Tuesday 3 November 2026 - Millstone Grit

Sooner or later our good luck with the weather will no doubt run out. But fortunately not on this walk. A large group ( 30 in all ) of Ramblers and guests met in the National Trust car park at Longshaw and were pleased to find that the weather was once again dry clear and bright. I guess most of us were familiar with this area and had enjoyed walks here in the past. But part of its attraction is that there are so many routes that you rarely feel like you are repeating yourself. And so it proved today. After the briefing we went out of the top of the Longshaw estate and were soon up and onto White Edge Moor before dropping down and across the road just below The Grouse Inn and re-entering the Longshaw estate to climb up to our coffee stop on a ridge looking west over the valley towards Bolehill and Grindleford in the distance. You could see for miles. The trees were turning to their autumn colours of yellow and brown and the views were stunning. As we made our way down to the road and then up through the woods of Padley Gorge the autumnal beauty just continued. The recent rains have put water back in the streams and made the undergrowth lush and green and there were more of those lovely leaf colours all around us. Emerging from the gorge we crossed the road at Surprise View and lunched just on the other side. Whereas lots of the morning had been in woodland none of the afternoon was. We took a path that climbed steadily upward across Higger Tor to eventually reach Burbage Bridge. All in the open. So just as well the weather was good. And of course there were great wide open vistas to gaze on and enjoy. From Burbage it was a steady descent back to Longshaw Lodge. Initially we were on the top path along Burbage Rocks but then we went down and joined a section of The Sheffield Country Walk that leads to a crossing of the A6187 just blow the Foxhouse Inn bend. Across the road again we went and then back to the cars. . Thanks to Elaine for leading such a lovely walk. A great day was had by all . Thanks to Tony for backmarking. And thanks to Roz and Sharon for the photos. CP

Saturday 31 October 2026 - Skellingthorpe

Fortunately the fog that had been forecast for the morning did not materialise and so our journey to the start point was not hampered and by the time we were ready to set off the day was beginning to brighten and some reasonable weather was in prospect. Twelve regular Doncaster Ramblers plus Brad and his spaniel Willow who were guesting for the day gathered and were briefed about the walk.  A basic 7.5 mile version had featured in Walk magazine a few months earlier and had been recced and added to to produce todays walk of 10 + miles. We would walk from Skellingthorpe to Doddington  for a coffee stop at the facilities there  and then on to Harby village for lunch. Sandwiches in a handy playground before liquid refreshment in the Bottle and Glass public house. After Harby we would return to Skellingthorpe across the fields and then through Skellingthorpe woods. There might even be a third ' breather stop ' at some well placed benches in the woods. Fairly flat and easy all the way with a good of variation paths and tracks and open countryside and woods etc. And that is pretty much how the walk went.  Despite the leader missing a couple of turns and being without our regular 'gateman ' to control things we nevertheless made good progress.  The weather improved as went went along. (We even sat in the autumn sunshine outside the pub). And as always the company was excellent. A much better way to spend a Saturday than sitting in watching the tele or trogging around the shops. Thanks to Brian for backmarking and to Angela for the photos. CP

Thursday, 29th October 2026 - Tickhill Wander  

On a very pleasant morning twenty-six of us met at The Buttercross in the middle of Tickhill.  As usual from this meeting place we went around the corner for some quietness from the traffic.  During the briefing the leader suggested that  members might like to attend the forthcoming AGM and join the committee - without a committee the group wouldn't exist  - and Steve reminded members about the Christmas meal and the walk choices preceding it.  Greg and his son were introduced, their first Thursday walk, Sharon agreed to backmark and we set off.

We followed a narrow path alongside the Tickhill castle moat before turning south and making our way towards the motorway.  We stopped to establish that some workers were replacing an old fence alongside the motorway to ensure that stock never strayed onto the busy road, before passing the outskirts of Harworth and turning into the Styrrup Golf and Country Club, soon stopping for our refreshments.  We continued on the right of way through the golf course, leaving it as we crossed a footbridge, actually entering South Yorkshire as we did so.  We walked along the wonderfully-named Whinney Haugh Lane, which becomes Water Lane.  At a ford across the stream a group of young children and their parents were experiencing the joys of being on horseback.  We left Water Lane into a part of Tickhill called Lindrick, which was a settlement before Tickhill itself was established following the Norman invasion of 1066.  We strolled back to the centre of Tickhill, the end of a very pleasant  and relaxing walk.  Thanks to Sharon for ensuring that twenty-six of us started the walk and twenty-six of us finished the walk.  DG

Wednesday 28th October 2026. Path Maintenance in Thorne area

After a break of nearly 2 months, due to holiday commitments of the various involved parties, Wednesday 28th October 2026 saw the maintenance team out again, this time in the Thorne area. It is an area that had seen some attention in the recent past so this session was putting a bit of polish on a well-maintained area. The two footpaths worked on were Thorne 20 and 21. One of the paths had 2 marker posts fitted while the other path received a good pruning of low overhanging tree branches.
The sites were not the best for access requiring a good distance to walk and to get tools and materials to the work sites. Six Ramblers turned out plus the Rights of Way Manager from City of Doncaster Council. The digging of the hole for one post proved difficult but perseverance paid off. A total of 14 man hours was worked on these tasks by our enthusiastic members

Stuart Twell
28.10.26

Tuesday 27 October 2026 - Historic Bolsover

Nineteen Doncaster Ramblers and Jean from Lincoln gathered in the car park at Poulter Country Park just off the A632 at Langwith for what turned out to be an 11.5 ( ish)  mile walk into and then out of Bolsover town. An after lunch  loop that would have taken in New Bolsover Model Village and made the walk longer was dropped in the interests of getting back before dark. The briefing suggested the walk would be in three parts . Countryside and woods for the first third and then urban and town walking in the middle followed by more open countryside and more woods in the afternoon. We set off through Scarcliffe Woods and went basically north towards and through  the village of Whaley before turning back south westerly across fields on mostly farm tracks and lanes to reach the east end of Bolsover. The recent rain had fortunately not caused it to get too muddy. Although the sun was breaking through it was nevertheless very windy and so 'coffee' was taken in the partial shelter of the woods. Bolsover centre made a good lunch spot. There is an open area with tables and benches, a nice square with a memorial  and best of all a Wetherspoons where most of us visited after eating our sandwiches. Oh and of course there is a castle and a town walk if you are there for longer. We left Bolsover by Castle Hill but quickly turned east on the paths that run sort of under the southern edge of the town and from where you get great views over the valley across towards Sutton Scarsdale and Hardwick Hall. You also get to see the conduit houses built along the path to take water up to the castle. From there we struck out across fields on the far side of Hillstown and then on to Scarcliffe village. After Scarcliffe it was a long upward climb through the woods to reach Upper Langwith . Again it was surprisingly good under foot and by this time in the afternoon had got quite warm in the late autumn sunshine. The last bit of the walk took us back on part of the Archaeological Trail to the cars at Poulter. Thanks to Tony for back marking and to Roz and Sharon for the photos. CP

Saturday 24th October 2026 - Castleton

Six ramblers met at the Castleton Visitors Centre. Unfortunately, for safety reasons, the planned walk had to be altered because of the impending arrival of storm Boelo. The meteorologists were predicting strong winds and heavy rain in the afternoon. The weather was cool and cloudy, with temperatures around 10°C. On the uphill walk the group passed several show caverns, Peak Cavern (Devils Arse), Speedwell, Treak Cliff and the Blue John Cavern, named after the rare Blue John stone which Castleton is famous for. This semi-precious mineral is found only in the Castleton area where mining for it began in the 18th century. Luckily visibility was quite good which meant the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside were visible.

Elevenses were taken at Mam Nik, a mountain pass at a height of 517 metres. The walk then continued downhill following the Old Manchester Road near Mam Tor (the former A625). This road was constructed in 1819 and was permanently closed and abandoned in 1979 after repeated landslides made it too dangerous and costly to repair. The broken old road is interesting as it allows people to see the various layers of which it was constructed.  The group left the road near the Odin Mine. This is one of the oldest documented lead mines in England dating back to Roman times.  Near the mine is the former crushing circle built in 1823. This circular track held a heavy stone wheel. A horse would be harnessed and walked around the crushing track, rolling the large gritstone wheel over mined lead ore to crush and pulverise it. Crushing the ore was a key step before it was transported to be smelted into lead.

A light drizzle accompanied the ramblers across fields back to Castleton where they enjoyed the warmth of a local hostelry just as the predicted heavy rain and wind arrived. This walk was 5 miles long with 1,000ft of ascent.  Many thanks to all those who turned out on a day where the weather forecast suggested a better choice might have been to remain indoors.

AMG

Thursday 22nd October 2026 - Epworth Turbary Walk

This six mile circular walk from Belton Coffee House to Epworth Turbary produced 29 ramblers with the leader. Following the leader briefing, we set off in a southerly direction using good tracks to reach the western outskirts of Epworth. The walk continued through a residential area for a short distance before coming into the countryside. Underfoot conditions were good with little mud to contend with. A series of paths and tracks, including a short tunnel under a former railway line, brought us out onto a minor road. The group used this road for a short way before entering Epworth Turbary marked by an information board. A little way into the Turbary, we took our morning break. After refreshments, we headed in a northerly direction using a good broad path through the Turbary. We left the Turbary in the vicinity of another minor road. We made use of this road, passing a few houses en route, to access a further footpath. From here it was good going on what became a broad path towards Epworth, with another brief stop for water. Upon meeting the road, we turned left. A right turn soon followed to access a good path, climbing a little, returning us towards the car park. We rejoined our earlier route where a group photograph was taken. From this point it was a very short walk to the car park. Thanks to Rob Elvidge for back marking. David Horne 22/10.

Tuesday 20 October 2026 - Anston, Lindrick and the Chesterfield Canal

There were grey skies and a forecast of rain as 16 of us met at Anston village hall. We set off through Anston Stones Wood, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and then crossed the busy A57 to Lindrick Dale. Our route then took us round the edge of Lindrick golf course and past the imposing clubhouse. Once clear of the course we had our morning break, supplemented with Blackpool rock (thanks, Sharon) and then headed to Shireoaks and the Chesterfield canal. A path alongside the canal and past a series of locks took us to Turnerwood for our lunch stop. After lunch we continued on the canal path to Thorpe bridge. From here it was uphill all the way to South Anston church, before crossing the A57 once again and returning to our cars. Surprisingly, not a drop of rain fell during the walk, to the great satisfaction of all concerned. Thanks to Jeremy for backmarking and to Charlie for the photos. PG

Thursday 15th October 2026 - Wentworth, Scholes and Thorpe Hesley

Ten members of Doncaster Ramblers enjoyed the rolling hills around the Wentworth Woodhouse estate. Starting at Wentworth garden centre, walking through the village of Wentworth past the church and school before heading across the valley to Thorpe Hesley. Then a short climb to stop on the hill above the village of Scholes, with a view of the Keppel Column and Kimberworth.

After a short break the group continued down to Scholes and then back towards Wentworth and a past the Doric Temple, views of Hoober Stand and Wentworth Wodehouse, before arriving back at the Garden centre.

Tuesday 13 October 2026 - Three Reservoirs

Sixteen Ramblers gathered at Langsett Barn car park for this 9.5 mile circular walk. Rain was forecast and was heavy while driving to the walk start point however, it had cleared on arrival and we were blessed with sunshine and blue skies for the whole of the walk. From Langsett the walk took us up the hill on the north side of the A616, from here the views over both Midhope and Langsett Reservoirs were glorious. After coffee we descended to the former railway track before circumnavigating Underbank Reservoir and then onto the village of Midhopestones where we sat outside “Ye Olde Mustard Pot” for refreshment before eating sandwiches in the grounds of the nearby chapel. The route in the afternoon took us up Edge Cliff alongside Midhope Reservoir, once again affording glorious views in the sunshine. We were back to the cars just before 3 pm. Thanks to Peter and Maggie for back marking and to Sharon and Roz for the photos. PR

Thursday 08 October 2026 - Sandall Beat

On a lovely autumnal day 27 walkers set off from Sandall Park. After crossing a busy road, we proceeded down a tarmacked path through an industrial estate and in to Shaw Wood, an old woodland developed in 14th century. It was then onwards on woodland paths with the sunshine like beams between the trees. Then it was on to Mere Lane bridlepath and under the West Moor Link Road. We then proceeded past one of many new housing estates and into another wood where we stopped for coffee break at a kiddies play area. We resisted the delights of the park. We then retraced our steps back through Shaw Wood and to our start point. A good day was had by all.  TL

Tuesday 6th October 2026 - Grenoside Woods and Wharncliffe

Once again we were lucky with the weather. Early October and it was dry warm and sunny. This was especially pleasing because it was the first time that Roz had led a walk for us and it helped everything go really well. Twelve of us met in the parking area just off Woodhead Road on the outskirts of Sheffield. The area is popular with dog walkers and cyclists and sometimes the car park can get busy but today it was fine. Roz briefed us and we set off into the adjacent woods and began a long and fairly gentle descent through the trees. On reaching the path that runs sort of north west alongside the railway track we swung right and followed a nice wide path for a mile or so. The coffee stop was al fresco in a lovely sunny spot beside the path. Eventually we turned right again and went more steeply up to get onto Wharncliffe Crags. Roz had promised us great views overlooking the valley to accompany our lunch and she did not let us down. It was splendid. After lunch the walk was mostly along the top of the crags on a path that wended its way through the bracken. This and some of the surrounding trees had started to turn to their autumn colours. They looked good it the late season sunshine. The last section of the walk took us back into Grenoside Woods and up a long steady slope back to the cars. The whole walk had been smashing. A bit of a surprise to some of us to find such a nice and varied walk so close in to Sheffield. We should go there more often. Thanks to Roz for finding the walk and for leading it and to her and Sharon for some of the photos. CP

Saturday 3rd October 2026 - Three Reservoirs from Nostell

I don't think we could have wished for better conditions for this walk. It was dry warm and sunny when we met in the car park at Nostell Priory and basically, it stayed that way all day. Nineteen of us (including new lady Jo from Castleford) were there to enjoy it. It was an exact repeat of a Tuesday walk earlier in the year but that didn't prevent some people turning up to do it again. We were going to cross the main A638 at the beginning and towards the end and there was a little bit of pavement walking and a stretch of lane with no verge on the outskirts of Ryhill but it was otherwise good paths and tracks across the countryside and around the three reservoirs. Flat all the way and with a good lunch stop with a cafe and toilets at The Anglers Country Park after about 6 miles. The route took us firstly through the woods across the road from Nostell and then after some scrubland we went under the railway and turned left across fields towards Havercroft and Ryhill. A quick coffee break in the corner of a field and then down through Ryhill village to reach the edge of the first reservoir, Wintersett. We negotiated the woodland path alongside the reservoir and then paused when we got to the embankment and dam that separates Wintersett from Cold Hiendley. Interestingly the water in Cold Hiendley was green whilst the water in Wintersett was blue!  Carrying on around Wintersett we got to our lunch stop at The Anglers Country Park facilities adjacent to our third reservoir of the day. We took the Lakeside Path and then a bit of Stanningley Lane back towards the railway line. Going under the railway line again this time struck straight ahead to Foulby on the main road. After a careful crossing we re-entered the Nostell estate by the Yorkshire Air Ambulance station entrance before swinging round the bottom lake and then up the rise to see the main house in front of us. From there it was a couple of hundred yards to the cars. Thanks to Tony for back marking and to Angela for the photos. But as usual thanks also to those who came along and provided excellent company. CP

Thursday 01 October 2026 - Sandy Lane

On a glorious autumn day 24 walkers set off from Sandy Lane past the Doncaster aircraft museum and on to Lakeside. Lots of varieties of birds were on view including Swans. It's always a good sign when lots of chattering can be heard. We carried on and eventually came to the theatre of dreams or nightmares (Doncaster Rovers ground). We walked along Alick Jeffrey way who was probably the greatest player ever to wear a Rovers shirt and whose top-class career came to an end when he fractured his leg. He was on the verge of becoming a Busby Babe at Manchester United. Had he done so he may well have been involved in the Munich air crash. On leaving the stadium we proceeded back round the lake where coffee stop was enjoyed. We circumvented the small islands and one of our party gave us information on a granite memorial dedicated to the airmen stationed at Doncaster Aerodrome in World War 2. We continued on and back to our cars and the finish. A good day was had by all. TL

Tuesday 29th September 2026 - Market Weighton and Environs

Twenty six ramblers met at Towthorpe car park on a grey morning where the forecast was for the weather to improve. The car park itself was not the best advert for the local council with rubbish spread in all corners. Everyone dressed for the grey conditions and with a fresh breeze blowing and we set of on the Wolds Way long distance path towards Goodmanham which we reached in about 30 mins. Staying on the Wolds Way progress was made on a public road towards a disused railway line which is part of another long distance footpath, the Wilberforce Way, which is also called the Hudson Rail Trail (see POI below). The usual mid morning break was taken after another half mile. After the break we continued along the Wilberforce Way leaving it at Southwold Farm and transferring to a public road for an uphill trek to the lunch point at Arras. Here the weather decided to get worse with a strong wind and fine drizzle which was not in the forecast, this shortened the lunch break. After lunch the Wolds Way was picked up again for about two miles before reaching the Wilberforce Way again, this time heading towards Market Weighton. We turned off the Wilberforce Way about half a mile before Market Weighton and picked up another dismantled railway. Progress was made along this for about 1 mile before joining the Wolds Way yet again for the return trip to the car park. Thanks to Charlie for photos and the back marking team.

POI
Hudson Rail Trail is one of many around the country that are accessible usually by bike and foot. The Hudson Rail Trail runs for 16 km from Beverley to Market Weighton.

Saturday 26 September 2026 - Scarborough Coach Trip. Medium Walk

Sixteen of us got off the bus at Cloughton and after a quick briefing about the terrain etc we set off towards the sea. The weather was beautiful, nice and sunny with a fresh breeze, perfect for seven and a bit miles along the coast into Scarborough. Our route was down Hood Lane and then a short section on the Cinder Track before crossing fields to get to Cloughton Wykes. Here we encountered the first 'down and up' ravine, there were to be at least two more along the way. Other than that, the path was flat, it hugged the cliffs and for most of the walk we could see Scarborough Castle in the distance. A short coffee stop at the bird observation post at Long Nab was a welcome pause as we made good progress in the warm conditions. At Scalby Mills we dropped down for the final couple of miles. Resisting the temptation to stop at the pub we pressed on. First passing the Sea Life Centre and then the colourful beach huts on the promenade before cutting up some steep steps and along the pavement to get to the castle precincts. Well done to everyone for taking this nicer but tougher option rather than just walking around the headland into the harbour. I hope the views from the top were worth the effort. We finished the walk outside Luna Park amusements just after two o'clock. Not a bad time for about 7.5 miles. Thanks to everyone who opted to do this walk. Lovely walk, lovely weather and especially lovely company. Thanks to David for back marking. CP

Saturday 26 September 2026 - Coach Trip Short Walk

After dropping of the long walkers at Ravenscar and the medium walkers at Cloughton there was five of us left on then coach. We were dropped off at just before the Scalby Manor Hotel and after a quick briefing we were off following a footpath to the costal path which is variously designated as the King Charles III Way, Cleveland Way and England Coast Path. Heading towards Scarborough we walked down the step steps at Long Ness before crossing the bridge onto the promenade of North Bay. It was then past the Sea Life Centre before we found a convenient place to sit and have our coffee break overlooking the sea of North Bay and waving at the children enjoying the miniature running on the hill behind us. Just big kids ourselves really. It was then onto the beach, walking on the sand was easier on the legs, before leaving the beach at the end of the colourful beach huts and climbing the concrete steps into Clarence Gardens. The added height gave us great views of North Bay, Scarborough Castle and north towards Ravenscar. Leaving the Gardens some gradual uphill road walking on Queens Parade and Albert Road brought us some steep steps which took us to the gate of Scarborough Castle. We then followed the footpath below the castle walls which gave some great views of Scarborough South Bay before starting our descent down some very steep steps which were negotiated with care. The walk finished at the harbour. A total of 3.5miles was walked on a glorious late summer early autumn day which gave us great views all day. Thanks to those who joined me on this lovely short walk. Stephen J Tomlinson

Saturday 26th September 2026 - Ravenscar to Scarborough

Twenty-five ramblers got off the coach at Ravenscar on a dry, bright, sunny but unexpectedly cool day. After availing themselves of the toilet block facilities they set off south on this twelve-mile walk.

The route followed the Cleveland Way/King Charles III Way/English Coast Path to the castle at Scarborough. A brisk pace soon warmed the group. Heading south the walk passed the remains of the World War 2 radar detection site. Some of the walkers were lucky enough to spot a pod of over 20 Minke whales which were also making their way south along the coast.

An hour into the walk there was a fifteen-minute stop for refreshments at Petard Point.

Continuing south, care was taken as the walkers descended the steep sided ravine of Hayburn Wyke. The climb out of the ravine saw the group continue for about another kilometre before stopping at the Roger Trod viewpoint for lunch. The plastic wrapped bales of hay in the field provided walkers with a welcome back support.

After lunch the route continued south following the cliff edge past the bay of Cloughton Wyke, then onto the carpark at Cliff Top House. Before reaching Scalby Mills the ramblers passed the sewage works which, were it not for the smell, would have passed unnoticed as its seaward side is well disguised to look like a farm.

The group then descended from the cliff edge to the Sea Life Centre at the northern end of North Bay. Here half of the walkers left the group to do their own activities.

After a short section along the promenade past the colourful beach huts and sandy beach the remaining walkers made their way uphill to the castle.

Fantastic weather and good company made for wonderful days walking.

Thanks to Brian for back marking and taking the photographs.

AMG

Thursday 24th September 2026 - Lound

It was another beautiful Thursday September morning where 26 ramblers met for a very pleasant 6.2 mile walk. We met just outside Lound village and entered the Idle Valley nature reserve, we continued past lakes and bird spotting hides until we came to the river Idle. We crossed over the Idle and walked alongside it admiring countryside views of surrounding villages, passing more lakes, where it was evident the impact the long dry summer has had on water levels. We then crossed back over the Idle and walked alongside more lakes and made our way to the ski club for a well earnt drink and snack. After leaving the ski club we made our way towards Lound village passing more lakes which were gifted to the Parish of Lound by Tarmac when they had finished excavating gravel. We saw a little bit of Lound village and some of us came away with apples and eggs which were available from residents. We then made our way back through the small wood with some very big tree roots and back to our start point. Thanks to everyone who attended for your company and to Nick and Steve who lead and back marked respectively.

Sharon Dickinson

Tuesday 22 September 2026 - Kinder Scout Mass Trespass Walk

What a fabulous walk this turned out to be. It was listed as strenuous and was quite a drive to get there but ‘boy oh boy' was it worth it. The weather all day was perfect, dry and sunny. The views were terrific. An elite group of 9 Ramblers met in the car park in Hayfield and were briefed by our leader David. He told us about a couple of roads to cross and some rough terrain but failed to mention the sheep that wanted to share our lunch (see photos). The first section of our walk followed the route taken by the trespassers in 1932, from Bowden Bridge Quarry and then up William Clough to the point where the protesters were met by gamekeepers and police. Then an even steeper ascent up onto the plateau and across to Kinder Downfall and the trig point. We descended past Edale Cross, down the Old Roman Road and back to the cars via Tunstead Clough Farm and the caravan park. Some of the paths were a little muddy in places after the recent rain but the upside of that was that everything was green as far as the eye could see. And because the day was clear and bright we could see for miles. The sense of space from the plateau was wonderful. And all of this was enhanced by David's informative comments about not only the trespass but also the various hills and mountains around us. There were a lot of complimentary comments from all of us at the end of a walk. Thanks to David for leading and to Roz for stepping up as photographer, I suspect her photos will give a much better picture of the walk than I am able to get over in words. CP.

P.O.I. During the 1930's there was increasing pressure for greater public freedom of access to mountains and moorland. This was in the face of opposition from private landowners. The Kinder Trespass involved about 400 people and took place on 24 April 1932. The protesters met at Bowden Bridge Quarry and ascended up William Clough but were met at the top by gamekeepers and police. Scuffles broke out and 6 protesters were arrested, charged and later imprisoned for between 2 and 6 months. These events caused public outrage and acted as a catalyst to the passing of The National Parks Legislation of 1949. Walkers’ rights of access were eventually protected under the Countryside Rights of Way Act of 2000. More information about all of this is available on the internet including Wikipedia.

Saturday 19th September 2026 - Lud's Church

As Gradbach is southwest of Buxton and so a bit further away than most of our walks, it wasn't a big surprise that there were only 7 of us for this 10 mile strenuous walk. We set off along a pretty valley in sunshine and were soon into open moorland above a steep valley with woodland clinging to some of the lower slopes. We descended into a wide valley and had a coffee stop with views of hills and dramatic clouds all around us. As we came to the foot of Hen Cloud, it was shrouded in cloud and we were soon putting on waterproofs. We went a little way up Hen Cloud but then took a path that took us around the hill and to the end of The Roaches. The rain had eased for our climb to the top of this ridge. Near the top we stopped for lunch (with delicious flapjack from Phil again) and enjoyed the spectacular views over Tittesworth Water Reservoir. After lunch we completed the climb to the top of the ridge and followed it and were treated to further spectacular views and some sunshine.

We left The Roaches via woodland and Lud's Church. Lud’s Church is a deep, moss and fern covered chasm full of history, myths and dark green wherever you look. It's an 18 metre deep, 100 metre long chasm created in The Roaches’ gritstone caused by a giant landslip, which over the ages has been covered from top to bottom in vibrant moss and ferns. In the Fifteenth Century it was used as a secret place for worship for people who would have otherwise been prosecuted. The people using this deep chasm as a church were the Lollards, followers of the early church reformer John Wycliffe who was dismissed from the Catholic Church. Robin Hood and Friar Tuck are reputed to have stayed in the cleft whilst hiding from the authorities and there's a myth that the chasm was created by the devil’s finger nail as he scraped back parts of the earth. Lud's Church was busy with many families and young children and different languages. Its narrowness in places meant waiting for people coming in the opposite direction, but everyone was patient, well mannered and helpful.

We crossed Black Brook and followed the River Dane to Gradbach Mill. Their Coffee Cabin generously opens its toilets to the public free of charge. I couldn't see an honesty box. I would definitely have contributed if there had been one. We weren't far from the car park, but it was up hill and Phil wasn't feeling well, so Frank kindly offered to get his car, drive back and pick Phil up.

Thanks to George for leading this beautiful walk (which was well worth the extra travel) Phil for flapjack for the second week running, Frank for saving Phil from that last climb and Angela, Deet and Phil for some of the photos. BU

Thursday, 17th September - Wellingley Wander

We last did this walk in March 2025, and what a difference to the middle section of the walk.  Ten of us started from Wellingley farm, with permission given to park on their yard.  We walked the short distance to Wellingley Grange, a farm owned by a monastic order and then along a right of way to Egg Lane, which is not a right of way but is a pleasant track to wander along. We came to the end of Carr Lane, which starts in Wadworth, and turned right to follow a footpath adjacent to the iPort.  We then crossed a footbridge, the original bridge here having been stolen shortly after it was erected.  Then we came across the huge difference in the landscape which has occurred in the intervening 18 months.  We climbed to the highpoint, where some handy seats had been built, and from where we could see the DRI, the Balby flats, the turbines at Marr, the Maltby and Harworth tips, as well as a few churches.  We could also see, in the Rossington direction, a huge earth-moving operation in progress. The whole area was fenced off, necessitating a considerable detour for us. However, we descended to the outskirts of Rossington and walk past hundreds on newly-built houses and a new medical centre before we joined our intended route near the burial ground. From here a succession of 90 degree turns  led us to a bridge over the Torne, in which we noted a few fish. An overgrown stile took us into the area of Stancil, site of a Roman villa two thousand years ago, as well as a collection of, as yet, undated bones which were found in 1938 when a water pipe was being laid from Rossington to Tickhill.  Leaving Stancil farm we followed Stancil Lane back to our cars at Wellingley.  Thank you to Nick for back-marking. David Gadd   

Tuesday 15th September 2026 - Bert Ward Memorial Walk

Bert Ward was a pioneer of rambling even in the years before The Kinder Mass Trespass. He lived in Holmesfield (where this walk begins). Doncaster Ramblers have done the walk at least once before but it was well worth repeating. Eighteen of us met in the car park behind The Angel public house and were briefed by Dianne about both the walk and Bert (See the photos for the information board at the start, sorry it’s not very clear). The countryside in this part of South Yorkshire and the Peak District is wonderful. Good variation between farmland small woods and then moorland with excellent views in all directions. Other than one brief shower the weather was kind to us. At times it was almost too warm and at others the wind got up and really blew the cobwebs away. Dianne found us a relatively sheltered spot for coffee and then took us to Longshaw and The Fox House pub for our lunch break. In between there were some points of interest including Lady's Cross, Totley Moor and the Longshaw Estate to keep us going. The 12 mile circuit was challenging at times but thoroughly enjoyable throughout. Thanks to Dianne for leading and to Peter for back marking. CP

Saturday 12th September 2026 - Reservoirs and Moors

11 ramblers gathered beside More Hall Reservoir for a moderate ramble of just over 11 miles. It was sunny, but most of us were expecting rain. We started with a clockwise circuit of the reservoir, then an anticlockwise circuit of the neighbouring Broomhead Reservoir. We stopped for a coffee break (with delicious flapjack from Phil) among some trees at the head of the Broomhead Reservoir. The water was a long way from us and the edge of the reservoir. After we had followed the southern shore for a while, we began the first climb of the day up a road and then through Poggs Wood. The sunshine had now been replaced by waves of drizzle, but this gave us rainbows in the views across the valley. On White Lee Moor we followed a lovely path beside heather and bilberries (delicious apparently). The strengthening wind added to the feeling of wildness on the moor. On the far side of the moor we had views of Agden Reservoir and Dale Dike Reservoir before we reached High Bradfield. Here, outside St. Nicholas Church we stopped for lunch and enjoyed the view of Bradfield Dale. We visited The Old Horns Inn which, as usual, was busy so we sat outside in the increasing drizzle. Many of us put on waterproofs for our return to the moors, but soon found we didn't need them. The descent back to More Hall Reservoir was steep in places, with some tricky stiles and even crab apples acting like ball bearings under our feet, but there were more great views.

Thanks to Phil for leading this great walk and for the delicious flapjack and to Phil and Angela for some of the photos.

Tuesday 8th September 2026 - Skellingthorpe and Doddington

Twenty six ramblers met at Skellingthorpe community centre on a grey damp morning for a 9.5 mile walk in an area not normally walked by the Doncaster group. The walk was labelled as leisurely as it was mainly flat ground. The usual briefing took place and stated that this walk was originally in the Ramblers magazine at 7 miles but careful examination of maps suggested it could be increased to 9.5 miles. The group set of on an old railway track bed, suitably tarmacked as this part of the route is also a national cycle path. Turning right onto a public footpath we walked through a wooded area before veering right down a private road that is also a public footpath before turning back on ourselves to skirt the area known as the Lound, eventually reaching coffee break in Skellingthorpe Big Wood. After the customary elevens progress was made on various tracks through the wood before hitting the cycle path again which we followed to a track called Carr Lane which took the group into Harby. It was here that it was pointed out by one of the group there was a good information board about Queen Eleanor (see photos) the wife of Edward 1 who died at Harby. It was then a short walk to Doddington Hall for lunch with its shops, café and display of preserved horse drawn farm wagons. After lunch the route went past Top House Farm and into open countryside before passing the local rendering factory with its associated smells that the local population object to! Reaching the cycle path again for the short walk back to the start several walkers were lucky enough to see a slow worm wriggle across the path. Thanks to Steve for photos and those who back marked at various stages. Stuart Twell 09.09.26.

P.O.I. Skellingthorpe was originally an area where there was Viking involvement and there was a wartime bomber airfield in the area which had the honour of having a Lancaster that completed 100 missions when the average was 10. The airfield was in use from 1942 to 1946

Saturday 5th September 2026 - Sir William Hill from Eyam Well Dressing

Thirteen ramblers met in the Hawkhill Road car park in Eyam on a perfect day for walking. Sunny and dry. A steep climb through woodland took the group out of the village followed by a gentle climb, which offered views across the White Peak, up onto Eyam Moor and Sir William Hill.

The group then walked downhill stopping several times to admire the view towards Mam Tor before descending the secluded valley formed by Highlow Brook which provided splendid views overlooking Hathersage and the Edges beyond.

After Leadmill Bridge the walk continued downstream next to the River Derwent passing through stretches of indigenous woodland.

Leaving the Derwent the walkers headed uphill towards Stoney Middleton. At Stoney Middleton the walk passed the Bath House known locally as the Roman Baths, perhaps due to Roman coins being discovered at the site. The water is believed to have healing powers benefiting sufferers of rheumatism and other illnesses, which gave rise to the foundation of the local church and its naming as ‘St Martins’ the patron saint of cripples.

The water flows at the same rate 365 days a year and at the same temperature of 63°F, this was extremely important and may well have been the catalyst for the formation of the village. The water is mineral rich and according to: Dr, Shorts treatise on Mineral Waters states that the water “can be drunk more freely than that at Buxton and is cooler”.

There are two baths, one for ladies and the other for gentlemen, separated by a wall, each measures 3m x 4m and 1.5m deep and are accessed by stone steps.

The once open-air baths were covered over in Victorian times. However, it fell into a sad state of repair until in 1986 when the Parish Council initiated its restoration, with financial aid from the Peak District National Park. The building is now classified as a ‘Grade II Listed Building’.

Continuing uphill the walkers passed the boundary stone on the outskirts of Eyam where villagers left money in coin slots filled with vinegar in exchange for food brought up the hill from Stoney Middleton during the plague.

Eyam is one of the largest villages in the White Peak and is best known for its connection to the bubonic plague which arrived in the village in late August 1665 in a parcel of damp cloth sent to the village tailor. A tailor's assistant called George Viccars was said to have opened the bale and hung the cloth in front of the hearth to dry, unwittingly stirring the disease-ridden fleas contained within the parcel. He became the first of the plague's victims in the village.

The plague swept through the community. Between September and December 1665, 42 villagers died and by the spring of 1666, many were on the verge of fleeing their homes and livelihoods to save themselves.

It was at this point that the rector, William Mompesson, intervened. Believing it his duty to prevent the plague spreading to the nearby towns of Sheffield and Bakewell, he decided the village should be quarantined. On 24 June 1666, Mompesson told his parishioners that the village must be enclosed, with no-one allowed in or out.

He said the Earl of Devonshire, who lived nearby at Chatsworth, had offered to send food and supplies if the villagers agreed to be quarantined.

The villagers decided to isolate themselves from surrounding communities so saving the lives of thousands in the surrounding area. Over the 14 months of the plague 260 Eyam villagers died out of a total population of 800.

Our walk through the village passed the victims cottages and the churchyard where many of them are buried.

The group arrived in the village in time for the Eyam Festival parade. The ramblers admired the many floats as well as the three well dressings which made for a wonderful conclusion to the day.

Well dressing is an ancient custom unique to Derbyshire. It is the art of decorating springs or wells with pictures/mosaics made from natural products.

The process of creating the picture begins by filling a large wooden frame with soft clay. An image is drawn in the clay to create an outline. The design is then ‘coloured in’ as if painting by numbers using natural materials. Neat rows are created, rather like roof tiling, with the row above slightly overlapping the one below to allow rainwater to runoff. All the boards are then pieced together to create one amazing design.

Thanks to Brian for back marking.

AMG

Thanks to Teresa for additional photos. BU

Thursday, 3rd September 2026 - Hexthorpe Flatts Stroll

Early morning drizzle in Doncaster had ceased well before the 11.00 start.  This was a special walk to support 'At a Crossroads', a research-based project supported by the Arts Council looking at how control is built into the ground we walk on, from acess rights and private land to road design, signage and pedestrian crossings, and how, over time, governance stops looking like obedience and becomes habitualised.  About eighteen of us, including the project designer Mark, social scientist Louise and Jamie the project photographer, heard how the village of Hexthorpe existed at the time of the Domesday Book in 1085.  Quarrying was first recorded 1568 , with the existence of two quarries and lime kilns next to the Don.  In the 1840s Doncaster Corporation was struggling to find anyone to lease the quarries and in 1850 the council decided Hexthorpe Flatts should be used for “the purpose of laying out and planting as a public pleasure ground”. 

In 1849, the Great Northern Railway arrived in Doncaster and in 1850 the South Yorkshire Railway opened a line through Hexthorpe. The Plant Works was established in 1853 and Doncaster became a booming railway town, houses were built in Hexthorpe and Balby and the local population drastically increased.  The Mallard and The Flying Scotsman were built here.  Buoyed by the success of new pleasure grounds at Sandall Beat, Doncaster Corporation decided to create a second at Hexthorpe Flatts and in 1902 the corporation allocated £250 to the project. The money was spent on landscaping, providing tearooms and toilets, a bandstand, bowling green, playgrounds and a rustic bridge. The Doncaster Temperance Prize Band were engaged to play in the bandstand.  The pleasure grounds opened on August Bank Holiday Monday with several thousand visitors. The newly opened Doncaster Corporation Trams connected Hexthorpe Flatts with the town. The development was a tremendous success.. A path was laid between the two quarries down to the River Don and in 1904, a boat house was constructed,

In 1927, Doncaster Corporation decided to redevelop Hexthorpe Flatts into a formal park. A scheme costing £6,500 was drawn up with new entrance gates built with stone from the quarries, a pavilion, a café, bowling greens and tennis courts.  The flagship development was the conversion of one of the quarries into a landscape feature known as The Dell. The Dell would incorporate a new bandstand, ornamental gardens, a statue of William Shakespeare, an aviary and a spectacular water feature, with an artificial river incorporating waterfalls and cascades.  A water feature was powered by a wind pump which drew water from the adjacent river. The new Hexthorpe Park and Dell opened in April 1929 and from the 1930s to the 1950s were tremendously popular.

We set off through the park, crossing the Doncaster-Sheffield railway line and entering the streets of Balby.  After about 20 minutes we turned right to Guest Bridge, where we stopped briefly for refreshments. From the bridge, looking towards Doncaster we saw where the  Doncaster Avoiding Line branches off the main line.  As its title suggests, it avoids  Doncaster and routes goods traffic, principally coal and steel, away from the main line station where it would have to cross from the Sheffield line to the Hull or Cleethorpes lines and cause a bottleneck.  The line was promoted by the Great Central Railway and passed in an Act of Parliament in 1903 but work did not commence until 5 years later. Built mostly on embankment it opened in 1910. It was brought into use following the opening of Wath marshalling yard in 1907, and in preparation for the opening of Immingham Dock in 1912.  We continued for a short while on the trackbed of the disused Hull and Barnsley line, which opened 1885 cattle and crops and coal wool imports passenger until it crossed the Don.  We then turned left, down steps, to the banks of the Don, where the magnificent structure of Don Bridge, faced us. Construction of the Doncaster bypass started on June 1959 and it opened in July 1961. On this 15 mile stretch  there are 28 bridges including five railway bridges.  

After passing under the viaduct we turned right up some steps, then right again to cross a footbridge over the motorway. Almost immediately we came to an isolated bridge to take us over the Doncaster Avoiding Line and on to the banks of the Don. We passed through Newton, first recorded in historical documents in 1379, and onwards to the Marshgate area of Doncaster, the site of Doncaster Prison. We joined the main road out of Doncaster to the north, turning right to cross the North Bridge.  In the city centre we took a diversion te the museum, going in to see the two magnificent steam engines displayed there before making our way to the ArtBomb facility on Hallgate.  After drinks and a lovely light meal we took part in a discussion, led by Louise, on various aspects of the walk, including our duty, as Ramblers, to use Rights of Way at all times (when, walking individually, we might not), why some of the group used as stile while others went around it, while some waited for the green pedestrian lights to cross a busy road while others scampered across while the 10-seconds were being counted down.  We also bemoaned the fact that litter is common in the UK but non-existent in many other countries.  This was an interesting walk and an interesting discussion and thanks to all who contributed, including back-marker John.

