was very tall bars with the cross member platform on the bottom rung.It was only a short distance along main street to get back to our cars. The total distance was 7 miles but for a winter walk in a cold grey day and reduced light levels, it was agreed that it was the perfect length.

Seven of us left Higham Ferrers from Saffron Road on a dry morning. Walking on Saffron Road we soon joined the Greenway which led us across the A45 and on across the water meadows to Irthlingborough Church. Here we cut through the churchyard and on through Lime Terrace and Lime Street to Station Road. From here we walked to the roundabout with the A6 and crossed over. Taking the old A6 road we walked on to the disused railway track where we turned left and followed the old track into Stanwick Lakes and the Visitors Centre. Here we stopped at the café for a welcome coffee and bacon bap. After our break we retraced our steps back to the old road. We continued on under the new A6 bridge to a bridge over the River Nene. Once over the river we turned right down some steps to the river. From here we walked past a lock back to the Greenway path where we turned left and retraced our steps on the Greenway back to Saffron Road and the start.

After parking in a very muddy and very full (football players) church car park in Stoke Bruerne 13 of us made our way downhill into the village and the bridge over the canal. Turning right just before canal we made our way along a track out of the village – Soon we walked through a line of lovely Popular trees passing Park Farm and Stoke Farm Pavilions on the left – Walking directly across a very cloggy field we crossed over a full River Tove and headed across pasture land into the hamlet of Alderton – Climbing up to the church some of us branched off to view the The Mount Motte (the site of a Norman Motte Castle) we all then made use of the seats available in the churchyard to have a welcome coffee break. After our break we made our way out of the hamlet crossing two or three very large arable fields before reaching the A508 road and Grafton Regis – Crossing over we made our way to The White Hart pub to stop for lunch. During our lunch the weather turned from just being overcast to steady rain. After lunch donned our wet weather gear and set off in the persistent rain through the village downhill to the Grand Union Canal. Taking the towpath we walk alongside the canal making our way back to Stoke Bruerne after 1½ miles we reached the Stoke Bruerne Marina and the flight of locks that climbs up to village. By now the rain had stopped and the sun came out to brighten up the autumn colours on the trees alongside the canal. From here we crossed over the canal and made our way back to the village and climbed the hill back to the start. We all agreed that despite the rain we really enjoyed the walk with its variety and autumn colours.

On a very cold and frosty morning 25 of us congregated at Bedford Station to catch the train into London. Seven of us who opted to do the longer walk got off at Blackfriars Station while the remainder doing the shorter walk continued on to London Bridge Station where we caught the tube to Bermondsey.

The seven of us undertaking the longer walk headed for the Millennium Bridge where we planned to cross over to the South Bank only to find it closed for repairs. So we continued on to Southwark Bridge and crossed over there. Here we picked up the Thames Path and headed towards Greenwich. We soon had to leave the Thames and venture away from the river bank. Passing the Clink Prison Museum and The Golden Hind we skirted around Southwark Cathedral and on through Borough Market which was absolutely buzzing. Emerging from the market we walked past London Bridge Station then took a path back to the river passing through a vast lofted shopping centre. At the river we turned right and walked past HMS Belfast and on to Tower Bridge with the Tower of London on the opposite bank. Continuing on walking by the river we soon passed China Wharf and then after a short break for a drink, left the river again walking through the narrow streets with wharf buildings that have been converted into flats and apartments. Soon we arrived at Bermondsey Beach where the group doing the shorter walk would have joined the path. Carrying on we walked through Rotherhithe with a mixture of Thames side and street walking, crossing Salt Wharf on the way we made our way the the Surrey Docks Urban Farm and its welcome Coffee Shop and café. Here we caught up with the group doing the shorter walk. After a while they left us to walk to Greenland Pier where they caught the water bus to Greenwich. We stopped at the café and had our lunch. After lunch we had a quick look around the farm and then continued on past the Surrey Docks Marina and the Greenland Pier. Soon after the pier the path left the river and passed through some parks and housing estates before returning to the river side. Passing over the Deptford Creek we then followed the path to the Cutty Sark and Greenwich. From the Cutty Sark we made our way into Greenwich Park and climbed the steep hill up to the Royal Observatory and the end of the walk. Here we went our separate ways for a couple of hours looking around Greenwich before the whole group met up for the trip on the water bus back to Blackfriars Station.

