We started at Nelson Pit in Higher Poynton. It is hard to believe this was once a mine where men hacked coal from the bowels of the earth. I was dry when we got there, but soon the rain arrived to accompany us on our walk.

We set off along the canal path, every mooring point seemed to be occupied.

You are spoilt for choice if you fancy a bite to eat or drink on land…

…or on board.

Leaving the moored boats behind the canal broadens out…

…and it was not only people who could look for a bite to eat here…

…but the heron did not seeem to appreciate our company.

Our merry band paused on the bridge for their photo to be taken…

…or perhaps they were admiring the view!

We headed off towards Lyme park. Wooden pathways were a testament to someone’s good work…

…but it looks as though a dispute is in the offing.

The wild roses were still in blossom…

…and the aroma of the honey suckle hung in the air.

The cottage looked timeless as we strolled by…

…and the fox gloves stood proud in front of the old stone wall.

The walk leader had a story or two to tell about this house, his father worked there as a stone mason when the walk leader was growing up.

We entered Lyme park…

…and followed the path up by the stream…

…before the stream turned off to the right.

We headed on up the hill.

The ferns glistend in the rain…

…whilst the trees looked imposing when viewed from below…

but more elegant from above.

We climbed higher as the rain really set in.

Just after the brow we sheltered under a tree to take our break.

The undisturbed grass looked at its best in the rain.

We headed out along the ridge…

…enjoying the views out over the trees…

and over the Knott.

We crossed the stile…

…and noted the arrival of the lambs…

…before heading down and out of the park…

watched by eerie eyes!