David Gadd

Tuesday 1st September 2026 - Worsbrough Mill

Twenty one of us met at the car park at Worsbrough Mill, part of a country park, for a 10.5 mile walk in the lovely surrounding countryside. Fortunately, the recent wet spell had been replaced by a dry nice day and it was still dry underfoot. Though a little chilly early on it did not take long for additional layers to be discarded. Following a briefing by our joint leaders Jackie and Catherine a short walk brought us to Worsbrough Mill to make use of the facilities. Relieved, we passed the spillway of the reservoir dam, admiring the Grebe and Heron, then it was onto the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT). Heading west on the TPT for a couple of miles, crossing over the M1 on the abandoned railway bridge, we turned off the TPT and after a bit of uphill and down dale we reached out coffee stop on the lovely little green at Hood Green with great views over the surrounding countryside. After coffee more uphill and down dale followed but nothing too strenuous, passing through Stainbrough Fold and close to Crane Moor, passing through a field of inquisitive horses, to our alfresco lunch stop with even more horses looking for food which of course they were denied. Refreshed, it was through Broom Royd Wood then we followed the boundary wall of Wentworth Castle parkland before crossing the M1, again, on an overbridge. It was then uphill crossing the busy A61, past the church in the pretty village of Worsbrough Park before making our way downhill through fields and woods back to our start point. Thanks to Jackie and Catherine for leading this lovely walk and to Peter G for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Saturday 29th August 2026 - Midhope Moor and Little Don Valley

Rain was forecast, so Phil didn't expect as many 16 at Langsett Barn car park for this moderate 10 mile walk. Maybe we'd forgotten what it's like to walk in the rain. We walked down to the dam of Langsett Reservoir and crossed it. We followed the banks of the reservoir for a while but soon left the reservoir to explore Midhope Moors. Several times we thought the promised rain was setting in, but it eased off again and we could enjoy the views across the moors, purple with heather. We climbed past Grouse butts and stopped at one for a coffee break. We sang Happy Birthday to Phil and were treated to Port and delicious Coffee and Walnut cake (thanks to Deet). We gradually turned back towards the reservoir through open moorland and pretty valleys until we arrived at the top end of Langsett Reservoir. From here we headed up the lovely Little Don Valley. In some open woodland with the feel of parkland, we had lunch. After lunch we continued up the valley through bracken that was above head high for some. The rain arrived. Near a crenellated sheepfold we climbed out of the valley. We headed across open moorland towards the Dog and Partridge Inn on the Manchester Road, but there was no pub stop on this walk, so we headed though the woodland along the northern bank of Langsett Reservoir back to our cars. Some of us had dry clothes to change into (some by good luck or laziness in not unpacking a fleece from last winter).

Thanks to Phil for leading this beautiful walk, Dianne, Glyn and Angela for back marking and Angela and Deet for photos. BU

Thursday 27th August 2026 - Brodsworth Community Gardens

A walk round Brodsworth Community Gardens and Highfields Country Park near Woodlands. The Community Gardens used to be Brodsworth Colliery, a major coal mine, which has been completely transformed by the Land trust into a community woodland and nature space.
There are well defined gravelled paths.

We started from the car park at the end of Country Way on the North side of the Community Woodland. Part of the car Park has been appropriated for drilling as part of the Brodsworth Colliery mine water monitoring borehole project. They are drilling a 540-metre-deep borehole to puncture a flooded underground roadway inside the Barnsley Seam. They aim to screen and seal off shallower overlying drinking water aquifers to mitigate any cross-contamination or mine water pollution risks.

There was enough space to park there and nearby, however.

We walked West towards the A1 which runs to the West of the Woodland and then South, ascending in a gentle zig zag fashion to the top of the hill (Common Hill) with good views to the West and to Brodsworth Hall which could be seen in the distance.

We then descended North towards Woodlands and crossed a small footbridge and then turned Southeast along a tarmacked path for a short distance then turned East and along a rough track that goes behind some allotments and came out in Highfield Country Park. From there we walked to the end of the Lake near the A638 where we stopped for a coffee break. The rain was starting to get heavier by this point, but walking was pleasant as it was not hot and no wind was blowing the rain into our faces.

We then turned West along the South side of the Lake and after a short distance turned off the path by the Lake to join a track West which followed the line of a dismantled railway.

We rejoined the tarmacked path heading north—the route we had used earlier to reach the rough track by the allotments. After a short distance, we turned left and followed a path west along the southern edge of some woodland. It then curved east, leading us back to the car park. By then, the rain was quite heavy, but I think we missed the worst of it, which I noticed as I drove home. Everyone seemed to have enjoyed the walk.

Thank you to Sharon for acting as the back marker.

Tuesday 25th August 2026 - Bakewell Figure of Eight

Twenty three walkers met by the bridge over the River Wye in the pretty village of Ashford in the Water for an 11 mile walk around Bakewell kindly put on for Doncaster Ramblers by Elaine who lives in the Peak District. We were joined on this walk by Glen who was on holiday in the area from Winchester. The weather was overcast to start with and fleeces were required but as the day wore on the cloud cleared and it was a lovely summer day with a cooling breeze but still no rain, ideal walking weather. After a short briefing by Elaine we were off crossing the busy A6 with care and straight into our first climb of the day to Dirtlow Farm. This was followed by a short road section then we were back into fields and uphill and down dale. After a short coffee break, we came to the outskirts of Bakewell. Leaving Bakewell behind us more uphill and down dale took us to Over Haddon and our early lunch stop where use was made of the local public house. Re fueled we crossed the flat plateau of Haddon Fields before descending into the valley of the River Wye with good views of Haddon Hall. Carefully crossing the A6 again we dropped down to the river bank and followed the river and valley bottom to Bakewell where a quick stop allowed us to use the local facilities. Leaving Bakewell behind us and crossing the River Wye again on a pretty stone packhorse bridge it was uphill again past Holme Hall until we eventually came to the A6020. A short distance of road walking followed until we turned off to walk past Churchdale Hall then it was mainly downhill through fields and woodland to our start point at Ashford in the Water. Thanks to Elaine for leading what we all agreed was a lovely but tough walk on many footpaths we had not walked before. Thanks to Tony for back marking and to everybody for turning up and the great conversation, and the Derbyshire countryside for once again providing us with some excellent views. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Saturday 22nd August 2026 - Longshaw Trek

Sixteen walkers, one from Winchester and another from London gathered at Longshaw Lodge. The Longshaw Estate is a former hunting ground, now managed by the National Trust.

The weather was perfect, with clear skies, a light breeze and temperatures around 18°C, making it an ideal day for exploring the Peak District.

After leaving the Longshaw Estate the walkers followed the middle path along Burbage Edge, a gritstone ridge offering impressive views across the moors. Burbage Edge is known for its striking rock formations, shaped by millions of years of natural erosion. The group then crossed Burbage Brook at the historic packhorse bridge, a reminder of the ancient routes that once crisscrossed this area, used in the past by traders and travellers alike.

After crossing the bridge, the path climbed steadily towards Carl Wark, an ancient hill fort dating back to the Iron Age. Its rocky defences provided an excellent spot for elevenses, where cake was shared. The excellent visibility allowed for expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

The walk continued across Hathersage Moor, a vast expanse of heather and peat bog before passing an old sheepfold before heading downhill. This path gave the walkers splendid views of the Hope valley, Mam Tor and the great ridge leading to Losehill.

The walkers stopped for liquid refreshments at Hathersage Booths before continuing on towards Grindleford via tranquil, shaded woodland, on a footpath which was new to the group.

Upwards again for the final leg to Padley Gorge and Bolehill Quarry, an old gritstone quarry where climbers were testing their skills, before returning to Longshaw via Owler Tor.

Many thanks to Peter for back marking.

AMG

Thursday 20 August 2026 - Hatfield and Hatfield Woodhouse

The awful weather forecast did not seem to deter anyone from taking part in this walk. Twenty eight of us met in the car park at Jubilee Fields in Hatfield. Heavy rain started as we were getting ready but then eased off after about 20 minutes and the sun actually shone for the next hour or so. But by the time we stopped for a coffee break in Hatfield Woodhouse it came back with a vengeance. So on the second half of the walk we generally got soaked. We are just not used to it after all the hot dry stuff we've had lately. The walk took us out of Hatfield past the water park and out towards the M18. We looped round behind the young offenders prison and then across farmland into Hatfield Woodhouse. It is all flat out there so we had good views of the surrounding countryside (and the motorway services and large warehouse complex next to it ). Leaving Hatfield Woodhouse on a footpath behind the houses and bungalows on Main Street we went out through West End and back across the motorway to drop down onto Carr Side Lane to get back to Hatfield centre and our cars. Just over 6 miles in the nice bits of that area that you don't get to see when driving through on the M18. Thanks to John for back marking and to everyone who turned up and stayed cheerful despite the wet conditions CP

Tuesday 18th August 2026 - Three Reservoirs From Nostell

A change in the weather patterns meant that it was pleasantly cool and dry instead of hot and stifling when 25 of us met up in the National Trust car park at Nostell Priory just outside Wakefield. And it stayed that way for most of the walk. There were in fact a couple of periods when quite a stiff breeze got up but even then it stayed dry. The recent overnight rain showers had had very little effect on the ground underfoot and so overall the walking conditions were good for a nice 10+ miles stroll in the countryside. After the briefing we crossed the main A638 to access the woods adjacent to Nostell lake and took the path that leads out towards Havercroft , Ryhill and the three reservoirs in the walk title. The terrain in this part of the world is for the most part flat and a mixture of scrubby woodland and farm land. No stiles or gates so we made good progress. We turned off right as we approached the outskirts of Havercroft and took a prompt eleven o'clock coffee break in a field entrance just before Ryhill. Passing through the village we then went right again to circumnavigate Wintersett Reservoir ( surprisingly full despite the heatwaves ) and cross the dam between it and Cold Hiendley Reservoir before coming up out the woods alongside the water to get to the lunch stop at the cafe at The Anglers Country Park Reservoir. Having made appreciative use of the cafe and seating etc we struck on back towards Nostell. Firstly alongside the water and then across fields and some more of that scrubby woodland to pass back under the railway line and head towards Foulby on the main road. The last section of the walk took us past the Air Ambulance station and down the road to Nostell's holiday park before turning off around the back of the lake and up the short incline to the front of the big house and back to the car park. Thanks to Stuart for back marking and to Angela for the photos. CP

Saturday 15th August 2026 - Selby

8 ramblers met near Brayton Barff on a cool (by recent standards) cloudy morning for this leisurely 12 mile walk. We set off uphill and I immediately noticed that the pocket on my right thigh was empty and I had left my phone at home. We skirted Brayton Barff and went through Thorpe Willoughby. After being held up briefly by a train at a level crossing, we headed across country towards Selby. We had a coffee break in the small park by Selby Community Centre. We visited Selby Abbey and its Authors In The Abbey event ("over thirty Authors and bookish vendors"). We left Selby along the Selby Canal where we saw a pair of swans with many cygnets (8 or 9? - I wish I'd brought my phone). Our lunch stop was in Brayton at Hannah's parents' house where Hannah and her parents laid on a magnificent buffet lunch. After such a lunch, it was fortunate that we returned to the canal for more leisurely walking in occasional sunshine. We spotted someone paying close attention to a patch of what turned out to Tansy. He was looking for Tansy Beetles and showed us a photo of one he'd spotted earlier (tiny and iridescent blue). At Burn we left the canal and headed to Selby Golf Club. We followed the boundary of the Golf Club to a bridge over the Selby bypass, which took us to Brayton Barff and our cars.

Thanks to Hannah for this lovely walk and to her and her parents for their great hospitality and generosity. I'm sorry about the lack of photos (I'd forgotten my phone, as I may have mentioned once or twice). BU

August Maintenance Report. Wednesday 12 August 2026.

Wednesday 12 August saw Doncaster Ramblers and City of Doncaster Council (CDC) Rights of Way manager carry out their monthly repair and maintenance session. This session was in the Sykehouse area and covered four worksites on three footpaths. Before work commenced a revised risk assessment was carried out with CDC to provide safe working in the anticipated hot weather. The assessment allowed for shade breaks, additional water breaks and an earlier start.

Site 1 was on Sykehouse 1 which is part of the Trans Pennine Trail and is well used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders The work involved clearing ground level vegetation as well as taller hedgerow bushes. The task was completed using loppers, spades, hand saws, and an electric hedge trimmer. Whilst work was being carried out several members of the public commented and thanked all present for their work.

Site 2 and 3 was on Sykehouse 4. It required two stiles to be taken out and a gap left plus some vegetation clearance. This work was done at the request of The Burnet Heritage Trust who are the conservation managers on the land Sykehouse 4 crosses. CDC has worked with this trust for some time.

Site 4 was on Sykehouse 11. An additional footstep required adding a stile which was already in good condition. Again, this was on land managed by the Burnet Heritage Trust. Two holes had to be dug which proved a little testing in the dry rock-hard ground.

All the above was completed in just over 2hrs with a total 14 man hours worked. Everyone then adjourned to the Old George public house for tea or coffee and cake which was very enjoyable and most welcome.

A big thanks to all who took part in what could have been challenging weather conditions but all worked out well.

Stuart Twell
12.08.26

Tuesday 11 August 2026 - Lumsdale

Upper Lumsdale is just off the Chesterfield Road before you get to Matlock. Thirteen of us met outside the local school to begin the walk. It was the first time I could recall ladies out numbering the gentlemen (8 / 5) on a Tuesday walk. George briefed us before we set off. It would be about 11 miles not the 14+ advertised on the website. There were a couple of big roads to cross and a bit of roadside walking but otherwise it would all be moors, open countryside and woodland. Oh, and there would be a pub stop at lunchtime. All good news since the weather forecast was for hot dry conditions all day. As with all George's walks there would also be some uphill bits. So, we crossed the road and immediately went uphill. Then north-east skirting alongside the local golf club. The walk proved to be just as George described it. We got some great views but got very warm when on the open sections and then thankfully cooled down in the shaded woods. Along the way we passed through (the aptly named) Uppertown and Kelstedge before reaching Ashover where we lunched in the churchyard before replacing some lost fluids in The Old Poets Corner public house. The afternoon half of the walk was a little shorter than the morning. We made our way south - west out of Ashover and then north from the edge of Tansley back to Lumsdale. Again, we enjoyed good views all round. We puffed and panted on the steep sections and were grateful for the water breaks and some cooler parts in the woods. But it was all worth it. This area may not be as popular as other parts of Derbyshire but is well worth a visit. Thanks to George for taking us there. Also to Dianne for back marking with care and Roz for some of the photographs. CP

Saturday 8th August 2026 - Brockholes

12 Ramblers met at Brockholes on a warm, sunny morning. We headed westward over the hills to the south of Honley. We had great views of the Victoria Tower on Castle Hill, just south of Huddersfield. Many of us picked early and delicious blackberries already warmed by the sun. We benefitted from a cooling breeze in the hills, but it was still welcome to enter the shade of Honley Woods. Just before we left the woods, we stopped for a coffee break and spied some dinosaurs in the grounds of the neighbouring business. We followed Meltham Pleasure Grounds back to open countryside and headed over the hills to Upperthong on the northwestern edge of Holmfirth. Carol had arranged to have lunch in the beer garden of The Royal Oak. As we arrived, the landlord confirmed that the pub would not be open until 2pm. We'd finished lunch about 1:45pm and were trying to decide whether to wait for the pub to open, when it opened a little early. Many of us enjoyed the shade inside the pub, the warm welcome, the relaxed atmosphere and the beer. We set off again over open countryside with more expansive views until we came to Netherthong, from where we were soon down into the shade of Hagg Wood in the Holme Valley where we followed the River Holme back to Brockholes.

Thanks to Carol and Nigel for this lovely walk and Carol and Ros for their photos. BU

Thursday 6th August 2026 - Mays walk t’other way round

On a cloudy and blustery day 20 walkers started from Anchorage Lane Sprotbrough
and were told how it probably acquired its name.
We set off and picked up the Trans Pennine Trail.
We walked through wooded areas which provided some shelter.
Eventually we came out by the River Don and proceeded towards Sprotbrough and in a very pleasant area we enjoyed a rest and refreshments.
After our break we proceeded up towards Sprotbrough village passing the childhood home of Douglas Bader.
Entering the village, we passed the 12 century church and on to a path around the cricket field.
We crossed the busy road to pick up a field path to the motorway.
Leader spoke of a battle which allegedly took place around the 5th century.
We proceeded under the motorway and on to the lake by Cusworth Hall owned by the Batty Wrightson family one of whom became an MP in 1700s.
We continued and were privileged to see bird playing on colourful water lilies
We proceeded back to our cars.
Judging by the chattering all present enjoyed the walk.
Tony Liversidge. 07.08.26.

Tuesday 4 August 2026 - Derwent Edge and Strines Reservoir

Twenty seven of us including 6 visiting members of our leader’s family all met in the familiar big lay-by at Cutthroat Bridge on the A57 just before you get to Ladybower. The weather forecast had been for another hot day but with the possibility of some rain showers in the late afternoon. It turned out to be a bit chilly and overcast for the start of the walk but it did brighten up and get quite warm as the day progressed. Fortunately, the rain never arrived. After the briefing from Phil, we headed down the roadside a little way and then crossed the road and then the stream to begin our steady climb up and onto the moor in a sort of north easterly direction before striking sharp left and west across Derwent Moor and then northerly along Derwent Edge. Despite some early morning haze in the distance there were great views in all directions. Our coffee break was at Dovestone Tor where we got some shelter from the fresh breeze blowing over the top of Derwent Edge. After coffee we turned right again and began a slow descent on a track that took us past numerous grouse shooting butts towards the wooded plantations to the north of Strines Reservoir. We crossed between Strines and Dale Dike Reservoirs before making a steep ascent up a bracken and fern covered hillside to our lunch stop. We all enjoyed the lovely vista over the reservoirs as we ate. Some of us also yearned a little at the sight of The Strines pub on the adjacent hillside. Just too far away to pay a visit. Once we were refreshed and had got our breath back after the climb we moved on south over the moor and then past Sugworth Hall and Moscar Cross Farm to eventually met the path that would take us back to Cutthroat Bridge and the cars. The ten miles had been super. Nothing too testing, superb views all the way and the weather had played its part as well. Warm but not stifling hot and with a nice refreshing breeze. Thanks to Phil for leading and to those who shared the back marking, gate and stile assistance duties and to Steve and Roz for the photos. CP

Saturday 1st August 2026 - Monsal Head

10 ramblers met at Monsal Head for this moderate 11 mile walk on a sunny day with a refreshing breeze making it a lovely day for walking. We crossed high above the Monsal Trail (which was in the Headstone Tunnel at this point) and descended into Monsal Dale. We crossed the River Wye near the spectacular weir and carried on downstream beside the river. Our first climb of the day was up the steep valley side and was interrupted by a herd of young cows coming down the same narrow path in single file. We found a spot where we could stand away from the path and let the cows past, they did so, sometimes nervously and generally giving us a wide berth. At the top of the valley, we had a coffee break and enjoyed looking down on the valley and more unusually looking down on a circling buzzard. Swallows flew backwards and forwards just below us.

We descended to the river again, upstream of our earlier visit, re-crossing the Monsal trail. We crossed the river at Upperdale and headed upstream to Cressbrook and its impressive Mill. We continued through Miller's Dale to Litton Mill and turned away from the River Wye up Tideswell Dale. At the top of the dale we turned right into Litton where we had lunch on the village green and visited the Red Lion Inn.

After lunch, we had a gentle descent down the dry Cressbrook Dale back to Cressbrook and back across the River Wye to the Monsal Trail. This time, we joined it and followed it over the spectacular Monsal Head Viaduct (our final crossing of the River Wye). A final climb took us back to Monsal Head.

Thanks to Glyn and Teresa for this great and varied walk, Angela for the photos and the twins for their boundless energy (and grandad for bringing them). BU

Friday 31st July 2026 - Carers Walk Cusworth Hall

The second and last Carers Walk for 2026, due to lack of funding, took place at Cusworth Hall on Friday 31.07.26 in somewhat cooler weather than we have experienced recently. Super walking weather. Chris and his daughter Lydia joined Steve and Angela of Doncaster Ramblers on a 4.5-mile circular walk from Cusworth Hall. Lydia has physical and learning issues and todays walk was a major challenge for her as she has never previously walked this distance. Leaving the Hall, we walked downhill to the Lake then through fields until we reached the A1 which we passed under via a culvert. Leaving the A1 behind us we walked through fields to Sprotbrough. Walking through the residential areas we came across a young man who was selling cakes made by his Mum from a stall on the house drive. Angela treated us all to a cake and very nice they were. We crossed the A1 again this time on a footbridge then took the footpath through fields to the Trans Pennine Trail which we followed for some distance before reaching the footpath that leads back into the grounds of Cusworth Hall. Thanks to Chris and Lydia for coming on this walk and Angela for helping out. Well done to Lydia who walked further than she has ever done and at a good pace. She was so determined that she would complete this walk. Stephen Tomlinson 31.07.26

Thursday 30th July 2026 - Fairburn Ings Circular Route 2

A much cooler day for walking after the recent very hot weather. Ten members met in the car park of the RSPB reserve at Fairburn Ings for a slightly delayed start as the visitor’s centre and toilets do not open until 1000. A quick briefing and we were off through the nature reserve, past the Kingfisher viewing hide, as usual no sighting, then a short uphill section brought us to the top of embankment separating the River Aire and the vast expanse of water which forms Fairburn Ings. Following the footpath in shaded woodland we eventually reached the village of Fairburn where we stopped at the village pump and horse trough to read the information board. It was then uphill out of the village into typical Magnesium Limestone landscape with dry valleys and small woodlands plus good views of the surrounding countryside. We eventually reached a road which we followed for a short distance into the pretty village of Ledsham where we stopped opposite the Chequers pub for a rest and refreshment. As we sat, we admired the wonderful flower tubs and baskets and commented how well maintained they were considering the recent weather. Surprisingly nobody went to the pub! Retracing out steps past the church we had a short stop in the graveyard to find the grave for the World War 1 soldier. Sad to see he died after the Armistice, we guessed of wounds sustained previously. We left Ledsham on a footpath which took us back, again through lovely countryside, to our start point at the RSPB car park. Thanks to all who took the time to come on this 5.3mile walk in a lovely area and to Angela for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson. 30.07.26

Tuesday 28th July 2026 - Sir William Hill from Eyam

Twenty-seven ramblers met in the Hawkhill Road car park in Eyam on a perfect day for walking. Sunny and dry, albeit quite warm.

Eyam is one of the largest villages in the White Peak and is best known for its connection to the bubonic plague which arrived in the village in late August 1665 in a parcel of damp cloth sent to the village tailor. A tailor's assistant called George Viccars was said to have opened the bale and hung the cloth in front of the hearth to dry, unwittingly stirring the disease-ridden fleas contained within the parcel. He became the first of the plague's victims in the village.

The plague swept through the community. Between September and December 1665, 42 villagers died and by the spring of 1666, many were on the verge of fleeing their homes and livelihoods to save themselves.

It was at this point that the rector, William Mompesson, intervened. Believing it his duty to prevent the plague spreading to the nearby towns of Sheffield and Bakewell, he decided the village should be quarantined. On 24 June 1666, Mompesson told his parishioners that the village must be enclosed, with no-one allowed in or out.

He said the Earl of Devonshire, who lived nearby at Chatsworth, had offered to send food and supplies if the villagers agreed to be quarantined.

The villagers decided to isolate themselves from surrounding communities so saving the lives of thousands in the surrounding area. Over the 14 months of the plague 260 Eyam villagers died out of a total population of 800.

Our walk through the village passed the victims cottages and the churchyard where many of them are buried.

On leaving the village we passed the boundary stone where villagers left money in coin slots filled with vinegar in exchange for food brought up the hill from Stoney Middleton.

We descended into Stoney Middleton where the group stopped to admire the three well dressings.

Well dressing is an ancient custom unique to Derbyshire. It is the art of decorating springs or wells with pictures/mosaics made from natural products.
The process of creating the picture begins by filling a large wooden frame with soft clay. An image is drawn in the clay to create an outline. The design is then ‘coloured in’ as if painting by numbers using natural materials. Neat rows are created, rather like roof tiling, with the row above slightly overlapping the one below to allow rainwater to runoff. All the boards are then pieced together to create one amazing design.

Luckily the lady responsible for design of the largest of the well dressings was there and explained how her design was created.

The ‘Green Man’ well dressing was next to the Bath House in Stoney Middleton.

The Bath House known locally as the Roman Baths, perhaps due to Roman coins being discovered at the site. The water is believed to have healing powers benefiting sufferers of rheumatism and other illnesses, which gave rise to the foundation of the local church and its naming as ‘St Martins’ the patron saint of cripples.

The water flows at the same rate 365 days a year and at the same temperature of 63°F, this was extremely important and may well have been the catalyst for the formation of the village. The water is mineral rich and according to: Dr, Shorts treatise on Mineral Waters states that the water “can be drunk more freely than that at Buxton and is cooler”.

There are two baths, one for ladies and the other for gentlemen, separated by a wall, each measures 3m x 4m and 1.5m deep and are accessed by stone steps.

The once open-air baths were covered over in Victorian times. However, it fell into a sad state of repair until in 1986 when the Parish Council initiated its restoration, with financial aid from the Peak District National Park. The building is now classified as a ‘Grade II Listed Building’.

Having admired the well dressings, the walk continued downhill across fields to the banks of the river Derwent. Following the river up steam the walk passed through stretches of indigenous woodland (which provided welcome shade on a hot day) alternating with riverside pasture. A break was taken on boulders next to a tributary of the Derwent before following the Derwent to Leadmill Bridge where another break was taken at a local hostelry.

The group then walked up the secluded valley formed by Highlow Brook which provided splendid views overlooking Hathersage and the Edges beyond. Two of our younger walkers collected blackberries which they had fun using to paint their faces.

Leaving the brook our walk saw us undertaking a stiff climb up Eyam Moor, stopping several times to admire the view towards Mam Tor before reaching Sir William Hill. A welcome breeze helped to keep the walkers more comfortable.

There followed a gentle descent which offered views across the White Peak before a steep descent back down to Eyam.

Thanks to Steve, Gareth and David for back marking and to Steve and Ros for photographs.

AMG

Tuesday 21st July 2026 - Monsal Head

Twenty two Ramblers (including two guest ramblers holidaying in the area) gathered at Monsal Head at 9:30 in the morning for the start of our circular walk planned to be just under 11 miles taking in the grandeur of The Wye Valley.

The hot (very) conditions of recent days and weeks gave us some concern and the decision to commence the walk at 9:30 was taken in part to take advantage of the cooler temperatures at this time of the morning. This turned out to be a good move as the relatively overcast early conditions gave a good start to the walk in pleasant temperatures.

The route of the walk was a figure of eight. We started with a steep descent into the valley of the River Wye from the heights of Monsal Head. We stopped on the bridge crossing the river for a group photo, see photos on our website. A walk along the valley bottom was followed by the steepest climb of the day to our coffee stop at a high point overlooking the Wye valley and providing a truly magnificent vista of the limestone landscape. After coffee it was downhill back to the bottom of Monsal Dale and completion of the first loop of the figure of eight. A short road section brought us to Cressbrook Mill, we then followed the east bank of the River Wye in the stunning Miller Dale with its limestone cliffs. We left Millers Dale at the pretty Litton Mill then it was uphill through Tideswell Dale before a section of road walking up Litton Dale brought us to our lunch stop at Litton where advantage was taken of the welcoming Red Lion public house. After lunch it was down into Tansley Dale and the wooded Cressbrook Dale which had the feel and look of a tropical jungle .Reaching Cressbrook Mill we completed the second loop of the figure of eight and then retraced our steps along Monsal Dale and the Wye valley before climbing up to the Monsal Trail crossing the River Wye on the abandoned high-level railway viaduct At the tunnel entrance one final steep climb brought us back to our start point at Monsal Head and a well-earned ice cream, see photos.

Thank to Angela, Teresa and Martin for back marking and anybody I have forgotten. Also, thanks to Teresa, Yvonne and Priscilla and others for the photos.

Glyn Evans.

Thursday 16th July 2026 - Everton and Woods near Harwell on Barrow Hills, 5 mile walk

We set off in pleasantly cool weather from next to the church in Church Street, Everton, and walked through part of Everton and then crossed Bawtry Road to walk south and back north in a loop in the fields to the south of Everton at which point it started to get pleasantly warm. No problems apart from navigating a large puddle in one of the photos where water had run off from crop irrigation.

We then walked North up the Lane to Harwell at which point we turned left (west) up a track that leads into the cool of the woods on Barrow Hill. We stopped at the start of the woods for a coffee break and then did a circular loop in the woods and back to Harwell where we turned North up the lane for a short distance then southeast along a track and footpath into the North side of Everton and the church where we started. I took a group photograph just before re-entering the village.

Thanks to Nigel for back marking.

Nick Middleton (Walk leader)

Tuesday 14th July 2026 - Midhope Moor and Little Don Valley

What a beautiful day to walk in the valleys and moorland around Langsett. A lovely sunny day with a little bit of cloud and a bit of a breeze so it was not as hot as on recent walk. Excellent walking conditions, great views and great company make all seem well in the world.

Twenty one of us met in the car park at Langsett Reservoir and after a short briefing by our walk leader Phil Rawlins we headed towards the reservoir dam which we walked across, the water in the reservoir was a lovely blue, see photos. It was then into the pine woodland at the edge of the reservoir, leaving the wood we started the steady climb up to Midhope Moor and as we gained height the spectacular views opened out. Just after the Shooting Lodge, Midhope Moor is a working grouse moor, we stopped by one of the shooting butts for coffee. Rehydrated we continued uphill to the top of the moor then followed Mickleden Edge and started to descend towards the Little Don River which supplies the reservoir. This completed the first loop of the days walk. Heading upstream we found a grassy glade in the shade of trees by the river for our lunch stop, a lovely spot. Refueled we followed the footpath up the Little Don Valley battling our way along a narrow footpath bordered by tall bracken which was higher than the shorter members of our group. We left the valley bottom with a steep climb onto Little Moor then followed Hordron Road and Swinden Lane, both gravel tracks, back into the woodland at the top end of the reservoir. This completed the second loop of the days walk and we then continued through woodland on Langsett Bank by the side of the water back to our start point at the car park. Thanks to Phil for leading this lovely 10 mile figure of eight walk with about 500m of ascent. Also, thanks to the various people that back marked during the walk. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Saturday 11th July 2026 - NOT The Bert Ward Memorial Walk (Again)

If Dianne schedules The Bert Ward Memorial Walk on a Saturday, bet on a heatwave. For the second year running, the weather was too hot for the 12 mile Bert Ward Memorial Walk from Holmesfield to Fox House (mainly across open moorland). Instead, we did a walk that was closer to 10 miles and featured much welcome shade. 13 ramblers set off south from Holmesfield and were soon in a shady lane heading towards Millthorpe in the bottom of the valley. We stopped for coffee at Moorhall by a quiet road where trees provided us shade. From Moorhall we descended into another valley. We turned eastwards towards Barlow. Approaching Commonside, Commonside Road was a last resort for a lunch stop with shade, but as the lane is closed to cars because of a landslip and has a bench, is shaded by trees and had a breeze, it was a very suitable for a lunch stop. After lunch we carried on into Commonside and visited The Tickled Trout Pub where they very kindly refilled many of our water bottles (as well as selling us beer).

The afternoon started off very gently along Barlow Brook passing the fishing lakes of Barlow Country Club. A shady bridleway took us steadily uphill to Cartledge Hall from where it was a short walk back to our cars. Thanks to Dianne for a lovely walk and finding so much shade. BU

Thursday 9th July 2026 - A Bridge too Far (well not quite!)

Sixteen of us met in the car park adjacent to the River Don Navigation near to St Oswalds Church at Kirk Sandall. As it was a very hot day the walk leader Tony decided to reduce the length of walk to 4 miles to minimise the suffering of the participants. Leaving the car park we followed the canal towpath to the swing bridge at Barnby Dun, fortunately some of this section was in shade Following a water break we crossed the canal by the swing bridge we followed the towpath on the opposite bank to North Field Bridge. Crossing the canal by the bridge we headed back towards Barnby Dun swing bridge on the canal towpath where once again we stopped for a water break. We then retraced out steps following the canal towpath back to our cars. Lots of fishermen were taking advantage of the weather out catching small fish. There was lots of chatter throughout the walk which was enjoyed by all including a couple with impaired hearing. Thanks to Tony Liversedge for leading an excellent walk and looking after the group in the very hot conditions.

Maintenance Team. Work Report Wednesday 08.07.26.

Wednesday 8th July saw 8 Ramblers and City of Doncaster RoW manager carry out work that had to be cancelled 2 weeks previously due to the extreme temperatures.

The task was on footpath Owston 7 which involved the fitting of 2 metal kissing gates which had been delivered to site previously by Doncaster Council. Starting at 9.00am rather than the usual 9.30 or 10.00am, the original plan of splitting into two parties was not going to work when the locations were examined as both required a lot of scrub clearance before the real work could start. Also, at both locations an old stile and fencing had to be removed, both which had been concreted in. The digging for the first gate went better than planned and this task was completed in just over 1 hour. The second task was more difficult because of access, however perseverance paid off and the hole digging was a lot harder than expected but, again perseverance paid off and the installation of the second gate was completed before midday. The temperature increased during the work session but all involved sated their thirst with plenty of water to replace the fluid lost to sweat from the hard work in high temperatures. A big thanks to all who took part in trying conditions. A total of 18-man hrs was worked to complete the tasks.

Stuart Twell

09.07.26

Tuesday 7 July 2026 - Heights of Abraham

Walks in the hills and dales around Cromford and Matlock Bath are never gentle or easy affairs. This one was no exception. Sixteen Ramblers (including two eight-year-old twin girls) were tested by some challenging terrain, some overgrown paths and brambles and an increasingly warm day that seemed to get warmer as we all got more tired. This was something of an adventure. That said we all enjoyed it. The adults with humour and the girls by engaging with nature by picking flowers, collecting straw bedding for imaginary pet rabbits and even occasional rolling in the fresh mown hay. Oh to be young again!

We set off from the roadside just outside Cromford Mills and went through the car park and then on a path in the direction of Matlock Bath. But before we got there, we crossed the road and began the first of the steep uphill climbs. We were soon up above Matlock Bath with great views across to Riber Castle and Matlock itself. We waved to the passengers in the Heights of Abraham cable car as it passed overhead. A coffee stop with those wonderful views and then on over the top again towards Bonsall for lunch. The pubs in Bonsall were not open but the village shop was and so were the public loos. We spent a lovely half an hour or so on the village green in the sunshine. From Bonsall it was a series of ascents and descents until we reached the main A5012 road. We crossed and made one final climb up into the woods and eventually took a path down and then alongside the stream back to Cromford. We arrived hot and tired to reflect on a walk that had provided not only some of the best views for a long time but also some of the toughest climbs for a long time as well. Thanks to George for leading and to Martin for back marking. CP

Saturday 4th July 2026 - Hoping to See A Tropical Sea and Hope Well Dressing

Eighteen ramblers, including two new ladies, gathered outside the Tourist Information Centre in Castleton for this 10-mile walk. The weather was warm and cloudy with a stiff breeze and a few light rain showers.

As we entered Cave Dale we passed through the seaward edge of a former coral reef formed when Britain occupied a position nearer the equator.

Elevenses was taken at Mam Nik picnic site. Exiting via the top of the picnic site meant that we were already a third of the way up Mam Tor, making our climb to the triangulation pillar a little easier. Here the strong wind deterred us from lingering to admire the view.

Our walk along the ridge, which separates the Dark Peak to the north and the White Peak to the south, provided spectacular views over both the Edale and Hope valleys.

Walking along the ridge we passed Hollins Cross before climbing Back Tor and then Lose Hill, where lunch was taken. We then descended down grassy slopes into Hope where the group stopped to admire three of the villages four well dressings.

Well dressing is an ancient custom unique to Derbyshire. It is the art of decorating springs or wells with pictures/mosaics made from natural products.

The process of creating the picture begins by filling a large wooden frame with soft clay. An image is drawn in the clay to create an outline. The design is then ‘coloured in’ as if painting by numbers using natural materials. Neat rows are created, rather like roof tiling, with the row above slightly overlapping the one below to allow rainwater to runoff. All the boards are then pieced together to create one amazing design.

Having admired the well dressings a leisurely walk along the river took the walkers back to Castleton.

Thanks to Brian for back marking.

AMG

Tuesday 30th June 2026 - Bakewell, Chatsworth and Rowsley circular walk

Twenty-two walkers, and one dog, set out on this 10-mile circular walk from Coombs Road in Bakewell. The first section followed the Monsal Trail, formerly part of the Manchester, Buxton, Matlock, and Midland Junction Railway.

The route then went uphill through Bakewell golf course, with the walkers ringing the bell to warn golfers of their presence, before ascending steeply through Manners Wood. Open pastures offered expansive views of the limestone landscape with Chatsworth House in the distance. The path then descended towards Edensor village famous for its picturesque cottages and the Grade I listed All Saints' Church, founded in 920.

Proceeding to Chatsworth House through the parkland landscaped by Capability Brown. The route continued along the River Derwent, following the Derwent Valley Heritage Way to Rowsley, where the group stopped to admire the well dressing. Well dressing is the art of decorating springs or wells with pictures/mosaics made from natural products. The theme for the 2026 well dressing in Rowsley is ‘Save Our Swifts’.

On leaving the pub the group were videoed singing happy birthday to Tony who was celebrating his 80th birthday.  Unfortunately, Tony wasn’t on today’s walk as he was recovering at home from surgery.  The final leg took the walkers back to Coombes Road.

The warm, sunny weather and good company made for an excellent walking day.

Many thanks to Neil, Gareth and Charlie for back marking.

 AMG

Thursday, 25th June 2026 - Ramble around Rossington

On this very hot Thursday 19 Ramblers set off from the Park And Ride at Rossington.  After a brief talk about water and sunscreen and hats we set off over the Great North Road along Hayfield Lane. Through Hayfield lakes then to Hatchel woods for the first water stop at the duck pond.
We the went on to Manor woods then on through Stayers lane down towards Rossington to see the carvings in the wood on Toad Holes Lane after more water stops.  We went over the fields to Brick pond to see the water lilies and another water stop then we returned to the Par and Ride for 1pm as promised.   Thanks to Rhona and Ronnie for back marking.  Kathryn 

Tuesday 23 June 2026 - From Walkeringham

Crikey it was hot. Eighteen of us met at 10 o'clock in The Village Hall Car Park at Walkeringham. It was already very warm but still a little overcast as we did the hellos and the briefing. A couple of roads to cross. But most important did everyone have enough water and were they covered in suntan lotion. There would be lots of open country and canal bank with not much shade to be had anywhere. We laughed at the original walk description which read 'short cut if we get heavy rain'. A nice shower would have been well received about mid-afternoon. Fortunately, the walk was almost completely flat. Out of Walkeringham village and gradually down to the banks of The Chesterfield Canal at Smith's Bridge. The first stretch along the canal took us to the elevenses stop just before Shaw Bridge. We then looped back along a farm track until we got to Smith's Bridge where we rejoined the canal (but this time on the opposite bank) until we got to Misterton. By this time, it was really warm and sticky. We tried to take advantage of any bits of shade and breeze under the canal bridges etc but they were few and far between and the cooling effects did not last long. Up through Misterton village and across the fields to cross the railway line and then on what seemed to be an interminable section along the banks of the River Idle. We could see the pub in the distance. We were hot and ready for a break but the pub was like a mirage in the desert, it just seemed to get further away. The White Hart at West Stockwith was indeed like an oasis. The beer garden with big umbrellas was just what we needed. It was hard to leave when the time came. Luckily, we had done about eight miles in the morning so there were only three and a bit left for the afternoon. Through the marina and back along the canal once again until we reached Wharf Bridge. Up through the village to meet Fox Covert Lane and then across the fields that skirt around the underground fuel storage tanks depot. It seemed to be getting hotter all the time and we eventually were glad to be back when the village hall car park came into view. Looking back, it seems almost impossible that two weeks ago I was writing about sleet and snow and hypothermia on Derwent Edge. This was another challenging walk but for completely different reasons. Thanks to Neil for back marking. But mostly thanks to all you 'mad dogs' who turned up. You all deserve medals. Or to be certified at least. CP

Tuesday 16 June 2026 - Langsett

Twenty two Ramblers and one small dog met in the car park adjacent to the Flouch roundabout at the top end of the road that passes Langsett Reservoir on the left.  The weather forecast was very uncertain as we got ready, so we donned a mixture of gear and clothing as we 'hoped for the best but prepared for the worst'. It actually turned out better than most of us expected and we were down to T shirts by the end. George briefed us about the walk. The main risk being roads to cross and the main disappointment the fact that the pub at lunchtime was likely to be shut. I think most of us had done walks in this area before, some of them led by George, so we generally thought we knew what to expect. Bits of woodland, lots of moorland and lots of hills to climb. Whilst the first assumptions proved correct the last was probably less so, there were plenty of ups and downs but none of the killer ascents that we have come to associate with Mr James. Today he treated us quite gently. A well led walk in this lovely area with splendid wide open vistas to enjoy all around and enough variation of terrain to stop us getting bored. A pleasant elevenses stop in a place we know and love and even though the pub was shut at lunchtime we still enjoyed the use of their outside seating. And as always, the camaraderie and the banter was wonderful. As I often say what nicer way could there be to spend a Tuesday. Good for us all in so many ways. Thanks to George for leading and to Peter for back marking. CP

Saturday 13th June 2026 - Fairholmes and Alport Castle

Ten Doncaster ramblers, and a Sheffield 40’s rambler, gathered at Fairholmes on a warm, drizzly day before heading up Lockerbrook, with the walk leader initially taking the wrong path. A gentle descent brought us into the valley of the river Ashop, before making our way upstream to the confluence with the river Alport, where cake, courtesy of Teresa, was shared.  Fortunately, the heavy drizzle then abated, with blue skies and the sun making a welcome appearance, as the group followed the valley of the Alport upstream. After a steep ascent up to the ridge lunch was taken with a view of Alport Castles Tower. Three of our number walked up to the tower itself.  The walk then continued along the ridge, which provided the group with spectacular views of the valley and the ridge leading to Mam Tor, before returning to Fairholmes via Hagg Side.  Thanks go to Brian for back marking.   AMG

Thursday 11th June 2026 - Langold Circuit

The weather forecast was for rain; it was accurate.  Despite non-stop rain, eleven of us met in the car park adjacent to Langold Lake.  The history of the Langold Country Park goes back over 200 years.  It was designed in the 1750s for Langold Hall, which was never built.  Alterations were made in 1818, with the joining of the lakes and in the 1890s a weir was built.  In the 1920s mining developed and in 1927 the Firbeck Colliery Co bought the land and it became a leisure facility for for the Langold miners, principally for fishing.  In 1946 the coal industry was nationalised and the NCB expanded the leisure facilities in the park.  A children’s swimming pool and a bandstand were added.