The remaining walkers left the train at London Bridge and made our way to the Jubilee Line.  We had only one stop, Bermondsey, where we negotiated crossing a very busy road and made our way to the River Thames.  As the river winds through London each time we looked back there was a different view.  One thing that surprised us was the lack of benches for people to sit and enjoy the sights and smell of the Thames. We followed the path as it joined the river and then branched away into what was in the past warehouses and wharfs and now are very expensive apartments and flats. We soon arrived at Ada Salter’s Statue. Ada came from Raunds and came from a Methodist family. The statue is actually 3 statues with the other two being of her husband (who was a doctor) and her daughter who died of Scarlet Fever at a young age. This prompted Ada and her husband to try and improve the terrible conditions people lived under. In 1922 she was elected Mayor of Bermondsey, becoming the first Labour woman to be mayor in Britain and the first woman mayor of a London borough. So, in other words, she was a trailblazer for women in politics! We also saw Canary Wharf and some of us were thinking how much it would cost to live in one of those apartments.  When we left the path temporarily we were surprised to see some semi-detached and terraced houses so near to the Thames.    We stopped for coffee and cake at the Barn at Surrey Docks Farm which was most enjoyable.  We then walked to the Greenland pier and caught the river bus to Greenwich. Once there we located the meeting area and went off our separate ways. Most people made their way to The Royal Observatory where the views across London were amazing.  Some of us discovered the Pavilion Café and enjoyed another coffee in their grounds.

We all met up at the Greenwich Pier at 4pm and caught the water bus from Greenwich to Bankside. This is the way to see London, going under various bridges, see the different landmarks, and the icing on the cake was to see Tower Bridge open to let a Thames barge through. From Bankside we walked the short walk to Blackfriars Station and almost immediately caught a train back to Bedford. The day had been cloudless with stunning autumn sunlight, a great day with great weather.  

On a dry but chilly day nine of us set off from the Churchill Way Car Park in Burton Latimer by walking down Churchill Way into the park. Making our way through the park we then continued on through the streets to the River Ise flood plain. Taking a well-defined path we walked on to the River Ise where we turned left to walk by the river. On reaching a humped back bridge we crossed over the river and headed for the railway. Here we took a stile at a bridge by the railway and walked across the water meadows to Finedon Station Road. Here we crossed oback ver the river on the road and took the Finedon Road up hill to a gate and a track on the left. Taking the track uphill we soon reached a bench where we stopped for a break and admired the view over the Ise valley. After our break we continued on the track through the farm land and past Barnfield Lodge Farm. We continued on the track to some houses and then walked on to Finedon Road – Turning right we then made our way back into Burton Latimer and the start. Great walk ending in lovely autumn sunshine.

Nine of us travelled to meet at the pretty village of Easton on the Hill in the very north of the county. Having got our boots on and our gear together we walked past the Priests House (National Trust Property) and onto the church with its lovely Peace Garden. From the church we dropped down into the Welland Valley to the outskirts of the village of Tinwell. At this point we turned right and followed the river downstream towards Stamford. After stopping for a welcome coffee break beside the river we continued on to the Freemans Meadow in Stamford. Here we found the meadow was full of people and dogs attending a dog show! The meadow was full of lots of stalls and parade rings etc. One of the stalls selling cakes and biscuits (for humans) was very tempting. From the meadow five of us walked into Stamford and took a tour which visited many of the historical streets and buildings in the town. The circular route led us back to the Freemans Meadow where re-joined the remainder of the group. Here we stopped for lunch. Having finished our lunch we made our way out of the town uphill to Wothorpe and the remains of Worthorpe House which is noted for its towers. After walking through the estate we then walked through Wothorpe Groves woods back to the Easton on the Hill passing a new war memorial in memory of the WWII Polish Parachute Regiment which had been in inaugurated earlier that day.

Nine of us met at Harrington on a damp September day. As we got booted up the rain started to drizzle and three of the group prudently decided to abandon the walk and drive home. The remaining six all agreed that it was worth a go at walking the route as it looked a lovely walk. As we started the rain became heavier but still walkable. We set off on the footpath which lead us across the site of a medieval Manor House that was renowned for its gardens and fish ponds. As we walked the rain and wind increased to the point where it was difficult to see where we were going and we were getting very wet. Approximately 1 mile in we all decided that it was pointless continuing so we turned around and walked back to the cars. Unfortunately we were now facing the wind and rain and we got even wetter walking back to the cars. We all made it back to the cars and removed our very wet coats etc and drove home. The end of a very eventful short walk hopefully we can finish the walk someday.

