We set off from Tollgate Road which is just beyond Rudyard. It was dry and warm as summer lingered into autumn. We set off on a steady climb across a grassy field.
It was not long until we started to enjoy the views.
Which were even better from the top.
The old church at Horton looked regal against the blue autumn sky.
It was good to see a craftsman working hand made lead…
…as they installed a roof to a new ‘orangery’.
Again we took to the open fields…
…as trees took on their autumn colours…
…we passed splendid houses with their well kept gardens…
…and the village hall…
…which is available for hire…
…and friendly ponies which seek attention…
…before passing a yard which cuts stone.
The proprietor invited us in for a closer look at the stone being cut…
…and across the road carefree donkeys enjoy the lingering sun.
On the top of the hill stood a cottage…
…with a tremendous view…
…and the clematis still bloomed…
…and yet another cottage demonstrated autumn at its best…
…and hidden gardens in the autumn sun.
We journeyed on passing old pig styes which reminded of farming in the past…
…before we took our break in a sunny field.
On our return friendly cows watched us walk by…
…..as we tracked back…
…noting fungi against a tree (but no Rachel to enlighten us)…
….and yet more of a different kind…
…as more cows mark our passing.
Then back to Horton and passed the old vicarage which betrays the oppulance of some 18th centuary vicars.
I assume that is the date and not the house number!
Then back passed the gate house…
…of the old church…
…across the road from the coronation bench where some of us lingered…
before returning to the cars.