The first Langold Gala was held in 1929 with accounts claiming that 10,000 visited the Park.  The Park came particularly well known and popular for its swimming. The British Long Distance Swimming Association Championship were traditionally held at the Lake. There were children's events in the bathing pool and demonstrations by the country’s top swimmers, also synchronised life-saving displays and comedy items by Swimming Club members. Spectacular stunts included explosions and dive-bombing.  Other stunts included a submarine explosion, the trapeze artist, ‘The Great Alganso’ doing a tight rope walk, as well as Jack Revel, known as Mr Langold Lake who was renowned for his dare devil dive from the 35’ diving board into a patch of burning petrol, performed until 1978.  The lido was removed in 2013 and new play facilities were added in 2014.

We set off out of the park and into Dryscarr wood, which is an SSSI.   When we left the wood it was into open, rolling countryside before reaching a narrow wood and then crossing the B6463 and descending Salt Hill towards Firbeck.  Beyond the wooded area on our right was Firbeck Hall.  Built 1594 by William West, a lawyer of Moorgate Hall, Rotherham, the Hall had a succession of owners over the next few hundred years, including  being willed to the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, who sold it to Frances Harriet Miles in 1853.  In 1898 it was inherited by Sydney Gladwin Webb a  West Riding MP, who 1909 attempted to sell it but failed. It was then rented out.  In WW1 it was used by Belgian refugees.  It was late rented  by Mr Albert Orlando Peech, chairman of Steel, Peech and Tozer but during his time, in 1924, a serious fire occurred.  In 1935 an  auction was planned. However Mr Cyril Nicholson, a Sheffield stockbroker, bought the house, 1500 acres estate, including 6 farms, 14 smallholdings and some cottages.  He then, with two business partners developed the hall and land into an up-market country club.  Firbeck Hall will forever be remembered for the celebrated period between 1935 and 1939. Although Cyril Nicholson had bought the estate he had secretly been making plans with two business associates. Between them they turned the old family house into the Firbeck Hall Club. The hall retained its outward appearance but its old interiors were, by modern standards, inexplicably destroyed. The old panelled walls gave way to brightly covered walls and the interior rooms were covered almost entirely with mirrors. The fashionable art deco style was created. The club became a country club of the rich and famous, with the nearby airfield frequently used to bring customers from London etc.inluding the Prince of Wales and Amy Johnson. Such was the increasing reputation of the club, that the BBC transmitted its weekly Saturday show “Late Night Dance Music” with Henry Hall, Carroll Gibbons and Charlie Kunz from Firbeck. But the outbreak of WWII was the death knell of the club.  Firbeck Hall was taken over by the Sheffield Joint Hospitals Board and the dwindling country club shunted into the nearby Lake House. It became an annexe of the Sheffield Royal Infirmary  for the duration while the aerodrome was converted into RAF Firbeck, comprising four squadrons from 1940 to 1944. The dream had died and in 1943 Cyril Nicholson put Firbeck Hall up for sale. There were no takers for the estate and it would take until 1945 for the Miners’ Welfare Commission to acquire it as a rehabilitation centre.  In 1984 it transferred to the Trent Regional Health Authority as a convalescence home for industrial injuries but this eventually closed in 1990.  Rhona desciberd her time working there as a nurse, with the swimming pool being used as a hydrotherapy pool, used by the staff after work. For years Firbeck Hall remained derelict.  It was bought by successive owners in 1996 and 2010 before being bought by Ashley Wildsmith in 2014. He created an exclusive residential development.

We walked through the village of Firbeck before turning due south, crossing the B6463 again, and reaching the edge of Letwell, where we took our mid-morning refreshments. We continued to work our way southwards before turning west to walk along the base of the well-wooded former spoil heap of the Firbeck colliery and arrived at Langold Lake again, and hence to our cars.  We finished this 5 mile walk at exactly 12.20.  Thanks to Sharon and Steve for back-marking.  David Gadd

Tuesday 9th June 2026 - Derwent Edge

A lovely well planned walk in an a super part of The Peak District National Park. Eleven miles over what is normally moderately testing terrain with absolutely superb views and vistas across the Upper Derwent Valley and The Howden, Derwent and Ladybower reservoirs. Everything you need for a perfect walk. Except for the weather. Whatever happened to summer sunshine and light breezes in June. Today we got single figure temperatures, dark skies, heavy rain, hail, sleet and gale force winds for large parts of the walk. Fortunately, it did stop raining for the final section and the stiff breeze helped to dry our clothes before we got back to the cars. Otherwise, I suspect hypothermia may have set in. Eighteen of us met in the lay- by at Cutthroat Bridge. It was chilly but otherwise OK when we set off across the main road and up onto Derwent Edge and made our way to Dovestone Tor for elevenses. As we set off again, we could see the black clouds coming towards us but because some earlier showers had been fairly light and quickly passed over, we assumed this next lot would do the same. Wrong. Just after Lost Lad as we got to a wide open stretch with no cover whatsoever the heavens suddenly opened. It really did throw everything at us. With heavy rain, mixed with hail, sleet and howling winds we had no time to put on wet weather gear or extra layers and within about a minute were soaked through and getting very cold. At this point it was unfortunately too late to take any short cuts so with typical Rambler’s resilience and humour we just carried on. A bit later there was a break in the weather that allowed us to take a short lunch stop where cold hands could be warmed on coffee mugs and sandwiches eaten with relish before those rain clouds returned to make us pack up quickly and make the now wet and slippery descent into the valley bottom through the trees. We descended with great caution. The path alongside the dam came as a nice flat relief. Also, by now the rain had finally stopped. We were getting drier and could feel our finger ends again. Happy days. So, we agreed stick to the original route and go back up and over the top back to the cars rather than stay on the path beside the reservoir. Thanks to David W for planning and leading so well in difficult conditions. Looking forward to the next one. Thanks to those people who back marked along the way. But most thanks to those who came along and remained cheerful and looked out for each other throughout the walk. One we won't forget anytime soon. See the photos for some of those views that the weather tried but failed to spoil. CP

Saturday 6th June 2026 - Derwent Edge and Strines Reservoir

Most of the 11 ramblers (meeting at the Cutthroat Bridge layby in intermittent drizzle) opted for full waterproofs for this 10 mile walk. We crossed Cutthroat Bridge and headed uphill to Derwent Edge. Here the rain was persistent and the wind was quite strong. We found some shelter among the rocks for a coffee break. Continuing along Derwent Edge we heard the characteristic bubbling calls of Curlews. They circled round us, coming close enough for us to see their long downward curving bills. The walk had been advertised as having no pub stop, but after a morning walking in rain, our leader Phil made a slight diversion to the Strines Inn. Hot drinks were almost as popular as beer. The rain had stopped just before we got to the pub and coming back out, it seemed even brighter. We heard peacocks and saw one across the road from the pub. Passing through some woods below Strines Reservoir Dam, Phil unfortunately slipped on a wet tree root and landed painfully on the base of his spine. We stopped for lunch in the hope that he would recover enough to carry on. He did, but struggled as we walked uphill beside Strines Reservoir, in sunshine with views of Dale Dike Reservoir below Strines Reservoir and Bents House and patches of pink rhododendron. Martin offered to go ahead, get his car and pick up Phil on the next section of road that we reached. We hadn't been on the road long when Martin met us (had he run back?). George took over as leader while Martin took a very grateful Phil back to his car. George soon guided across the moors and we could see Win Hill in the distance and our cars not so far away.

Thanks to Phil for leading a great walk and best wishes for his quick recovery. Thanks too to Martin for his fantastic efforts to save Phil from further pain, to George for taking over as leader and to Angela and Teresa for the photos. BU

Thursday, 4th June '26 - Hooton Roberts Ramble

Fifteen of us met in the car park of the Earl of Strafford in Hooton Roberts on a cool Thursday morning.  Thomas Wentworth, 1st Earl of Strafford (1593 – 1641), was an English statesman and a major figure in the period leading up to the English Civil War.  He served in Parliament and was a supporter of King Charles I. From 1632 to 1640 he was Lord Deputy of Ireland, where he established a strong authoritarian rule. Recalled to England, he became a leading advisor to the King, attempting to strengthen the royal position against Parliament.  When Parliament condemned Lord Strafford to death, Charles reluctantly signed the death warrant and Strafford was executed. He was created 1st Baron Wentworth in 1628, 1st Viscount Wentworth in late 1628 or early 1629, and, finally, 1st Earl of Strafford in January 1640.   We left the Earl and passed through the adjoining churchyard of the Church of St John the Baptist.  The first Earl of Strafford's widow lived at the manor house and, when she died in 1688 at the age of 83, she was buried secretly by torch light in the chancel of the church.  There is a memorial to her husband at Wentworth Woodhouse, where he was thought to have been buried.  However, in 1895, when work was being carried out near the altar in St John's, three unknown skeletons were found, one appearing to be headless. They were thought to be the Earl, his wife and 16-year-old daughter, who had rickets, as one of the skeletons had signs of this disease.  

We walked down the minor road and turned north at the bottom to gently climb, before descending to the track leading to Grange Farm, with Emley Moor mast just visible on the horizon, and then down again to the road leading into Old Denaby.  After about half a mile we turned up into Denaby Wood, coming out of the woods at Denaby Thicks, where we stopped for our refreshments in a playground.  Suitably refreshed we continued up the hill to skirt Conisbrough, crossing the A630 and then walking along the old track known as Park Lane.  Proposals are in hand to create a major solar farm on this land where, records show, in 1393 580 deer were killed in the great hunting forest of Conisbrough.  After following Park Lane for about half a mile we turned right onto a crossfield path which took us gently down to the hamlet of Firsby.  On our left we could see the air shafts created when an underground pipe was installed to take water from the reservoir at Firsby to Doncaster.  The reservoir is now a nature reserve. Leaving Firsby we gently climbed a crossfield path to Hooton Cliff, with heavy rain briefly causing us to put on our wet-weather clothing just before we reached the top, before descending through a wood, with springs making the route very muddy in places, to Back Lane and thence into Hooton Roberts again, arriving just before 1.00.  Many of us went into the Earl for food and drinks.  Many thanks to the Earl for allowing us to park and David H for ensuring that we didn't lose anybody!  DG

Carers Walk Brodsworth Hall, Wednesday 03.06.26

The first and only Carers Walk for 2026, due to lack of funding, took place at Brodsworth Hall on Wednesday 03.06.26 on a overcast and at times rainy late spring day. Only two carers joined Steve and Neil of Doncaster Ramblers on a 4 mile walk to and around Brodsworth Community Woodland which has been created from the waste tip of the former Brodsworth Colliery. Leaving the Hall the four of us walked along the Hall access road to Pickburn village. After a short distance walking on roads, past the recently demolished Pickburn Arms, we crossed the A1 via a footbridge which gives direct access into the Community Woodland. Walking on gravel tracks we reached the summit of what was coal waste having walked through tree lined and heavily vegetated areas. What a contrast from the black scar which dominated the landscape some 25 years ago! At the summit we stopped for a group photo, it was then downhill past a pond created during the tip reclamation, then back across the A1 on the footbridge we had used earlier. It was then back through Pickburn village walking along quite roads admiring the old Brodsworth Estate worker cottages before following the footpath through the fields until we reached the driveway to the Hall. It was then a short walk up the driveway to the Hall and a welcome cup of tea or coffee at the café.

Whilst we were walking Angela of Doncaster Ramblers, who volunteers at the Hall as a garden guide, gave four of the carers a guided tour around the stunning gardens at Brodsworth which was once again extremely well received.

Many thanks to Neil and Angela for helping out on today’s walk and garden tour.

Stephen Tomlinson 03.06.26

Tuesday 2 June 2026 - Three Lakes Classic

This was a walk that Malc had previously led back in November 2024. He would however not lead it this time. A poorly ankle meant he had to rest at home whilst his wife Debs (with encouragement from me) took over. We had maps and some 'foolproof’ instructions from Malc to follow. What could possibly go wrong.

Nineteen of us met in the car park of The Sitwell Arms in Whiston. The weather at this point was not looking good. The forecast had been poor with showers expected during the day. But the temperature was fairly mild. So, there was a varied and eclectic mixture of attire as we got ready. Shorts with gaiters being an interesting choice for some. Debs did the briefing. Norman volunteered to do the back marking and we set off out of Whiston via Whiston Vale towards and then under the M1 motorway to join a path alongside the River Rother. We then followed the wooded riverside path as it passed Catcliffe on the right and then Treeton on the left until we got to the edge of Waverley Lake where we had our elevenses overlooking what was the site of the infamous Battle of Orgreave during the miners’ strike of 1984. Today it is a large housing estate. Not long after passing to the north side of Treeton Dyke Malc’s instructions let us down and we took an interesting detour from the intended route. Missing out part of Aughton we instead found a more direct way to get to Ulley Reservoir. We had our lunch stop by the cafe overlooking the water where some of us were joined by a pair of pushy geese who were keen to share our sarnies. Needless to say, they were disappointed by the hungry Ramblers they approached. Also, by this time the weather had much improved and those who had layered up at the beginning of the walk were now shedding as much as possible. From Ulley it was a steady climb up through the woods and fields then a dog leg to the north to take us past Upper Whiston before crossing over the M1 again and back to The Sitwell Arms. As on the walk in November 2024 a good few of us went in for a well earned drink before going home. Another good day had been enjoyed by all. Very well done to Debs for stepping up at short notice to excellently lead a walk she had only partly recced with Malc. Thanks to Norman for back marking and to Steve for the photos. CP

Saturday 30th May 2026 - Whitwell Wood, Shireoaks and Thorpe Salvin

It wasn't the hottest day we've had recently, but hot enough for a walk of only 9.5 miles with some shade and gentle hills to be a welcome accident. The layby where we met was even busier than usual with dog walkers; it looked like they were keen on the shade of Whitwell Wood that stretches north from the layby. 9 ramblers set off into the cool of the wood. We emerged from the wood into a tree lined bridleway that took us towards Netherthorpe Airfield. We walked along lanes, across fields and through fishing lakes to Shireoaks, where we stopped for a coffee break. A short walk took us to the Chesterfield Canal. We crossed it by a pretty brick bridge and followed the canal through Turnerwood, past ducks with chicks and swans with cygnets. We recrossed the canal and walked up the steepest hill of the day to Thorpe Salvin. Here we stopped for lunch at Sorby Recreation Field. Everyone sought out shade, then refreshment at the Parish Oven Pub. After lunch, lanes and fields (one of knee high barley and one of flowers) took us back to the welcome shade of Whitwell Wood.

Thanks to Angela and Yvonne for the photos. BU

Maintenance Team. Work Report Wednesday 27.05.26.

Wednesday 27th May saw the second maintenance session of 2026, this time in Barnburgh. Extra Ramblers were drafted in for this session to deal with the access problems at the three worksites. The first task was renewing a marker post on Barnburgh 3 where the existing post had rotted, this was done by two members.

The second task was renewing 3 marker posts at the junction of Barnburgh 7 and Barnburgh 3, these also had rotted at the bottom. Although hard digging was expected this thankfully never came to fruition, this task was carried out by four members and The City of Doncaster Rights of Way Manager. The third and final task was to reset a post at the intersection of Barnburgh 2 and Hickleton 2, this post was also rotten at the bottom. All tasks were completed by noon with a total of 12 man hours of labour.

Stuart Twell
28.05.26

Thursday 28th May 2026 - Epworth & Low Burnham

This six mile circular walk from Belton Coffee House to Low Burnham produced 24 ramblers, including visitor Angela, wishing to join the leader. The weather was getting warm albeit a little breezy by the time we left the car park. The walk started on a former railway line in a southerly direction. We took a sharp left turn on the approach to Epworth to emerge in the vicinity of a windmill in a seemingly good state of repair. The path gave a good view of Epworth looking to our right. We were required to walk alongside a busy road to enter Epworth. We made our way through the garden centre to enter the grounds of St Andrews Church. After a brief pause during which time the leader said a little about the church, we passed Epworth Old Rectory, the childhood home of John and Charles Wesley. There appeared to be a special event going on here but we kept going and used a footpath on the right. This is a long footpath which we used virtually into Low Burnham where we had our morning break. Suitably refreshed, we carried on through Low Burnham to the busy A161. We crossed with care and used a path opposite which took us in a westerly direction. Shortly we turned right which marked the start of our return to Belton coffee house around the western edge of Epworth. There were a few twists and turns here including at one point using a tunnel under a former railway line. A short amble along a country lane brought us into a residential part of Epworth. We continued to walk in a northerly direction and eventually joined our outward route. From here it was a short walk to the car park, stopping on the way for a group photograph. We arrived back just before 1.00. It was very warm by now. Some ramblers went into the Coffee House for refreshments. Thanks to Dave Tonkin for back marking. David Horne 28/05.

Tuesday 26th May 2026 - The Southwell Trail and Robin Hood Way

As the saying goes mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun, though in the case of Doncaster Ramblers it was a much more diverse mix with mad Jamaicans, Irish, Cypriot and Hong Kong Chinese and a very strange Englishman who for some reasons believes he has two right feet. It was a roasting 30C when 18 of us met up for this original 11.5 mile walk taking in parts of the Southwold Trail and Robin Hood Way. We must be mad but nevertheless we set of from the car park on the Southwold Trail following Edingley Beck to Edingley village then it was though fields with a diversion from the planned route due to a footpath closure until we reached our first climb of the day, fortunately in the shade, to get onto the Robin Hood Way which follows the ridge line. Climbing complete it was time for coffee and other fluids intake. Following the Robin Hood Way to Halam then it was then another climb out of the valley, past an orchard of what it was assumed were Bramley Apples as Southwold is the home of the original Bramley Tree. Reaching the outskirts of Southwold, our planned lunch stop, we diverted from our original route to take out a couple of miles of the walk as by this time were all feeling the effects of the heat. Walking into the centre of Southwold we had lunch in the lovely Minster grounds with an extended stay in the Admiral Rodney Pub where we all topped up our fluid levels and filled our water bottles. The pub contains the original well from which it is said Southwell gets its name, see photos. Refreshed it was back out into the heat and through the lovely town past the old railway station which is know a pub and marks the start of the Southwell Trail. Ignoring this we went past the old mill and back onto the Robin Hood Way which follows the River Greet to the old silk mill then it was onto the Southwell Trail, thankfully in the shade, for the final stretch back to the car park. I think we were all glad to get back to the cars as we had all really suffered in the heat and yes, we are all mad no matter what nationality we are! One sensible driver stopped off for ice creams on the way home, see photos. Thanks to everybody who came on this walk they did not need to, to Neil for back marking and Glyn and Yvonne for additional photographs. Stephen J Tomlinson

POI. The Robin Hood Way was initially planned by members of the Nottingham Wayfarers’ Rambling Club in commemoration of its Golden Jubilee in 1982. The original route of 84 miles, which has with time been extended to 110 miles, goes from Nottingham Castle to Edwinstowe Church was opened in 1985 with the intention of linking all the places in Nottinghamshire with connections to the legend of Robin Hood. The Southwell Trail is 7.5 miles and built on the former railway line of the Midland Railway. It stretches from Southwell to Bilsthorpe and passes the villages of Farnsfield, Kirklington and Maythorne.

Saturday 23rd May 2026 - To the Castle and Back

Seven ramblers gathered at Warmsworth on an exceptionally hot, sunny and dry day. Following the river Don upsteam to Conisbrough Castle, walking through woodland scented with wild garlic. Coffee was taken near the 11th century medieval fortress before the group walked around the moat.

The river Don was crossed near the former Earth Centre before following the Trans-Pennine trail (TPT) downsteam. The walkers passed the impressive Conisbrough viaduct which spans the river. This structure is 465 metres long, has 21 brick arches and took 15 million bricks to build.

The route continued passing through Sprotbrough Flash nature reserve before stopping for lunch overlooking the canal. Liquid refreshments were taken at the Ivanhoe pub where a cricket match was taking place.

After lunch the ramblers returned to the river before re-joining the TPT which took them over the river and back into Warmsworth. Highlights of the day, apart from the excellent company, include the many canal boats and butterflies.

AMG

Thursday, 21st May '26 - Sprotbrough Stroll

Meeting at the Anchorage Lane sports field car park, with the permission of the Sprotbrough Parish Council, nineteen of us including Alan for the first time, of us set off for Cusworth Park, where we were joined by a latecomer and his dog.   We proceeded alongside the lakes and to the narrow, dark tunnel under the A1M, opening out onto crossfield paths into the centre of Sprotbrough.  We walked past the church and down the hill to the River Don, where we stopped for our refreshments.  As we were readying ourselves to continue our stroll alongside the Don, several volunteers arrived to trim back the over-hanging branches.  We reached the A1M again, this time the traffic thundering by well above us.  A short while later we left the river bank, still following the route of the Trans Peninne Trail, and continued until we turned off it and back to the car park.  Thanks to Tony for leading this lovely walk, and to back-marker Brendon.  David Gadd

Tuesday 19th May 2026 - Wirksworth

Somebody said it is not often that it rains all day on one of our walks. Well, it did today. Mostly it was heavy drizzle. But every now and then it poured down. True to form it only started to brighten up as we were doing the last few yards back to the cars but we didn't let it spoil a good walk. The company was excellent as always and the views and scenery superb even if they were both a little on the wet side. Sixteen Ramblers had ignored the weather forecast and met adjacent to Cromford Mills. After the briefing from George, we left Cromford by crossing the main road and began the first of many climbs for the day up through the woods to the west of the village. Round behind Dene Quarry and then on to a coffee stop at The National Stone Centre where we were fortunate to find some shelter outside the main building. Then it was up again to Middleton Top before turning back south and east past another quarry towards Wirksworth. This whole area is great for walking with many points of interest along the way. Such a pity that the rain took the edge off our ability to see and fully enjoy them. The wonderful Feather Star bar in Wirksworth was our very welcome lunch stop. This quirkily decorated pub is great and well worth a visit. Refreshed and full of a newly found vigour we went up and out of Wirksworth before starting the steady descent down towards the final section of the walk. Across the main A6 and past High Peak Junction where we took the towpath alongside the canal. Nice and flat and always pretty this section made a fitting end to another good eleven miler organised by George. Thanks to him for leading and to Dianne for back marking. Steve as always for the photos. CP

Saturday 16th May 2026 - Welbeck Estate and Creswell Crags

14 Ramblers gathered at Notcutts Dukeries Garden Centre on a bright morning with a cold breeze. With a farm shop and gallery on the same site, plans were already being made for after the 11.5 mile walk. The early part of the walk was around the edge of the Welbeck Estate. We passed between 2 of the lakes on the estate and came to its South Lodge which includes the entrance to a tunnel that once allowed the Duke of Portland to come and go by carriage without being seen (thanks to Dianne for informing us about this). We continued northwards through Manor Hills, stopped for a coffee break and turned west to head for Whitwell. In Whitwell we had lunch and a warm welcome at the Royal Oak pub. In the afternoon we headed south to Cresswell Crags. From here we headed east taking in St. Winifred's Church near Holbeck. This was built between 1913 and 1926 as a private chapel for the Welbeck Estate. We were soon back at our cars where Mark serenaded Hannah (our leader who was leading her first walk) on harmonica with Dirty Old Town.

Thanks to Hannah for leading a lovely walk with great assurance, Dianne for back marking and Angela, Carmen and Sharon for the photos. BU

Thursday, 14th May '26 - Wadworth Archaeological walk

On a fine morning nineteen of us, including newcomers Isobel and deaf couple Julie and Ian, met near Wadworth Church.  Everyone was given a copy of the route and a LIDAR map of the area.   After the briefing we crossed the field and stopped outside Wadworth Hall. This is a Grade 1 listed Manor House built in 1749 for the Wordsworth family by the renowned northern architect James Paine.  After this brief stop we turned the corner and entered The Shrubbery. The wood was formerly part of the grounds of Wadworth Hall and still contains three wells, a fishpond and a Ha Ha. The wood was donated to the Woodland Trust in 1995 and has been designated as a Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI).  Leaving The Shrubbery at its western end we stopped briefly to admire one of the best views of Doncaster before taking the track known as Short Gate, turning right after a few hundred yards to cross a huge field and entering Wadworth Wood.  We followed the right of way through the wood and reached the  M18 and entered Edlington Wood.  Wadworth Wood and Edlington Wood are vastly different, the former a commercial wood with little or no undergrowth or birdlife, the latter a rich haven of both, with a phenomenal archaeolgical record.  We then followed a track in a northerly direction, stopping to study the LIDAR map, showing the field systems in existence about two thousand years ago.  There are the earthwork remains of Romano-British settlements consisting of enclosures with many finds, including Roman coins, most of which date to the 3rd to 4th centuries.  Between January and August, 1935, Romano-British brooches, pottery and Roman coins were found by the woodman, Mr. Cameron, and his family. The site was later investigated by archaeologists, and again in 1945.  All this archaeological evidence exists because the area has never been ploughed. Two large areas were cleared in the 1970's in anticipation of limestone quarrying, but the quarrying never actually happened.

Much earlier than the 3rd and 4th century site is the Mesolithic site in the area of The Crags. During the final stages of the last Ice Age, which peaked at 21k years ago, and ended 11.5k years ago, Edlington was a place of settlement for the Palaeolithic/Mesolithic groups of early nomadic humans. The groups had followed the improving climate northwards as the ice sheets covering Europe retreated.  In 2003 the South Yorkshire Archaeological Survey found evidence that these early groups of humans had been using caves and natural outcrops in Edlington wood as shelters and bases for hunting. Additionally quantities of flint tools from the period were unearthed near to a rock shelter in the wood. During the period in which the tools can be dated the landscape of the area was a vast treeless tundra, with forestation occurring only as late into the period as 7500 BC.  

Stopping for our refreshments on some convenient fallen trees we continued through the wood until we reached a junction, where the well-known story of the white greyhound was told. Viscount Molesworth, MP for the West Riding was saved from death by his faithful dog when a gardener, told to check the outside toilet, was killed by the villain hiding inside.  On the death of the dog a monument was erected.  Of the dead gardener, we have no information.  We passed under the M18 once more and followed a path to the south of Wadworth Wood, and thence back to Wadworth Church, finishing at about 12.45.  Thanks to Sharon for backmarking.  David Gadd

Tuesday 12 May 2026 Deb's Local Pub Walk

This was the second Tuesday in May that our walk was to be completely within Doncaster Council boundaries as part of the National Walking Month initiative. Nine and a bit circular miles from The Maple Tree pub in Balby. Fifteen of us met in the car park between the pub and the big Tesco supermarket. Debs did the briefing about the route and terrain and stressed the need for caution around one or two of the busy roads that we would encounter on the way. Good paths and some pavements. Flat all the way.  Most of the route was in any case very familiar to many of us. Down through the woods on the edge of the Woodfield Plantation estate and then on a path adjacent to the M18 and White Rose Way to get us to our coffee stop by the water at Lakeside. So far so good with the weather. The forecast had not been great but after a chilly start it had brightened up a little and kept dry. After coffee it was onto the 'red path' that runs between the housing of Bessacarr and the fields and railway line. Under and then over the railway lines we went before doing the same for the M18 and Great Yorkshire Way before coming to the Amazon Lakes where we would have a lunch stop. That is when the rain arrived. Nothing too heavy but just enough to get us wet and keep the length of the lunch break to a minimum. From here it was steady last section to Loversall and then back to the car park. A fairly early finish meant there was plenty of time to call for quick drink in The Maple Tree before setting off home. It is always interesting to do some routes that you think you know well and discover new some new aspects of them. Also to find out how some of the shorter routes can be joined up to create something longer and more varied but still close to home. Thanks to Debs for leading and to Angela for back marking. Steve as ever for the photos.

Saturday 9th May 2026 - Holmfirth Folk Festival

10 ramblers met on a damp, murky morning at Hade Edge. It wasn't raining, but rain was forecast for the afternoon. With this in mind and the planned 2 hour lunch stop in Holmfirth (to take in the Folk Festival) Martin (our leader) shortened the walk from 10.5 miles to closer to 9.5 miles. We descended to Holme Styes Reservoir, walked around the top end of it and up a steep little side valley back to open hilltop. We soon descended again to a picnic site near Ramsden Reservoir where we had a coffee break. We followed the Holme Valley into Holmfirth. Here we found folk dancers dancing in the space where we had planned to have lunch. Fortunately, they soon finished and moved on so we could have our lunch as planned. After taking in more dancing and musical performances and further refreshment at The Nook Pub, we set off out of Holmfirth in the light rain that was to continue all afternoon. We walked high up along the east side of the Holme Valley before heading back to Holme Styes reservoir, where this time we completed our circuit of it by passing below its dam wall. A final steep hill took us back to Hade Edge.

Thanks to Martin for leading this lovely walk and visit to the Holmfirth Folk Festival. BU

Tuesday 5th May 2026 - The River Don Floodplain and Drains

Twelve members and one guest walker met at what was the site of the Bentley Colliery on a sunny morning with a cooling breeze. Following the usual safety briefing we headed off uphill over the reinstated spoil heap of the colliery, renamed Bentley Community Woodland, which brought us to the Trans Pennine Trail at Shaftholme Lane. By this time the uphill section had warmed us up and we had started to shed layers. We crossed Smallholme and Tilts Drain (also called Ea BecK) then entered Owston Wood to Owston Grange where the farm has a busy little retail unit selling raw milk. Walking through fields we had a quick coffee break before carefully crossing the main east coast railway line followed by a section of road walking through the village of Thorpe in Balne. Leaving the village behind us we walked along the raised embankment of the Smallholme and Tilts Drain which we had crossed earlier in the walk. We followed the drain past the site of the demolished Thorpe Marsh Power station where they are constructing a very large battery storage facility as part of the drive towards net zero. Leaving the drain, we crossed Forstead lane and followed the recent extension of the Don valley Way onto the raised banks of Grumble Hurst Drain where we stopped for lunch. We then followed the Don Valley Way through a reclaimed landfill and on the banks of Fur Water Drain to Arksey Ings. Leaving the Don Valley Way, we walked to the village of Arksey using Ings Lane and Arksey Common Lane. Again, after carefully crossing the main east coast railway line a short walk brought us back to Bentley Community Woodland and back to our cars. Thanks to Charlie for back marking, Sharon for the chocolates and to the twelve who came on this lovely 11 mile walk in the pretty countryside and surprisingly undeveloped part of north Doncaster. Stephen J Tomlinson

POI. Subsidence caused by coal mines was sufficiently serious through the mining regions of Britain that a Royal Commission was convened in 1926, and its first report identified the Doncaster area as a location where the problem was particularly severe. A second commission looked at the Doncaster area specifically, and reported in 1928. The Doncaster Area Drainage Act 1929 was passed, creating the Doncaster Central Board, with responsibility to address the issues.] As a result, 6 miles (9.7 km) of the banks of the Ea Beck from the Humber Head Bridge on the A1 to its mouth were raised and strengthened using waste from Bullcroft Colliery and some fill that was dug up locally. Conditions in the Bentley area were addressed by a scheme developed by between 1939 and 1940. A major part of that scheme involved raising the banks of the Ea Beck for about 2.5 miles (4 km). A new method of achieving the work was tried out, involving cable-operated scrapers, pulled by tractors. Again additional material was obtained locally from borrow pits.

Saturday 2nd May 2026 - Langold Circular

15 ramblers arrived at Langold Country Park to the disappointing news (from their leader) that the water splash was closed and more importantly so were the toilets. However, the weather was sunny and warm with a refreshing breeze for our 10.5 mile walk. A short walk across open rollong countrside took us to the pretty village of Firbeck where the sign advertised its connection to the St. Leger. In Letwell we stopped for coffee at St. Peter's Church. Using footpaths and bridleways via Wallingwells Wood we arrived at Carlton in Lindrick for lunch at the Bluebell Pub. Footpaths skirting Carlton in Lindrick took us back to Langold Lake, which was now busy with families enjoying the sunny afternoon. A circuit of the lake took us back to our cars.

Thanks to Jo for leading a lovely walk, Deborah for back marking and Angela for the photos. BU

Thursday, 30th April '26 - Roche Abbey Ramble

On a stunningly beautiful day 14 of us negotiated the bumpy track down to the Roche Abbey car park. After the briefing we set off for the Abbey, passing the gatehouse on the way. The gatehouse was originally a two-storey building, the ground floor being used admitting guests, for controlling inward and outward goods and for feeding the destitute. The upper storey was probably used as a mini court for settling disputes, etc. The founding monks came from Newminster Abbey in Northumberland. This was the perfect site, with the walls of the valley providing building stone and the Maltby Dike and the Hooton Dike providing a plentiful supply of water.  At its peak a community of about 150 men was composed of one-third monks and two-thirds lay brothers, with each group requiring a separate set of builkdings including a dormitory, day room, refectory, with a latrine block and an infirmary. Guests were provided with a similar set of accommodation. In 1538, on the orders of Oliver Cromwell, the abbey was destroyed.

From the Abbey we entered King's Wood coming out at the top onto the scarp edge of Slade Hills, with views to our right towards Slade Hooton, Maltby and Thurcroft. This path took us towards Laughton en le Morthen, with the magnificent spire of All Saints Church clearly visible. In Laughton a couple of left turns took us the the village hall, with its pristine toilets, and the excellent children's play area, where we had our refreshments.  After our break we passed through a ginnel, turned left, then left again after 50 yards onto Kirk Croft Road, which is a track initially and then a footpath.  Kirk Croft Road provides open views and a 'big sky'.  We soon reached Long Thwaite Wood and then Thwaite Farm House and then a minor road to Firbeck village. Adjacent to St Matin's Church we took a narrow footpath and then across a field to the monument, unveiled in 2011, to mark the site of the former RAF Firbeck.  The light aerodrome previously in existence to allow the rich visitors to fly in to Firbeck Hall, a very expensive members club which folded with the advent of WW2 was requisitioned by the Air Ministry in 1940 and became the base for the 613 Squadron. From here we followed tracks and crossfield paths to the tiny hamlet of Stone where, at a former mill, we turned left for 200 yards before passing through a narrow gate into a field, which we crossed, climbed a stile and then the final part of the walk, Roche Abbey in view, and back to the car park.

Thanks to Nick for back-marking and to everyone for making this a wonderful walk, which we finished at exactly 1.00.  David Gadd

Tuesday 28 April 2026 - Hathersage Circular

30 Ramblers gathered at the foot of Bamford edge for this 9 mile circular walk. This included four guests, Yvonne, Kevin, Vanessa and Alan.

It was dry but surprisingly cold. Despite this several were brave enough to be wearing shorts. We set off towards Dennis Knoll and very shortly a hare had been spotted and the call of curlews and a cuckoo heard.

We had a coffee stop at the top of Cattis-side Moor before looping round to High Lees and through the woods towards Hathersage. The bluebells and patchwort in the woods were picture perfect. The sun made its first appearance as we approached lunchtime in the Hathersage Memorial Gardens.

After refreshments in the Little John Inn, we were ready for the 3 mile uphill walk back to the cars. The afternoon was considerably warmer and layers were removed as we walked the delightful paths and fields back towards Bamford for a 3 o’clock finish.

Thanks to David, Neil and Charlie for sharing back marking and as ever to Frank for gatekeeping duties.

Saturday 25th April 2026 - White Edge, Curbar, River Derwent and Froggatt

Nine ramblers met at Haywood National Trust car park for this ten-mile walk. The weather was perfect for walking (sunshine, blue skies and light winds). Throughout the day we experienced a variety of scenery.

We walked along White Edge where our leader managed to trip and fall. On the way to the Wellington Monument we passed two ‘Companion Stones’. One is a 17th century ‘Guide Stoop’ which gives directions and the second a sail shaped sculpture built to celebrate the Millennium. Good visibility from the Wellington Monument provided impressive views of the surrounding countryside across Curbar towards Chatsworth.

Descending down to Curbar for lunch we saw the ‘Round House’. In the Civil War prisoners were held in this lockup prior to being taken to Sheffield gaol. We also passed two Pinfolds. Stray sheep and cattle were rounded up by the Pinder and kept in the Pinfold, a purpose-built enclosure for stray animals. Their owner had to pay a fine to release them.

After refreshments, in the garden of the Bridge Inn, we followed the left bank of the River Derwent upstream to Froggatt Bridge passing through woodland. Whilst next to the river we completed ‘The Big River Watch’ survey. This is a simple citizen sample science survey that anyone in the UK and Ireland can complete. It aims to help support river restoration.

The final leg of the walk involved a steep climb back up to Froggatt Edge, where the panoramic views provided a rewarding end to the journey.

Thanks to Frank for back marking.

AMG

Maintenance Team. Work Report Wednesday 22.04.26.

The first maintenance session of 2026 took place on Wednesday 22.04.26 at Fishlake where a barbed wire fence had been erected making the footpath difficult to use. Following discussions between The City of Doncaster Right of Way Department and the land owner it was agreed the erection of a stile would be the preferred option to maintain public access. Three members of Doncaster Ramblers and the manager of The City of Doncaster Right of Way department erected a stile resulting in a high-quality final product. It took a total of 8 man hours to fit the new stile and reinstall some barbed wire fencing to keep surrounding land stockproof. Please view the photos in the photo section on Doncaster Ramblers website.

Stuart Twell

23.04.26

Tuesday 21 April 2026 - Nidd Gorge and Knaresborough

Back in February Gareth led The Snowdrop Walk. I think he should have subtitled this one as The Bluebell Walk. The woods were full of them. Along with the wild garlic and other yellow and white woodland flowers they provided a lovely spring like feeling on this bright and sunny day. When 30 of us met in the free Woodland Trust car park at Nidd Gorge just on the outskirts of Knaresborough it was at first quite chilly but it soon warmed up as we got walking and by the end, we were taking layers off as we puffed and panted up the final slopes through the woods back to that same car park. Having been told by Gareth that the walk would unfortunately be slightly shorter than planned due to a landslip we set off downhill and crossed a small bridge to access the southern side of the River Nidd. We followed the river on woodland paths through Coalpits Wood and Rudding Bottoms. A short coffee break on the river bank and then on again until we reached a further bridge where we saw the landslip and fallen trees that blocked our progress. Here we turned south away from the river and through the pleasant farmland and countryside on the return loop to Knaresborough. After passing Harrogate Golf Club on our left and crossing the railway line we started to head north east to enter Knaresborough via Blands Hill before crossing the bridge at the bottom of Briggate and turning sharp left into Waterside. This approach to the town centre along the largely traffic free river side lane is always worthwhile and affords excellent views of the riverside properties and then the main bridge when you get to the bottom of the steps up to the castle gardens. Sandwiches by the bowling green were followed by liquid refreshment in The Crown on the main street before dropping back down to Waterside and then out of town via Ripley Road. The last section in the afternoon found us back in those lovely woods.  Amongst those beautiful bluebells once again as we took a somewhat tricky, rooty (and a little muddy) path, this time on the north bank of the river that ended with a fairly steep climb back to the car park. Thanks to Gareth for leading and Martin for back marking.  Thanks to Steve for the photos. But as always thanks most of all to all those friends old and new who came along and made the day great. CP

Thursday 16th April '26 - Tickhill North and South

On a good day for a gentle walk, 22 of us met at the Buttercross in Tickhill before moving around the corner into the Tithes Lane park for a quiet briefing. We crossed ther park and made our way through housing to cross the A1M, turning left  onto Common Lane and, after a 90 degree right turn, left onto Hopyard Lane. It is recorded that there was a hop yard on this lane at one time - does that indicate that hops were grown in the area? We turned right off Hopyard Lane and made our way to Middle Drain, with massive flood mitigation work being carried out in the area.  We soon joined the River Torne, stopping for refreshments just before the footbridge crossing it. The walk continued to Sunderland Street, which we crossed under the A1M bridge, and continued on the noisy footpath adjacent to the motorway. We then made our way on footpaths towards the stile and onto Castle Fields, arriving at Mill Dam, and the finish of the walk, at about 12.15. Thanks to Sharon for efficiently backmarking. David Gadd

Tuesday 14th April 2026 - Gooles’ Out for Spring

19 ramblers, including 2 guests Liz and Ian, met with the sun shining and the prospect of an interesting and varied walk. The walk started on the banks of the River Ouse on the outskirts of Goole, heading towards the village of Airmyn. The Ouse is tidal so it was fairly fast flowing in places and where the River Aire fed into the Ouse there were some very high banking. The Boothferry bridge is a swing bridge built over 97 years ago and is the oldest in the UK. Just before arriving in the village of Airmyn we saw 3 to 4 Vietnamese potbellied pigs lying about alongside the river banks, they were obviously used to visitors as we didn’t cause any excitement. A short lunch break was taken next to the historic gothic revival clock, a folly erected in 1865 to honour their beneficiary landlord George Percy Second Earl of Beverley who funded the village school. After lunch we made our way towards the Viking pub or West Gate Park cafe for refreshments. Thirst quenched the route took us through to the docks of Goole which had some interesting architecture and different land marks to the usual rambling routes. The port of Goole is one of the Humber ports, and known to be the largest inland port, being approximately 50 miles from the North Sea. With having good road and rail links, it deals with about £800 million worth of trade each year. Thanks to everybody who came on the walk, the back marker Julie and Steve for photos. Peter Smith

Saturday 11th April 2026 - Lumsdale

Many of the 15 ramblers in Lumsdale on a cool, cloudy morning were impatient to start the walk because, anticipating a strenuous walk, we were underdressed. We were soon walking uphill but not in the direction some of us expected, from previous walks with George from Lumsdale. We had another surprise when we found ourselves on a level track with views across Matlock Golf Course.The walk continued to be gentle as we passed Matlock Moor before stopping for a break at Uppertown with a lovely view of gently rolling countryside. We descended and after a while were in a pretty little wooded valley carpetted with white Wood Anenomes. It was also home to some young and inquisitive cattle who followed us too closely for the comfort of some. The sun came out. The valley led is to Kelstedge and then Ashover. Here we stopped for lunch in the churchyard of All Saints. Some then explored the village while others visited The Old Poets Corner pub. The afternoon proved more strenuous as we soon tackled our biggest hill so far and not long after walked up to the viewpoint at Ravensnest. We descended to Tansley Knoll. A final hill and a short squall took us to the woods just above our cars in Lumsdale.