Ten members started from the layby near Turvey Bridge on the A428 – Walking through the village we made our way into open countryside passing New Gains Farm we walked on footpaths to the access road for the derelict Great Oaks Farm. Skirting around the farm we made our way on a series of footpaths and bridle paths to Great Wykes Farm near Carlton – Here we took The Pipers Highway for a short distance before turning left on a farm access road into Carlton and on to the Fox Inn where we had lunch. After lunch we walked to St Marys Church on the outskirts of Carlton before taking a series of footpaths and tracks back across more open countryside back to Turvey and the parked cars covering a distance of 7½ miles.

12 walkers started from Woodford Green by the Dukes Arms and headed downhill on Club Lane to a T junction here we turned left into Church Street. Walking up the street we passed some thatched cottages with different animals and birds made out of thatch on the roofs.  On reaching the end of the houses we continued on into Woodford Shrubbery. We then walked through the woods and emerged from the wood into open countryside.  Here we turned right and headed towards the river with the Woodford Lock in the distance.  On reaching the path by the river we turned left and walked to Woodford Lock.  We then crossed the old railway track and took a path on the right which follows the river Nene downstream towards Denford Lock.  Just before the bridge we turned left again crossed the field on a path that led us back to Woodford Lock from which we retraced our steps along the river bank to Church Street and then uphill back to the Pub.

On an overcast day nine of us travelled from Duck Street to Stoke Albany in the North West of the county. Setting off past the Coach & Horses pub we soon passed under the Market Harborough road to take a path up a steep bank and on through a small woods. Emerging from the woods we set of across the fields on the Jurrasic Way an undulating path which switched backed across the countryside. On reaching Stoke Wood we turned right on to the Macmillian Way dropping downhill towards Brampton Ash we found a suitable straw bale which we used as a table for a welcome coffee break. After coffee we crossed a brook and walked past the Red Hovel (which was a hovel). On reaching a road we turned uphill towards Brampton Ash. However before entering the village we turned left and with a magnificent view of the church we made our way back to the Harborough Road. After a few metres we turned off on to a bridleway and dropped downhill with lovely views over the rolling countryside. We then made our way into the village of Ashley where we stopped at the church for our lunch. After lunch we walked through the village to the pub for a welcome drink. After our visit to the pub we made our way out of the village and headed south back over the rolling hills back to Stoke Albany. We all agreed that the walk had been superb and we had been very lucky with the weather as it had been overcast all day with rain just as we finished the walk.

Six of us met at the Duck Street Car Park on a very wet rainy morning. After some discussion whether to risk the drive to Corby then walk in the pouring rain we all decided to give it a go and we drove to East Carlton Country Park. After a very wet drive the rain stopped when we arrived. The walk started in the country park and then went through East Carlton going past the cricket club. We soon reached the A427 and after carefully crossing we walked on a country road towards Pipewell. After ½ mile we turned off the road on to a track. We followed this track for 1½ miles. The track was very wet underfoot in places but it also had a lovely variety of wide flowers and wildlife in the margins. At the end of the track we met the A427 road again which we re-crossed into Blackthorn Wood golf course. After walking through the golf course we made our way into the lovely village of Cottingham. Here we stopped for a break at the church. After our break we followed the Jurassic Way to the village Middleton. By now the overcast weather had changed into sunshine and we were grateful that the final stretch of the walk back to the country park was along a tree lined path. On getting back to the park we all visited the café for a well-earned coffee.

Nine members gathered for our circular walk around Woodford on a cloudy and over cast evening. From our stating point on the green, we headed down Club Street, turning left onto Church Street, where we passed a character detail thatched house on our right. At the end of the street, we continued on the footpath that leads to Woodford Lock and joins the old railway line. Here we turned right and headed towards Woodford Mill.  At the junction where we were turning left to walk around Kinewell Lake, I took the decision to not continue around, it was light rain and due to light levels, thought it was safer to turn right and head back across the public footpath and the Nene Way, towards Woodford. After leaving the concrete path, and following the Nene Way, we bared right, across the grassy field. But this choice was was not a good one......head high (Well over mine and Gwen's) we had to tramp though, nettles, brambles, elder and Himalayan Balsam, were a machete would of been great!  For a main walkway it was extremely hard walking! So much so, once we got out onto a concrete road, and saw there was the same over the next field too, I took the group up the road way, although it's not a public right of way, for safety reasons, as the damp uneven ground if one had slipped & fallen over, it could be difficult to retrieve them safely or put the helpers at risk too, with nettle stings.Back on the public footpath, we headed across the grassy field through the kissing gate and back onto the opposite end of Church Street. Going up Rectory Road, we arrived back at the green at 8.40. We had walked 3.5 miles and the 3rd mile took 35 mins to complete, so the decision not to go around Kinewell Lake was a right call as that extra mile, we would not have got back to the Green until 9.10-9.15 in the dark! The evening ended with a great pint and conversation in the Dukes Arms.

On a very hot day 6 of us, 4 members, the guest leader Darren and 1 new walker started off at Badby. We walked through this beautiful Northamptonshire stone village, which is nearly on the border with Warwickshire. We soon climbed the first incline of the day which is Bunkers Hill out of the village.  After crossing the busy A361 we walked along a gated road, and for our first sight of Arbury Hill, the highest point in our county.  Following the path around, we welcomed the shade and increased thermals passing through. Turning right we continued on grassy paths to Longridge Farm and into the village of Upper Catesby, following the footpath we glimpse the end of the dismantled Great Central Railway Tunnel that linked London to Nottingham until Beachams cut backs in 1966.  However Darren explained that this tunnelling running under our feet re-opened in December 2021, and is now home to the world’s longest indoor aerodynamic test facility, providing a controlled 1¾ Mile, repeatable environment in which to test everything from bicycles to racing cars! Moving on, we saw the magnificent Catesby House and walked down the old avenue of trees which, once led to the front door. Turning right we joined part of the 88 mile Jurassic Way which starts in Banbury and finishes in Stamford. After cutting through the railway line, we sat on the embankment for our lunch stop in the cool shade of the trees that now line the route. Continuing a steady uphill climb, we look back for wonderful views of the old railway viaduct. Although the path dropped down, we faced several stiles in this section getting up to Staverton, but a welcome cool drink was calling us at the Countryman's Arms that made the ascent easier. After a good break, we crossed the main road by the vets and headed back towards Badby, but there was another surprise in store for us, coming down into the water meadow there was a host of Common Spotted Orchid. This last section was all on a level between rises on each side and with it getting very blowy, was a perfect cool down end to a lovely walk.

It was a slightly damp day when four members met in Duck Street car park and set off for Stagsden. Parking in front of the derelict Royal George pub we met up with a fifth member and then we set off on our walk, the rain having stopped. Turning left we walked a short distance by thatched cottages and turned left into Oakcroft. At the bend we went straight ahead and then left onto a footpath around the edge of the field. Turning left at the bottom of the field we went down the steps and followed the concrete track to the underpass. Followed the path through the water under the bypass and continued along the edge of the fields to Firs Farm. Here we turned left towards Kempston West End along a minor road. The road climbed steeply, past a florist’s shop and flower fields. We stopped at the brow of the hill, where a farmer had fortunately blocked the field entrance with large plastic containers, just right for sitting on. After a short rest we turned left onto the footpath towards Astey Wood. The footpath gave us a nice view down towards Stagsden and we continued past the wood. We crossed over Spring Lane and took the footpath straight ahead. Passing through a gate we walked round the edge of the Golf Club, following the marker posts. Then down past the edge of Oxleys Wood and followed the road to the entrance to the Golf Club. Here we enjoyed some excellent refreshments, sitting on the veranda with a lovely view. However, we still had to finish the walk, so leaving to golf club we walked down the hill and went over the footbridge to the right of the entrance, up to the main road. Taking great care we crossed the A422 and then followed the path to the village road. Here turned left and arrived back at the Royal George.

Seven of us started from the Worlds End Pub in Ecton and took the Northampton Round footpath across the fields to East Lodge Farm and then on Washbrook Lane to the entrance of Sywell Reservoir. After passing the Rangers Office and the Café we climbed up to the reservoir and set off on the path around its shore in an anti-clockwise direction. The path weaved its way through different habitats and tree cover. It was a very sunny, hot evening so the areas of tree cover were very welcome. Also there was a cooling breeze which also kept us cool in the open spaces. Soon we returned to the Rangers Office and then retraced our steps back to the Worlds End where we had a very welcome drink in the pub garden.    

Nine of us started from Saffron Road on a cloudy but dry day. We made our way down to the Greenway and followed the path over the A45 and on to the River Nene. After crossing the river we turned right and followed the path keeping the river to the right until we reached some steps. We climbed the up to the dismantled railway track and turned right soon walking under the A6 road until we reached a back road.   Here we turned left and passed what once was Nene Park Football Ground. We then took a right turn past Aldi and Nene Park Clinic and from we walked along Marsh Lane until we came to a lock on the right.  Crossing over the lock we followed the path into Stanwick Lakes and at the T junction we turned left on to the path that leads to the Visitor Centre.  Here we stopped for welcome refreshments and a chat.  After our break we turned right to take the track round the lake to a path on the left that leads to a weir on the River Nene.  We crossed over the river on a bridge near the weir and turned right reach the assault course. Here we turned left back onto onto the disused railway track.  We followed this back to the Greenway and then back to Higham where we started.