Thanks to George for leading a great walk in an area new to some of us, Phil and Martin for back marking and Angela, Carmen, Greg and Yvonne for the photos. BU

Thursday 9th April 2026 - Parrot’s Corner towards Rossington Hall

We met at the Park and Ride Car Park at Parrot’s Corner on Bawtry Road. The weather was fine and dry for the walk with pleasant weather. We set off South along Bawtry Road along the foot and cycle path and then turned right down Littleworth Lane towards Rossington and after a short distance turned left and southwards down a public foot path into the fields behind Littleworth Lane and then east and then south again ,towards the Whinny Lane Plantation where near the remains of some buildings we turned southwest down a track to the duck pond at the bottom of a mild slope, then walked northwest and around the north side of the duck pond then south down the far side then south east through Gravel Hill Plantation to join a track southwards in the direction of Rossington Hall.

We stopped when Rossington Hall Came into view and I gave a brief history. It is on land granted to Doncaster by Henry VII in 1505. In 1772 James Stovin, the Town Clerk, built a mansion there called Shooters Hill but eventually had to sell it to a Mr Da Costa and it was then leased to various tenants. After a fire in late 1800s the current Victorian Mansion was built by Richard Streatfield then in 1939 it was sold to the White Fathers, a Roman Catholic Order and was a missionary training college. In Word War 2 the Royal Veterinary Corps was based there then in the 1950s it was a residential school for children with special educational needs. It then fell into disrepair and in 2011 was bought by a local developer and restored and became a luxury hotel and wedding venue.

We then turned East for a short distance and stopped for a coffee break, and then North to pass behind Mount Pleasant Hotel and Cottages and then East behind the cottage and come out on Bawtry Road which we crossed. We then continued North along Bawtry Road walking and cycle path to the junction with Hurst Lane which was crossed then then went onto a footpath though Hurst Plantation woods, came out of the woods, crossed under the new airport road (Great Yorkshire Road) till the footpath brought us out on Hayfield lane which we continued West down back to then car park.

Nick Middleton

Tuesday 7th April 2026 - Bakewell Circular

Thirty-three walkers met by the footbridge, now shorn of its love locks, over the River Wye in the centre of Bakewell, on a gloriously sunny and warm spring day. We had 8 visitors walk with us, two from London, one from Sheffield, four from Northampton and one from Doncaster via Hong Kong! After a short briefing from our walk leaders Jackie and Catherine we were off following the river downstream then through the park before crossing the A6 then it was uphill through Wigger Dale continuing to climb with spectacular views of the surrounding hills and our first views of Haddon Hall. Eventually we reached the large abandoned Shining Bank Quarry which we skirted via Baltic Wood. Exiting the wood, we stopped for coffee sat on a bank looking down on the River Lathkill and with great views of the surrounding countryside. After coffee we dropped down onto the road which we followed for a short distance to the outskirts of Alport. Then it was uphill again along Dark Lane and through the fields above Lathkill Dale with stunning views of the dale and river to our lunch and pub stop in the village of Over Haddon. Refreshed, we walked through the village and down the steep hill to the base of Lathkill Dale, a National Nature Reserve, with its crystal clear limestone river which we followed for a couple of miles to Alport. A short walk through fields and a static caravan park followed by a short road section, some along the busy B5056. This was followed by a short steep uphill climb on a gravel track which brought us back to Shining Bank Quarry which we had passed in the morning then it was back into fields and we were finally rewarded with spectacular views of the Wye Valley and Haddon Hall, again. It was then downhill, and after crossing the busy A6 we followed the River Wye and the Monsal Dale Trail to our start point in Bakewell. Thanks to Jackie and Catherine for leading a lovely walk, Peter G for back marking and everybody who came along. Stephen J Tomlinson

Saturday 4th April 2026 - Penistone & Midhopestones

The Saturday of the Easter weekend saw a turnout of 15 ramblers joining the leader at Penistone for this full day circular walk. The walk started by using the Trans Pennine Trail, easily accessible from the meeting point by Penistone Paramount cinema through Saint John the Baptist church grounds. The Trans Pennine Trail at this point used to be an electrified railway line linking Sheffield & Manchester through the Woodhead tunnel. Cuttings and bridges along our route together with small sections of track visible at crossings were a reminder of the previous guise of the trail. Soon we were leaving the trail and going uphill at Hillside Lane. A sharp right turn in the vicinity of some houses shortly afterwards took us further uphill with excellent views over the hills looking to the right. We had our morning break here. We set off through some trees and emerged onto a lane. We turned right here and shortly left to use an access track for a cluster of houses. Our first stile came at this point, the first of many. We gradually went downhill through a series of gates and stiles, encountering our only patch of mud on the walk. We made our way onto a good broad track at the bottom, allowing us to made good progress to Midhopestones. We had lunch by Midhope chapel where some benches were available and had a pub stop at Ye Olde Mustard Pot nearby. After refreshments, we made our way back uphill through a series of fields and stiles onto Joan Royd Lane. We turned left at the end of the lane before using a further path on the right. The walk continued to use field footpaths linked by stiles for some distance. We turned left at the next lane before a right turn along another path which was to return us to the Trans Pennine Trail. Shortly we were back on the trail which we used to the point on the trail where we had joined it at the start of the walk. A group photo was taken here. We made our way back through the churchyard to the car park. Thanks to Dave Tonkin for back marking. David Horne 05/04.

Thursday 2nd April 2026 - Sykehouse & Pollington

Sixteen ramblers accompanied the leader on this Thursday ramble to Pollington. The weather was bright and sunny and underfoot conditions were very good. Parts of the walk made use of the Trans Pennine Trail. The group assembled at the Old George Inn at Sykehouse. We left the pub and turned left along Broad Lane before taking the first right along Chapel Lane. We followed Chapel Lane as it bears left and meets Bate Lane. Further progress was made along Topham Ferry Lane where we left the lane and used field footpaths to make our way to Pollington. We used a small footbridge to cross a stream at one point. The path brought us out at the Aire & Calder Navigation. We turned left here to walk alongside the canal, crossing to the other bank using a lock gate walkway. Soon we arrived at a series of picnic tables were we took our morning break. When we left, we continued along the towpath to a point just before a road bridge where we left the canal and made our way into Pollington by using Bridge Lane. This leads into Main Street. We walked along Main Street before turning right into East End. A short distance later we took a right turn to enter Crowcroft Lane. A road bridge soon after the junction takes the lane over the canal. We could see from here where we were earlier in the walk. Crowcroft Lane gets narrower after this point but it was still good going to a point in the road where a footpath was encountered on the right. We used this path to make our way to where we were on our outward journey to Pollington. We then retraced our steps to Topham Ferry Lane, having a shorter second break at the River Went bridge. We took a different route back into Sykehouse along Bate Lane and then Starkbridge Lane to access Broad Lane. The Old George Inn was just a short walk from here. Thanks to the Old George Inn for allowing us to park there and to Ian Barltrop for back marking. David Horne 02/04.

Tuesday 31 March 2026 - Brigg Circular

This walk was led for us by Steve Walker from Scunthorpe Ramblers. Thirty four of us (mostly Doncaster but some from Scunthorpe and Grimsby as well) met in The Angel car park in the centre of Brigg. Our expectations were high as most of us had not walked in this area before and so we were in pastures new. Steve briefed us, about 10.5 miles all flat and all on good paths and across wide open countryside. A couple of small roads to cross and a little bit of urban stuff at the end. No pub stop but the opportunity to visit an 'honesty cafe' at lunchtime. Directly out of the back of the car park and we were immediately alongside the river Ancholme. The weather gradually improved as we went south along the river bank towards our coffee stop at Cadney Bridge. The river runs so straight here that you could be forgiven for thinking it is a canal. The views around Cadney Bridge were enjoyed by all as we sat in the sunshine. Just as well we had not been there the day before when Steve did the pre walk check, apparently it had thrown it down! Leaving the bridge and the river behind us we turned east to Cadney village and then on towards Howsham. To say this area is flat is an understatement, it was just big skies and fields as far as the eye could see. Also, by now it was decidedly warm and sunny and this added to the pleasant feeling of a good spring walk. Lunch was by the roadside just outside the village. The small cafe/ shop was great. If you are ever there, I recommend the honey flapjack, lovely and a real bargain at £1 for a slab big enough to share. Then it was across more fields, some of which already had knee high yellow- flowering rapeseed in them, back to Brigg. Down Bigby High Road, over the level crossing and back to the car park passing the uniquely named Dying Gladiator Inn on the way. Thanks very much to Steve for planning and leading, to Lady Deborah for back marking and Steve T for the photos. CP

Saturday 28th March 2026 - Edwinstowe

Nine walkers started this circular recce walk in Edwinstowe, a village closely associated with Sherwood Forest. The area lies on sandstone soils formed after the last Ice Age, with a landscape of heathland, woodland, and gentle relief. Early settlement dates back thousands of years, with evidence of agriculture from around 4000 BC.

The weather conditions were typical for late March. Temperatures were cool, around 8–11°C with light winds, mainly blue skies and the occasional brief period of hail.

The route headed south through farmland, mixed woodland and open heath towards Rufford Abbey. The terrain was generally flat with well-defined paths. Rufford Abbey began as a Cistercian monastery before being converted into a country estate after the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century. It is now a public park with lakes and landscaped grounds. A morning break was taken here with Marina kindly providing jam tarts to celebrate her birthday weekend.

The walk then turned west towards Kings Clipstone. This section passed through quieter woodland and open areas with occasional views across farmland. Kings Clipstone has historic connections to medieval royal hunting lodges within Sherwood Forest. Lunch was taken here.

After lunch, the route continued north, passing Archway House and then the Major Oak. The Major Oak is an ancient tree estimated to be 800–1000 years old and is traditionally linked to the legends of Robin Hood.

Many thanks to Brian for back marking.

AMG

Thursday 26th March 2026 - Idle Valley Nature Reserve

A walk through the Idle Valley Nature Reserve tempted 30 ramblers to join the leader for this walk. The weather started a little cool but warmed up as the walk progressed. Underfoot conditions were excellent with very little mud noted. The walk started from Chainbridge Lane near Lound and commenced along a northerly path to enable us to reach Neat Holme Road. We turned left here and made our way into Lound. The walk maintained its northerly direction for a short distance along Town Street before using more paths to bring us out by Ling Hurst Lakes. The walk took some twists and turns with views of Ling Hurst Lakes before using a stile to enable us to rejoin Neat Holme Lane, a little further east to where we were earlier. We then made our way to the morning break venue. When we departed we retraced our steps back to Neat Holme Lane and took a right turn here to make more use of the lane, which at this point is a broad track, to access the River Idle. Bird Hides and further stretches of water were noted along the way. A footbridge was used to cross the River Idle as the path is on the east bank. A good riverside path was used to head south. We arrived at Chainbridge Lane (the other end to where we had parked) and had another short break as it was getting warm by now. We used another larger bridge to recross the River Idle and turned left along a path which ran parallel to Chainbridge Lane. Again views of the lakes were visible. Eventually the path came to an end and we were required to use the road for the last 0.5 mile to where our cars were parked. Thanks to Sharon Dickinson for making arrangements for the morning break venue and for back marking. David Horne 26/03.

Tuesday 24 March 2026 - Derbyshire and the Moss Valley

It is easy to forget how attractive this area is. Lying south east of Sheffield and sort of sandwiched between busy A roads and built-up urban areas it doesn’t look very promising on a map. But appearances can be deceptive, the Moss Valley is actually green rolling countryside. This walk took us over fields, through woodland and small hamlets and alongside streams and all the while we could enjoy some splendid views of the hills and valleys around us. Twenty four of us met in the small car park behind The Bridge Inn at The Ford. After the customary briefing from leader Dianne we set off in a generally northerly direction into the aforementioned countryside. Our route was a sort of dog leg as we went up and down and over small wooden bridges crossing streams in the bottom of the dips. The weather was windy but dry and the paths were reasonably dry and only the numerous stiles (I lost count) slowed our progress. Coffee was enjoyed in the shelter of a tree line at the top of one of the hills where again there were those views spread out in front of us. Lunch break was in Troway where we were well looked after at The Gate public house. There is always a good welcome for walkers at this pub. It deserves to be frequented as much as possible. We mostly sat in the garden area where we were joined by a couple of the resident cats. The terrain and scenery was much the same (and just as splendid) after lunch with just the odd bit of roadway to negotiate until we went down into the woodland on either side of The Moss River. The trees were mostly in bud but not yet green with leaves, so the weak sunshine filtered through and gave things an open feel. The ground was thick with wild garlic and splashes of yellow Lesser Celandine and white Wood Anemones provided some colour. Later in the year these will be replaced by bluebells. A nice end to a lovely walk. Thanks to Dianne for leading George for back marking and Steve for the photos. CP

Saturday 21st March 2026 - From Forges to Follies

Eighteen walkers, including a Huddersfield Rambler, set off on this easy 9-mile circular walk from Elsecar Heritage Centre. Elsecar is a model industrial village developed by the Earls Fitzwilliam from the late 1700s as a coal and iron working community.

The weather was cold and misty in the morning but once the sun broke through it was sunshine and blue skies.

The route passed several monuments and follies built by the Earls, including the Needle's Eye, Hoober Stand and the Mausoleum. The sandstone pyramid known as the Needles Eye was allegedly built to win a bet that a coach and horses could pass through the eye of a needle.

Coffee was taken at Hoober Stand, the most prominent of the follies, although unfortunately the mist prevented us from seeing the folly called Keppel’s column.

On the approach to Wentworth Woodhouse the sun finally made an appearance. Wentworth Woodhouse has the longest frontage of any country house in the UK. This building is England’s grandest semi with the East and earlier West fronts being built back to back.

After lunch in the picturesque village of Wentworth the walkers made their way back to Elsecar.

Many thanks to Brian for back marking.

AMG

Thursday 19th March 2026 - Conisbrough Area

A bright warm morning was on offer for this 6 mile walk starting at the Pastures Lodge & Hotel, just outside Mexborough. 23 ramblers accompanied the leader. Following the leader briefing we left the hotel by a back gate and were immediately alongside the Mexborough Canal. We turned right here and followed the canal towards Mexborough. We were required to change banks making use of the pavement alongside the busy A630 where the road crosses over the canal but it was not necessary to cross the road. A further stretch of canal followed before arriving at Mexborough Top Lock. Here we left the canal and used a bridge over a railway line. We then made our way along Ferry Boat Lane to Old Denaby and turned left where the lane meets the main street. A short stretch along the main street took us to another residential road, The Green. We started to climb gradually here and entered Denaby Woods. A good path allowed us to make reasonable progress through the woods. We arrived at our morning break spot in the vicinity of a skateboard park just after 11am. Some ramblers made use of a small shelter whilst others made themselves comfortable within the skateboard area. Suitably refreshed, we set off along the Conisbrough Crags path which offered excellent views of the South Yorkshire countryside on the left as we were at an elevated height. There were information boards at strategic intervals about quarrying in the area. The path gradually went downhill and brought us into Conisbrough . Here we used a pedestrian crossing to safely cross the A630 before using more residential roads to emerge at the former Earth Centre, now in use as an outdoor educational establishment. More good paths were utilised to a nearby T junction where we had a second brief break for water. The walk continued along the Trans Pennine Trail towards Denaby Ings . We crossed a footbridge, recently renovated, and continued to Pastures Road. Here we turned left and returned to the start point where a number of participants went into the Pastures Lodge for refreshments. Thanks to the Pastures Lodge for allowing us to park there and to Andy Moores for back marking. David Horne 19/03.

Tuesday 17 March 2026 - Retford and Babworth

On what turned out to be about the best day weather wise this year 31 keen Ramblers (including Josh and David who were new to Tuesdays) met in Canon Square in Retford. The canon itself is a trophy captured from the Russians during the Crimean War in the 1850's. It set me wondering what would constitute a war trophy these days...a drone I guess. Not quite the same. After the briefing we set off along Bridge St and then through The Carr area of Kings Park to reach the banks of The Chesterfield Canal. The spring flowers were out in the park and The River Idle that flows through it was still fairly full. Together they made a good start to the day. Our first section on the canal towpath got us to Weir Lock where we stopped for coffee. Then it was more canal side walking until we eventually got to the start of Green Mile Lane where we turned off and headed towards Babworth Church. As nice as the varying scenery along the canal bank had been it was good to get a change to trees and hedgerows as we crossed Old London Rd and went slightly downhill across farmland to the church. By this time, we were mostly getting warm in the spring sunshine and we were glad of the opportunity to sit in the cool surroundings of this lovely church. Pleasant shade was provided by the churchyard trees which one knowledgeable member of our group spotted included a magnificent example of Lebanese Cedar. The church is famous for its association with the Separatist Movement and The Pilgrim Fathers (especially William Bradford) and although not open when we were there did offer some good information boards in the grounds. After lunch we crossed the busy main road and after passing through the tiny hamlet of Great Morton swung left toward Retford town with some twists and turns via the golf course and railway station and through some housing areas before once again reaching the banks of the River Idle. Then we were soon back beside the canal and into Kings Park for the last leg back to Canon Square. Ten and a half miles, flat all the way and with the added benefit of good weather. No better way to spend a Tuesday in March. Thanks to everyone who came and especially to Steve for the photos and Neil and Gareth who shared the back marking. CP

Retford is so named because if was once a ford over the river and the clay in the river bed was red.

Bassetlaw Museum in Retford town centre has an excellent section about the history of the Separatist Movement and The Pilgrim Fathers.

 Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after. Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity. Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday 14th March 2026 - North Cave and South Cave

21 of us found each other among the crowds of birdwatchers at North Cave Wetlands on a cold, but sunny morning. The start of this 11 mile walk was flat, taking in the pretty stream that runs through North Cave, then following Drewton Dale into the edge of the Yorkshire Wolds. We had a break in the Dale before setting off up Drewton Wold. Unfortunately, as we went uphill, one walker felt faint so she along with two other members of the group returned downhill and took a flatter, shorter route to South Cave. After admiring the views of the Humber from Drewton Wold, we returned to Drewton Dale. We joined the Yorkshire Wolds Way and turned up Coomber Dale (where some saw deer and a hare) to take us to the top of Little Wold. We followed the ridge of Little Wold, stopping in Little Wold Plantation for lunch. After taking in the view of South Wold, we walked down into the town for a visit to the Bear Inn where we were reunited with the three walkers who had followed a different route. The afternoon route was flatter, through Cave Castle Golf Course and Everthorpe back to North Cave.

Thanks to Hannah and Deborah for looking after the lady who felt unwell, Gareth for back marking and Angela for the photos. BU

Thursday 12 March 2026 - Welbeck

What a relief that the predicted awful weather didn't arrive until after we had finished the walk. We got lucky and although it was windy it stayed dry and bright throughout. Nineteen of us met in the big free car park adjacent to Norcutts Garden Centre. We were told that the route would be different to the advertised one but were promised it would be nicer. We initially went south on the estate roads that head towards Norton and Cuckney but turned off before we got there to cross the busy A60 back towards Holbeck. The Welbeck Estate is well managed and was looking attractive in the bright spring sunshine. No mud but lots of fallen branches and twigs from the trees brought down by the high winds. A little bit of walking on a quiet(ish) lane took us to a spot for a quick coffee break and then on to Holbeck. This is a nice quintessential estate hamlet. As you leave there is even a pretty church on an avenue of trees and daffodils. Beautiful.  Across the fields and up a bit of a slope and then we dropped down at the top end of Cresswell Crags. This interesting site was looking fresh and resplendent in the spring air. A short lunch stop in the meadow area before the last half a mile back to Welbeck. Thanks very much to everyone one who came along. Special thanks to John for back marking. CP

Tuesday 10 March 2026 - Thurcroft & Whiston Circular

There was a really good turnout for this walk. Thirty-two Ramblers met on New Orchard Lane in Thurcroft on a dry and bright morning and were briefed by Malc about the route we would follow and what to expect of the conditions underfoot. Generally OK he said but muddy in places. A little bit of road walking and a couple of major roads to cross but mostly in the countryside and over farmland. A pub stop in Whiston. And so, it all proved to be. We left Thurcroft and soon went over the M18 before heading towards Wickersley Woods and the outskirts of the village itself. Then it was all across fields and countryside towards Whiston. Malc's prediction about some muddy bits was absolutely correct but it was nothing that we hadn't got used to over recent weeks. When we hit Whiston we dropped down from the church to our lunch stop beside the stream for sandwiches and then retired to the local pub for further refreshment.  After lunch we took Doles Lane out of the village and across (and then back across) the M1 to Morthen before the final stretch over the fields back to Thurcroft. A lovely varied walk with large sections of open fields dotted with bits of woodland and a little urban environment. Great views and good company as always. Thanks to Malc for leading, to Debs for back marking and Steve for the photos. CP

Thursday, 5th March 2026 - Old Edlington Ramble

On a morning where visibility was down to about 200 yards, twenty-three Ramblers, plus Lola, met in the lay-by by  St Peter's Church, a redundant church maintained by the Churches Conservation Trust. The church was first erected in 1175. We crossed the road to investigate the various plaques fixed to the stone wall, including one to the legend of the white greyhound. On a clear day - not this one - the mast at Emley Moor  can be seen.  Continuing into the Edlington shopping area we turned left just past Asda and walked to Martinwells Lake, a lovely area converted from a former brickpond, which had become derelict, refurbished and now cared for by The Friends of Martinwells Lake. We left the lake area and proceeded to walk on an extremely wet and muddy path before reaching a pleasant grassy path.  This was an old railway line serving local coal mines. By this time the mist was fading and the sun was beginning to brighten the day. Reaching the end of the path we turned right, passing the former Stringers Nursery, then past the Conisbrough Household Waste Recycling Centre and resumed the former raiilway line path, reaching the main road.  We turned left for 50 yards, then right onto Common Lane until we turned right onto a track, which became a path. We then crossed under an old railway bridge and then onto a field, where we walked towards Conisbrough Parks Farm before turning to climb Clifton Hill, the top being a perfect place to admire the views, in full sunshine by now, and have our refreshments. After this break we continued into and through the village of Clifton before following a pleasant track back to Five Lane Ends and our cars, arriving just before 1.00.  Thanks to Diane for back-marking.  David Gadd

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Tuesday 3rd March 2026 - White Edge, Curbar, River Derwent and Froggatt

Seventeen ramblers met at Haywood National Trust car park for this ten-mile walk. Although chilly the weather was perfect for walking (sunshine, blue skies and light winds). Throughout the day we experienced a variety of scenery.

We walked along White Edge before walking through a herd of highland cattle on the way to the Wellington Monument. Good visibility provided impressive views of the surrounding countryside across Curbar towards Chatsworth.

Descending down to Curbar for lunch we saw the ‘Round House’. In the Civil War prisoners were held in this lockup prior to being taken to Sheffield gaol. We also passed two Pinfolds. Stray sheep and cattle were rounded up by the Pinder and kept in the Pinfold, a purpose-built enclosure for stray animals. Their owner had to pay a fine to release them.

The walkers were delighted to find that the Bridge Inn is now open on Tuesdays, although one person had to purchase a bacon butty from the café having forgotten his sandwiches.

After lunch we followed the left bank of the River Derwent upstream to Froggatt Bridge passing through woodland. The final leg of the walk involved a steep climb back up to Froggatt Edge, where the panoramic views provided a rewarding end to the journey.

Thanks to Steve for back marking.

AMG

Saturday 28th February 2026 - Wadsley

21 gathered on a cloudy morning in Wadsley. Much of the discussion was about whether to start the walk with full waterproofs as rain was forecast. We set off over Wadsley Common, then dropped down to the River Loxley. We followed the river upstream with frequent excursions up the southern side of the valley where we were often treated to views of the valley. On one of these excursions near Storr we had a break. After climbing to Dungworth, we descended to Damflask Reservoir. We followed the reservoir and crossed the river to Low Bradfield. From here we climbed to High Bradfield where we had lunch in the churchyard of St. Nicholas with a great view of the valley and drinks at the Old Horns Inn. After an initial climb from High Bradfield we kept near the top of the northern side of the Loxley Valley. From here we enjoyed views of the valley and the bubbling calls of male curlews defending their nesting territories and trying to attract mates. We passed Hillsborough Golf Course which took us to Loxley Common and back to Wadsley Common and all without the need for waterproofs (though we did feel a few spots of rain).

Thanks to Peter for leading a great walk and to Angela for back marking and photos. BU

Thursday 26th February 2026 - Sandall Beat Wood & Armthorpe Pit Top

A reasonably bright morning at Sandall Beat Wood car park awaited 26 ramblers who joined the leader for this walk. We took a combination of paths, including the crossing of a small bridge, to make our way through the woods to the Armthorpe Park area where facilities for children are provided, with an office and outdoor seats. We used a footbridge over a railway line to gain access to a large country park where Markham Main coal mine used to stand. We used well defined paths to reach Barton Lane before heading south along good paths to reach our morning break point. There were a few large concrete blocks where some people were able to sit down. When we resumed we crossed a bridge and continued our walk through the woods and fields to reach the outskirts of Cantley. A right turn here and another right turn a little further on marked the start of our return leg to Sandall Beat. Again there were good paths alongside the woods and we came to the point where we were earlier in the walk. We had a second very short break here. We then recrossed the bridge where we were earlier and used a shorter route through the Country Park to reach the railway footbridge. After crossing the bridge, we used the access road for the offices to return to the car park. Thanks to Dave Tonkin for back marking. David Horne 26/02.

Tuesday 24 February 2026 - A Spot of Monky Business

For what seemed like the first time this year, it was warm and sunny as we met in the car park in Laughton en le Morthern. According to Google, Laughton derives from the old English word for leek farm, while en le Morthern derives from the old French word for place of death. While this could be referring to the leeks, it more likely refers to a battle in 975 between the Celts and Saxons. Our walk took us down a lane and then through King's Wood to Roche abbey for our morning break. The abbey was founded in 1175 by Cistercian monks, but destroyed during the dissolution in 1538 and is now managed by English Heritage. From here we crossed fields to the outskirts of Firbeck and looped round Firbeck Hall and through Rough Wood to enter the village. We were able to admire the spring bulbs in the grounds of the village hall before crossing the road to enjoy the warm hospitality provided by the Black Lion. Suitably refreshed, we continued down the main street and past St Martin's church before turning left and heading to Letwell, another attractive village, which seems to have been taken over by muscovy ducks. Field tracks and a bit of road walking took us back to our cars. While still muddy in places, the ground had dried up considerably from the week before and is hopefully a sign of things to come. Thanks to Steve for taking photos and Jeremy for back marking. PG

Saturday 21st February 2026 - Rivers, Edges and Wildflower Meadows

Fourteen walkers started this 11-mile circular walk from the Longshaw Estate. The weather was dry and breezy, although rain was forecast for the afternoon. The group followed Burbage Brook upstream, before going along the top of Stanage Edge. A Labrador unexpectedly helped itself to one of the walker’s sandwiches during a break.

The ramblers then descended towards North Lees Hall. Charlotte Bronte visited the Hall several times while staying with her friend at the Vicarage in nearby Hathersage. It became the principal inspiration for Thornfield Hall in the novel ‘Jane Eyre’.

Passing through meadows the walkers arrived at the churchyard of St Michael and All Angels in Hathersage where lunch was taken next to the grave of Little John.

Post-lunch, the walk followed the River Derwent downstream to Padley Gorge before following Burbage Brook upstream to Longshaw.

The planned stop at a local hostelry at lunch was abandoned in the hope of completing the walk before the arrival of the rain. A wise decision as only the last ten minutes of this walk was wet.

Many thanks to Peter for back marking.

AMG

Tuesday 17 February 2026 Hope and Castleton

It was great to be back in The Peak District once again. And great to have a dry day as well. It was cold and bright when 19 of us met in the car park in Hope for what we knew would probably be a testing walk. Some of our recent walks had been challenging due to weather conditions but had been over relatively flat terrain. Today’s walk would reintroduce us to some hills. It would also reintroduce us to sharing the paths with other walkers and cyclists etc. We weren't the only ones who were attracted to The Peak District on a nice day.  David briefed us about some boggy bits and road sections where we would need to take extra care. Then we set off across the road and through the outskirts of Hope village northerly in the rough direction of Lose Hill. As we got higher, we started to come across icy patches where the sun had not yet melted the overnight freeze. Needless to say, the views on such a clear day were magnificent.  We rounded Lose Hill and started to turn back towards Hollins Cross. The climb up necessitated a couple of stops to get our breath back. But again, the views from the top made it all worthwhile. Fortunately, the descent down the rocky path to Castleton was ice free.  Along the way we had made a brief coffee stop and then an also fairly brief lunch stop in the grounds of the Youth Hostel near Edale. Whilst it was warm walking in the sun it soon became chilly when you stopped so we didn't hang about. In Castleton we found the muddy footpath on the far side of the river. That took us back to Hope and our cars. The whole walk had been invigorating and a delight on such a good day. Thanks to David for leading, Steve for the photos and Angela for back marking CP

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after. Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity. Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday 14th February 2026 - Oxspring and Wortley

On a shockingly, gloriously sunny morning 15 of us met at Oxspring Sports Field. After weeks of cloud, rain and drizzle, the sun was a delight, but the clear skies overnight had brought ice. We headed uphill to gain views of the Upper Don Valley, then back down to the Trans Pennine Trail to cross the river on the Rumtickle Viaduct. As we approached the Thurgoland Tunnels, we turned off to walk down to the river. We re-crossed it on a footbridge and ascended the valley side to Green Moor where we stopped for a break at Ivy Millennium Green on its benches and picnic tables with great views across the valley to Thurgoland and beyond towards Barnsley. We also enjoyed Stollen Bites thanks to Deet. We carried on uphill through The Delf until we came out into neighbouring valley of the Little Don. Here we had views of Stocksbridge and the snowy hills above it. We zig-zagged, glimpsing the Don through the woods, until we were down at stepping stones crossing the river. Some of the stones were under water, so we all opted to use the nearby footbridge. We were now below Wortley which stands at the top of the valley side, so we set off uphill again. We stopped at Wortley for lunch and some of us visited Wortley Men's Club (open to all) for a drink, while others visited St. Leonard's Church. Our afternoon route through Thurgoland was flatter, but muddier and icier. On the edge of Thurgoland we stopped at Sunflower Sanctuary where the owner kindly let out the animals for us to see and explained that as well as being a sanctuary for animals it allows children to interact with the animals. On the other side of Thurgoland we were soon back at the Trans Pennine Trail which we followed back across the Rumtickle Viaduct to Oxspring (avoiding more mud on the alternative route along the river).

Thanks to Angela for backmarking and to Deet and Angela for the photos and videos. BU

Thursday 12th February 2026 Sprotbrough, Cusworth Park, Trans Pennine Trail & River Don.

A group of 25 ramblers joined the leader for this walk. The starting point was the Ivanhoe Hotel situated along Melton Road in Sprotbrough. Following the leader briefing, we set off westbound along Melton Road before taking a path on the left. The path takes a few twists and turns and passes under the motorway at one point. There was some mud here to be negotiated here but soon we entered the grounds of Cusworth Hall. The group ascended to a high level path within the grounds in close proximity to Cusworth Hall and with views over Doncaster. Here the leader took a group photograph. Further good paths were used to descend, leaving the Cusworth estate and making our way to the Trans Pennine Trail. We took our morning break as we joined the Trans Pennine Trail where a few benches were positioned. The walk resumed by walking along the Trans Pennine Trail for some distance where a good surface had been provided for some of the way. The stretch we were using was formerly a railway line and was therefore level, wide and generally user friendly. We went under a bridge which carries the Doncaster to Sprotbrough road overhead. It was good going along here, but we were having to dodge the puddles which had been caused by a large amount of rainfall in the days leading up to the walk. Eventually we came to a fork. We took the right hand fork which again was still the former railway but was now on an embankment. Just before a girder bridge over the River Don, we used a flight of steps to descend to the riverbank. Turning right here, we used the riverside path to access our next path just after passing under a motorway bridge. There was a climb away from the river using a series of steps but after levelling off, it became a good path and took us back into Sprotbrough, emerging along Brompton Road. We made our way along Park Drive and Thorpe Lane to return to the Ivanhoe Hotel. Thanks to the Ivanhoe Hotel for allowing us to use their car park and to John for back marking. David Horne 12/02.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Tuesday 10th February 2026 - Kirk Bramwith Snowdrop Walk

Heavy rain in the days leading up to this walk had raised concerns about wether it could start in Fishlake as planned but fortunately the River Don had stayed the right side of its banks and so it was that 25 Ramblers met on MainStreet. It wasn't actually raining when we assembled but it was never the less still grey and overcast with a hint of drizzle in the air. After being briefed by Gareth about possible detours due to waterlogged stretches (and a reminder that the lady who was to provide tea and cakes at the church was sadly not well and so the promised refreshments were off the agenda ) we got underway along the river bank. At Low Lane bridge we turned towards Kirk Bramwith. At St Mary's Church we stopped for our planned coffee break. The snowdrops were in full bloom and looking splendid in the churchyard despite the poor weather conditions. Thanks to those walkers who had brought more than enough shortbread, stollen bites and other delights to replace the missing cake. We were then soon on the towpath alongside the New Junction Canal which took us to Sykehouse and our lunch stop. Sandwiches on the small village green and then into The Wheels Cafe that forms part of The The Old George Inn. It was after leaving Sykehouse for the final leg of the walk back to Fishlake that we encountered probably the worst conditions underfoot and did indeed take one of the aforementioned detours to avoid an otherwise impassable section. As usual though we all had a great time. It sometimes seems that the worse the conditions are the better the banter gets. Our best wishes to get well soon go to Carol from the church. Those who had been lucky enough to sample the cakes on the earlier outing of this walk on the Saturday previous were only too happy to let us know what we were missing. Thanks to Gareth for organising and leading and to Stuart backmarking and his flooding advice. CP

Saturday 7th February 2026 - Kirk Bramwith Snowdrop Festival Walk

Despite flood alerts for the area, 6 of us turned up at Fishlake under cloudy skies. Stuart popped out to share his local knowledge and the latest updates with Gareth, our leader. We were soon at the River Don and walking along its flood bank with the river just a couple of feet below us and spreading out over a huge area. Walking along the flood bank past Stainforth, some of us thought we saw a dog swimming down river towards us, others thought it might be an otter, but as it came closer and dived and reappeared, swimming easily and gracefully in the strong current, we realised it was a seal. At Kirk Bramwith's St. Mary's Church, the Snowdrop Festival was busy despite the nearby bridge being closed. We bought coffee, tea and delicious cakes, spotted mice carved on the Robert Thompson pews, admired the snowdrops and had a Stone Shield of the Knights Templar pointed out to us on the outside of the church tower. It is thought that the Knights Templar paid for the building or repair of the church. Leaving the church, we continued away from the river until we met and crossed the canal and headed north east. At Sykehouse Lock we left the canal and headed west to the village itself, where we stopped for lunch and a drink at The Old George Pub.

Gareth intended us to return to Sykehouse Lock by a different route from the back of the pub. The gate to the path was flooded. Gareth demonstrated that is was passable, but gave the us the option to return by the route by which we'd come. We opted for that and Gareth nobly returned through the flooded gate. At Sykehouse Lock we crossed the canal and headed back to Fishlake along lanes and muddy tracks, passing the Alpacas of Green Bell Farm. The drizzle that we'd had on and off all day, got heavier as we approached Fishlake, but we arrived back without getting soaked.

Thanks to Gareth for leading a lovely walk with many expected pleasures and one surprising one and to Stuart for coming out to let us know the state of the rivers. BU

Thursday 5 February 2026– Pickburn and Hampole Woods
Twenty one members meet at Pickburn, a small hamlet close to Brodsworth. Pickburn is named after the River Pick that flows through the hamlet and on to Highfield Lakes in Woodlands Country Park.
Taking the path north from the hamlet, the walk beared round to the north westerly direction and the gentle climb up to Lound Hill and Broderick Plantation, which if it wasn’t for the weather, would have been a good place to stop and enjoy the panoramic views over the Brodsworth and Doncaster in the distance.
The group then continued the circuit of Lound Hill before arriving at Hampole Woods, and once in the shelter of the woods it was time for short break to admire the snow drops and a chat with the local game keeper. Staying in the shelter of woods to the northern edge, where you could see the hamlet of Hampole in the valley before turning east, into a fresh wind to continue walking along the woods edge to eastern edge, where Hampole Wind Farm and its four turbines.

The final leg now was to head south towards Brodsworth with wide open fields on each side, managing to get back to the shelter of the tree lined road just as the wintery rain started, and short walk back to Pickburn.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Tuesday 3rd Feb 2026 Monckton Manor to Newmiller Dam Route 2.
This is the second of two walks in 2026 from the car park on the Chevet Branch Line Nature Reserve adjacent to Monckton Manor.
Twenty three members met at the start point on a typical cold and overcast typical February morning and after a short briefing we were all glad to get moving and warm. We initially followed the Chevet Branch Line, an abandoned railway, which joins the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) at Notton Bridge. Staying on the TPT we continued on the towpath of the abandoned Barnsley Canal through Royston to Cronk Hill. Leaving the TPT we skirted the south side of Royston and the north side of Carlton on another abandoned railway line until we reached a small lake where coffee break was taken. Refreshed and ready to get moving again to get warm we headed north through very muddy fields until we reached Notton Wood Nature Reserve. Passing though this lovely mature woodland we crossed Applehaigh Clough and then continued for some distance through thankfully drier fields until we came to the Chevet Branch Line. Following the branch line to the west for about a mile we entered Newmiller Dam Country Park, walking through woodland and crossing the dam to reach our lunch stop at the entrance to the park and the adjacent Dam Inn of which some took advantage. Others frequented the café part way along the lakeside footpath. Refreshed we followed the side of the reservoir, picking up those who had gone to the café on the way, before climbing through woodland and walking out of the park into fields. From this point we retraced our steps from the January walk climbing back onto the Chevet Branch Line which we followed for just over half a mile back to our start point. Total distance walked was 11 miles. Thanks to everybody who came on this walk and to Malcolm for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday 31st January 2026 Cawthorne Village

7 of us met at the green in Cawthorne, surprised to find the day was dry, but unsurprised to be warned of wet conditions underfoot (most of us had plenty of experience of recent wet weather). We set off south amd were soon in beautiful, open rolling countryside. We turned west, then north, catching glimpses of Emley Moor TV mast and crossimg Daking Brook. We walked through Deffer Wood and emerged to a lovely open view. We turned east to High Hoyland where we had lunch overlooking Cawthorne. The Cherry Tree pub was within sight of our lunch stop and most of us took the chance to visit for a drink. It turned out that our lunchtime view was of our direct route back to Cawthorne through Margery Wood and Hood Wood. Thanks to Peter for leading a lovely walk and finding paths that weren't as wet as some of us feared. BU

REPORT ON MAINTENANCE TEAM NEETING WITH DONCASTER CITY COUNCIL ON 28 JANUARY 2026

Doncaster Ramblers maintenance team were invited to lunch on the 28.01.26 by the City of Doncaster Council (CDC) as a thank you for their efforts in 2025 and to discuss future collaboration. Present from CDC were Julie Guest and Stuart Horrocks from CDC Rights of Way section and Sam Whitehurst, who is the Highways Network Manager; Public Rights of Way are part of his responsibilities. All three said they were very appreciative and grateful of the work we do both checking and repairing paths. It was generally agreed that the paths in the Doncaster area are in a much better condition than we see in other areas and better marked. This is down to not only what all the groups do but also the good working relationships we have with CDC. During the meeting Stuart Horrocks of CDC gave a presentation on the work carried out by Doncaster Ramblers maintenance team during 2025, this report can be viewed in photographs on the Doncaster Ramblers website.