We started from Bozeat High Street and walked through the village via Church Street and St Mary’s Road. Branching of into Fir Tree Grove we took a footpath over a series of stiles to White House Farm. Continuing on the path we crossed a couple fields making our way to a pond and a derelict barn. Here we stopped for a short break before continuing in to meet the Three Shires Way. Here we turned left and walked along the way through a small spinney and on to a trig point which has the dazzling height of 106 metres. Here we turned left back towards Bozeat and crossing an ancient ridge and furrow field we walked back into the village and a welcome drink at the Red Lion Pub. Eight of us walked on a lovely spring evening

On a beautiful spring day 27 of us made the train journey from Bedford to Hampstead Heath. Here we divided into 2 groups, 9 on the longer walk and 18 on the shorter walk. For the first ½ mile we walked together past a series of ponds. At first the paths where very busy but by the time we got to the fork in the path where we divided it had got a lot quieter.

Shorter Route - On reaching the fourth pond we viewed the viaduct bridge which crosses the pond. From here we kept to the main path with the pond on our right and walked past the Hollow Tree with its views through the trunk. Continuing on we made our way past some toilets and on through some lovely parts of the heath. The path meandered through the woods and suddenly emerged into open heath land which we crossed to get to Kenwood House. Here we toured the house viewing the collection of fine art and looked around the gardens with their fine display of Azalea’s and Rhododendrons. We then had our lunch and waited for the walkers on the longer walk to arrive.

Longer Walk - Having viewed the viaduct over the fourth pond the walkers on the longer walk branched off to the left and made our way through the woods past the Vale of Heath and on  to West Heath and Golders Hill Park with its deer enclosure and zoo. Here we stopped at the café and had a welcome coffee break. On leaving the café we made our way on to the Hill Garden and Pergola eventually finding our way back into the heath. Walking on through the heath we made our way to the Spaniards Inn and the Toll Gate. We then continued on to the entrance into Kenwood House where we caught up with the main group. We were able to look around the house and have our lunch before re-joining the main group.

After lunch the two groups re-joined and we set off from the house through the heath – Passing through Kenwood Woods and on past the Ladies and Men’s Bathing ponds. From here we made our way to Highgate Hill and via the gated Holly Lodge estate walked on to Highgate Cemetery. Here we met up with our guide Corinna who showed us around. The tour visited the graves of many interesting and historical people. It was fascinating and very interesting seeing all the different types of memorials and burials. This included the graves of contemporary people including Alexander Litvinenko who was poisoned by Russian Intelligence and is buried 10ft down because of the radioactive Polonium. Also George Michael is buried with his mother and Sister nearby. We also visited the catacombs where we were shown the passage way through the catacombs where family’s used to come and have picnics with their dead relatives! Finally we walked to see Karl Marx’s tomb. This rounded off a captivating and fascinating visit.

From the cemetery we made our way back to the heath and climbed over Parliament Hill to view the London sky line. From here we made our way back to Hampstead Station passing George Orwell’s house on the way. We then made our way back to Bedford having had an absolutely brilliant day.

Starting from the Cricket Club we made our way to Station Road and turn right out of the village. We walked for ½ mile to a track on the left which dropped downhill to the River Ise – Crossing over the river we walk for a short time along the river bank but soon we turned away across some fields to a byway. Here we turned left and walked on the byway to the Finedon / Harrowden Road. After re-crossing the River Ise we walked up hill to a path on the left. This led us through some fields to Cally Banks which is the site of a Victorian Ironstone quarry. We turned onto the line of the old railway track that moved the ironstone to the main line and walked back to Station Road. Turning right we walked back to the start. Ten of us walked on a lovely spring day.

Twelve of us started from the Royal Oak in Cogenhoe and made our way down Church Street. On arriving at the Cogenhoe Mill Caravan Site we took the footpath by the River Nene and followed the riverside path to Whiston Lock. Here we turned right and followed a track through the gravel extraction site which was similar to a lunar landscape – After getting covered in dust from the lorries we arrived at the Whiston Road. Here we crossed over and walked to Whiston. We passed by the loop road into the hamlet and then climbed our way out of the valley to a track which led down to Whiston Ford. We took a path off to the left which avoided us having to negotiate the ford by means of a footbridge over the brook. This led us back to the track which we crossed over into a field. The path led us through “The Firs” wood and on to the Jerusalem Steps which we descended to the line of the tramway which used to link quarries in the Firs to the Northampton to Peterborough railway in the valley. We followed the path down to the Whiston Road again. From here we walked uphill back into Cogenhoe and the pub.

On a cloudy but dry Sunday morning 6 of us walked from the Field Centre in the lovely village of Everdon. Leaving the village by a footpath close to the church we soon were climbing one of the many hills on the walk in the rolling countryside in this part of Northamptonshire. We walked the 2 miles to Preston Capes where we stopped for coffee at the church. From Preston Capes we made our way north on the Knightley Way to Fawsley Hall. Here we visited the estate church where the Knightley family are buried. From the church we continued on the Knightly Way through the estate climbing up to Badby Woods and the magnificent display of Bluebells. Walking through the bluebells with their lovely aroma we dropped down into the village of Badby and made our way to the Malsters pub where we had our lunch. After lunch we left Badby on the Nene Way which followed the meandering infant River Nene across the water meadows to Newnham. This part of the walk seemed very flat however we soon were climbing again out of the Nene Valley to Little Everdon. Passing Everdon Hall we then made our way back to Everdon to finish our walk.  

On a bright sunny day 10 of us set of from Milton Ernest Garden Centre into the centre of the village. Taking a footpath off of Marsh Lane we walked alongside a ditch across rough ground that is marked as historical earthworks on the OS Map. Soon we walked on through open countryside as we steadily climbed out of the River Ouse valley. On reaching Thurleigh Road we crossed over and followed the perimeter fence for the Twinwoods Business Park which soon led us to the Yarls Wood Detention Centre which we skirted around in Yarls Wood. Following the path around the edge of the wood we soon emerged into an arable field. Crossing the field we came to one of the old taxiways for what was RAF Twinwoods Airfield. Taking another footpath across the fields we dropped down to the Biogen Installation. Keeping to the right of the unit we climbed uphill to the edge of Milton Ernest and after walking through another area of earthworks we made our way back to the Garden Centre

On Saturday 15th April 2023 eleven members of the Club enjoyed a walk in Little Staughton, described as ‘ancient paths’.  Parking at the end of Church Lane we headed east from the church, with wide views to the left.  Ahead was a medieval moated site, all that remains of a motte-and-bailey castle built by Sir Adam de Creting (one of Edward 1st’s knights) in 1275.

After walking downhill, turning right and crossing a stream there was a short stretch of village road followed by bridle ways (wet and muddy in parts after the heavy rains) back to Church Lane.  The weather by then had improved considerably and was actually sunny! After the walk of just under 4 miles nine of us enjoyed food at the very hospitable White Horse, Tilbrook.

On a bright sunny day, 9 walkers began a 5 mile walk from the Coastguard Cafe in Fairlight. This walk was all inside Hastings Country Park and to start we headed towards the radar station before turning right, alongside a herd of Belted Galloway's. The first part was good going, but turning left towards the costal path the gradient decreased, which was a challenge as the mud made it slippy.  At the point where it joined the Saxon Shore Way we turned right to a short steep climb via steps upwards and at the top we took a coffee stop. After coffee we continued along the Saxon Way, where it headed onto a wood, here we spoke to a gentleman who informed us that the area beside Ecclesbourne Reservoir was closed off due to flooding so revised the walk reducing it down to 3 miles. We continued passing by the Dripping Well before heading to Barley Lane onto the 1066 Country Walk, Hastings Link. Once we left this track, our the path back to the Visitors Centre was extremely muddy, hard going due to it being very slippery. The path led us through the old quarry and climbed up the steps back to the café and lunch. A fitting end to what had been a very muddy and challenging weekend.