Some comments from the meeting. Julie Guest said she wanted us to feel safe and happy to walk the paths and not feel under pressure to report lots of information and photos so only send photos if it helps explain the problem. Stuart Horrocks has said before that if there is an issue with access then a photo is really useful but needs to be dated if it’s going to be used if the landowner is being difficult. This is a good reason to get your reports in as soon as you have checked your paths. Stiles are gradually being replaced with kissing gates so if you have a path that is well walked with a stile and you feel it would get a greater footfall with a gate then mention this in your report. However, stiles can only be replaced by a gate if the landowner agrees so don’t feel despondent if you request but don’t get, keep trying. It was also commented that most people who walk our paths are not Ramblers with a map but just members of the public going for a walk so if you feel that a path is unclear in its direction and more signage will help please add this to your report. Don’t forget to give the W3W (What 3Words) for any comments or action so Stuart Twell and Peter Smith of Doncaster Ramblers together with Stuart Horrocks of CDC can easily locate action points in the field.
Thanks to all who attended the meeting, CDC for hosting us and providing lunch and a big thankyou to all members who give up their time to maintain and check the footpath and bridleway network in Doncaster.
Dianne Scolari
29.01.26

Thursday 29th January 2026 Misterton & West Stockwith.

Grey Skies were the order of the day for this saunter between Misterton and West Stockwith. 30 ramblers joined the leader at the Red Hart Public House at Misterton. Following the leader briefing, we set off and made our way along Gringley Road towards the Chesterfield Canal. Soon we were canalside on the northern bank where a good path, albeit a little muddy, followed the canal, initially at the southern edge of Misterton. We progressed in an easterly direction, passing under bridges and a set of locks. The path surface improved as we left the vicinity of Misterton and made our way to West Stockwith. There were a number of small boats moored at West Stockwith marina, where the Chesterfield Canal merges with the River Trent. We passed the marina before using a raised path, with views of the River Trent and East Stockwith on the opposite bank, to reach our morning break point. There was a small area here with an information board and some seating. After fifteen minutes or so we set off and turned left along another footpath just before West Stockwith centre. This footpath ran alongside the River Idle. We then arrived at a former Pump House in Soss Lane with its distinctive tall chimneys. We made use of Soss Lane to return to Misterton, passing under a railway bridge on the way. It was’nt long before we were back in Misterton where we made our way along Station Road, Station Street and High Street to the Red Hart Public House. Thanks to the Red Hart for allowing us to use their car park and to Dianne for back marking. David Horne 29/01.

Tuesday 27 January 2026 Hop Pole to Retford

Sometimes you have to experience some lows so that you can fully appreciate the highs and good times that life has to offer when they come along . Such was the case with the weather today. The twelve Ramblers who met in the big lay by next to The Hop Pole pub on the outskirts of Reftord will really be able to appreciate dry, warm, still days when they come later in the year because boy oh boy did we get some of the lows on this walk. Such a shame because the walk itself was good and the countryside when we had time to glimpse it from under our hoods was lovely. Streches of woodland, some farmland, a riverbank (beside The Idle ) and a finish along the towpath of The Chesterfield Canal with an excellent pubstop at The Gate in Retford throwh for good measure. Well done Diane . To be fair the heavy rain and strong winds in the morning did ease a little in the afternoon and as always things were starting to brighten just a bit as we drove home but the coditions at the start were so bad that Diane wisely shortened the walk to avoid possible drownings. Paths were running like streams and the wind was such that falling branches were a real danger. Look at the photos though. Why are we all laughing and smiling ? Because despite it all we had a great time. Thanks to Diane for organising and leading with aplomb in such challenging circumstanes and to George for backmarking. Steve as always for the photos that really tell the story of the day. CP

Saturday 24th January 2026 Mexborough, Conisbrough and Cadeby

16 met at Mexborough railway station on a dry morning, wondering how wet it would be underfoot. I admitted that there would be some muddy sections, but tried to reassure that most of the walk was on good paths. We set off along the canal but soon left it to cross the River Don and the Doncaster to Sheffield railway line to Old Denaby. We headed up through Denaby Woods and tackled the first seriously muddy section. We arrived at Conisbrough Crags and stopped for coffee. We followed the Crags to Conisbrough and its castle, where Dianne told us some of its history. We left Conisbrough and crossed its disused railway viaduct to Cadeby for lunch at the disused church of St. John The Evangelist. Most of us visited the Cadeby Inn.

After lunch, we walked back down to the River Don, crossed it and followed it back towards Mexborough and picked up the canal again. When we reached the point where we had left it in the morning, we crossed it to walk back through the streets of Mexborough. The general reaction was that it had been better than expected.

Thanks to Phil for back marking and Dianne for the history talk.

Thursday, 22nd January 2026  Tickhill: Stump Cross Lane 

On a miserable, grey, wet  morning seventeen of us met at The Buttercross in Tickhill for a walk rearranged to avoid the muddy paths on the planned walk from Hooton Roberts.  Would this walk be any less muddy?  We walked around the corner to the quietness of Mill Dam for the briefing, which included a plea for more leaders for the Thursday walks.  From Mill Dam we walked through Lindrick, across the A60 onto Stump Cross Lane.  At the point where land belonging to the Sandbeck Estate begins the leader explained how the track was claimed as a right of way after the Sandbeck Estate tried to stop people using it.  At the end of this lane we turned right onto Sandbeck Lane, giving way to a convoy of vehicles en route to a shoot. After about half a mile we turned left onto a path which led dowm to the A631 road between Tickhill and Maltby, crossing it to Limekiln Lane where we stopped, after a couple of hundred yards, at the memorial to a pit disaster of 1923 when 27 men died, including a 15 year old. We drank our coffees  and teas and ate our bananas and biscuits before continuing along Limekiln Lane for about half a mile, where we turned right on to footpath, unfortunately used as a dump by some thoughtless people. We continued to the bridge across Denaby Wife Dike and then gently uphill to Hindley Lane. The 'ley' indicates a clearing among the woods, presumably where deer used to congregate. Reaching the end of Hindley Lane we turned right and followed the road into Tickhill, passing through the churchyard on the way and reaching the Buttercross at about 1.00.  Was this walk any less muddy than the planned walk?  We'll never know!  David Gadd

Tuesday 20 January 2026 Kneesall to Wellow

The promise of a nice leisurely 10.5 mile walk in this pleasant and green area of North Nottinghamshire tempted 29 of us to turn up in the car park behind St Bartholomew's Church in Kneesall. The weather wasn't great. A chilly wind but fortunately no rain. During the briefing Diane gave us the good news that there was a pub stop to look forward to in Wellow. There would be all the usual risks involved in walking in the countryside plus one short and twisty road section with no footpaths on the approach to Eakring. So westwards we went across open fields planted up with some sort of root vegetables. The paths at this stage were a bit claggy and mud stuck to our boots as we headed to our coffee stop in the aforementioned Eakring. The porch and precincts of St Andrews Church provided seating. The church was open and contained some interesting information boards about oil drilling during the war and also two plaster crests of Elizabeth I taken from a local hostelry where she was reputed to have once spent the night. Then it was more mixed farmland as we went North West towards Rufford before swinging North East towards Wellow.
Wellow is an attractive village with a couple of pubs and a very tall and well maintained maypole on the small village green. The Old Red Lion was very welcoming. Allowing us to eat our sandwiches inside was a plus. It was only when we left Wellow and took a long and gradually uphill path along the edge of Wellow Woods that things got a bit sticky. The path was unrelenting squelchy mud. It was difficult to get a grip underfoot. We slipped and slided all the way. But eventually we emerged back onto firm ground for the final stretch back to St Bartholomew's in Wellow. Thanks to Diane for leading ( and providing some interesting information on mosses ) and to George for back-making. Steve as always for the photos. CP

Thursday 15th January 2026 Crowle & Ealand
A large group of 27 ramblers assembled at the White Hart Public House in Crowle on a reasonably bright Thursday morning. Following the leader briefing, we set off along Fieldside in a southerly direction. Soon we turned left along Field Road to access the countryside. Paths here were a little muddy. Soon it was another right turn in the vicinity of a line of trees which brought us back onto a southerly direction. This allowed us to reach the northern edge of Ealand. A lengthy walk along a lane and a right turn along a track, passing Ealand Grange, brought us to our break spot. Suitably refreshed, we carried on along a lane beside a water channel which eventually brought us into Ealand, approaching from the south. There was an opportunity here to see a little more of Ealand. Two right turns brought us to a spot where we were earlier in the walk. From here we retraced our steps to the pub. Thanks to the White Hart for allowing us to use their car park and to Diane for back marking. David Horne 16/01.

Tuesday 13th January 2026 Ironstone Way Scunthorpe

31 Ramblers met in the parking area of Central Park Scunthorpe for what was to be Jo's first lead for Doncaster Ramblers. Unfortunately the weather was not good. Very dull and overcast , with a promise of rain later. But this was a walk in an area that was new to most of us, there was to be a cafe at the mid morning break and a welcoming pub at lunchtime. So our spirits and expectations were high as we gathered around Jo for the briefing. Ten miles, nice and flat , mostly on good paths through local housing areas, parks and nature reserves and unavoidably some busy roads to cross. The start took us through Central Park on a path adjacent to Kingsway. After crossing Kingsway we followed the green spaces linking the residential areas of Westcliff , Riddings and Yaddlethorpe . As we made our way along the rain arrived and by the time we reached our coffee stop at The Community Cafe at the head of Bottesford Beck Linear Park it was coming down quite steadily. The tables outside and the toilets inside ( and perhaps a sausage sandwich from the cafe ) helped ameliorate some of our dampness. The Linear Park and its walk alongside the beck provide a pleasant green space between the golf course on one side and a housing and industrial area on the other. It took us to Ashby Ville Pond and nature reserve. After this we headed for our lunch stop at The Beefeater Anchor Inn. It was still raining at this point so being able to eat our sandwiches at the outside tables and then get inside for a post prandial drink was very welcome. A chance to dry out a little before the last few miles back to the cars .After lunch after negotiating the busy A18 we took to a mixture of pavements and green spaces until we reached the other side of Central Park from where we started. The last stretch was back through the park to the car park. As is usual the rain had stopped by now and the day was beginning to brighten as we prepared for our journeys home. Thanks to Jo for leading an excellent winter walk in a new area with plenty of contrast and interest along the way. Thanks to Deborah for back marking. And as always thanks to Steve for the photos.

Tuesday 6th Jan 2026 Walk Report. Monckton Manor to Newmiller Dam.

Thirty six members met in the car park for the Chevet Branch Line Nature Reserve adjacent to Monckton Manor for on a cold but dry day for the first Tuesday walk of 2026. Fortunately, the predicted overnight snow did not appear, the cold north wind of the last few days had abated and the air temperature was up a degree or two. After a quick introduction from the walk leader, we walked down Smawell lane towards the village of Notton. Fron Notton village green we headed towards Applehaigh Court then up Applehaigh Clough to Notton Wood Nature Reserve where coffee break was taken. It was through Notton Park before carefully crossing the busy A61. A short walk up Warren Lane brought us to the Wakefield Way which we followed to the pretty little village of Wooley where we stopped to admire the church. It was then through fields to Common Lane which we followed for a short distance before going back into fields following the edge of Shroggs Hill Plantation and Seckar Wood. A short distance along the Chevet Branch Lane nature Reserve then it was downhill to Newmiller Dam walking along the top of the dam, viewing the frozen water, before our lunch stop which included a conveniently open public house. Refreshed, a short but steep uphill section brought us to Chevet Park then into the woods of the Newmiller Dam Country Park. Leaving the woods behind us another short climb brought us to the Chevet Branch Lane Nature Reserve which we followed for just over half a mile back to our start point. Total distance walked was 10 miles. Thanks to Neil for blackmarking and to all who turned up for the walk. Stephen J Tomlinson

Saturday 3rd Jan 2026. Walk Everton Figure of Eight.

What a lovely day to blow away the excesses of the New Year, beautiful blue skies but bitterly cold especially when exposed to the north wind. Twenty nine members, which included 3 members from Worksop Ramblers, and 3 dogs met by the church in the pretty village of Everton for a 10 mile plus walk. Following a briefing from our walk leader Charlie, during which there was plenty of encouragement to get going so we could warm up, we headed off towards the village of Harwell then into Barrow Wood, a coniferous plantation, then descended onto Pasture Lane which we followed to Carr Hill Farm. Charlie then took us in a northerly direction along Toft Hill Lane, where coffee break was taken, to Mission West Nature Reserve. We then turned south and walk back to Everton via Everton Carr Farm, Clay Back Lane and Everton Sluice Lane to our welcome lunch break back at our start point. Very conveniently the Blacksmith Arms was open and about 50m from our lunch stop in the church yard so it would have been rude not to take advantage of the warmth from three well banked coal fires and to sample the products on sale. Reluctantly, we eventually left the warmth of the pub behind us and set out on the second part of this figure of eight walk. Crossing the busy Gainsborough Road, we headed off along Pusto Hill Lane eventually crossing the bridge over the River Idle and into the village of Mattersey. Then following the road out of Mattersey until we reached Youldholes Lane, a track which fortunately was solid due to the cold otherwise it would have been very muddy. We followed this track and the inundated flood plain of the River Idle, to Stone Hill Lane track which brought us back to Gainsborough Road which was again crossed with care. It was then uphill again into the village of Harwell and back to our start point at Everton. Thanks to Charlie for a leading a lovely walk and thanks to Gabriel for acting as backmarker.
Stephen J Tomlinson

Tuesday 30 December 2025 Twixtmas Walk and Quiz
Forty six of us met in the car park of The Horse and Groom in Armthorpe. A rich assortment of Ramblers, families and friends old and new. What a great turn out it was. It was a bit chilly but dry and reasonably bright. So, with an easy 6 mile walk and the promise of food and drink followed by one of Bob's infamous quizzes in the pub at the end we all set off in good spirits. Across Nutwell Lane and out under the M18 motorway towards Branton. Then across Gatewood Lane and into fields and through some small wooded areas of the Brackens and Moor Plantations for a quick refreshment break just before we reached the garden centre on the main road. From here it was over the motorway and then a path alongside it that took us into Old Cantley. Being a local walk most people were familiar with lots of the route and some could recall when there had been less building in the area than there is now. Out of Old Cantley and across farmland behind Home Farm and Nether Cantley we eventually passed behind South Moor Wood and then through the housing estates on a network of alleyways and pavements back to The Horse and Groom.
About 30 of us stayed on at the pub for Bob's quiz. Based on the 5 decades from 1960's to 2000's it proved challenging for fading memories. It was interesting to note that it was won by the team that included the youngest members. Adrian and the staff at The Horse and Groom looked after us well and a great time was had by all. Thanks so much to everyone who came on the walk and or stayed for the quiz. It wouldn't have been half so enjoyable without you. Thanks also to Neil for back-marking and Steve who took some photos but particular and special thanks to Bob for his terrific quiz. CP

Tuesday, 23rd December 2025 - Christmas Walk

Twenty plus members met at Regents Square neasr Doncaster city centre for a 7-mile pre-Christma s walk on a cool, overcast but dry day.  Following a quick briefing by our walk leader, Phil, we were off across the recreation ground of Town Moor then continued to Doncaster racecourse, the home of the St Leger, one of the five English Classic flat course horse races.  At the racecourse we headed off towards Sandall Beat Wood and just before the wood we followed the racecourse to the A638 Bawtry Road which we crossed then headed to Hall Cross Lower School and the housing around built the Lakeside development where we stopped in a pretty little square for coffee.  Refreshed, we followed the edge of the lake to the Eco Power Stadium, home of the "mighty" Doncaster Rovers.  Our route then took us past the South Yorkshire Air Museum and through the housing built on thre old horse bloodstock sales site and back through Town Moor and our start point.

The majority of the walkers and a few who did not come on the walk then wandered down to the Red Lion in the Market Square where Phil had reserved tables for us and we partook in a late lunch and a few alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to kickstart the 2025 Christmas celebrations. Many thanks to Phil for leading the walk and organising the festivities afterwards. A great time was had by all who attended.  Stephen J Tomlinson

Saturday 20th December 2025 Festive Cusworth Circular

Nineteen ramblers arrived early to partake in refreshments (port, mince pies, cake) generously provided by members. The occasion was made more festive by the unexpected arrival of the window cleaner dressed as Santa. The ramblers made generous contributions as he was raising money for three local charities.
Walking through Cusworth Village and Cusworth Country Park before arriving at the River Don for elevenses (a glass of Baileys). The walk continued upstream along the Don before diverting to go around Sprotbrough Flash. Lunch were taken next to the cricket field before going into the Ivanhoe public house for further refreshments.

The planned route for the afternoon had to be changed due to a fallen tree and the planting of a wildflower meadow. Instead the walk followed the Don Gorge path before joining the Trans Pennine Trail back to Cusworth.

Although the promised forecast of sunshine never arrived the day was dry, albeit very misty, making it quite an atmospheric leisurely 9-mile walk.

Many thanks to all those who provided refreshments and to Dianne and Brian for back marking.

AMG

Thursday 18th December 2025 Dunscroft, Quarry Park & Dunsville.

A somewhat dismal morning with grey skies was the weather for this 6 mile walk starting at the Hatfield Chace public house in Hatfield. 13 ramblers accompanied the leader. Following the usual walk briefing, the group turned left from the pub car park onto the busy Doncaster Road but very quickly turned left along Coppice Lane, much quieter by comparison. The path took us through a residential area, eventually crossing Broadway to reach Quarry Park. We used good tracks through the park, noting information boards placed at strategic intervals along the route. The walk went around the edge of Quarry Park. Before long, we were entering St Marys Road, where a car park is situated for those who want instant access into Quarry Park. We walked through the car park into a field where our morning break was taken. There was a picnic table nearby where eight of the group sat and enjoyed their snack. Afterwards we made our way back onto St Marys Road and followed the road to Doncaster Road. A pedestrian crossing was utilised to cross the group over to the other side where we turned right. A lengthy section along the High Street heading west followed. We were able to gain quieter territory by making use of Park Lane (actually a broad track narrowing as we went along). This met Rake Bridge Road, another broad track, on which we made our way to Sheep Cote Lane. An area of light industry followed, with the M18 motorway now very close. Sheep Cote Lane was followed until its junction with Woodhouse Lane. We were now going away from the motorway. Straight across from Sheep Cote Lane was Lings Lane which we used to return to the start point. Lings Windmill was noted and Lings Lane was getting more built up as we approached Doncaster Road. The Hatfield Chace is situated at the end of Lings Lane where we arrived at 1230. Thanks to Andy for back marking and to the Hatfield Chace for allowing the group to use their car park. David Horne 18/12.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Tuesday 16th December 2025 Festive Cusworth Circular

Twenty-five ramblers arrived early to partake in the festive refreshments (port, mince pies, cake) generously provided by members. Plans to hold the event outside were curtailed by rain. Fortunately, the rain stopped and this leisurely 9-mile walk was blessed with dry, mild weather which included afternoon sunshine.
Walking through Cusworth Village and Cusworth Country Park before arriving at the River Don for elevenses (a glass of Baileys). The walk continued upstream along the Don before diverting to go around Sprotbrough Flash. Lunch were taken next to the canal near the River Don before going up Boat Lane to the Ivanhoe public house.

The planned route for the afternoon had to be changed due to a fallen tree and the planting of a wildflower meadow. Instead the walk followed the Don Gorge path before joining the Trans Pennine Trail back to Cusworth.
Many thanks to all those who provided refreshments and to John for back marking.
AMG

Saturday 13th December 2025 – Kneesall and Wellow

10 of us met at the car park behind St. Bart's Church in Kneesall on a cold, but dry morning (a pleasant change after several wet Saturdays). We set off through the village and soon struck out across the fields to Eakring where we stopped at St. Andrew's Church for a coffee break. Dianne had planned that we would use the seats in the church entrance, but they were decorated for Christmas. We did though have the pleasure of hearing carol singing coming from the church. We were soon out into open fields with expansive views of gently rolling countryside. After crossing and recrossing a disused railway (in a deep cutting for the recrossing that gave us the steepest climb of the walk) we arrived at Wellow. We had lunch around the village green with its very tall and colourful maypole. Many of us enjoyed a warm welcome and a drink in the Olde Red Lion Pub.

After lunch, we had some woodland walking, before crossing fields and joining a lane back to Kneesall. Thanks to Dianne for leading this lovely walk and introducing some of us to this beautiful area. BU

Tuesday 9th December 2025 Xmas Walk and Meal.

As we sat in the car park at Wheatley Golf Club the 32 members who had chosen to participate in the walk before our annual Xmas lunch all wondered if we had made a big mistake. Should we have stayed in bed like the others who were joining us later. The heavens had opened and the rain teemed down in torrents. We took a deep breath, got out of cars and clad ourselves head to toe in waterproofs and just we were about to start walking it stopped raining and for the rest of the walk it remained dry, apart from the occasional shower, even though it was muddy underfoot. The 32, comprising a good mix of Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday walkers and led by Neil we left the club at 10.00, and after safely crossing Armthorpe road proceeded down a track which leads to Sandall Beat Wood where we walked following the boundary of the wood until we reached the playground area and the bridge over the little used railway line. After crossing the railway line, we headed out of the wood and walked up the spoil heap of the old Armthorpe coal mine which has been reclaimed into South Moor Wood a great upland area often frequented by dog walkers and outdoor lovers. We then walked back along the base of the ‘pit top’ back to Elm Wood where we had our coffee break. Suitably refreshed the walk continued down to Crowther Wood and then along the edge of Cantley Park back into Sandall Beat Wood and along through the wood adjacent to the railway line back to the footbridge over the railway line. We then followed one of the rides cut in the wood and retraced our steps back to the golf club just after 12.30 where we changed for dinner and congregated at the bar.
Seventy three joined in the annual Xmas lunch which included a good selection of family and friends and many Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday walkers. It was good to see old friends who for various reasons are unable to walk with us on a regular basis. An excellent 3 course lunch was served after which David Gadd gave the assembled a short summary of Doncaster Ramblers activities during 2025.
Many thanks to Neil for organising this excellent event and leading the walk before lunch. Thanks to everybody who came along and made this such a memorable event and last but not least thanks to Wheatley Gold Club catering staff for looking after us in an excellent way. Stephen J Tomlinson

 Thursday 4th December 2025 Haxey Area Walk
21 Ramblers joined the leader at the Kings Arms Public House in Haxey for a leisurely walk covering various paths and tracks to the north of Haxey. All the paths were in a good condition. We started by using a good track through a cutting which was formerly a railway line reached just a short distance from the pub. We soon left this path and used steps to climb out of the cutting. We then made our way in an easterly direction to the busy A161 where we turned left to walk alongside the road. Shortly we took a path on the right which gradually rises, emerging at a minor road serving High Burnham. We turned left here and followed the lane downhill to Low Burnham. We crossed the A161 again as we left the village. A further broad track followed as we made our way to our morning break spot. Suitably refreshed, we started our return leg to Haxey by using a former railway line which has been converted to a very pleasant walkway. This is a continuation of the one we were on earlier. After a mile or so we used a flight of steps to descend by the side of a bridge. More use was made of the paths in the area to return to the start point in a generally south westerly direction. Before long we were in the vicinity of St Nicholas Church at Haxey. We then made our way along Church Street and High Street to return to the Pub. Thanks to the Kings Arms for allowing the group to use the pub car park and for the hospitality shown to the group. Thanks to Rob for back marking. David Horne 04/12.

Tuesday 2nd December 2025 Ackworth from Fitzwilliam.

What a difference from when I carried the prewalk in August when the car park was quiet, the ground bone dry and rock hard, dry drainage ditches and the flow in the River Went was but a trickle. On todays walk the car park was rammed full with commuters and Christmas shoppers catching the train to Leeds, the ground was very muddy and slippery, the drainage ditches were full of water and the River Went was in full flow.
On a glorious, cool early December morning with bright blue skies twenty eight of us met adjacent to the car park for Fitzwilliam Country Park and Fitzwilliam train station for a 10 mile walk around the Ackworth Villages. Safety briefing completed, we set off through the Fitzwilliam Country Park, a reclaimed coal spoil heap towards Ackworth Moor Top. Having safely crossed the busy Wakefield Road housing gave way to fields, skirting Bracken Hill we passed by the hamlet of Hessle to High Ackworth, admiring Old Ackworth Hall on the way. A late coffee break was taken in High Ackworth where a convenient wall by the road side provided seating for all our large group. Walking through fields to East Hardwick, followed by a 200m stretch of careful busy road walking as there was no footpath, we eventually reached the River Went which flows through Low Ackworth. Following the muddy footpath by the River Went we passed under the imposing brick railway viaduct and followed the footpath to the Recreation Ground on the outskirts of Ackworth Moor Top where we had a short stop for a late lunch. Refreshed we joined the Dando Way which follows the route of an abandoned railway line through Ackworth Moor Top with a series of story boards about the adventures of Mouse (who of course is a mouse). Encountering Wakefield Road again we came to our third stop of the day, the Angel public house which was just over a mile from our finish point. Delights of the Angel sampled we skirted the edges of the Fitzwilliam Country Park back to our start point. Thanks to everybody who came on the walk, to Neil for back marking, and to the weather for a glorious day. Stephen J Tomlinson

Thursday, 27th November 2025 - Tickhill - Haworth Wander

On an unseasonably warm morning 29 of us met at the Buttercross in Tickhill.  This number included a new member and a visitor from the Rotherham Metro Ramblers group, plus one eager Beagle.  We passed the site of Tickill castle, built by Roger de Busli, a major landholder listed in thec Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 174 estates, land granted to him by William the Conqueror.  The castle had a chequered history, finally being razed to the ground in 1648 to prevent it being used as a stronghold in future.  We walked along a narrow path at the back of the castle and headed towards the A1M, crossing beneath it as we approached Harworth. We passed back under the mororway again and followed the footpath through the Styrrup golf course, taking our refreshments at the start. We crossed a footbridge to leave the golf course and enter  Millenium wood.  Upon leaving the wood we walked along Winney Haugh Lane and into Water Lane, all the while following the fast-flowing stream. At the end of Water Lane we turned right towards the Mill Dam and back towards the Buttercross, finishing this walk on just under 5 miles shortly after midday. Thanks to David H for back-marking.  David Gadd

Tuesday 25th November 2025 Linacre to Holymoorside Circular. (with sing song)

31 happy ramblers gathered at Linacre reservoir car park on this beautiful autumnal day with plenty of sunshine and blue skies. The route taken took us out through Pratthall and on to Birley but not before the first of many obstacles of the day (locked gate) had to be contended with. A sunbathed grassy area at the side of a small Christmas tree farm sufficed for morning coffee before moving onwards passing ‘Pudding Pie Hill’ apparently named from the days when slaked lime was burnt on the fields to aid growth and the hill resembled a giant steamed pudding. A noisy welcome was given from the Wigley primary school playground as we passed , maybe in part because we had a Wigley namesake within our midst who could trace his family history back to the Wigley village. Heading southbound we proceeded via Wadshelf to Holymoorside which was our destination for lunch above the recreation grounds.
It was at this point of the day that the reason for such an enthusiastic turnout transpired as the Ramblers gathered around to record a rendition of the Twelve days of Christmas with the verses supplied by the Trans-Pennine Trail as part of their soon to be released Christmas collage with involvement from numerous walking groups. Thank you to Stephen Thomlinson for arranging and recording and all the members of the group who took part in the delivery of the song.
Our route from Holymoorside took us along the banks of the River Hipper deviating up through Brookside heading in the direction of our start point and at this point with less than one and a half mile to the finishing line I inadvertently strayed from the intended path leading the flock astray and with much support from the group and an additional muddy footpath uphill we recovered the route to the point of conclusion arriving 30 minutes later than the published finish time and with dusk falling upon us ! Apologies to all who were inconvenienced by the detour and thanks to Richard for back-marking.
JFS

Saturday 22nd November 2025 Hope to Win Hill and Bamford
10 of us gathered in the drizzle at Hope Car Park. After a stroll along the River Noe, we set off uphill and as we got higher, the visibility continually worsened. By the time we reached the top of Win Hill, all we could see was the white trig point, the white of the inside of the cloud that we were in and the rocks we were standing on. This had been planned as our coffee stop, but the cold wind made it unenticing. We retreated downhill across moorland to the edge of a wood and a more sheltered, less cold spot for coffee. From there we zig-zagged gently downhill through alternating moorland and woodland with occasional glimpses through the murk of the Derwent Valley. Our long descent brought us to the shores of Ladybower Reservoir near the dam where the overflows stood well above the water. We picked up the Thornhill Trail and some flat walking along the disused railway track. We left the trail to cross the River Derwent on bridges and stepping stones to Bamford Mill. Passing Bamford Bakery, some were tempted by their pasties, either instead of their lunchtime sandwiches or to take home. Lunch was on benches in the middle of the village followed by a visit to the Anglers Rest pub.

By the time we set off after lunch, the weather was much improved and there was even some sunshine. We crossed the River Derwent again and climbed to Thornhill (still well below the top of Win Hill). We went down across open fields (with views up Hope Valley to Mam Tor) to Hope Railway Station and Hope itself.

Thanks to David Wigley for his local knowledge

Thursday 20th November 2025 Campsall & Norton.

A cold winter’s day with a snow shower just before the walk started awaited the fourteen ramblers who joined the leader for this walk. We started by using a path from Campsall Country Park car park into the Country Park itself, then following the path through the park before emerging on Back Lane. We turned right here and then very soon another right into High Street. We were heading northwards at this point, and continued along The Avenue and Ryecroft Road. We turned right along Stygate Lane which is actually an uneven track, but it did allow the group to reach Norton. The group made good progress passing through Norton, using Hall Lane and Back Lane at the northern end of Norton to reach the second of two footpaths on the right. This took us gradually downhill for a short distance where we took our morning break. Suitably refreshed, we headed in an easterly direction, firstly along Mill Lane then along Walden Stubbs Road. This gave us access to Stubbs Lane which having turned right marked the start of our southerly bound route back to Campsall. Stubbs Lane becomes quite built up with a proper road surface just before a left turn onto Station Road, which is a busy road running through Norton. We made our way in an easterly direction along Station Road until, just before a level crossing, we turned right along New Road. New Road allows access to another narrow footpath at the bottom, which the group used for a short distance. We then turned right along a good broad track with Autumnal colours soon visible where the path had become tree lined. We turned left at the end of this path and after a short distance turned right to access Church Field Road. We walked along Church Field Road to return to the car park. Thanks to John for back marking.  David Horne 20/11.

 Tuesday 18th November 2025 Ancient Woods and modern motorways
30 brave souls met at St Peter's church, including a guest walker from mexborough, on a bitterly cold morning, winter had arrived in earnest. The parish church of St Peter the nave and chancel of the church are 14th century. the tower 16th century, and the interior mainly 19th century. It has a stained glass window designed by Edward BurneJones.
After a brief outline of the walk we set off towards two trails, the Trans Pennine and the Timberland heading off toward West wood country park and Chapeltown, passing Hesley Wood Scout camp.
Lunch was taken in the park before setting off to the Barley pub near junction 35.
After a well earned drink we set off back on the other side of the Ml along wooded paths and onto Harley, picking up Black Lane back to our cars. On Black lane we passed Monastery Farm a ruin which was used in the film Kes, when Billy came across a kestrel's nest and some eggs. Other locations in Hoyland and Tankersley were used in the film.
Thanks for Julie and Stuart sharing the back marking duties and Steve Tomlinson for taking photos.
Pete Smith

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday 15th Nov 2025 Porter Valley and Limb Valley circular

On a wet Saturday following several days of heavy rain, seven stalwarts defied the forecast to meet at Whirlow Grange. As we set off on the path up the Limb Valley, Limb brook thundered down much swollen by the rains… the awesome power of nature unleashed. We made a slight alteration to the route to Porter Valley to keep to higher ground and dry paths.
After coffee we started along the Porter Valley path adjacent to the even more swollen Porter brook which resembled a river rather than a brook! We soon reached Shepherd Wheel… a working water mill and Museum where one of the volunteers gave us a guided tour. At times the paths were awash but we enjoyed making our way up the valley past the spectacular waterfall to the top for lunch (and no rain!) A much appreciated pub stop at the very welcoming Norfolk Arms preceded our walk back down the Limb Valley to the cars for 2.30. It was a thoroughly enjoyable autumn walk and we were home before dark at 3:45.
Phil Rawlins

Thursday 13th November 2025 Hatfield Woodhouse.

A large group of 25 ramblers joined the leader for this 6 mile walk in the Hatfield Woodhouse area of South Yorkshire. Permission had been obtained from the Green Tree public house to use their large car park. The morning was sunny and extremely mild. Following the usual briefing, we set off along Sandtoft Road before turning right into Far Common Road which is actually a broad track. All the paths covered on the walk were in good condition. The group made good progress along here and were soon in the vicinity of Hollin Bridge Farm. At this point we turned right into Hollin Bridge Road and walked towards the centre of Hatfield Woodhouse, emerging on Main Street. We then carried on along Main Street for our morning break around a small village green with a few seats. After refreshments, we made further use of Main Street before using a narrow path on the left taking us onto Mosscroft Lane. We turned right here making our way into Slay Pit Lane. After a while we were required to cross Epworth Road (A18) and used Acomb Common Road, Brierholme Ings Road and Firth Field Road (a series of rural tracks) to meet Thorne Road. We walked along Thorne Road for a short distance and then crossed to the other side to use a path to a bridge over the motorway. The group paused here to observe the surroundings before returning to the bridge entrance and turned left to continue walking alongside the motorway. The path soon started to get further away from the motorway and the peace and tranquillity returned. Crook Tree Lane came next, another broad track, and then a junction of paths. We turned right along Brierholme Carr Road which eventually brought us onto Tudworth Road. A left turn here and soon afterwards a right turn along Stone Hill Road brought us onto Stone Hill, near where we were earlier in the walk. From here it was a short walk in a northerly direction to the Green Tree Inn where most people had refreshments in the pub. Thanks to the Green Tree Inn for allowing us to use their car park and to John for back marking. David Horne 14/11.

Tuesday 11 November 2025 3 Thorpes From Bubwith

I think it is fair to say that the weather gods smiled on us a little for this walk. The forecast had been that Monday's heavy rain would continue and so we expected to get wet. Fortunately it did not prove to be the case and after a drizzly damp start it it was just grey and dull but generally dry. Though it was of course puddly and muddy in parts all the way round. Twenty walkers met in the small car park just before the old toll bridge. After the briefing and some factoids about the area we set off down through the village towards the local church of All Saints. Once there we found the three war graves of airmen who had lost their lives in the 2nd World War and being Armistice Day we spent a few minutes paying our respects. Then it was on with the walk. The first section ( which would take us up to an early brunch stop ) was about 4 miles straight along the old Bubwith to Market Weighton railway line as far as Foggathorpe. After Foggathorpe we stuck out southerly across farmland and lanes to the attractive hamlet of Gribthorpe. From there we started a long return loop over fields and past small wooded areas that would see us make a sort of figure of eight as we crossed the old railway line again to head towards Harlthorpe. A brief refreshment break in a big lay - by on the edge of the village and then on with the last third of the walk. This took us across more fields and along more lanes and paths until eventually we were back in Bubwith. It turned out we had done about 12 miles but since it was flat throughout and with only short refreshment breaks and not many gates and no stiles we had made remarkably good time and were back by 3.30pm. Thanks to everyone who turned out despite the weather forecast . And special thanks to Stuart for back-marking and to Steve for the photos. CP
NB. Place names in this area mostly trace back to Norse. Bubwith comes from Bubba's Wood. The suffix 'thorpe' indicates a secondary place of dwelling . So places where Fogga, Grib and Harl once lived. The bridge stopped being a toll bridge in 1936. Prior to that you would have had to pay 10d ( old pence ) to cross with up to 20 laden oxen and as much as 3 old shillings for 6 horses. Funerals could cross for free.

 

Saturday 8th November 2025  Bramwith to Tadcaster (11 miles)

Twelve Doncaster Ramblers enjoyed a fine, rain-free November walk from Bramwith to Tadcaster. Setting off through the grounds of All Saints’ Church, we passed Oglethorpe Hall Farm and Newton Kyme Hall before pausing for coffee at St. Andrew’s Church. Following the River Wharfe, we noted the sandbank holes where sand martins nest in summer. Lunch was taken by the river before a warm welcome at the Howden Arms in Tadcaster, famed for its three breweries—John Smith’s, Samuel Smith’s, and Coors—thanks to the area’s mineral-rich water. The return via quiet lanes, fields, and woodland completed a thoroughly enjoyable day.
Martin

Tuesday 4th November 2025 Pocklington Canal and Allerthorpe wood

It was a grey morning with a cool breeze when 23 Ramblers gathered at Allerthorpe woods for the start of a 10 mile walk. After some pre-walk cake supplied by the leader, everybody set off through Allerthorpe wood which is a mixed woodland owned by the forestry commission. The forecast was mixed with the threat of rain. After a good hours walking the usual mid-morning break was taken, this was taken at a place called Canal Head as it was the end of the canal. The walk then continued along the banks of the canal passing various information boards about the development and demise of the canal. This part of the walk was on the Wilberforce Way which is one of several long distance paths in this part of Yorkshire. Lunch was taken alfresco at a lock called Walbert Bridge with walkers making use of the lock gate as improvised seats. After lunch, with the sky darkening, the walk stayed on the canal bank until the next bridge where it moved onto a road, eventually taking the walk back to the starting point at which point it started to rain. Thanks to John as back marker and Steve for photos. Stuart Twell
Stuart Twell
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Saturday 1st November 2025 Loxley common and the Bradfields
16 walkers gathered at the car park in preparation for this walk in the beautiful Loxley Valley south of Sheffield. As we set off there was some wind and cloud and it started to rain. There were occasional views of the valley as we walked, but at times it was obscured by low cloud.
However it brightened up as we reached high Bradfield and we had a very pleasant coffee stop outside the church. The rest of the day was fine with no rain and plenty of sunshine. We walked down to low Bradfield and around Damflask reservoir to reach a very pleasant lunch stop at the Nags Head Inn.
The afternoon walk was alongside the river at the bottom of the valley. We eventually climbed back up through the woods at Loxley Common to the car park.
Thanks to George, Brian and Gabriel for undertaking back marking duties.
Phil Rawlins

FOOTPATH MAINTENANCE UPDATE OCTOBER 2025
This session took place on Wednesday 29 October 2025 is probably the last for the year. The worksite was due to be at Fishlake but due to issues with the Environment Agency giving permission to operate on their land, the work location was changed at short notice. The revised location involved work on Footpath Brodsworth 6 which had problems with foliage blocking the footpath. Six Doncaster Ramblers and a City of Doncaster Council Rights of Way Manager set to and 12 man hours of hard physical work, using a variety of tools to clear the obstructions, left the footpath in an excellent and useable condition. The length of footpath cleared was approximately 900m. The what3words locations the work was carried out between is storeroom.newly.going and tell.protester.unions.

During the works we were approached by a lady with 3 dogs who turned out to be a local councillor and was very interested in the clearance works and wanted photos for inclusion in the local newsletter. This was arranged by the CDC Rights of Way Manager.

Thanks to all who gave up their time for this work party.

Stuart Twell 29.10.25

Tuesday 28th October 2025 Press Release – A View from Nettleton Top

Today's walk was in the Lincolnshire Wolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and some of the best views of the Lincolnshire countryside can be seen from Nettleton Top and the surrounding area. For those with an Ordnance Survey app the walk can be found under – Nettleton Rothwell Loop – 9 miles
A total of 28 people met at 10.00am in Nettleton village opposite the church and after the normal greetings we walked up through the village to Nettleton Grange. We then followed a good footpath signed the Viking Way slightly uphill following Nettleton Beck to just below Acre House where we stopped for 15 minutes for an early coffee break. This gave an excellent view of the Lincs Wolds back down the valley.

We continued the walk then up to Mount Pleasant and Rothwell Top Farm and followed a good pathway down through the countryside passing the Church of St Mary Magdalene in Rothwell. Lunch was taken in the beer garden of the Blacksmith Arm. After everyone was refreshed and had made use of the facilities of the BlacksmithArms we continued the walk following a concrete pathway uphill past Rothwell Stackgarth towards Badger Hills where we turned back towards Cabourne Vale and followed the path back down to Nettleton.

Point of Interest – In the 40 years from 1926 there was Ironstone mining in the area, employing up to 180 people, and there are still the remains of these workings and tunnels which have been bricked up. Ponies were used to haul out the ore from the mines. This accounts for the workings that we passed and wondered what they were for.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday 25th October 2025 Press Release – Knaresborough Circular

Thirteen ramblers met in the Nidd Gorge car park to the north of Knaresborough on a perfect autumnal day. Clear skies and bright sunshine. The route passed through colourful woodland going east along the river Nidd following the Beryl Burton Way. Beryl Burton OBE was a cyclist who dominated the women's sport in the late 1950's and 1960's winning seven world titles and 90 domestic championships.
Up through woodland and over Gallows Hill before a coffee break overlooking the river. The walkers then passed by The Chapel in The Rock with its 600-year-old mini shrine before walking down to see St Roberts Cave, a rare example of a medieval hermitage.
The route continued along the river before climbing up to the remains of Knaresborough Castle for lunch (a Norman castle built in 1100) before returning along the picturesque River Nidd.
Although much of the walk was next to the river there were several short steep sections, so the ascent for the day was 1000ft.
Many thanks to Martin for leading this varied and interesting walk.

AMG

Thursday 23rd October 2025 Walk report – Sykehouse, New Junction Canal & Eskholme.