After horrendous weather the day previously, 7 of us met at 9.15 outside the front door and whilst we were putting on our boots the drizzle started to lift and gave us our first view of Dungerness in the distance, which was a heartening sight. Leaving Guestling Hall Hotel and making our way across the A259 we began our walk on the opposite side of the road, with our first stile of the day.  Keeping left of the house and a further 2 more Stiles, we turned left through the woods and grassy field meeting Chapel Lane, directly crossing this road we encountered our first muddy ground through Glebe Wood, which was only the start of a recurrence throughout the walk. Crossing Church Lane the next footpath was made of tarmac & Cobble, so was easier walking, through a grassy field into Guestling Wood, where although muddy, paths were well maintained, to our first coffee stop. At the other end, we had a little of Watermill Lane and a farmer lane to walk on, so our legs had a rest while continued to Pickhams Farm.  This was a small holding with Yurts and Shepherd's Huts and a wooden giant keeping watch over them.  Because of the valley the stream had burst it's banks, the surrounding ground was sodden and made some interesting stepping, to keep ones foots dry! Here we encountered our first long pull upwards to Scrag Farm, but strangely we started to notice that the type of soil, we were walking on, was holding water at the top and not just in the valleys.  Following the footpath going down and up towards Knockbridge Farm, we encountered the deepest mud that was boot height deep! and the feeling of leaving your boot behind was very real. But better ground and a farm track beckoned us one. At Pannel Bridge, while having a water stop, we made the decision not to try to negotiate the reed beds towards the Royal Military Canal, which reduce of walk from 9 mls, down to 7 mls, which due to the conditions under foot was the right decision on the day. We went through our 20th stile to lead us up and over the top, with the sun coming out, highlighting the wonderful views across the surrounding Pitt levels and its new born lambs all around, made a glorious sight.  Unfortunately we have to travel a green lane, that was extremely hard going but the lunch stop at the Royal Oak in Pett kept the spirits high and the pint was a welcome break. After lunch we crossed over the Pett Road, by the Recreation Ground and started the gradual decent down towards New Barn Farm which after skirting this, led us to another one of our climbs.  At the top and in the middle of the field, we turned right and encountered a first for everyone, we all became Pied Piper's with several sheep, walking behind each of us, very strange! But a memorable moment. Coming down on to Rosemary's Lane, still laughing at us being sheep whisperer's, we now had a section that was level, was a welcome sight crossing Peter James Lane, we again stated climbing encountering a double stile with  4 steps in between, that was to get you up the height difference of 10' - 12' between the 2 fields.  Once over that we took another coffee stop to have a breather for the final section.On the level once more we continued straight to a track, but looking at the way forward, it was a no go due to being under water, we took a right and followed the track up the hill to the main Pett Road.  This was a hard hill to walk up as it was steep but turning left we came to the foot path we started out on, and after completing the last two stiles we came out on the A259 opposite Guestling Hall Hotel. It was 2.45pm and everyone agreed was a hard muddy walk but a sense of achievement was there.

On a dry bright day 14 of us left Kinewell Lakes car park.  On walking out of the car park we turned left into the village and walked along Church Street going past the church to the Denford Road. Here we turned left and climbed the hill to Back Lane. From here we walked along Back Lane to Meadow Close where we took a footpath through a kissing gate into Kinewell Lakes.  Turning right we followed the path around the lake to Woodford Mill. On the right we took a footpath across a field to a dismantled railway track.  Here we turned left and followed the track over the River Nene and past a lake on the right.  On reaching a road we turn right and walked to Ringstead Lock where we stopped for a break on a convenient seat.  We then retraced our steps back to the junction but this time we took the road that leads into Station Road and back to the car park.  At the end of the walk we drove to Woodford and had a very good lunch at the Dukes Arms a fitting end to a very nice walk.

On the day the clocks went forward to declare spring 8 of us started from Grafton Underwood on a grey, overcast, sleety cold wintery day. From the village we walked via the road and some very muddy footpaths for 2½ miles into Cranford St Andrew. Here we abandoned the plan to have a coffee on a bench seat in the open and made a hasty retreat in the horizontal rain to St Andrews Church porch and had our coffee there. St Andrews Church is no longer in use and is looked after by the Churches Conservation Trust. The church is always open for visitors. Leaving the church we walked through the parkland over the brook and on into Cranford St John passing the church and a lovely display of Primroses in the church yard. We then made our way across some very wet fields through a marshy area with duckboards. Passing over a brook and then making our way uphill into Twywell Hills & Dales nature reserve. On through the dips and gulley’s of the the old iron stone workings and then again on through the lovely woods into the village of Twywell where we stopped for lunch at the Old Friar Pub. After lunch we walked through the village to a footpath on the right through a farm. From here we made our way back to Grafton Underwood across a series of fields which were very boggy and where noted for the difficulty in getting over the stiles. By the time we arrived back at the village the sun was out and it had turned into a very pleasant day. We all agreed that despite the weather the walk had been great visiting some of the lovely villages and nature reserves in this part of Northamptonshire.

On a dry, dull day 8 Walkers left the carpark at the Riverside Park at St Neots.  We left the car park and made our way to the river bank. We then walked with the River Great Ouse on our left and some small ponds on the right to the Coneygeare Bridge over the river. Crossing over we walked on a very muddy path by the river. We soon reached the Eaton Socon weir and lock where we stopped for a very pleasant break. Resuming our walk we continued for a short time by the river but then took a footpath on the left into the conversation area and then walked on to the James Toller statue. Leaving the statue we soon passed the St Neots Camping and Caravanning Club Site and then crossed back over the Coneygeare bridge and then made our way back to the car park where we had a very pleasant lunch at the café.