A gloomy morning awaited 10 ramblers who joined the leader for this 6 mile walk. Storm Benjamin was passing through meaning a weather forecast of strong winds and rain. As it turned out it wasn’t too bad with very little rain and wind on the walk. The group met at the Old George Public House at Sykehouse. The group set off using a footpath at the back of the pub, making our way through level countryside taking care on the rather narrow path with bushes on the left and a makeshift fence on the right. There were a few horses to be seen in the field to our right. A stile and more somewhat wet grassy footpaths were encountered before the group emerged on the approach to Sykehouse Lock. Upon regrouping we turned left and walked alongside the New Junction Canal for a distance. There is a footbridge over the canal where we stopped for our morning break. We then used the footbridge to cross to the other bank and used a small gate to access another grassy path on an embankment, taking us away from the canal. It was good going along here and the group made good progress. Before long we were passing Eskholme which the leader pointed out as it was part of the walk title. We carried on in the same direction before arriving on Chapel Lane. The walk then continued via Bate Lane, Starkbridge Lane & Broad Lane to return to the Old George, arriving back at 1220. Thanks to the Old George for allowing the group to use their car park and for the attentive service when the group went into the pub after the walk for refreshments. David Horne 24/10.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/

 Tuesday 21st October 2025 – Langsett and Midhope Reservoirs

Twenty five walkers gathered promptly at 9.30am in Langsett Barn car park for this 10 mile circular walk. The forecast was mixed with rain expected in the afternoon but apart from a couple of drops, we were very lucky to remain dry throughout the day.
The first section took us round Langsett Reservoir to the south side through “North America” and down towards the river Don. A low wall provided seating for a coffee stop. We then continued along the valley and up the incline to the high path overlooking Midhope Reservoir. It was then largely a descent to the village of Midhopestones before taking the path alongside Underbank Reservoir. Lunch was taken near the activity centre before returning to “Ye Olde Mustard Pot” pub in Midhopestones.
The path on the former railway line took us back to the car park just before 3pm. Walkers were struck by the low level of water in all three reservoirs and discussed how long it might be before a return to more normal levels.
Thanks to Neil T, Angela and Peter M for backmarking on each section of the walk.

Thursday, 16th October '25 - Wadworth Wander

On a rather cloudy morning sixteen of us, including newcomer Catherine and 4-legged Jess, crossed the field and stopped outside Wadworth Hall. This is a Grade 1 listed Manor House built in 1749 for the Wordsworth family by the renowned northern architect James Paine.  After this brief stop we turned the corner and entered The Shrubbery. The wood was formerly part of the grounds of Wadworth Hall and still contains three wells, a fishpond and a Ha Ha. The wood was donated to the Woodland Trust in 1995 and has been designated as a Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI).  Leaving The Shrubbery at its western end we stopped briefly to admire one of the best views of Doncaster before taking the track known as Short Gate, turning right after a few hundred yards to cross a huge field and entering Wadworth Wood.  We followed the right of way through the wood and reached the  M18 and entered Edlington Wood.  Wadworth Wood and Edlington Wood are vastly different, the former a commercial wood with little or no undergrowth or birdlife, the latter a rich haven of both, with a phenomenal archaeolgical record.  We then followed a track in a northerly direction, stopping to study LIDAR maps showing the field systems in existence about two thousand years ago.  There are the earthwork remains of Romano-British settlements consisting of enclosures with many finds, including Roman coins, most of which date to the 3rd to 4th centuries.  Between January and August, 1935, Romano-British brooches, pottery and Roman coins were found by the woodman, Mr. Cameron, and his family. The site was later investigated by archaeologists, and again in 1945. All this archaeological evidence exists because the area has never been ploughed. Two large areas were cleared in the 1970's in anticipation of limestone quarrying, but the quarrying never actually happened.

Much earlier than the 3rd and 4th century site is the Mesolithic site in the area of The Crags. During the final stages of the last Ice Age, which peaked at 21k years ago, and ended 11.5k years ago, Edlington was a place of settlement for the Palaeolithic/Mesolithic groups of early nomadic humans. The groups had followed the improving climate northwards as the ice sheets covering Europe retreated. In 2003 the South Yorkshire Archaeological Survey found evidence that these early groups of humans had been using caves and natural outcrops in Edlington wood as shelters and bases for hunting. Additionally quantities of flint tools from the period were unearthed near to a rock shelter in the wood. During the period in which the tools can be dated the landscape of the area was a vast treeless tundra, with forestation occurring only as late into the period as 7500 BC.  

Stopping for our refreshments on a convenient fallen tree we continued through the wood until we reached a junction, where the well-known story of the white greyhound was told. Viscount Molesworth, MP for the West Riding was saved from death by his faithful dog when a gardener, told to check the outside toilet, was killed by the villain hiding inside. On the death of the dog a monument was erected. Of the dead gardener, we have no information. We passed under the M18 once more and followed a path to the south of Wadworth Wood, and thence back to Wadworth Church, reaching just before12.30. Thanks to Nick for backmarking and to Michelle for looking aftrer Jess throughout the walk. David Gadd

Tuesday 14 October 2025 Tideswell and Monsal Loop

It was slightly chilly and and a bit murky when 14 of us ( including new man Jason ) met in the car park at Tideswell Dale. The weather forecast was that it would stay dry and possibly brighten up around lunchtime. They got the first half right and we didn't get any rain all day. The walk was scheduled to be just short of 10 miles ( see later ) and would include some steep sections. But there were no main roads to cross and if the low cloud cleared the views would be fab. We started south down through Tideswell Dale and were soon at Litton Mill where we made our first crossing of the river Wye. Then it was steep uphill to reach High Dale ( the clue is in the name ) and some of those views across Monsal Dale below us . A quick coffee stop and then on through the little hamlet of Brushfield and down the long slope that is Brushfield Lane towards Monsal Head in the distance. At the end of the lane we had about 100 yards of The Monsal Trail over the river bridge before climbing up to the top for our lunch stop. Lots of benches, a cafe , toilets and The Stables Bar were made good use of. And once again there were the views to enjoy. A great spot. Dropping down from Monsal Head we crossed and then recrossed the Wye in the bottom of the dale. A section of road walking took us to the mill at Cressbrook and then it was trudging upwards again to access Cressbrook Dale. The planned route would have taken us steeply through the woods and out into the fields and then into Litton but a happy misstep by our leader ( me ) took us on a more winding and gentler sloping way that eventually led us up Litton Dale instead. It turned out to be much more attractive so '' all's well that ends well ''. From Litton we took Church Lane into Tideswell and then down through that attractive village back to the cars. Thanks to everyone who came. Your forbearance ( with the uphill bits ) and good humour ( over the detour ) were much appreciated. Thanks especially Steve for the photos and Malc for back-marking. CP
Tideswell is apparently known to locals as Tidsa and its inhabitants as Sawyeds. There is supposed to be a story about a farmer who when his prize cow got its head stuck in a gate he cut the cows head off rather than damage the gate. The local church of St John The Baptist is known as The Cathedral Of The Peaks .

Saturday 11th October 2025 Walk Report Sir William Hill from Eyam.

Eight ramblers met in the Hawkhill Road car park in Eyam on a perfect day for walking. Sunny, no wind and blue skies, albeit cool at the start of the walk.
Eyam is one of the largest villages in the White Peak and is best known for its connection to the bubonic plague which arrived in the village in late August 1665 in a parcel of cloth sent to the village tailor. The villagers decided to isolate themselves from surrounding communities so saving the lives of thousands in the surrounding area. Over the 14 months of the plague 260 Eyam villagers died out of a total population of 800.

Our walk through the village passed the victims cottages and the churchyard where many of them are buried. On leaving the village we passed the boundary stone where villagers left money in coin slots filled with vinegar in exchange for food brought up the hill from Stoney Middleton.

We descended into Stoney Middleton and continued downhill across fields to the banks of the river Derwent. Following the river up steam our walk passed through stretches of indigenous woodland alternating with riverside pasture. Elevenses were taken on boulders next to a tributary of the Derwent.
In the churchyard in Grindleford the group stopped to enjoy the ‘AppleDay’ celebrations. Following the Derwent to Leadmill Bridge before walking up the secluded valley formed by Highlow Brook which provided splendid views overlooking Hathersage and the Edges beyond.
Leaving the brook our walk saw us undertaking a stiff climb up Eyam Moor, stopping several times to admire the view towards Mam Tor before reaching Sir William Hill. There followed a gentle descent which offered views across the White Peak before a steep descent back down to Eyam.AMG

 Wednesday 8th Oct 2025 Walk Report. Doncaster Carers Walk Lotherton Hall

The last Doncaster Carers Walk of 2025 took place at Lotherton Hall on a dry but cloudy sunny early autumn day, ideal walking weather. Lotherton Hall is the former home of the Gascgoine family, with the house and the estate being gifted by Sir Alvery Gascgoine to Leeds City Council in 1968 on the understanding the grounds and the house were to be open to the public. Since 1968 a small wildlife park has been developed along with visitor facilities such as car parks, toilets and a café.
Five carers joined Angela and myself on a 4.4 mile walk. Our first port of call was to admire the large herd of deer in the parkland. Continuing through the parkland it was into open countryside and through Ringhay Wood. We then followed the edge of the wood and through recently sown fields towards the A1M near Micklefield before turning north across Hook Moor, which is dominated by 5 large wind turbines all of which were in operation. A convenient bench near one tower was a great place to take a short refreshment break and take in the views. Refreshed, we dropped downhill into Bragdale it was then back into Ringhay Wood before rejoining the initial footpath and retracing our steps back towards the Hall. Before reaching the Hall, we diverted across a lawned area giving a good view of the house and chapel before following the path to the substantial orchard where we helped ourselves to various varieties including some Russets. A short walk around the back of the bird garden gave us a good view of an emu/ostrich before walking through the pleasure gardens and past the children’s play ground to our start point at the café.
During 2025 Doncaster Carers and Doncaster Ramblers have carried out 7 walks. Thanks to all the carers who have joined us on these walks, hope you enjoyed them and to the staff of Doncaster carers who organise the walks programme and the venues. Thanks also to Neil, Angela, Jackie and Catherine of Doncaster Ramblers who have helped out on these walks, apologies if I have missed someone. Without your help and the carers who join us these walks would not happen. Stephen J Tomlinson

Tuesday 7th Oct 2025 .Walk Report. Chatsworth and Gibbet Moor.

Nineteen keen and eager walkers, including Sharon, new to Doncaster Ramblers on her first Tuesday Walk, and 6 guest walkers from York, Goole and Scunthorpe met in the car park at Chatsworth House on a dry but overcast morning for a 10.5 mile walk around the Chatsworth Estate and surrounding areas.
After the usual introduction and safety briefing we were off uphill into Stand Wood for our first port of call, the Hunting Tower, which is a remnant of the original Chatsworth Estate developed by Bess of Hardwick and dates back to the late 1500’s. The tower was constructed so ladies could view dogs hunting in the open parkland below. History lesson over and a group photograph taken we continued through Stand Wood to the southern boundary wall of Chatsworth pleasure gardens where we stopped for our customary 11 o’clock coffee break. Leaving the park, we ventured into the open moorland of the Rabbit Warren before climbing up onto Gibbet Moor to the English Heritage site of Hob Hurst’s House a bronze age/iron age burial chamber where unfortunately the exposed nature of the site meant the information board was obliterated. The group then followed the track across Gibbet Moor for some distance until just before the A 619 Chesterfield Road we dropped down into the narrow valley of Heathy Lea Brook which we followed to the footbridge just below the Robin Hood public house where lunch was taken close by. The footpath in the floor of this valley is not for the faint hearted, it is narrow, rocky, in parts marshy and in other parts a bit of a scramble but we negotiated it slowly and safely. After lunch we crossed the busy A619, carefully, and continued on footpaths through moorland and woodland to Sheffield Road. In the woodland fungi were in abundance and some of us were considering making an extra special Beef Wellington, Australian style! Crossing Sheffield Road, again carefully, a short stretch of road walking before turning uphill again and into Raddowhole Plantation which was also tricky walking with muddy sections and fallen trees which took us some time to negotiate. Safely through the wood we were then on side roads into Baslow, a quick toilet stop in the village center than it was a short walk through Chatsworth’s Park back to our start point.
Many thanks to all who came on the walk and thanks to Bob for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson.
NOTE CAR PARKING AT CHATSWORTH. Currently car parking costs at Chatsworth are £7.50 on a weekday and £10 at a weekend. When the house is closed from early January to mid-March car parking is free. Please note if you intend to walk from Chatsworth when the house is decorated for Christmas/Christmas Market avoid parking here as the have really upped car parking costs to encourage people to use public transport due to limited car parking spaces at the house.

Saturday 4th October 2025 Walk Report National Stone Centre

Five ramblers braved the wind and rain of storm Amy for this 10-mile circular walk which started at Cromford Mill near Matlock. The walk began along the canal towpath before walking uphill through woods and reaching open countryside near the top. Although it was raining the walkers were on the leeward side of the hill which provided shelter from the wind.
On the descent through woodland into Wirksworth one walker was delighted to discover the walking pole that he had lost during a similar walk in August. Lunch was at the hospitable Feather Star pub in the centre of Wirksworth where the landlord allowed the very wet party eat their sandwiches next to fire. This quirky bar is always welcoming and well worth a visit.
Reluctantly the group left the pubs warmth making their way to the National Stone Centre. This is a Site Of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Run by a charity it covers a 40-acre site which celebrates geological wonders including fossils and the history of stone. However, the wet weather and strong winds did not allow people to linger. The walkers continued up the High Peak Trail to Middleton Top before making their way back downhill to Cromford in record time.
Many thanks to George for leading this walk. AMG

Thursday 2nd Oct 2025 A walk through woodlands and on bridlepaths

21 walkers met at Sandall park on a bright morning for a walk through woodlands and on bridlepaths
A new walker Sharon was introduced to the group, just as we were entered Shaw Wood by Wheatley golf course then on through the wood past a pond choked with weeds and on to Mere lane
We passed under Westmore link road and eventually in to Long wood
We proceeded passed new builds and re entered Shaw wood and back to the car park
The day was characterised by laughter and chattering
Good day was had by all
Sharon made a point of saying how she had been made welcome by our group

Tuesday 30th Sept 2025 Tadcaster Circular

We all got parked on Front St in the centre of Bramham and then made our way to the yard of the local All Saints church to be briefed on the walk by Martin. Decent weather was in prospect. It would be fairly flat all the way round and although we could expect some road walking ,it would be on quiet roads. Otherwise we would be across fields, in woodland and alongside the River Wharfe. And so with a cafe / pub stop promised in the centre of Tadcaster twenty four Ramblers set off in good cheer. Out of Bramham in a general easterly direction we went. Firstly on Heygate Lane and then Watson's Lane until we crossed the main A659 onto Croft Lane to get to the lovely hamlet of Newton Kyme where we took a break in the yard of St Andrew's church . As we left Martin told us we were joining a section of The Ebor Way ( which in it's entirety runs all the way from Helmsley to Ilkley ) and would soon be on a path by The River Wharfe which would eventually deliver us into Tadcaster. The sun was out and the river and the surrounding countryside were looking good as we made our way along to the outskirts of the town to enjoy our sandwiches on some handy benches before seeking out the local hostelries. Tadcaster is of course famous for being home to breweries. Most of us went to The Howden Arms which is a Sam Smith pub that sits somewhat incongruously in the shadow of the huge John Smith brewery on the opposite side of the High Street . Leaving Tadcaster via Station Road we began the long loop back westerly . Across the fields to avoid the main road and then on a back road past the local grammar school before getting back into the countryside off Toulston Lane to rejoin Heygate Lane in the opposite direction back to Bramham. A lovely 11 mile varied walk in a splendid part of North Yorkshire. Thanks to Martin for leading , Neil for back marking and Steve for the photos . CP

Filey Coach Trip Long Walk
Saturday 27th Sept 2025

Forty eight of us boarded the coach in Doncaster for the ride to the Yorkshire east coast on a dry if a little cool late September morning. We were entertained on the journey to the drop of point for the long walk at North Landing Flambrough by trying to identify about 15 of us from our baby photos. More difficult than you may think. Thanks to Charlie for persuading people to reveal the secrets of their early lives and for putting together the challenge.
Twenty seven alighted the coach at North Landing and were joined by 4 others who were staying on the east coast for the weekend giving a total of 31 for the long walk. The plan for the 12.5 mile walk from North Landing to Filey was to follow the costal footpath variously called the Cleveland Way, English Costal Footpath and the King Charles III way. Heading north we followed the coastal footpath to Thornwick Bay and then passing Gull Nook, Cat Nab, Scale Nab, Crab rocks onto Bempton cliffs. Here we had our morning stop for tea and coffees. The weather was fine and this allowed great views of the chalk cliffs and the birdlife from the various viewing platforms installed by the RSPB. We also saw several Porpoises, a RSPB warden advised that a large school of them had been in the area for about a week. We then continued gently uphill on the coastal path past Buckton and Speeton cliffs which gave great views of Filey Bay and Filey Brigg. After our lunch stop we then dropped down past Reighton Sands Holiday Park onto the beach as the tide times were favourable. People then walked at various speeds along the beach on Hunmanby and Muston Sands before passing Primrose Valley Holiday Village until we reached the start of the promenade of Filey. Whilst walking on the beach it is not known whether any of the walkers decided to dip their toes into the sea!! Probably not as there was quite a chill wind blowing. A quick walk uphill from the promenade brought us to Filey town centre at about 1530 which gave plenty of time to sample its abundant fish and chip shops and pubs. Well fed and watered, some more than others, we rejoined the coach at Filey bus terminus at 1800 hours for our journey back to Doncaster.
On the journey home our fuddled brains were teased by another of Charlies fiendishly difficult quizzes which was once again Catherine and Jackie won! Brains always win out! The winner of the wooden spoon, in this case the well-travelled tin of sprouts will remain anonymous.
Thanks to Gareth and Neil for leading the walk and to Neil and Brian for the photos. Finally, thanks to all who came on the coach trip, your support is appreciated. Neil Thornton/Stephen J Tomlinson

Filey Coach Trip Medium Walk
Saturday 27 September 2025
13 walkers ( myself and 12 ladies ) got off the coach at Speeton to do this walk. The sun was shining as we set off through the village and across the fields to join the coastal path. When we saw the sea we turned left and headed for Filey. Early on there were some great views of Bempton Cliffs in one direction and Filey beach in the other. We took a short break for coffee about a mile short of Hunmanby Gap and then a slightly longer one for lunch at the top of the gap. It had stayed dry but by now the sun was behind the clouds more than it was out and the breeze on top of the cliffs was chilly. But the views all around us were super and the chatter was cheerful . We were having a good time in the fresh air. After passing through the Filey Bay Holiday Village we soon found a way down onto the beach to complete the last section of the walk into the town. Six miles that were at times sunny and warm and at others bracing had been enjoyed by all of us. Thanks to to those who did this walk and especially to Glen for the photos. CP

Filey Coach Trip Short Walk
Saturday 27th Sept 2025

Forty eight of us boarded the coach in Doncaster for the ride to the Yorkshire east coast on a dry if a little cool late September morning. We were entertained on the journey to the drop of point for the long walk at North Landing Flamborough by trying to identify about 15 of us from our baby photos. More difficult than you may think. Thanks to Charlie for persuading people to reveal the secrets of their early lives and for putting together the challenge.
Seven of us stayed on the coach, after the drop-offs at North Landing and Speeton, and alighted the coach at the bus station at Filey for a 4.5 mile walk. Leaving the bus station, we walked through the town passing some pretty Georgian houses on the way and crossed the Ravine on a cast iron footbridge before passing the church and entering Filey Country Park and Caravan Park which was hosting Trackrod, an event attended by 180 vintage rally cars. It was good to see the park so busy. Wandering through the Country Park we stopped at a bench with views over Filey Bay and the Brigg for a quick snack and a coffee. Refreshed it was a slight uphill walk on to the Naze walking carefully on the narrow footpath which has steep drops either side. From the Naze we got good views of the Brigg and as the tide was out, we could see people well out on the rocks fishing. Retracing our steps we continued along the costal footpath, in the direction of Scarborough for about a mile or so getting great views of the cliffs and Scarborough in the distance. We then turned inland at Filey Field and followed the permissive footpaths through the new flood defences to the Country Park. Retracing out steps past the church and across the Ravine we arrived back at our start point at the bus station at about 130 which gave plenty of time to sample Filey’s abundant fish and chip shops, cafes and pubs. Well fed and watered we rejoined the coach at Filey bus terminus at 1800 hours for our journey back to Doncaster.
On the journey home our fuddled brains were teased by another of Charlies fiendishly difficult quizzes which was once again Catherine and Jackie won! Brains always win out! The winner of the wooden spoon, in this case the well-travelled tin of sprouts will remain anonymous.
Thanks to all who came on the short walk and the coach trip, your support is appreciated. Stephen J Tomlinson

 25th Sept 2025  A Thursday short walk with Tony

18 walkers set off on a beautiful September day and we're soon rewarded by a Heron on the opposite bank.  As we walked a very large barge came towards us loaded we think with oil.  We continued along the bank past more canal boats and on to a lock over on to the other bank over a bridge towards Kirk Bramwith were break was enjoyed. We retraced our steps along the far bank back to cantilever bridge and we're treated to a large barge going through
We traversed the bridge and arrived back at cars at 12.45.  A good morning was had by all.
Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
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Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

WEDNESDAY 24.09.25 WALK REPORT. CARERS WALK ELSHAM HALL,
Two members of Doncaster Ramblers and 6 carers jumped into our cars in the car park at Elsham Hall for the short 5 minute drive to the pretty village of Elsham where the proposed 4.25 mile was to start. This was done so that the group did not have to walk for some considerable distance along a fast stretch of road with no footpaths.
Starting the walk from Elsham Village Hall before departing we read the information board giving the long history of Elsham and admired the model of a Lancaster bomber commemorating those who served at Elsham airbase during WW2. Walking on the footpath we followed the road out of the village before crossing the fast road mentioned above and joining the footpaths which followed the base of Hillside Plantation to the pretty village of Worlaby. Walking through the village we entered the grounds of St Clements Church and walked up to the entrance porch where we sat on the benches and ate lunch. As there was no safe route back to our start point without walking a considerable distance on the fast road mentioned above, refreshed, we retraced out steps back to our start point. During the morning it had been a little overcast and cool with a few spots of rain but on the return journey the sun came out and we had a couple of stops so layers could be shed. Thanks to all who came on this walk and to Neil Thornton of Doncaster Ramblers for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Tuesday 23rd Sept 2025. Monyash and Lathkill Dale from Over Haddon

Nineteen Doncaster Ramblers, including Josephine a new member, and two guest Ramblers from other Groups met in the car park of the pretty Derbyshire White Peak village of Over Haddon on a beautiful sunny autumn day, all be it with a bit of a chill in the air especially in the shade. The planned walk was a 10.5 mile circular route to Moneyash via the Limestone Way and returning to Over Haddon down Lathkill Dale.
After the usual introductions and safety briefing it was off downhill to the bottom of Lathkill Dale crossing what would should have been the River Lathkill but because of the warm and dry summer it was just a dry river bed. A steep climb out of the dale then a steady uphill climb in the direction of Youlgreave brought us to the Limestone Way which we followed to our coffee stop at the car park on Moor Lane. Revived and refreshed following our early morning exertions, during which layers were shed, we continued on the Limestone Way to Cales Dale and our next challenge, negotiating the steep steps in and the clamber out of the dale without anybody falling over! All safe we walked onto our lunch stop in the pretty little village of Monyash where lunch was taken on the village green by the medieval cross before vising the Bulls Head public house for various liquid refreshments. Revived, we walked down Bagshaw Dale and crossed the road into Lathkill Dale Nature reserve. The top part of Lathkill Dale was easy walking but this soon gave way to a boulder strewn footpath as the dale narrowed, this section was negotiated with care. The dale then opened out with great views of the exposed Carboniferous Limestone and easier walking before the steep climb back to our start point in the car park at Over Haddon. Thanks to all who came on this walk and to Neil for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson

 Thursday 18 Sept '25 - Tickhill North and South

On a breezy Thursday morning 16 of us met at the Buttercross at 10.00 before transferring to the quieter playground down Tithes Lane for the briefing.  We set off across the field and through the housing estate to cross the A1M and follow Common Lane northwards to Hopyard Lane.  This track is so named because once upon a time there was a hop yard there. It is not known that hops were grown in this area, so this is a puzzle.  Passing the rigid straight lines of the 180 trees which have been planted to be made into cricket bats we turned east, crossing Middle Drain before reaching the River Torne.  The Torne is very overgrown, so much that in places the river cannot be seen. We worked our way around to Sheepwash Lane, crossing it and reaching a spot by the footbridge to have our refreshments.  Onwards to Common Lane again and thence over Sunderland Street and to the noisy track alongside the motorway.  At the end of this track we reached a stile with an iron bar for its toprail which was not easy to climb.  Soon we turned east, crossing a second stile with an iron bar for a toprail, before a pleasant field path took us to another stile. We crossed a field to the kissing gate, installed by Doncaster Ramblers members, and Castle Fields. Crossing these two huge fields brought us to Mill Dam and we were soon back to the Buttercross, finishing at 12.30.  Thanks to Dave C for back-marking.  David Gadd

Tuesday 16 September 2025 Knaresborough Circularmmon L ane northwards to Hopyard Lane

16 of us met in the small car park on Ripley Road just to the north of Knaresborough town centre . Martin briefed us on the nature of the walk, the risks involved and about the bits of road walking and the little bits of elevation ( mostly to get up to the castle ). And then it was off down a wooded lane and across the river Nidd at the bottom. On the other side we followed a path through more woods alongside the river and then up to join The Beryl Burton Way before heading south by Harrogate Golf Course. There had been a little drizzly rain when we set off but by this time it had stopped. In fact the weather steadily improved as the day went on. Fairly windy but with some brighter periods as well. After the golf course we dropped down a short section of the B6163l to cross the river again. This time over the picturesque Lower Bridge. On the far side we stopped for coffee in the small garden area by the riverside. We carried on along Abbey Road. We passed by The Chapel in The Rock and called in to see St Roberts Cave before crossing the river once again on Wetherby Road and returning to the town centre on the opposite bank. The two sides of the river could not be more different for walking .One is a narrow tarmac lane with large houses and the occasional car. The other is a muddy path with exposed tree roots and small bridges with the odd plank broken or missing. When we got back to Lower Bridge we crossed yet again but this time went left along Waterside and then climbed up to the castle and had our lunchtime sandwiches before enjoying a drink in the local Wetherspoons. Leaving the town via Coyningham car park and the ruins of Coyningham Hall we crossed the river once more to get back onto The Beryl Burton Way in the opposite direction to partly retrace our steps back to the cars. Martin's walk had taken us through varied scenery and introduced us to some points of interest as well. Great stuff ! Thanks to him for leading . Gareth for back marking and to Steve for the photos.
Beryl Burton OBE was a cyclist who dominated the women's sport in the late 1950's and 1960's
St Robert of Knaresborough ( 1160- 1218 ) was a hermit who lived in a cave by the River Nidd
Knaresborough Castle ( once the stronghold of medieval kings) and the Courthouse Museum are on top of the hill on the edge of the town. The views from the grounds are well are superb.

Sunday, 14th Sept '25 - Tickhill History of the Landcape 

This walk was advertised in the monthly Tickhill Today magazine, offering the walk to the local public as well as to Ramblers.  We met at Tithes Lane pavilion, 33 of us and a number of dogs.  The background to the local hisory was explained, with land below the 15 metre contour line being marshy or wet from about 500AD until the weather became warmer and started drying out, aided by the area being drained by Thomas Tofield, who lived at Wilsic Hall, in the late C17th.  There are a number of settlements on this 15m contour line - Tickhill, Eastfield Farm, Wadworth, Loversall, Old Rossington, Hesley, Limpool, Sandrock, Haworth Styrrup and Bagley Green in the immediate area.  There were two routes across the wetland, one was what is now Sunderland Street and the other from Eastfield Farm towards Limpool.

Prior to the establishment of Tickhill following the Norman invasion of 1066, the were settlements at Lindrick to the south and Dadesley to the north of the current town. The footpath from Tithes Lane through to Common Lane was almost cetainly the path which linked these two settlements.  We followed this path and turned right onto Common Lane. In this area archaeological finds include a Roman bow brooch and waist disc (2nd century AD), papal bull head seal (1250), medieval clasps, a key, a bronze buckle, a lead seal, a 1280 penny, a Henry 111 penny, two medieval heraldic pendants. These were found in the 1980s, presumably when the housing estate was built.  We turned left up the roadway towards Eastfield Farm, noting that the land on the right sloped away to show us that we were on the edge of the original wetland.   From Eastfield we could see All Hallows Hill, the site of a Saxon church.  In historical records the death in 1670 of William Oddy is recorded, who died after being crushed by some stones he was carryiong on his cart, possibly stones being re-used in a local farm. Tony Sheridan added that, during some tree-planting on Oddy Lane members of the Tickhill Countryside Group (who have planted well over 5,000 trees in a 25 year period) came across some dressed stones which, surely, cannot have come anywhere but from the Saxon church. The church was excavated in ther late 1980s.

In this area is the lost settlement of Dadesley which was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1085 as having a church with a priest.  There was an active settlement large enough to have had a market in c939, according to records.  The '-ley' in the name indicates that there was a clearing in the well-wooded area.  From here we walked down to the road and turned right and onto Wellingley Lane, crossing the A1M, this section having been built as the Doncaster by-pass in 1961.  We followed an attractive field-edge route onto Stancil Lane, seeing a deer and a buzzard en route.  We made our way along the lane to Stancil, where we stopped for refreshments and were briefly joined by the farmer and his wife. 

After the break we wandered around to the field of cattle which once housed a Roman villa.  This field is a Scheduled Monument.  Skeletons were found in this field when some digging out was being undertaken in 1938.  The police were called out and 'perhaps up to 40 skeletons' were found.  The site was visited by R Smedley of Doncaster Museum, who undertook a small excavation, revealing stone walls and two more skeletons.  The 1938 find led to a proper excavation later in 1938 and in '39 by Professor Whiting.  He uncovered two rooms within a larger building, with the remains of a bath-house noted in trenches a little to the east; the walls in the excavated rooms remained standing to a height of 1metre.  Two periods of structural change were noted: a small under-floor heating system was added to the west end of the westernmost room, both rooms were filled with rough concrete in order to support a new floor surface and a partition wall was erected abutting onto the northern wall of the structure.   Various pottery finds were made including local 'Derbyshire ware' and Romano-British coarse-ware indicating an occupation during the 3rd century, perhaps extending into the early 4th.  Five Roman coins and the remnants of six Roman pots were found.  A total of about 80 human skeletons of all ages and both genders, all dating from the early Anglo-Saxon period, were found.   Many items are in the Doncaster Museum.   Roman villas were not only elite residences but acted very much as farm estate management centres and it is highly probable that the estate managed from the villa would have managed surrounding farms.   The area around Stancil shows cropmark evidence of a large rectilinear field system extending over the entire area. Trackways and a possible large droveway are also present. Some cropmarks are on a different alignment suggesting multiple phases of occupation but all probably relate to activity within the period 500BC to 400AD.  Roman villas were not only elite residences but acted very much as farm estate management centres and it is highly probable that the estate managed from the villa would have managed surrounding farms.  The Roman fort at Rossington was only a mile away so it's possible that a Roman officer from the fort established the villa.

From Stancil we walked broadly south alongside Middle Drain, deliberatly ignoring the correct right of way route because the farmer has tried to get the path diverted to this route, so far without success.  We joined the northern tip of Hopyard Lane, where there was once, surprisingley, a hop-yard.  We followed a field-edge path in a westwards direction, this path having been diverted from a crossfield path 6-7 years ago.  The second route across the wetland would have come from Eastfield to the original crossfield route.  We soon left the Middle Drain and started walking alongside the heavily overgrown River Torne around and beyond Sheepwash Lane.  We crossed the footbridge and soon left the Torne to walk crossfield to Paper Mill Lane and across the A1M again and ultimately back to the Tithes Lane pavilion.  Thanks to Dave L for back-marking.  David Gadd

 Saturday 13th Sept 2025 Holmfirth

5 of us met at Brockholes Village Hall on a cool, dry morning that was perfect for walking up hills. We were soon heading south, uphill and enjoying great views, a pattern that was continued for most of the morning. We had a break at Christ Church in New Mills before more uphill walking. We turned back north towards Fulstone, enjoying more great views, including views of the television mast at Emley Moor to our north-east. Shortly after noon we had a brief shower and the skies were threatening more. As the walk was about 7 miles, we weren't far from Brockholes, so we decided to carry on and have our lunch at the end of the walk. Heavy rain soon changed those plans as we sought the shelter of a fence and some trees and decided to have our lunch there, near Thurstonland. The rain went as quickly as it had come and we walked back down into Brockholes in sunshine. Though 7 miles was shorter than our average walk of about 10 miles, our legs felt like we'd had a good walk and we'd enjoyed many great views.

Thanks to Carol and Nigel for leading this very enjoyable walk.

BU

 Thursday, 11th Sept '25 - Thrybergh and Conisbrough Parks

On a bright breezy morning sixteeen of us met in the Thrybergh Country Park for this 7-mile walk.  The park  evolved out of Thrybergh Reservoir built between1876 - 1880’s to supply the borough of Doncaster with water. Throughout its history it was never entirely successful, largely due to the vast amount of water escaping from its bed. For decades the purpose of the reservoir was fraught with problems, and by the late 20th century it was no longer considered to be a viable proposition. Thus, it was sold in 1980 to Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council who have turned the site into an admirable conservation area and country park in 1983.  Today the country park provides an important habitat for birds and other wildlife. Over 155 species of birds have been recorded as well as 20 species of mammals and 170 species of plants. During spring and autumn it is an important migration stop-over for birds and during the winter months it holds a large population of wintering ducks, geese and swans. Two public bird viewing hides are available.  The cafe is currently closed as a major reconstruction takes place.

We set off around the lake in an anti-clockwise direction, leaving the park to walk up the road towards Ravenfield.  We paused at an old railway bridge, the railway coming to Ravenfield in 1907 to service Silverwood colliery and a few others. The known history of Ravenfield goes back as far as the Danes who gave Ravenfield its name in the ninth century.  At the time of the 1086 Domesday Survey William de Warenne held the Manor of Ravenfield as a gift from his father-in-law William the Conqueror. It was held as part of an extensive lordship which included 28 local townships from Aston to Whiston, Conisbrough to Hoyland.  The area changed hands many times over the next five hundred years, with the Westby and Hartley families owning much of the land.  In 1316, the Westby family, lords of the manor living at Ravenfield Hall, established the deer park, called Ravenfield Park.  We walked through the village, taking a left turn to climb some steps to a tall stile and into an open field.  The field was inhabited by a single bull, who happily ignored us - although we did take the long route to the stile in the oposite corner of the field.   We passed through a farm onto a huge field with low-growing crops but no defined footpath.  We followed the correct route through the crops until we reached a narrow lane, Arbour Lane, where we turned right and followed a clear route to Ravenfield Grange.  We walked along the busy road for half a mile before turning left at Conisbrough Grange Farm onto Park Lane.

Part-way along Park Lane we stopped for our refreshments and then by-passed Birk Lodge Farm and ascended through a wood onto Conisbrough Parks, about which a consultation is taking place regarding the building of a huge solar farm.  The bridleway took us westwards across a another huge field.  This was a difficult crossing, the bridleway not having been reinstated following ploughing.  From the highpoint we descended to the hamlet of Firsby, turning left to pass Firsby Reservoir, now a nature reserve.  We climbed a short hill, Arbour Lane again, reaching the entrance to  Ravenfield Park.  This is a remnant of a deer park owned by the Westby family, known to be living in Ravenfield before 1200 AD. It remained with them until 1749.  In 1972 the owner at the time, Mr Heath, sold the valley to the then British Steel sports organisation, Phoenix Sports and Social Club, as an angling facility for their members.  In the following  years the ponds deteriorated  until in 1979/80 when the angling clubs embarked on a programme of restoration and development.  Much of the effort centred on securing the ancient ponds which were in a poor state of repair or had silted up completely but in addition many hundreds of original estate boundary walls were rebuilt and new hedgerows planted.  Concessionary footpaths were also established. Restoration and ongoing management work continues today. 

A short distance up the lane we climbed some steps to walk due west towards a wooded area and Ravenfield Church with its one-handed clock.   At the time of the 1086 Domesday Survey William de Warenne held the Manor of Ravenfield as a gift from his father-in-law William the Conqueror.  It was held as part of an extensive lordship which included 28 local townships from Aston to Whiston, Conisbrough to Hoyland.  The area changed hands many times over the next five hundred years, with the Westby and Hartley families owning much of the land.  In 1316, the Westby family, lords of the manor living at Ravenfield Hall, established the deer park, called Ravenfield Park.  In 1749, when the Westby fortune diminished the Ravenfield estate was sold to Mrs. Elizabeth Parkin, a Sheffield socialite who was rich with money she had inherited from family commerce. in 1756 She used her wealth to replace the  medieval church with a new church designed by the York architect John Carr. Mrs Parkin also employed Carr to build a new Georgian mansion on the site of the Westbys' house.  The Ravenfield estate was sold off in lots in the 1920/30s and the Hall was largely unoccupied until the Second World War . The first wartime inhabitants of the hall were returning soldiers from the evacuation of Dunkirk who were temporarily billeted there.  A prisoner of war camp was built in the park and the hall was used for training purposes.  The prisoners were first Germans and later Italians, and they worked, under guard, in the collieries. At the end of the war they were kept to help with the re-building of Britain and the camp did not close until about 1948.  After the War the Hall and Ravenfield Hall Farm were bought by the Heath family.  However, the Hall remained empty and was used for storing straw. The Hall was burned in 1961 and the remains were demolished in 1962.  Continuing our walk we located some grafiti 'POW 1945' on the wall of the estate before reaching the end of Thrybergh Lane once again and walking back to the country park, continuing our anti-clockwisw circuit of the lake to the car park.  Thanks to Dave for back-marking.  David Gadd

WALK REPORT. CARERS WALK WHITE, FROGGATT AND CURBAR EDGES, WEDNESDAY 10.09.25

Two members of Doncaster Ramblers and 5 carers boarded the mini bus outside Wards in Doncaster for our annual more strenuous walk which this year was a circular along White, Froggatt and Curbar Edges in the Derbyshire Dales. The weather forecast for the day was not good with rain and thunder and lighting predicted and when we left Doncaster it was raining quite heavily however by the time the coach dropped us at the car park at the junction of Curbar and Baslow edges the rain had stopped. During the morning it remained dry, breezy and with dark threatening clouds but after lunch the sun came out, jackets were stripped off and it was a lovely afternoon. All in all, great walking weather.
Following a quick safety briefing a short climb took us onto White Edge where we had fantastic views of the Dark Peak countryside. We followed White Edge in a northerly direction for a couple of miles, passing the trig point on the way, before descending to the Grouse Inn where we going to have our lunch stop. Unfortunately, the pub was closed due the pump which supplies the pub water from a borehole having failed, so we wandered downhill to the Haywood car park in the National Trust Longshaw Estate and ate our sandwiches sat on the stones there. The Longshaw Estate is where this years BBC Spring watch was filmed. Refreshed, a short walk brought us to the stepping stones across a small stream (see photos) which we crossed without incident then it was a short steep uphill section onto Froggatt and Curbar Edges which we followed back to our start point getting fantastic views of the Derwent Valley, and Chatsworth House and the Emperor Fountain in the distance.
A total of 6 miles was walked and 725 feet climbed. Well done to all the carers who took part and thanks to Neil of Doncaster Ramblers for helping out and back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson

Wednesday 10 September 2025 Maintenance Team. Work Report
Wednesday 10th September saw a morning of unpredictable weather however that did not deter three members of Doncaster Ramblers, one none member volunteer and the City of Doncaster Rights of Way Manager from turning out to for this month’s maintenance session on Doncaster footpaths and bridleways.

The planned session was in the Austerfield and Blaxton area and required the replacement of two marker posts. One of these was a post at the intersection of footpaths Austerfield 3 and 4 (What 3 Words location states.twins.severe)
and another was in position where the marker post needed re siting (What 3 Words location cookers.myths.locating). The digging this time was a little easier than in the sessions during July but was made difficult by the fact that both sites were on the edge off an existing gravel quarry meaning stoney ground had to be excavated by hand.

After the installation of the marker posts was completed, at the request of the rights of way manager vegetation clearance work was under taken on Austerfield 3. This is a bridleway and the trees were encroaching to head height restricting passage for horse riders. On completion of this work a decision was taken to halt work for the day because of the worsening weather conditions.

A total of ten-man hours was worked during this morning session. Maintenance work which was supposed to be carried out during this session on footpath Austerfield 1 and footpath Blaxton 1 will be completed at a later date.

Thanks to all who turned up to contribute to a good morning’s work
Stuart Twell 10.09.2025

Tuesday 9th Sept 2025 – Grangemill. Cromford Mill,

Ten members including Gary from Leicester Ramblers, met at the car park near Cromford Mill, Matlock on what turned out to be a lovely early September day, for an 11 mile circular walk to Grangemiil in the White Peak. After the usual briefing from our walk leader George, who as usual promised us the walk was on relatively flat ground with just a few mole hills, we somehow managed to climb 1950 feet during the walk!
Leaving Cromford by crossing the busy A6 at the traffic lights we were soon into our first steep climb of the day to the pretty little village of Bonsall, recorded in the Domesday Book, with its medieval market cross. Leaving the village, it was uphill again to the village of Upper Town, another pretty White Peak village, then it was downhill into Horse Dale, stopping half way up the dale in a little wooded area for our coffee break at precisely 11am. Continuing to the top of the dale, where we had great views of the surrounding countryside, including the large Limestone quarry it was then downhill to the little hamlet of Grangemill where there used to be a cheese factory. Maybe the large stone press outside one of the buildings, see photos, was used to press the cheese? As we had gone downhill of course we had to go uphill again to Griffe Grange where at the top of the hill we stopped near the wind farm for our lunch. It was then downhill to Arms Lee Farm then uphill again, passing under the abandoned railway (see photos), on what George promised was the final climb of the day to Middleton Moor. Crossing Middleton Moor the lovely wether meant the views were fantastic and the air fresh and clear. George had been true to his word and it was downhill for the rest of walk, passing through the village of Middleton back to our start point.
Thanks to George for leading such a lovely walk through such great countryside and for organising such great weather, and thanks to those that turned up for this walk. Stephen J Tomlinson

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday 6th Sept2025 Fountains Abbey
Early arrivals at Fountains Abbey Visitor Centre found the main car parks closed and signs directing us to the Park Run and the overflow car park. 12 of us negotiated these distractions to meet at the Visitor Centre on a mild, still and dry morning. We were soon in Studley Royal admiring the obelisk, St. Mary's Church, deer in the deer park and Studley Royal House. We headed out of the park into gently rolling countryside of fields, woods and streams Tucked away among some trees we found the Witch-of-the-Woods House. A short detour took us to Braithwaite Hall standing in lawns with a pond and a Horse Chestnut with a supporting wall build into its hollow trunk. It was a short walk from there to Galphay where we had lunch on the village green and some visited the Galphay Inn. After lunch we set off through more rolling countryside (including a meadow dotted with the blue flowers of chicory) to the ruins of Aldfield Spa on the River Skell. It was known for its sulphurous waters, but we couldn't smell anything. We followed the River Skell back to the Fountains Abbey Visitor Centre.
Thanks to Peter for leading this lovely walk and including so many interesting buildings.

Thursday 4th Sept 2025 Walkeringham
16 ramblers arrived at the Fox and Hounds Walkeringham to tackle the walk to Beckingham. There was a dubious weather forecast which had no doubt contributed to the reduced numbers and indeed there were spots of rain during the writer's opening address. Dave Langmead had brought along his wife Suzanne for the first time. The walkers were advised of potential hazards namely two railway lines and a dual carriageway to cross.
We set off in an Eastern direction on to Station Road and the writer deep in conversation and with head down initially
missed the southerly turn off to Holmes Road resulting in some back tracking!
When we reached Beckingham we had a break at All Saints Church and some of the group discovered the rat in the church-- a sculpture near the loo. We left
Beckingham on footpaths initially in a westerly direction passing Sandy Furze Farm. We crossed the busy Gringley road and took a track called West Road (somewhat grandly) towards Walkeringham. Unfortunately it was at this time that the heavens finally opened and for the rest of the walk we were well and truly soaked !! We all arrived back dripping wet all over the pub floor.The landlord Ray had opened the pub specifically for the ramblers which was much appreciated and nearly everyone took advantage of this.
It was a memorable walk for the wrong reasons due to the heavy rain at the end but hopefully this will not deter everyone from future rambles. Many thanks to Dave and Duggie for back marking through the storm.

Historical note
The St Mary Magdalen Church in Walkeringham dates from the 13th century but in recent years has been closed because of its poor condition and lack of funds to restore it. Conversely All Saints Church Beckingham which also dates from the 13th century albeit with a 15th exterior is a grade 2 listed building.
Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Tuesday 2nd Sept '25 - Castleton
What a lovely day for a walk in the Peak District, blue skies, big white fluffy clouds, ideal walking temperature, plus we missed the late afternoon forecast rain.  The views were fantastic, if you don’t believe me look at the photos on the Doncaster Ramblers website. Thanks to Dave Wigley for leading this lovely 10 mile but challenging walk.
Twenty one Ramblers, including Sam from Guilford who was on holiday in the area, met in the carpark at the Visitor’s Centre in Castleton, Derbyshire. The walk started with a level section along Hollowford Road before coming to our first test of the day, the steep incline to Hollins Cross on the Great Ridge. Before starting the climb Dave told us that the before the church opened in Edale coffins were carried up and over Hollins Cross for burial in Castleton and that mill workers used this route daily to get to work.  Bet they wish they had home working in those days.  We stopped at Hollins Cross to catch our breath, rehydrate and admire the view of the Edale and Hope Valleys, and Kinder Scout.  Recovered, it was downhill into the Edale Valley to the village passing through Greenlands on the way.  A late coffee stop/early lunch break at Edale railway station made use of the benches available.  Refreshed, leaving the village, we followed the valley bottom to Barber Booth and then we came to our second challenge of the day, ascending to Rushup Edge via footpaths and the steep Chapelgate track.  Relieved at getting to the top we were rewarded with fantastic views and a welcome short break to take on some fluids.  On Rushup Edge we came across several hundred thousand pounds worth of abandoned cars, one a Range Rover and the other a Porsche. These had obviously been stolen and driven onto the edge, not sure what goes through these people’s minds ruining such a lovely area with an eyesore.  As we walked along Rushup Edge past Lords Seat to Mam Nick we watched the hang-gliders and generally agreed as a group it was not for us.   A late lunch was taken at the National Trust carpark at Mam Nick.  It was then downhill all the way downhill, passing the Blue John Cavern, Treak Cliff and Speedwell mines, back to our start point in Castleton
Thanks to all who came on this walk and to Angela for back marking.  A great day out.   Stephen J Tomlinson. 

Saturday 30th August 2025 Jaslow

Fifteen walkers started this 12-mile circular walk in the village of Baslow. The weather was warm and dry, with good visibility throughout the day. Leaving Baslow, the route entered Chatsworth Park through a gate near the old bridge. The park is part of the Chatsworth Estate, home to the Dukes of Devonshire since the 16th century. The annual Country Fair was taking place which meant the walkers had to take a diversion from the planned route
The walk continued through the park, with clear views of the house, and then followed paths across open meadows towards Bakewell. This section was mostly flat and easy to follow, with occasional gentle slopes. The dry-stone walls bordering fields are typical of the area. After about an hour and a half of walking, the route reached the Monsal Trail, a former railway line that once connected Manchester to London. It is now a popular walking and cycling route.
Lunch was taken at Hassop Station, a converted railway station which now has a café and facilities. After lunch, the walk continued along a short stretch of the Monsal Trail before turning off towards the village of Rowland. The route climbed gently uphill, passing through farmland and along narrow country lanes.
From Rowland, the path descended steadily back towards Baslow, offering views of the surrounding hills and valleys. This was an enjoyable and scenic walk through classic Peak District landscapes.
Many thanks to Carol and Nigel for leading this walk.  AMG

Tuesday 26 August 2025 National Stone Centre

The National Stone Centre is a Site Of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI ) located just outside Wirksworth in Derbyshire. Run by a charity it covers a 40 acre site which celebrates some geological wonders including fossils and the history of stone and its allied industries. We visited in the afternoon on the return section of our walk.
Our walk had started in Cromford. Twenty one of us ( including guests ) met and were briefed by George about what we could expect and in particular about some busy roads to cross. We set off on the flat canal towpath but soon turned up into the wooded hillside that rises to the west and then into more open countryside as we got to the top. The weather was fine and the paths were good so we made reasonable speed despite the steady uphill gradients. A coffee break along the way and then we began our descent into Wirksworth. Lunch was at The Feather Star in the centre of the village. This quirky bar is always welcoming and worth a visit if you are in the area. Then it was onto the main event. At The National Stone Centre our group broke up and wandered around the site to get the best of the the exhibits and the information on offer before eventually meeting up again outside the cafe and making the return to Cromford via Middleton.
A moderate walk over 10 miles of beautiful Derbyshire countryside. The rain that had been threatening all day held off except for a couple of short bursts and The Stone Centre had proved a fascinating place for all of us. A great day. Thanks to George for leading, Angela for back-marking and to Steve as always for the photos. CP

Saturday 23rd August 2025 Walk Report Wister

This 11-mile circular walk began in the village of Winster, in the Derbyshire Dales. Winster is known for its historic buildings and former lead mining industry. The weather was overcast, warm and dry making for comfortable walking conditions.
The route left Winster heading south along the Limestone Way. The first part of the walk included gentle ascents and good views across the surrounding countryside. The path then descended into Bonsall for lunch. Bonsall is a quiet village with a history linked to both lead mining and textile production.
After lunch, the walk continued north into the peaceful Darley Dale. This area is more wooded and includes sections of shaded path alongside old drystone walls and hedgerows.
The route then turned east into Wensley Dale (not to be confused with the Yorkshire one), with a gradual climb offering wide views of the surrounding hills. The terrain here was a mix of grass paths and rocky tracks with occasional stiles and gates
The final stretch led south back into Winster. The return was mostly downhill, passing through small patches of woodland and open pasture.
Overall, this was a varied and enjoyable walk through classic White Peak landscape. It included village views, quiet dales, and upland scenery.
Many thanks to Peter for leading this walk, and for his home made scones at the morning break, and to Martin for back marking.   AMG

Tuesday 19th August 2025 - Walk Report Birleyhay

Thirty five of us met at Ford for a  walk we did three years ago and felt was ready for a repeat. The Moss is a beck that runs for five miles, starting from a natural spring and running eastwards before finishing at Mosborough, where it joins the river Rother. The area had been a centre of sickle making since 1459 and in the 1700's a series of dams was built to power a total of eight water wheels  to power the machinery. Manufacturing ceased in the 1930's but some of the dams and wheels can still be seen. We headed downstream through attractive woodland and past the Seldom Seen engine house, which (apart from signs of spoil heaps) is all that remains of Plumbley colliery (closed in the 1890's). At the end of the woods we turned  and headed upstream and uphill through fields to Bramley and Greenside and on to Troway for our lunch stop at the ever hospitable Gate Inn. After lunch we continued westwards and then dropped down through Whinacre Wood and crossed the beck close to its source. At this point we turned back towards home and climbed through more woodland before emerging on Hazelhurst Lane. This took us to Povey Farm, which we skirted and then dropped down to some stepping stones close to the first of the series of dams. A quiet road then took us though Birleyhay and back to our cars. Thanks to Jeremy for backmarking and marshalling such a large (but relatively well behaved) group. PG

Saturday 16th August 2025 Walk Report Elsecar

Fourteen walkers, including two ladies who were walking with us for the first time, met at Elsecar Heritage Centre. Elsecar is a key site in South Yorkshire's industrial past, featuring restored workshops and exhibits. The weather was warm and dry making for pleasant walking conditions after the extreme temperatures of the last few days.
The route passed local landmarks, including the location for the filming of Kes, a classic British film capturing Yorkshire life, before reaching the historic Spittal Houses at Derricroft, the remnants of former agricultural workers' dwellings. We also saw a field containing 6 herons, the collective name for which is a siege.
The latter part of the walk went through the estate village of Wentworth whose architecture reflects the wealth of the Fitzwilliam family, who historically owned much of the land in this area.
Returning to Elsecar, the trail wound through fields and woodland, offering views of the rolling South Yorkshire countryside. The heritage centre served as an ideal endpoint, with opportunities for people to explore its shops and cafés.
Many thanks to Carol for leading this walk and to Brian for back marking.   AMG

Tuesday 12th August 2025 – Walk Report Market Rasen

Seventeen ramblers began their walk in Market Rasen, a small historical market town on the western edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds. A market has operated here since 1219, and the name ‘Market Rasen’ comes from ‘East Rasen’. The River Rase flows through the town, and local landmarks include a historic market square, Victorian and Georgian buildings, and the county’s only racecourse.
From the town centre, the route headed north following the railway line which links Lincoln with Grimsby.
After 3 miles the walk turned south east and joined the Viking Way. This long-distance footpath stretches approximately 147 miles through Lincolnshire. The path led through Walesby, where the ‘Ramblers Church’ (All Saints) stands. Inside there is a fantastic stained glass window celebrating walkers and cyclists.
The walkers passed a herd of deer and then some Lincoln Longwool sheep. This sheep, now a rare breed, once dominated the landscape of eastern England and was responsible for much of the country’s wealth.
Continuing along the Viking Way the walkers reached Tealby, a picturesque village known for its historic village hall and a thatched pub, the oldest in Lincolnshire. From there, the route went southwest back to Market Rasen.
Although the weather was hot (28°C) and humid a gentle breeze and cloud cover made the walk possible.
Many thanks to George for leading this walk.  AMG

Saturday 9th August 2025 Walk Report Longnor

Fourteen ramblers started this 10-mile walk at Longnor on a breezy, dry, warm day which was perfect weather for walking. Bacon and sausage butties helped to fortify some for the upcoming walk.
Walking south from Longnor the River Dove was crossed at Crowdicote. A mid morning break was taken at Pilsbury Castle which gave people time to admire the stunning views overlooking the River Dove. Pilsbury Castle is the earthwork remains of a Norman motte and bailey castle sitting on top of an earlier Iron Age fortification
The walkers continued south reaching Hartington for lunch where some took the opportunity to purchase cheese in the quaint shop overlooking the village duck pond.
Having refreshed themselves the walkers headed uphill to the village of Sheen. The final section passed through open fields and meadows on the way back to Longnor.
In summary, this walk combined perfect summer weather, great visibility, varied limestone landscapes, a medieval castle with good company.
Many thanks to Peter for leading this walk.   AMG

Thursday 7th August 2025  Walk Report Ranby

On a pleasant morning 27 ramblers turned up for a gentle ramble principally along the Chesterfield Canal to Babworth Church. This ramble had been designated as the Jim Elvidge memorial walk by his cousin and our walk leader Rob's suggestion. Jim who passed away last year was an active participant in the Doncaster Ramblers and walked with them for 25 years. He was well known for his attire consisting of a flat cap and a tie and at his funeral a flat cap was placed on his coffin. Rob had decided that it would therefore be a nice touch if as many of the ramblers could turn up with a flat cap at least at the beginning of the walk. A large number of the walkers heeded the call and a group photo recorded the scene! After a brief introduction to the walk by Rob Nigel addressed the crowd about his dog Alfie who was well known to most and who had become something of a mascot for the group. Alfie was suffering from some muscle wastage in his back legs and the vet had advised that walks around the 6 miles mark were really too much for him.Nigel did however assure everyone that otherwise his 12 year old dog is fine and active.
The walk commenced northwards on Old Blyth Road and soon joined the Chesterfield canal. We went past the area known as the Barracks and joined Green Mile Lane in the direction of Babworth. The canal was left at this point. The route took us past woodland and fields and then we branched off on the 3/4 mile sign to Babworth Church where lunch was taken. The ramblers had an opportunity to go inside the attractive Church because a lady churchwarden was there for a meeting We then retraced our steps back to the start of the ramble apart from a slight variation along the canal at the end.This ramble was something of an experiment covering the same ground twice but the group seemed happy enough and the scenery was so pretty in any event.
Many thanks to Rob for his calm leadership on the 7 mile circuit.
Just a brief historical note to say that Babworth Church was situated on the Great North Road prior to the 18th century   NB

Tuesday 5th August 2025. Walk Report. Ripley.

Twenty four walkers met in the car park at the pretty village of Ripley, near Harrogate in North Yorkshire. It was a dry, windy but cool morning with very occasional quick light showers and fleeces appeared for the first time this summer. We were all eager to get moving and warmed up. A briefing by our joint leaders Jackie and Catherine included information on the history of Ripley Castle, which dominates the village, and its role in the Gunpowder Plot which we commemorate on the 5 November. Walking past the castle and the church we were soon into open countryside with fantastic views of the rolling landscape. A steady uphill walk brought us to the outskirts of the pretty village of Burnt Yates where coffee was taken at some conveniently located benches by the road side. Refreshed we followed the road through the village before walking downhill to the floor of the valley of the River Nidd. We crossed the river by the ancient cobbled pack horse bridge which we were advised is the prettiest bridge in Yorkshire, off course it was made even prettier by the presence of Doncaster Ramblers members on it! Leaving the bridge behind us it was a long uphill slog to Swarcliffe Top and then downhill to the gates of Birstwith Hall where lunch was taken. Of course, we had the heaviest shower of the day whilst we ate lunch. Once again rested and refreshed we followed Tang Beck to the church in Hampsthwaite where once again we came to the River Nidd. Following the valley side we eventually passed under the new A61 road bridge and crossed the River Nidd on the old bridge before crossing the busy A61 at the pedestrian crossing and taking the permissive footpath back to our start point in the car park. Thanks to Catherine and Jackie for leading a lovely walk with great views in stunning countryside with some amazing property, and to all those who came on the walk. Stephen J Tomlinson

Saturday, 2nd August 2025 Fairholmes to Alport Castle

Ten ramblers set off from Fairholmes on a ten-mile circular walk. The weather was perfect, warm and dry with excellent visibility. The route headed up towards Lockerbrook which in the early 20th century was one of the sites used during the construction of the Derwent and Howden Dams.
The path then descended before following the River Ashop, winding through lush greenery and past the remnants of old farmsteads. This river flows into Ladybower Reservoir, one of three large reservoirs in the Upper Derwent Valley all exhibiting very low water levels.
Continuing, the walk followed the River Alport, which leads towards Alport Castle. This area is notable for its dramatic landscape, a result of landslides that occurred thousands of years ago. The steep ascent to the ridge near Alport Castle was challenging but rewarding with expansive views over the valley below.
The path along the ridge provided panoramic views of the surrounding moors and valleys including a view of the ridge between Mam Tor and Lose Hill. The final stretch descended to the Derwent Reservoir. This reservoir, completed in 1916, is famous for its role in the Dambusters training runs during World War II.  The group returned to Fairholmes through woodland, following the shore of Ladybower Reservoir.    AMG

Thursday 31st July 2025 - Around the northern part of Rossington

27 ramblers met up with walk leader Kathryn at Rossington P&R . We were please d to welcome Nanette on her first walk with Ramblers, Several others were on their second walk with the Thursday group. After bad weather reports through the early week we had a lovely warm day to walk .
We set off from the P&R at 10 am and crossed easily the traffic on Bawtry Rd with the help of the co-operative crossing light fairies and proceeded up Hayfield lane to the new Y Lake which opened last week . After venturing in through the open Gate we had a an impromptu look at the new outdoor water sports lake and a welcome question and answer session with Steve.
We then went along the public foot path near the Hayfield Pub and the followed the footpath next to the lakes where many anglers were enjoying their sport.
We continued to Hatchel Wood where we had a coffee stop were our stalwart friend and member Wendy joined us for a friendly chat.
From here we headed over Bawtry Road Through Manor Farm wood and saw the owl sculpture and onto Stayers Lane and Toad Holes Lane to Rossington.
We had a hunt in Atterby Woods for the various carvings . We went through the play park along the public footpath behind Millenium Wood then onto the Brick pond, where plenty of youngster where also fishing with the large pond having several colours of water lilies in full bloom.
We then headed back to the P&R and headed home.
A big thankyou to David H for back marking.   Kathryn

FOOTPATH MAINTENANCE UPDATE
WORK CARRIED OUT 30th July 2025

SEE PHOTO ALBUM FROM THIS WORK SESSION SHOWS THE TEAM DISPLAYING SOME OF THE NEW EQUIPMENT PURCHASED FOR THEM FROM DONCASTER RAMBLERS FUNDS.

Wednesday 30th July saw the second session in the month from the Doncaster Ramblers footpath maintenance team .Four Ramblers and Doncaster City Council Rights of Way Manager carried out work at several locations in the Doncaster area.
Again, the recent dry weather led to hard ground making the work arduous at times, with a total of 14.5-man hours spent on the tasks. The last work site was over half a mile for the nearest vehicle access point making it a difficult trek with all the kit and materials. A total of five-way marker posts were installed during this work session.
Footpaths worked on and the work carried out are summarised below.
Footpath Sprotbrough. A knocked over marker post was reset.
Footpath Wadworth 2. A new marker post was installed.
Footpath Stainton 2. Two new marker posts were installed.
Footpath Tickhill 4. A new marker post was installed
Thanks to all who turned up to contribute to a good morning’s work

Peter Smith 31.07.2025

If you would like to volunteer for the next maintenance session contact:
Stuart Twell, mobile 07970 541335 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Pete Smith, 07853 705306 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Stuart and Pete are always looking for extra pairs of hands.

Tuesday 29 July Lud's Church

It was a longer than usual drive to get to the start of this walk but it was well worth it . Fifteen of us ( including our leader's daughter and grandson ) assembled in the ( wrong ) small car park on the approach lane to Gradbach Mill . A happy accident that meant we didn't have to pay but did have to walk a bit further than planned. After being briefed by George we set off in the direction of the mill ( where there are toilets and sometimes a cafe) and then up and across the moors under Gradbach Hill . At a junction with Hazel Barrow Lane we turned right. Onwards and upwar we went to where we would climb up onto The Roaches. The views were getting better and better all the time and looking back we could see Hen Cloud and Tittesworth Reservoir near Leek in the distance. The Roaches name comes from the French ' les roches ' which rather disappointingly just means the rocks. The trig point at the top is 505 metres above sea level. The Roaches are a fairly tough but very popular route and we met quite a few other walkers along the way. Unfortunately at the time we reached the summit the low cloud and mist had closed in just enough to somewhat spoil the magnificent views. Before dropping down off The Roaches we paused at one of the hanging rocks for one or two of our more adventurous members to get boasting photos on top. And then it was on to Lud's Church itself. It is not a church in the traditional sense but a deep narrow chasm ( 100 metres long x 18 metres deep ) in the millstone grit bedrock above Gradbach. It was formed by a landslip when the ground moved towards the River Dane in the valley below. It is known for being used as a secret meeting place for The Lollards ( a persecuted religious group led by John Wycliffe in the 15th century ) and was probably named after Walter de Ludank who was on of them. It doesn't see much sunlight and is always dark and damp. An unusual and fascinating place. We had lunch on a convenient rock formation just after exiting the chasm and then did the last section of the walk. This took us on a long uppy downy loop through woodland and then alongside the River Dane back to the cars. The walk had been about 11.5 miles and although tough at times had not turned out to be as strenuous as some of us had feared ( our leader's reputation having gone before him ). A truly worthwhile walk in a smashing area. Thankyou George ! Thanks also to Angela for the photos. CP

Saturday 26th July 2025 Along the Edges

Sixteen ramblers, including a lady who was walking with us for the first time and seven-year-old twins, met at Haywood National Trust car park. Fortunately, the light rain at the start of the walk soon stopped and the rest of the walk was sunny and warm. Throughout the day we experienced a variety of scenery.
We walked along Froggatt, Curbar and Baslow Edges where a number of highland cattle were grazing. Good visibility provided impressive views of the surrounding countryside across Curbar towards Chatsworth.
Descending down to Curbar for lunch we saw the ‘Round House’. In the Civil War prisoners were held in this lockup prior to being taken to Sheffield gaol. We also passed two Pinfolds. Stray sheep and cattle were rounded up by the Pinder and kept in the Pinfold, a purpose-built enclosure for stray animals. Their owner had to pay a fine to release them.
After lunch we followed the River Derwent upstream to Froggatt Bridge passing through woodland. The final leg of the walk involved a steep climb back up to Froggatt Edge, where the panoramic views provided a rewarding end to the journey.
Thanks to Peter and Diane for back marking.   AMG 

Thursday 24th July 2025 Walk from Conisbrough

20 walkers turned up on a dull day
One lady new to our group Mags was introduced and was made to feel welcome.
A brief summary of walk was given and off we went with information given on the magnificent castle and its keep.
We then proceeded through old Conisbrough to pick up a bridleway on to the Craggs and had a few uphill's but the pace was steady and we had stops to ensure the comfort of our members chattering could be heard from our group.
We proceeded to hill top and another bridleway
The ground was still cracked despite recent rain
We eventually came back through the village on arriving outside Cromwell pub the group were told of the haunting in the pub
We proceeded to church which is the oldest in south Yorkshire the earliest dates from 7 century we then proceeded down boggie passage alley it is said if you walk there at midnight and turn round3 times the devil will appear when church St was widened bodies were found under a wall from cholera epidemic in 1850.
We continued past the castle and back to our transport.
Apology for the distance being more than advertised.
Everyone appeared to enjoy the walk one lady achieved her personal best distance.

WEDNESDAY 23rd JULY 2025 CARERS WALK POTTERIC CARR,

The latest carers walk was held at Potteric Carr, a large wetland nature reserve managed by Yorkshire Wildlife Trust about 2 miles outside of Doncaster city center. This wetland was once part of the Humberhead Levels a huge flat plain covering some 2000 square kilometers spread across Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire which drained 20% of England’s landmass into the Humber Estuary. In 1968 Low Ellers Nature Reserve was founded, this was the forerunner of Potteric Carr, which in the last 50 years has grown into the 200 hectare reserve we see today.
On what was a dry if a little overcast day, 5 carers joined the Doncaster Ramblers Walk Leader on a 4.5 mile walk around the perimeter of the reserve. The underfoot conditions were good as we stuck to the to the hard standing footpaths. Due to the recent dry spell some of the water levels in the lakes was very low but we still managed to spot a heron and other birdlife during the walk, together with several species of butterflies, insects and wildflowers. The warm weather we have seen this spring and summer was evident in the profusion of early ripening Blackberries. Management of the vegetation on the reserve is assisted by Highland and Belted Galloway cattle which we spotted in the shade of a wooded area. These breeds of cattle are very hardy and can live outside all year in the severest weather conditions. About half way into the walk we took advantage of a bench by one of the reserves many hides for a rest, brew and a bite to eat before continuing and finding our way back to the start point at the Visitors Centre. Potteric Carr is a great place to visit and Yorkshire Wildlife Trust well worth supporting. Thanks to all who came on the walk. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Tuesday 22 July 2025 The Bert Ward Memorial Walk

George Herbert Bridges Ward ( 1876 - 1957 ) was a pioneer of rambling. In 1900 he helped found the Clarion Ramblers. 'Bert' and others were involved in mass trespasses over 'private' land well before the famous Kinder Scout Mass Trespass of 1932. His passion for walking and work on establishing rights of access did in many respects contribute to the eventual passing of The Countryside and Rights of Way Act of 2000. He is commemorated at Ward's Piece on the top of Lose Hill in The Peak District and also by this walk from Holmesfield. He lived in Holmesfield for the last 40 years of his life. The walk is about 12 miles long and fairly challenging. It follows the rolling countryside across fields, through small woods and over areas of moorland. It is mostly on goods paths but some parts are steep and can be tricky and slippery in wet conditions. Sixteen of us met in the car park behind The Angel public house. We were lucky with the weather. The threatened showers were not much more than drizzle and it was not so warm that we got uncomfortable. The scenery all the way around was superb and at times spectacular. A nice coffee break spot was found just after 11 am and then our lunch break in the early afternoon was at The Longshaw Estate cafe / Fox House Pub. The final stretch took us across Totley Moor back to Holmesfield to finish a varied and interesting walk. Thanks to Dianne for leading. Martin for back marking and to Steve for the photos. CP
Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
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Thursday 17 July 2025 - Tickhill Wander

Fifteen of us met at the Buttercross for the usual 10.00 start.  For the briefing we moved around the corner next to the gatehouse of the castle - rather quieter than the Buttercoss.  Michelle, as a new member and first time walker with us, was introduced and Dave acepted back-marking responsibility.  We set off on a footpath behind the castle,  walking towards a footbridge, where we turned south-easterly, in the general direction of Harworth.  We walked alongside and then under the A1M and into the edge of Harworth, soon passing under the motorway again and them turning right onto a right of way which passed through the Styrrup golf club.   We paused for a few minutes for our refreshments before walking alongside and then crossing the route of a disused railway.  We left the golf course, crossing a footbridge that took us from Nottinghamshire back into South Yorkshire.  We walked through the Millenium wood and onto Whinney Haugh Lane and then onto Water Lane, all the while walking alongside the lively stream.  Woodpeckers have been sighted on the stream, but not today.  We ended the walk by passing Mill Dam and then back to the Buttercross for a 12.15 finish.  Thanks to Dave for back-marking.  DG  

Footpath Maintenance
UPDATE JULY 2025

Wednesday 16th July saw another session from the Doncaster Ramblers footpath maintenance team. Four Ramblers, including a new recruit to the maintenance team, Ian, and Doncaster City Council Rights of Way Manager carried out work at several sites in the Thorne and Hatfield area.

The recent rain did little to soften the ground and due to the difficult digging conditions, hard ground, the tasks took longer than expected with 12 manhours spent on the tasks. Seven marker posts were installed; these had recently been identified by the footpath square checkers as needing replacing or adding to the footpath network. Some existing marker posts also had their signage improved.
Footpaths worked on and the work carried out are summarised below.
• Hatfield 10. Two marker posts installed, one near Thorne ring and the other along Hatfield Road.
• Thorne 6. One marker post installed at the junction with Lands’ End Road.
• Thorne 20. Two marker posts installed.
• Thorne 22. One marker post installed at the junction with Footpath Thorne 21.
• Thorne 23. One marker post installed
Stuart Twell. 16.07.25.

If you would like to volunteer for the next maintenance session contact:

Stuart Twell, mobile 07970 541335 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Pete Smith, 07853 705306 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Stuart and Pete are always looking for extra pairs of hands.

Tuesday 15 July 2025 Bolehill

What a shame about the weather. Persistent rain for most of the day could have taken the shine off what was otherwise a lovely if somewhat challenging walk in the rolling hills and green and pleasant countryside to the south of Cromford in Derbyshire. Eight brave souls met in the rugby club car park across the road from Cromford Mill. At the time it was not raining and so after the briefing by George we set off in hopeful good spirits. After about half an hour our hopes that the rain may hold off were unfortunately dashed but in true Rambler style our spirits were not. Despite getting soaked and at times windblown we stayed cheerful all the way round and got the best out of the walk. About 11 miles and at times steep uphill and then even steeper downhill we cut our way up towards Bolehill ( 323 metres ) and then on towards Wirksworth where we skirted the village before heading slightly easterly along Derby Old Road and Wirksworth Road . We had earlier taken a short coffee stop in what shelter we could find in a small wood on the side of a hill. Halfway along Wirksworth Road we were lucky to find The Bear public house open and happy to let some dripping wet Ramblers in for a drink after we'd eaten our sandwiches in the beer garden .This fine old pub started life as a farm / alehouse in the 1530's and still retains a good deal of that character. From here we went back into the countryside and north to Alderwasley. Mostly downhill and flat after that until we reached the towpath alongside The Cromford Canal for the short stretch back to the cars. Needless to say it had stopped raining by then. Thanks to George for leading and to Steve for the photos. CP

Saturday 12th July 2025 NOT  The Bert Ward Memorial Walk

Nine of us gathered in the shade around Holmesfield car park on a day that was forecast to be hot and was already warm enough.  Dianne had changed the walk to be more suitable for the weather.  We set off south and soon had a great view of open countryside, but we were happy to shortly be in shady lanes and woodland.  We emerged occasionally for more views as we carried on southwards before heading east to Barlow.  We had lunch on the edge of the village on a quiet road (that was closed to traffic) near a closed pub.  Most of us opted for shade.  We headed into the village to The Tickled Trout and found shade under their parasols.

We started the afternoon by walking down to Barlow Brook and, after crossing it, emerged in the middle of the fishing lakes of Barlow Country Club. The afternoon followed the shady pattern of the morning as we climbed back up to Holmesfield.  Many thanks to Dianne for working out (at short notice) a walk that was perfect for the hot day.  BU

Thursday 10th July 2025 Everton
There were 18 ramblers who turned up near the church on a very warm Thursday morning. These included 3 newcomers - Mehregan, Louise and Rohan - and there was a welcome return to Thursday walks for Brian and Julie. Rob had passed leadership to the writer Nigel who gave a short history of Everton and then described the route of 6 miles as very easy with few hazards. The group were however warned about hidden tree roots to be found in the woods.
We set off at a moderate pace down Sluice Lane in a northern direction eventually reaching Everton Carr Farm after a couple of water breaks. We then walked through a short stretch of woodland to reach a lovely view of the River Idle and grazing cattle. We had a short drinks stop and then continued back towards the outskirts of Everton. After another water break we joined Pasture Lane and entered the Barrow Hills a welcome respite from the hot sun. As we left the wood we walked through a sandy area which comprised of 2 hectares designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. We walked through part of the hamlet of Harwell and then joined a footpath leading down to Church Street, Everton, and there the ramble ended. An enjoyable walk if rather too warm by the end. Thanks to Rob for quiet back marking.
Historical note
Everton was originally a Danish settlement by name of Eofortun.In old English it signified "a farmstead where boars are seen ". The village was named in the Domesday book 1086/7 as Evratone which is only one step away from its present name. There are 23 grade two listed buildings and monuments within Everton and Harwell.
NB

Tuesday 8th July - Bishop Wilton

A warm morning greeted 17 participants outside the Fleece pub in Bishop Wilton for the customary briefing.  The route took us past the local beck on to a wolds hillside passing Old Wood andCrow Wood before morning break was taken at Beacon road with a vista of the Vale of York 800ft below us.   After the break continuing into a classic wolds valley known as Deep Dale which,  as its name suggests, is deep and with steep sides.   Exiting the dale, turning right on to an old Roman road known as the Bench for about one mile, we then cut across country towards Millington and lunch at the local pub.  After lunch, leaving Millington we pass St Ethelburga's Church and Carp ponds in Great Givendale.  From the church we crossed the road and passed through the hamlet of the same name.  We continued on the Minster Way, along the western edge of the wolds, providing long distance views of the vale below.  The path winds downhill to emerge on a road and a short distance back to Bishop Wilton.  Thanks to John as back marker and Steve forthe usual photos.  This was a 10 mile walk which took 5 hours.  ST

Saturday 5 July 2025 Stanage, Wyming Brook and Redmires

Just four of us turned up for this walk. Me, Brian, Eric and Louise (who was visiting from Ashbourne).  The walk was a repeat of the one I had led on 24 June. From Redmires to High Neb via The Pole and then back across the moors to Wyming Brook Nature Reserve.   We went down the brook and then up the steep ascent of Fox Hagg.  A brief stop at The Three Merry Lads to take on fluids and then back to Redmires.   Along the way we were variously battered by the wind on Stanage Edge, warmed by the sun as we took coffee on the moors and drizzled on as we descended Wyming Brook on the rocky and rooty waterside path.  We waded shoulder-deep through the ferns and bracken in the nature reserve woods and puffed, panted and sweated up Fox Hagg.  Also along the way we saw the carved graffiti at the pole, some new shooting butts on the moors, some nice cattle and some wild swimmers in the reservoirs.  Just an normal Ramblers walk. CP

Thursday 3 July 2025 - River Dearne and Adwick Washlands

A group of 15 from Doncaster Ramblers met to explore the River Dearne and Adwick Washlands.  From Barnburgh we walked through Harlington towards the river, noting the wall plaque that denotes the highwater mark for the 2007 floods, still a good walk from the river!  At the river there was an overview of the flood banks and the digging of a new river channel in the 1950’s that changed the course of the River Dearne to the south of the Dearne Valley Railway embankment. This was due to mining subsidence that had lowered the water course and effected the flow of the river, and the subsequent work in the 1995 to improve the river water quality and flow by reducing the river width from 12 metres to about 5 metres, which has result in the river becoming a wild life haven.
It was then a relaxing walk along the north bank of the river, towards Bolton-Upon-Dearne.  After crossing the road at Adwick Bridge, the walk continued along the river bank, now on the southern edge of the RSPB Adwick Washlands nature reserve, which is former farmland, now rewilded, with many species of birds and an important breeding ground or migration stop over.  Leaving the river the walk proceeded north following the reserve boundary footpath, then turned east where we paused for a break for twenty minutes, enjoying the views.  Leaving the nature reserve behind, we followed the old track bed of the private railway built to link Barnburgh Collery to Manvers Colliery and coking plant 2 miles away. The colliery was originally connected to the adjacent Dearne Valley Railway before the building of this private railway in 1924.  The two mine shafts at Barnburgh Colliery were sunk in 1911 by the Manvers Main Colliery Company and reached the Barnsley coal seam in 1914 and later the Parkgate seam, and site is now a local park, after the mines closure in 1989, following reclamation work and landscaping.  To finish we returned to Barnburgh along the route of the old Dearne Valley Railway. Ian Barltrop

Tuesday 1st July 2025 Rivers, Edges and Wildflower Meadows (Longshaw)
Sixteen walkers started this 11-mile circular walk from the Longshaw Estate on a warm, humid day. Moving north, following Burbage Brook upstream, before going along the top of Stanage Edge. The dry conditions and perfect visibility allowed for sweeping views over the Hope Valley.
The path then descended towards North Lees Hall. Charlotte Bronte visited the Hall several times while staying with her friend at the Vicarage in nearby Hathersage. It became the principal inspiration for Thornfield Hall in the novel ‘Jane Eyre’, described as: “three storeys high; a gentleman’s manor house; battlements round the top gave it a picturesque look”. They still do!
Passing through wildflower meadows the walkers arrived at the churchyard of St Michael and All Angels in Hathersage where lunch was taken next to the grave of Little John.
Post-lunch, the walkers followed the River Derwent downstream to Padley Gorge before following Burbage Brook through woodland back to Longshaw.
Many thanks to John for back marking and to Neil taking over Franks role of opening and closing gates which provided the group with much amusement.
AMG

Saturday 28th June 2025 Hartington Circular

Eight resilient walkers set off on an 11 mile circular walk from Hartington on a hot (high of 29 °C), sunny day. Several groups of Duke of Edinburgh students were also starting their walk here.
The walk proceeded north towards Pilsbury Castle, where the earthwork remains of a Norman motte and bailey castle sit on top of an earlier Iron Age fortification overlooking the River Dove A short mid morning break was taken near the castle allowing people time to enjoy river views and listen to bird calls rising from the valley before continuing north.
The River Dove was crossed south of Crowdicote before continuing to Longnor for lunch.
Having refreshed themselves the walkers followed the Manifold Trail south before leaving the trail to walk uphill to the village of Sheen, where duck eggs were purchased.
The final section passed through open fields, meadows and lanes back to Hartington before the cheese shop closed.
In summary, the walk combined hot summer weather, great visibility, varied limestone landscapes, a medieval castle with good company.
Many thanks to Carol and Nigel for leading this scenic walk.
AMG

Thursday, 26th June 2025 - Roche Abbey and the Two Hootons

After a bumpy ride down to the Roche Abbey car park twenty-two humans and two dogs - Alfie, a regular and Jess, a newcomer - set off in a northerly direction through the woods.  We walked alongside Maltby Dyke until it passed through a short tunnel under the South Yorkshire Joint Railway line.  This line was built in 1909 to service the eight South Yorkshire collieries.  We climbed beside the embankment and under the line into open countryside. The landscape was undulating as we headed towards Hooton Levitt.  We were close to Maltby, which we could hear but not  see through the wooded valley.  Hooton Levitt (or Levett) derives from the de Livet family, an ancient Norman family that gained control of the manor in the 12th century after marriage with the granddaughter of Richard FitzTurgis (later 'de Wickersley’), lord of the manors of Hooton and Wickersley and co-founder of nearby Roche Abbey.  Samuel Lewis describes Hooton Levett in his 1848 A Topographical Dictionary of England as "a township, in the parish of Maltby, containing 76 inhabitants. It derives the affix to its name from the family of Levett, who held lands here, up to about the time of Henry V. The township comprises by computation 470 acres; the soil is favourable, and the scenery pleasing.”

We left Hooton Levett on Carr Lane onto a difficult-to-find footpath which we followed through to Carr, with views to the north over Hellaby and the countryside beyond. We turned right as we reached Carr, then followed the round around to the left onto Ramper Road before turning left and taking a gate through some horse paddocks.  We then started a slight climb towards a wood, where a great refreshment spot awaited us.  Unfortunately, this spot was already occupied by another large group of walkers.  Nevertheless we made the best of it before moving on  through the wood, leaving it in the south-east corner through a gate into open undulating countryside once again.  We walked down towards Thurcroft Hall which, along with the surrounding  Estate are referred to as early as the 15th Century when they were in the possession of the Mirfin/Mirfield family. In 1664, Robert Mirfield died childless and through marriage the estate passed into the Beckwith family who held property at Aldborough and Ripon.

Reaching the valley bottom we turned left into the linear hamlet of Brookhouse, built alongside the dyke, into which Alfie and Jess had a paddle and a drink. Brookhouse Farm and Pear Tree Farm date back to the 17th century, with the next major development occuring with the building of the largest viaduct on the South Yorkshire Joint Railway at the end of the hamlet. The line goes to the iPort at Rossington, although all traffic to the iPort - from Immingham, Teeside, Southampton, Felixstowe, etc - reaches Rossington from the north.  However the line to the south is fully maintained, to handle the occasional shunting and to provide an emergency alternative route.

After passing through Brookhouse we turned left onto an easy-to-miss footpath which took us alongside the railway line for a short while and then across a road in Slade Hooton.  The word Hooton is thought to derive from the old English for 'farmstead and spur of land'; other explanations are thought to be from the Saxon word 'Hoo' meaning high town or spur and 'Slade' from the Norse 'Slaed' meaning valley.  Slade Hooton has a ‘Medieval settlement and moated site’ within it which are scheduled monuments.