On a lovely bright Sunday morning, 10 members met at the Church at Clopton, in East Northamptonshire. After a little road walking, we headed across the field towards Bull Nose Coppice, where we turn right, following the field edge towards South Lodge Farm, where a coffee break was taken. Continuing north, we headed for North Lodge Farm and the "B" road that links the villages of Barnwell and Turning. At this point we turned left and walk along the road to the apex of a right hand bend.  Here we paused to admire the viewpoint before picking up the bridleway down towards Barnwell. On our descent down we were luckily enough to see 2 hares racing across the fields.  A little further on we saw 2 more, where they were the same pair or 2 more hares, we were unable to say, but hoping it's was 4 on the tally.

Coming into the village beside Lower Farm, we turned right, walking through the picturesque village and stream to Montague Arms Pub, where in the tent around the back, they had kindly lit the log burner for us! After our lunch break, with a tasty pint, we retraced our steps a little by headed back out of the village, following the Nene Way, with a quick stop to admire All Saints Church and its War Graves. The Nene Way leads you to the hamlet of Wigsthorpe, where we turned left, onto the main street to its end.  This becomes a bridleway, going up and onto the ridge, once more giving away to wonderful views of the countryside around us. Halfway along we took a right hand path that leads you back to the village of Clopton. After walking along the main road, we returned to the church, our cars and starting point. The total mileage was 8.30 on a clear bright day. The pub stop caters for walkers, but can get busy on Sundays so best to let them know of your plans.

Eight of us started from Harrold Country Park on a clear and dry day. We walked from the park through the churchyard past the church into the village. On into Dove Lane to the brook where we took the footpath left then right. Walking by another brook we soon reached a footpath by a lake. Here we walked by the lake to the Fire Station and Odell Road. Turning left we walked to the road to Odell on the right and then took a footpath on the left. The path passed behind Southend Farm to a crossroads of paths. Here we turned right and returned to the Odell road through an avenue of trees. At the road we turned left towards Odell to a footpath on the right. Taking a left fork we walked through the Community Orchard to Horsefair Lane. Here we turned right past a childrens play area into Harrold Country Park. The weather had changed to being very overcast as turned left and made our way to the River Ouse. From here we had a lovely walk by the river back to the car park.

15 of us walked from the Duck Street car park to the Splashpool and on to the Greenway path where we walked following the old railway track to the end. Turning right we then walked through the industrial estate past Waitrose on the left and then taking the footbridge over the A45 we walked into Rushden Lakes. Passing the shops on our right we walked to the Visitors Centre. Passing the centre we continued on to the path that circles the lake. We completed a circle of the lake and came back to the Visitors Centre. From here we retraced our steps back over the footbridge and then crossing into the Needle & Awe we walked through the car park to the access road. Crossing over we passed Lidl on the right and walked along Northampton Road past the Bowls Club and on to the Hayway. Taking the Hayway we walked to Spencer Road on the right and then on through Spencer Park to Washbrook Road. We turned right and took a path up to the Greenway and the Splashpool. From here we made our way back to Duck Street and the start. Great walk in the winter sunshine.

On a grey but dry January morning 10 of us left the car park in Harrold Country Park and walked through the park into Harrold village. Taking the back path which follows the brook we walked to Orchard Lane where we made our way slowly uphill out of the village towards Park Wood. We soon walked through the wood which already had the bluebells poking through the leaf litter. On emerging from the wood we made our way to Harrold Park Farm to a trig point and the Three Shires Way where we stopped for a coffee. Here we turned left and walked along the Three Shires Way with its lovely views over the Northamptonshire countryside. On arriving at Nun Wood we found a group of suitable logs for sitting on and had our lunch. After lunch we took a footpath besides Nun Wood which took us past Middle Farm and up Coldharbour Hill. The track changed into an access road and we walked back into Harrold passing the Lockup, Mill and Church on our way back to the Country Park. A lovely walk through some beautiful woods comes highly recommended

On a dull January morning we walked from cemetery in Saffron Road along the Greenway Path which drops down across the A45 road and over the River Nene into Irthlingborough Lakes & Meadows Nature Reserve. On reaching the path of the old Northampton to Peterborough railway line we turned left and walked through the reserve. Soon we turned right and walked out of the valley into Irthlingborough. On reaching the Wellingborough Road we turned right and walked through the town to the church. Here we turned right passing the church on the left and then back on to the Greenway which took us back through the nature reserve over the river and the A45. Once over the road we turned off the main path and walked through some houses by some very pleasant ponds. We then made our way to School Lane and then back into Higham via the Greenway. As we arrived back it began to rain. We all said it was perfect timing.