‘ Hotone’ manor or Slade Hooton is mentioned in the doomsday book of 1086 and documented as part of the manor of Laughton-en-le-Morthen & Throapam which was held by Roger de Busli, a Norman baron who was tenant-in chief of 45 other Yorkshire Manors.
The path continued alongside the railway until the line curved north and we curved east across a huge field of barley down towards King's Wood and our return to Roche Abbey, after 7 miles, which we reached at just after 1.00.   Thanks to Rob for back-marking.

WEDNESDAY 25th June 2025 CARERS WALK NOSTELL PRIORY

The third carers walk of 2025 was at the National Trust property of Nostell Priory, formerly the home of the Winn family. Two carers and four members of Doncaster Ramblers (Neil, Jackie, Catherine and Steve) met in the car park for our 3.6 mile walk. The sky was a little overcast with a few spots of rain in the air but as the walk progressed the weather gradually improved and it was sunny and warm by the time we finished.
A short walk brought us to the stable block adjacent to the “big house” where a quick comfort break was taken. We then headed off through the parkland towards Wakefield Road calling in at Wragby parish church of St, Micheal and our Lady which lies within the Nostell Estate. Sometime was spent admiring the stained glass windows and the various plaques one of which commemorated the accidental death of a member of the Winn family whilst playing polo in India! Crossing the busy Wakefield Road, carefully, we walked through woods to the site of the reclaimed Crofton Colliery. Continuing on footpath we eventually came to the village of New Crofton where we joined another footpath which brought us back to Wakefield Road at Foulby which again we crossed with care. As short road walk then brought us to the Headquarters of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance at where a helicopter had just landed. We then followed the narrow road which took us towards the Nostell Priory Holiday Park where we reentered Nostell Priory parkland at the bottom of Obelisk Park. Following the footpath took us back to the stable block passing the lake, and crossing it on the ornate bridge, on the way and getting great views of the big house and parkland. A short walk took us back to the car park. Thanks to those who came on the walk, and thanks to Jackie, Catherine and Neil for helping out. Stephen J Tomlinson

Tuesday 24th June 2025 Stanedge Edge Wyming Brook and Redmires

Fortunately the actual weather was much better than the forecast for this walk. It was very windy but the rain generally held off so we got round without getting wet.
Fourteen of us were briefed and then left the car park adjacent to the topmost Redmires Reservoir and struck out for up the slope to Stanage Pole. The current pole marks the boundary between Derbyshire and South Yorkshire and dates from 2016 when it was re-erected following safety checks. In days gone by the pole probably marked the boundary between the old kingdoms of Mercia and Nortumberland. We carried on up a Stanedge Edge being battered by the wind to the high point at High Neb ( 458 metres ).We then swung back across the open moors towards Wyming Brook and The Rivelin Reservoirs. On the way we took a short coffee break and after jumping a small stream followed the conduit for half a mile or so before branching left and then right through the heather and fern covered path down into Wyming Brook Nature Reserve. A long and steady climb up Wyming Brook Drive took us to our lunch stop at the top of the brook itself. Having got our breath back we crossed the stepping stones and descend the brook by the rocky and slippery path alongside it. For me this beauty spot was the best bit of the walk. But what goes down must unfortunately go back up again. And so after a short flat few hundred yards by the reservoirs we turned right for a very steep ascent of Fox Hagg. The only saving grace was that hot and panting after the climb we emerged in the beer garden of The Three Merry Lads public house . We spent a few minutes there sampling it's wares before moving on to finish the walk. Across the main road and into a small wood (that used to accommodate prisoner of war camps in both the first and second world wars ) and then across farmland to the edge of the lower of the three Redmires Reservoirs. Keeping to paths as close to the water as possible we edged round one reservoir after the other until we came back to the road to the car park. Thanks to everyone who turned out .Thanks in particular to Neil for back-marking and to Steve for the photos. CP

Saturday 21st June 2025 Rivers, Edges and Wildflower Meadows
Fourteen walkers started this 11-mile circular walk from the Longshaw Estate on the warmest day of the year. Moving north, following Burbage Brook upstream, before going along the top of Stanage Edge. The dry conditions and perfect visibility allowed for sweeping views over the Hope Valley.
The path then descended towards North Lees Hall. Charlotte Bronte visited the Hall several times while staying with her friend at the Vicarage in nearby Hathersage. It became the principal inspiration for Thornfield Hall in the novel ‘Jane Eyre’, described as: “three storeys high; a gentleman’s manor house; battlements round the top gave it a picturesque look”. They still do!
Passing through wildflower meadows the walkers arrived at the churchyard of St Michael and All Angels in Hathersage where lunch was taken next to the grave of Little John. The church was full of beautiful flowers for a wedding which was about to commence.
Post-lunch, the walkers followed the River Derwent downstream to Padley Gorge before following Burbage Brook back to Longshaw. This section took the walkers through woodland which helped to protect them from a short spell of rain.
Many thanks to Brian for back marking.
AMG

 Thursday, 19th June 2025 Wadworth - Parson's Carr Nature Reserve

On a very warm morning thirteen of us met behind the church in Wadworth. After a brief briefing and the appointment of a back-marker we set on down the road to Lovesall.  We turned right onto Rakes Lane.  After a few modern houses we passed an allotment with a stunning show of wild flowers.  We then passed Loversall Hall, where two of our number had once worked.  The Hall, which is adjacent to St Katherine's Church,  is a large house its front built by the Fenton family of Leeds between 1808 and 1816, although the buildings at the rear are probably seventeenth century. Loversall was part of the manor of Doncaster, and its church, dedicated to St Katherine, was technically a chapel of ease in the parish of Doncaster, rather than a fully-fledged parish church.  Continuing along Rakes Lane we walked past Low Farm and then round towards the lakes, created in 2017, which make up a significant portion of the Parson's Carr nature reserve.  There was bird life aplenty around the lakes and we made our way towards the bridge over the rail line which makes up the iPort.

A public consultation was initiated in 2006 for the iPort in association with a major expansion of nearby Rossington and the building of the link road..  In 2009 a planning application was submitted for a $516 million rail terminal with warehousing.  An estimated 4000 jobs were to be created.  Jumping ahead to 2025 rail freight services are run to and from Southampton, Felixstowe, Teesport and Immingham six days a week, moving around 500 containers per day.  The iPort also has customs facilities so that trains can be sent through the Channel Tunnel. 

After a brief stop to take in the size of the terminal we continued alond the track alongside the terminal, stopping for refreshments in the shade of some trees, a very welcome respite. The Yorkshire Wildlife Trust manages Parson's Carr and the reserve is set to provide huge benefits for rare and declining wildlife, including turtle doves, yellowhammer and newts, thanks to generous grants from FCC Communities Foundation and LNER Community Investment Fund.  The Trust have been transforming the land to the west of the iPort into a mixture of wetland, grassland and woodland mosaic. The new habitats at Parson’s Carr nature reserve have also been carefully chosen so that they are in keeping with the surrounding arable landscape.
The funding  has helped the Trust to purchase native breed highland cattle, and install fencing and associated infrastructure, to allow conservation grazing at the site. Conservation grazing is a traditional form of land management, and the way that cattle browse and move for the landscape creates lots of different grass heights and bare patches perfect for encouraging a huge range of different species. In time, the grassland at Parson’s Carr with be blooming with wildflowers like spotted orchids, bursting with butterflies, and buzzing with birdlife, such as lapwings and curlews.

Reaching the end of this track we turned right onto Carr Lane, which led us directly back to Wadworth, which we reached just after midday.  Thanks to John for back-marking. David Gadd

Tuesday 17 June 2025 Lets Hit The Beach

17 Doncaster Ramblers and two guests from Scunthorpe and Grimsby met in the car park at Weelsby Woods Car Park on the outskirts of Cleethorpes. The woods were used as a military training ground during WW1 and then as a prisoner of war camp for Italians POWs during WW2 , but little evidence of this remains today. We were welcomed and briefed by Pete about the nature and structure of the walk before setting off across the park and into the adjacent woodland. It was dry and still a little overcast as we got going but the forecast was for a hot sunny day. And so it proved to be. It got warmer and warmer as the day went on . By the time we finished we were basking in 25 degrees . A perfect day to 'Hit the Beach' in Cleethorpes . First we went south across fields and farmland and then swung east towards the sea at Humberston. A brief coffee break by a small pond and then on into the semi-urban approaches to the Humber estuary seaside. We found the coastline through a large static caravan park and paused there for a while to enjoy the views out to sea with old coastal defence forts and container ships in the distance . Then it was north up the sandy promenade path towards Cleethorpes. On the edge of the town we crossed the Greenwich Meridian just before stopping for lunch. A post lunch drink was taken at The Signal Box Inn . At just 8feet X 8 feet this claims to be the ' smallest pub on the planet '. We then made our way back to the cars through some of the streets of Cleethorpes. Hot and perspiring after a varied and interesting walk we said our thanks to Pete and Julie for leading and back-marking before heading home. Thanks to Steve for the photos. CP

Saturday 14th Jun 2025 - Rushup Edge

9 of us gathered on Old Mam Tor Road just outside Castleton on a cloudy morning that threatened rain. The walk started gently along the Hope Valley, but it gradually became steeper as we climbed up Little Mam Tor to views back down the valley. Further climbing took us to Rushup Edge and views of Edale with patches of sunshine. We followed Rushup Edge (still uphill) to Lord's Seat for a break and a chance to enjoy the views of Edale. Refreshed, we continued to follow Rushup Edge before descending towards Rushop Hall where we turned off to head towards Sparrowpit. In a lovely spot in the open fields we stopped at a memorial to the 20 year old Jonathon Jodrell. Following a path through a private garden can be awkward, but we were welcomed by the owner who told us he eats the nettles that we had recently walked through (boiled they lose their sting and taste like spinach). He then asked if we'd seen the nearby mineshaft. We hadn't so he took us to see it. The disused and flooded Coalpithole lead mine shaft is still impressively wide and deep (it was originally over 600 feet deep). Coming back from the shaft, it started to rain and we were kindly invited to shelter in a shed with a pony and some hand-reared lambs. We gladly accepted and in a few minutes the shower had passed and we made our way through the garden heading still towards Sparrowpit (now with the information that the name derives from "spar row pit" - spar referring to fluorspar, which was mined in the area and row the row of cottages the miners lived in). We reached Sparrowpit as they were setting up for a festival, but we carried on to have our lunch on the edge of a wood near Perry Dale.

We walked down into Perry Dale and along it for a while before heading upwards and through Conies Dale towards Rowter Farm. Emerging above Hope Valley near Peak Cavern, many of us recognised the familiar shape of Win Will. Our cars were soon in sight as we zig zagged down to them.

Thanks to Peter for leading this walk with great views and lots of other interesting features too.

BU

Thursday 12tth July 2025 Idle Valley Nature Reserve

24 ramblers attended at the Reserve an area of 450 hectares of which 317 hectares are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It is the largest reserve in the care of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and particularly important for wetland birds of whom 251 species have been recorded so far.
Our leader, Nigel, referred to the above information and introduced three newcomers - Erica, Graham and John Mally. John, from Worksop Ramblers, was also in attendance again. We were informed that this walk was a gentle ramble of 6.5 miles following the River Idle north at first. We set off after Rob provided a risk assessment. It was a warm day but with a breeze, which was welcome at times. After initial hesitancy as to the correct footpath to choose on the part of the leader all went smoothly alongside the river. We stopped for coffee/early lunch at Chainbridge Lane and then began the walk back through the Reserve. We then walked on a gravel path at Sutton Grange which meant that we encountered some tractors and lorries throwing up excessive dust over us. It would have been helpful if we had brought our old covid masks with us! The ramble continued deeper into the Reserve, passing close to Lound and Sutton cum Lound and by this time it was increasingly humid. The visitor centre cafe was therefore a welcome relief for many at the end of a lovely walk. Thanks to Rob for back-marking and support for the leader and John Malley for the photos.
Nigel Ball

Tuesday 10th Jun 2025. Fairburn Ings and Three Villages.
Sixteen members of Doncaster Ramblers met in the car park of the RSPB Nature Reserve at Fairburn Ings. Fairburn Ings is a large wetland with lakes which is a sanctuary for many migrating bird species. Though the ground was originally low lying and subject to flooding from the nearby River Aire subsidence from historic coal mining led to the formation of large lakes which are protected from the River Aire by a high embankment created from mining waste.
After a safety briefing from out walk leader Phil a short walk along a road brought us to a footpath which took us to the pretty village of Ledston passing fields of wildflowers on route. A footpath out of Ledston brought us to the A656 which follows the line of a Roman road which we followed for about 500m then it was off into fields again which this time contained abundant Poppies in flower. We arrived at our coffee stop in the Memorial Ground and sports field at Kippax where we sat on benches overlooking the immaculate cricket pitch. Refreshed we walked across the football pitch and through a housing estate to pick up the footpath to Ledston Luck where we again crossed the Roman road and then picking up the footpath which took us to our lunch stop in the lovely small village of Ledsham where we made us of the benches under a tree and by the road side. Our lunch stop was opposite the Chequers Inn so it would have been remiss of us not to support the local hospitality industry. Refueled we set of again in bright sunshine following the road through the village before turning onto a footpath which followed a dry limestone valley to the village of Fairburn. A downhill section brought us to the RSPB nature reserve where we followed the footpath on the embankment between the River Aire and the large lake back to our start point at the RSPB visitors center.
Thanks to Phil for leading this lovely 10mile walk, to Stuart for back marking and everybody else for turning up. Stephen J Tomlinson

 Saturday 7th June 2025 - Matlock

9 of us gathered in Lumsdale expecting rain, but split about whether to dress for it from the start. The walk soon took us uphill to the first views of the day which were over the valley where we had parked. After some more gentle ups and downs through woods and fields we emerged near Cocking Tor to an expansive view where we had our morning break. We soon had a distant-looking view of Riber Castle, but we first descended through Tansley Knoll to Tansley. From there it was uphill to Riber Castle for lunch.

As we finished our lunch it started to rain, though the heaviness wasn't obvious to those sheltered by trees. With everyone in waterproofs, we set off around Riber Castle and headed down to Old Matlock after taking in the great views over Matlock (now that the rain had proved to be just a shower). Having pointed out before lunch some pubs that he wasn't taking us to, our leader finally offered us the chance to stop at one, so we stopped at The Duke William Matlock. We then made our way through Matlock Green and up Lumsdale back to our cars.

Thanks to Peter Miller for leading a lovely scenic walk.

Thursday 5th Jun 2025 - Don't give a "Cus"if you don't like it. But it's worth the effort.

Today 20 walkers attended the walk on what was a damp June day.  We had one new walker, Graham, who joined us for his first walk with us.  We set off along field paths towards an underpass under the A1.   We were met by rather inclement weather,  a heavy rain shower, but unperturbed we carried on to Sprotbrough.  We passed the 12 century church and wallked down to the river where coffee stop was enjoyed.  The sun finally came out on the walkers and we continued along the River Don to the disused railway and eventually back to Cusworth Hall, which was  built in mid 1700s.  The gardens were landscaped by Richard Wood at the request of the Wrightson Batty family.  Despite the weather in the early part of the walk the walk was enjoyed by all. TL

Wednesday 4 June 2025 Maintenance Team Work Report,
Wednesday 4th June 2025 saw four members of Doncaster Ramblers and a City of Doncaster Rights of Way Manager meet in Norton to replace a number of wooden marker posts. These posts, as with others at several locations around Doncaster, presented some logistic problems because of their distance from a suitable access point. Details of the work carried out is given below.

Footpath Norton 3. Was accessed down a farmers track and across a railway crossing which involved talking to a signalman to get permission to cross. Having crossed the railway line there was a 200m walk carrying all the equipment and materials to install one of the two posts on this footpath.

Footpath Norton 14. Materials and equipment were carried a distance of 300m before getting to location to install one post. Fortunately, the farmer had left a good path through the crop so the footpath could be seen easily

Footpath Norton12. Two posts were installed on the South Yorkshire/North Yorkshire County boundary which follows the banks of the River Went. Both marker posts had been missing for some time.

All of the new marker posts required new holes to be dug prior to installation. This was hard work due to the stoney nature ground and the recent absence of rain baking the ground.

A total of 14-man hours was spent on these tasks.
Stuart Twell 06.06.2025

 Tuesday 3rd June 2025 Bakewell, Chatsworth and Rowsley circular walk.

Eleven walkers, set out on this 10-mile circular walk from Coombs Road in Bakewell. The first part was a small section of the Monsal Trail, formerly part of the Manchester, Buxton, Matlock, and Midland Junction Railway.
The route then went uphill through Bakewell golf course, with the walkers ringing the bell to warn golfers of their presence, before ascending steeply through Manners Wood. Open pastures offered expansive views of the limestone landscape with Chatsworth House in the distance. The path then descended towards Edensor village famous for its picturesque cottages and the Grade I listed All Saints' Church, founded in 920.
Proceeding to Chatsworth House through the parkland landscaped by Capability Brown. The route continued along the River Derwent, following the Derwent Valley Heritage Way to Rowsley before the final leg back to Coombes Road.
The rain stopped just before the start of the walk to be followed by warm, sunny weather which made for an excellent walking day.
Many thanks to Neil for back marking. AMG

Saturday, 31st May2025 Hade Edge

Ten walkers, including two from other groups, and a small pink plastic duck, (found at the start of the walk), set off from the Bowshaw Trout Inn, a traditional pub at Hade Edge south of Holmfirth. Attached to the duck was a note from a child whose Mum has stage 4 breast cancer. The note asked the finder to take the duck on an adventure and then share a photo on Facebook.
The route followed paths leading to the Kirklees Way, a long-distance trail running through the Holme Valley. The walk went through the village of Hepworth, known for its picturesque stone cottages and proximity to the scenic Meal Hill, which offered a pleasant spot for a brief rest.
After the break, the path ascended to Hullock Bank, providing expansive views of the surrounding countryside. The highest point of the walk was reached at High Brow. Excellent visibility gave panoramic views of the Holme Valley with both the Victoria Tower and Emley Moor mast in the distance clearly visible.
Descending from High Brow, the path meandered through valleys and woodlands, leading to Cheese Gate Nab. Continuing through the hamlet of Barnside, the route followed Harden Clough, a scenic valley known for its natural beauty. The walk concluded back at the Bowshaw Trout Inn, completing this 10-mile circular route.
On the way the group carried out a bit of footpath maintenance, repairing a gate which had come off its hinges. The weather was mostly cloudy with intervals of sunshine and a high of 23°C, making for a perfect walk.
Many thanks to Peter for leading this interesting and varied walk.  AMG

Thursday 29th May 2025 - You won't get "Dun" for for walking this one

23 walkers turned up for the canal walk including two new walkers, John and Jane.  We were rewarded by the visit of a heron on the canal; he paid us visits as we were walking, conveniently landing on trees and posing  for photos.  We walked along canal side until swing bridge at Barnby Dun .  We then proceeded along the opposite bank to metal bridge over river and on to lunch stop at Bramwith bridge.   After coffee we proceeded over a lock on the opposite bank and along to a canal with numerous canal boats.  Lots of chattering could be heard along the route until we reached the cars.  A good day was had by all.  The group was reminded to try and share cars for next week's walk due to the  cost of parking. TL

WEDNESDAY28th May 2025 CARERS WALK NORMANBY HALL,

The second Carers Walk of 2025 took place at Normanby Hall on Wednesday 28 May 2025 on a dry and reasonably sunny day which was fortunate as we have had a few wet days after a prolonged dry and sunny period. Three carers joined Steve and Neil of Doncaster Ramblers for a 3.2 mile walk from Normanby Hall to Burton upon Stather and back. Leaving the Hall the five of us walked single file for a short distance on a road before turning off onto a footpath which took us through fields and woodland to Burton upon Stather where we stopped for 10 minutes and sat on the benches in the village park for a quick drink and snacks.
Many thanks to Neil for helping out on today’s walk. Walking through the park a short distance brought us bank into fields which were being used on a large scale (hundreds of acres) for growing turf. We all commented the grass quality was much better than our green patches at home! A series of tracks with more turf growing brought us back to the B1430 which follows the boundary wall of the Normanby estate. Unfortunately, the pedestrian access gate by the main estate gates was locked so it was a short walk on a road pavement back to our start point at the coach park of Normanby Hall.
Stephen Tomlinson 28.05.25
The present Normanby Hall was built between 1825 and 1830 for Sir Robert Sheffield and remained in possession of the family until 1963. The house is currently under the control of North Lincolnshire Council. Samamtha Cameron wife of the former Prime Minister David Cameron and eldest daughter of the eighth baronet grew up on the estate.

Tuesday 27 May 2025 Erewash Valley and The Iron Giant

17 Ramblers turned out for this walk in what I think was an area unfamiliar to most of us. From the free car park at Bramcote Park we had a short stretch through a housing area to get to the true start of the walk where we picked up the towpath at the side of The Erewash Canal. We began the walk in good weather but it was not to last. The forecast had led us to believe that the rain would hold off at least until the afternoon. But in fact it started at about 10.30 am and carried on for the rest of the day. Only stopping ( as rain so often does ) when we got back to the car park. The walk along the canal was lovely. We were to some extent sheltered by the trees and could enjoy looking at the interesting houseboats and attractive gardens etc on the far side. Our coffee break was wisely taken under one of the canal bridges at Hanging Gallows on the outskirts of Ilkeston. The halfway point and lunch stop was at The Bennerley Viaduct aka ' The Iron Giant '. After climbing up and walking along the top to admire the views over the Erewash Valley we descended and sheltered under the massive wrought iron legs of the structure to eat our sandwiches. The viaduct was built in 1877-8 to carry coal across the valley. Today it is looked after by The Friends Of Bennerley Viaduct whose excellent website gives a fascinating picture of its history. After lunch we cut across the shallow valley to get to the now disused Nottingham Canal. Not navigable (in the way that The Erewash Canal is ) this canal has sections that are silted up and others that are more akin to long ponds than stretches of canal. Lots of ducks, swans and two or three herons to look at and hold or interest . Again we had the benefit of tree cover most of the way .The last section of the walk broke away from the canal side to take us over Stapleford Hill and back to Bramcote .We arrived fairly wet for the most part but having been treated to a great walk and some fascinating facts by John. Thanks to him for leading. Stuart for back marking and to Steve for the photos. CP

Saturday, 24th May2025 Brockholes

Four walkers embarked on a 11-mile circular, but varied, route through the Holme Valley. The walk started and ended in the village of Brockholes to the north of Holmfirth, on a cool but dry day with excellent visibility.
The trail meandered through Honley Woods, a scenic area known for its natural beauty, before ascending to Upperthong. There were spectacular views over the surrounding landscape with both the|Victoria Tower (built on top of Castle Hill) and the Emley Moor mast in the distance clearly visible.
Lunch was taken at Netherthong, a village located on higher ground than Netherthong, with the names possibly designating higher and lower strips of land.
The return leg followed the River Holme, providing pleasant riverside views.
Many thanks to Carol and Nigel for leading this wonderful walk.
AMG

Thursday 22nd May 2025; Langold & Hodsock

A group of 21 ramblers with the leader assembled at Langold Lake & Country Park for this six mile walk heading east towards Hodsock. It was a rather cloudy morning and most people chose to keep their coats on. Following the leader briefing, the walk got underway initially through the woods before emerging at the other Country Park car park with the café. We crossed with care the busy A60 road and took a minor road opposite. We used this road for quite some distance, keeping clear of the occasional lorry travelling to a building site a little further on. The road turned into a dirt track before long and made for good going. A few houses were passed before we took a right turn through an avenue of trees and then through a ploughed field where a good distinct path had been provided. Not unexpectedly underfoot conditions were very dry. By now Hodsock Priory was not far away. The group had a morning break just outside the main gate underneath a large tree. Upon the resumption of the walk, we used further field footpaths, taking us past Hodsock Lodge Farm to a point in the walk where we rejoined our earlier route. From here we made our way back to the main road, fortunately without any lorries which were a feature of earlier, then through the woods back to the car park. Thanks to Peter Gravestock for back marking. David Horne 22/5.

 Maintenance Team Work Report, Wednesday 21 May 2025
Wednesday 21st May 2025 saw 5 Doncaster Ramblers and 1 representative from DCC carrying out work in Fishlake which involved repairing a gate and fitting a new marker post.

The gate on footpath Fishlake 15 had been knocked down several weeks earlier by electricity board contractors who were clearing vegetation near overhead wires,
The team recycled the gate which was in one piece and erected new fencing either side of the reinstalled gate.

The other task was fitting a marker post on footpath Fishlake 6 to improve path visibility. Some vegetation clearance was also carried out.

A total of 10 man hours was taken to complete both tasks.

Next session is on Wednesday 4 June 2025
Stuart Twell 23.05.2025

Tuesday 20 May 2025 Reservoirs and Moors
Another terrific day weatherwise. Bright and a bit on the chilly side to start but then it really warmed up through the morning and afternoon. Clear blue skies all day and so we enjoyed some wonderful views as we crossed the tops of the moors. We started just outside Ewden village. After the briefing from Phil who had arranged the walk we set off and circumnavigated More Hall Reservoir and then went along one side of the adjacent Broomhead Reservoir. Both of them were worrying low after all the dry weather. We stopped for coffee at one of the 'beaches' overlooking what was left of the water in Broomhead. So far it had been flat and easy ( apart from the exposed tree roots ) but it wasn't to last . We were soon climbing up and over the moors in the general direction of High Bradfield. Dropping down on the edge of the village we first found the lovely church yard of St Nicholas' church and then the garden of the Old Horns Inn for a very welcome lunch break. But they say 'there is no rest for the wicked' and the steep uphill section out of High Bradfield and back onto the moors was certainly wicked. But when we got to the top the views made it worthwhile. Back over our shoulders to the west we could see Agden, Dale Pike and then Strines reservoirs in the distance. To the east it was the edge of Sheffield and Damflask Reservoir to the south. Superb. Coming off the moor we went past Snell House Farm and then down through the woods back to the edge of More Hall Reservoir and the cars. Eleven and a half miles of varied and lovely if sometimes testing walking. A great day out. Thanks to Phil for arranging the walk and to George and Deet for leading. Angela back marked and Steve did the photos as usual . CP

Saturday 17th June 2025 Hoping To See A Tropical Sea
Seventeen ramblers, and one dog, gathered outside the Tourist Information Centre in Castleton for this 10-mile walk. The weather although chilly at first was perfect, sunny and dry becoming warmer as the day progressed.
As we entered Cave Dale we passed through the seaward edge of a former coral reef formed when Britain occupied a position nearer the equator. This limestone valley through the former reef was created by glacial meltwater. Frequent stops up Cave Dale made the going easier and allowed the group to see the back of Peveril Castle, one of England’s earliest Norman fortresses.
Elevenses was taken at Mam Nik picnic site. Exiting via the top of the picnic site meant that we were already a third of the way up Mam Tor, making our climb to the triangulation pillar at 517 meters a little easier. The remains of a Bronze Age hill fort are still visible near the summit. A good picture of the location of the former tropical sea, now occupied by the villages of Castleton and Hope could be seen.
The walk along the ridge, which separates the Dark Peak to the north and the White Peak to the south, gave us spectacular views over both the Edale and Hope valleys. It also gave a view of both the face of Mam Tor, known as the ‘Shivering mountain’ (the largest landslide in the UK) and the former road to Manchester whose repair has been abandoned due to the land beneath slowly moving downslope.
This ridge walk between Mam Tor and Lose Hill is marked by gentle undulations and a steep climb up Back Tor. Lunch was taken on Lose Hill overlooking Hope and Castleton before descending the grassy slopes into Hope.
A leisurely walk along the riverside path, following the River Noe, took us back to Castleton providing a tranquil conclusion to the walk.
Thanks to Brian for back marking.
AMG

Thursday, 15th May '25 - Hooton Roberts Ramble

Twenty of us met in the car park of the Earl of Strafford in Hooton Roberts on a cool Thursday morning.  Thomas Wentworth, 1st Earl of Strafford (1593 – 1641), was an English statesman and a major figure in the period leading up to the English Civil War.  He served in Parliament and was a supporter of King Charles I. From 1632 to 1640 he was Lord Deputy of Ireland, where he established a strong authoritarian rule. Recalled to England, he became a leading advisor to the King, attempting to strengthen the royal position against Parliament.  When Parliament condemned Lord Strafford to death, Charles reluctantly signed the death warrant and Strafford was executed. He was created 1st Baron Wentworth in 1628, 1st Viscount Wentworth in late 1628 or early 1629, and, finally, 1st Earl of Strafford in January 1640.  During the briefing another plea was made for more members to lead walks as well as to consider joining the committee.  We left the Earl and passed through the adjoining churchyard of the Church of St John the Baptist.  The first Earl of Strafford's widow lived at the manor house and, when she died in 1688 at the age of 83, she was buried secretly by torch light in the chancel of the church.  There is a memorial to her husband at Wentworth Woodhouse, where he was thought to have been buried.  However, in 1895, when work was being carried out near the altar in St John's, three unknown skeletons were found, one appearing to be headless. They were thought to be the Earl, his wife and 16-year-old daughter, who had rickets, as one of the skeletons had signs of this disease.  

We walked down the minor road and turned north at the bottom to gently climb, before descending to the track leading to Grange farm and then down again to the road leading into Old Denaby.  After about half a mile we turned up into Denaby Wood, comomg out of the woods at Denaby Thicks, where we stopped for our refreshments in a playground.  Suitably refreshed we continued up the hill to skirt Conisbrough, crossing the A630 and then walking along the old track known as Park Lane.  Proposals are in hand to create a major solar farm on this land where, records show, in 1393 580 deer were killed in the great hunting forest of Conisbrough.  After following Park Lane for about half a mile we turned right onto a crossfield path, significantly cracked through the lack of rain, which took us gently down to the hamlet of Firsby.  On our left we noted the air shafts created when an underground pipe was installed to take water from the reservoir at Firsby to Doncaster.  The reservoir is now a nature reserve. Leaving Firsby we gently climbed a crossfield path to Hooton Cliff before descending through a wood, with springs making the route very muddy in places, to Back Lane and thence into Hooton Roberts again, where many of us went into the Earl for food and drinks.  Many thanks to Derek and Willow for ensuring that we didn't lose anybody!  DG

Tuesday 13 May 2025 A Mining Heritage Walk
Probably the driest walk we will do this year. Not a cloud in the sky and warm and bright with just a light breeze when 22 of us met at The Teversal Trail Visitors Centre. So it was sunglasses and shorts all round. Comprehensively briefed by John and Richard we set off. The walk would take us firstly along the Teversal Trail. Once the route of the railway connecting the numerous mines in the area it is now reclaimed and houses small lakes and nature reserves. Then on through Ault Hucknall to The Hardwick Hall Estate and after that through Silverhill Country Park before getting back to the start. About 10.5 miles . Flatish all the way and mostly on good tracks and paths but with one or two unavoidable stretches of single track roads. A good mixture of open farmland, dappled woodland and well kept NT estate lands. There was never a time when the views were not splendid in all directions. Morning coffee was taken beside one of the small lakes just after passing Pleasley Colliery ( see below ) where we enjoyed watching some of the wild fowl on the water. Lunch was beside another lake. This time in the grounds of Hardwick Hall. A short step then took us to The Hardwick Inn for a quick postprandial drink in the beer garden. The commemorative statue entitled Testing For Ga ( see photos ) provided an afternoon highlight in Silverhill Country Park. Once again the views from the small hill on which it stands were excellent. Thanks to John and Richard for leading and back marking a superb walk. ( their first as leaders ).

Pleasley Colliery was sunk in the 1870's to provide coal for blast furnaces. The lease was granted to Lord of The Manor Mr William Edward Nightingale who was the father of Florence Nightingale . She is reputed to have cut the first sod on the commencement of the sinking. The mine closed around 1986 and is now open as an above ground only visitor attraction.
Ault Hucknall claims to be England's smallest village with just a church ( with some remarkably full graveyards ) and three cottages
Silver Hill is an artificial hill which was landscaped by Nottinghamshire Council in 2005and is one of the highest points in the county at 204.3 metres.

 Saturday, 10th May2025 Holmfirth Folk festival

Seventeen walkers, including Colette and Stuart from Huddersfield ramblers, set off on this 11.5 mile walk from Hade Edge. The day was warm and sunny

making it perfect for walking.
The group descended to Brownhill Reservoir, then proceeded to Holme and Digley Reservoir before reaching Holmfirth, where the annual Folk Festival was taking place.
Here the walkers were entertained by various performances, including Morris dancing, live music and a choir, all of which brought a lively atmosphere to the town. After enjoying the festivities, the return leg of the walk involved a steady climb back to Hade Edge. This route provided wonderful views of the area's natural landscapes and cultural heritage.
Many thanks to Martin for leading this walk and to George for back marking.
AMG

Thursday 8th May 2025 – Laxton

Fifteen Ramblers attended outside the Dovecote Inn and the visitor centre in this charming and historic village, the last place in England to retain and operate the ancient open field system. We set off on a rather cool morning after a short address by our walk leader Rob and after walking through the village we joined a public footpath which very soon led us to the first of the open fields. We skirted West Field before heading south into Mill Field. Some of the paths were extremely uneven because of the dry weather and care had to be taken at times. At one point the parties somewhat bizarrely decided to have a competition to see who could best whistle grass stalks ....the writer could not recall who was the winner!
The signposting in the early part of the walk was fairly non-existent but a recce by Rob a couple of days previously proved successful and we reached the village of Kneesall for a welcome coffee/lunch. On the way back we passed near to the third remaining South Field and as we entered Laxton we came across an unusual sight on a hawthorn hedge. This appeared to be a large silver spider's web but was in fact a species of ermine moth probably called Orchard Ermine which protected its caterpillars with the web. Thanks to Dianne for the natural history research. Back in the centre of the village some of us enjoyed a drink at the pub after an interesting ramble well led by Rob.
Historical note
The open field system came about when landowners provided strips of land to their serfs to farm and these strips were rotated yearly for the benefit of the serfs. There were originally four fields, the other being East Field but this was discontinued. The visitor centre provides more information and there is a fascinating map of the area in the church.
Nigel Ball

Tuesday 6th May 2025 Chalkland Way Walk

Nineteen ramblers met at the large car park at Millington Wood (SE 83767 53037) on a slightly chilly morning. During the briefing Alasdair shared some information about the local area. The Yorkshire Wolds is Britains most northerly chalk outcrop. Todays walk follows part of the Chalkland Way and the Minster way, both devised by Ray Wallis of East Yorkshire Ramblers https://www.eastyorkshireramblers.org.uk/
Another walk in the area follows some of the paths of the Wold Rangers. This group of nomadic farm workers roamed the Yorkshire Wolds from 18th to 20th century seeking shelter and food in exchange for work. A circular walk and shorter walks are described on the website https://woldrangersway.org/history.php

Neil led us along the lane to Millington and then joined the Minster Way to climb Wan Dale. We turned left and walked along the ridge admiring Sylvan Dale before dropping down and climbing the ridge along Millington Dale. We watched red kites flying along the valley during our coffee break and then continued to walk along Frendal Dale. The weather had warmed and the continuing “undulations” of the landscape required reducing layers of clothing. The abundance of wildlife and flowers gave many excuses to loiter and take photographs. We continued along the Chalkland Way until we reached the lane at Greenwich farm where we turned west and soon reached a welcome picnic site with many picnic benches.
After lunch we continued west along a path to join the “The Bence” Roman Road walking south. We then continued through Millington Pastures back to the car park.
Overall a very enjoyable walk along good paths in the beauty of the Yorkshire Wolds amongst great company. Thanks to Neil for planning and leading the walk and Alasdair for back marking.

Alasdair

Saturday 3 May 2025 Epworth Owston Ferry Loop

19 of us met in the free car parking at The Belton Coffee House just off the A161 north of Epworth for the start of this walk. About 11.5 miles to Owston Ferry and back . A couple of busy roads to cross on the way out of and then back into Epworth and a little bit of roadside stuff in Owston Ferry and Epworth centres but otherwise all on paths and tracks across open farmland. Nice and flat with only a couple of gates and stiles. Just as well the weather was dry and settled however because the the terrain is wide open with very little shelter. You would not want to do it in wind and rain. We set off adjacent to the main road before crossing and heading east. Skirting around the top side of Epworth towards the Trent. The fields were looking good in the spring sunshine with many having been planted with peas and sugar beet that was beginning to show in the rich soil. A quick coffee stop on the edge of a wood before striking south to Owston Ferry along Blackdyke Road. We cut into Owston across the fields to the north of the village and found ourselves at the recreation ground where we made use of the seats and tables for lunch. Then it was down into the village to find The Crooked Billet pub that backs onto the river. Here we were made very welcome once again by the owners Rachel and Jonathan. The Crooked Billet is full of character and charm . It would have been easy to stay and enjoy their hospitality longer but the second half of the walk beckoned so we said our farewells and headed back towards Epworth. The return leg was essentially a bit of a yomp. Firstly a long straight and gradually upward track towards High and Low Burnham before turning north across more of those open fields to Epworth. Through the town past The Old Rectory and John Wesley's statue before rejoining our path from the morning back across the main road back to the car park. Thanks to Angela for the photos and to Brian for back marking .CP

Saturday, 26th April 2025 Derwent Valley and Moors

Twelve walkers set off from Cutthroat Bridge on this 11-mile walk on a cloudy, dry day. The path followed the lower route beside Ladybower Reservoir towards the former village of Ashopton. This reservoir, located in the Upper Derwent Valley, was constructed between 1935 and 1943 and resulted in the submergence of the villages of Derwent and Ashopton. This section offered scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding hills.
The route then ascended to Lost Lad and Back Tor where lunch was taken. Continuing along Derwent Edge, passing landmarks such as Dovestone Tor, the Salt Cellar, White Tor and Wheel Stones before returning along a track to Cutthroat Bridge.
This area is known for its distinctive gritstone tors and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The walk provided a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, giving an insight into the region's past and its transformation due to the construction of the reservoir.
Many thanks to Peter for leading this varied and interesting walk.

AMG

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
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Thursday 24th April '24 - Tickhill Inner Circle

On a cool cloudy morning twenty-four of us met at The Buttercross in Tickhill.  We strolled around to the castle gateway for the briefing - much quieter than at the Buttercross.  After a brief walk description and the appointment of a back-marker a requst was made for volunteers to join the committee.  Then some information on  the castle was given.  After the Battle of Hastings, in 1066, it started as a motte and bailey earthwork named Blyth Castle, built by Roger de Busli, a major landholder in the Domesday Book holding 174 estates in Nottinghamshire and land granted to him by William the Norman (Conqueror). This site was chosen, on the Notthinghamshire/Yorkshire border, as Roger held authority in both counties.  After a siege in 1102 Robert Bloet added a curtain wall, the first part of the castle to be built of stone.  From 1151 to 1153 the castle was held by Ranulf de Gernon before his death from poisoning.  In 1180 construction began on an 11-sided or circular keep on top of the motte by Henry 11.  It was completed in 1192.  Jumping forward a few hundred years to the early 1600s, and the castle was in poor repair; the lease was obtained in 1612 by Sir Ralph Hansby, who had the castle repaired and fortified.  During the English Civil War the castle remained loyal to the crown, with Major Monckton set in charge of the castle after Sir Ralph's death in 1643.  In 1644, John Lilburne and 200 dragoons from the Earl of Manchester's army marched to Tickhill, and accepted the castle's surrender.  The castle was razed in 1648 to prevent its use as a stronghold in the future.  After the Civil War, the Hansby family built a large house, which retains the fortified Norman gatehouse. The site of the bailey is now part of the gardens. The castle is now a private residence and is maintained by the Duchy of Lancaster, and opened to the public one day a year.

The walk set out around Tickhill Mill Dam and onto Water Lane, which we followed to the seat provided by the Tickhill and District Footpath Group.  We crossed the new footbridge and turned right before the kissing gate (installed by Doncaster Ramblers) and crossed a field to a wooden stile, around the edge of the next field to a metal stile, which we crossed and headed towards a path alongside the noisy A1M.  At the end of this path we passed under the A1M and into Paper Mill Lane for a short distance before taking a footpath to the right towards the River Torne.  After crossing the footbridge over the Torne we stopped for our refreshment break.  After this break we continued alongside the Torne until we reached Sheepwash Lane, where we turned left.   After about half a mile we turned left into Brackencroft Lane, undoubtedly an ancient trackway, with a raised bank on one side.  At the end we turned right, briefly, before rossing the A1M and then taking a steep descent to walk behind and then through a new hosing estate and ultimately onto the Tithes Lane recreation park and back the Buttercross just before 12.15.  Thanks to Malc and Milo for back-marking and to everyone for their company on a pleasant Thursday morning walk of just under five miles.  David Gadd  

WEDNESDAY 23rd Apr 2025 CARERS WALK BRODSWORTH HALL,

The first Carers Walk for 2025 took place at Brodsworth Hall on Wednesday 23 April on a dry and reasonably sunny day though it did get a bit chilly when the sun went behind the clouds. Only one carer, Alan, joined Steve, Catherine and Jackie of Doncaster Ramblers on a 4 mile walk to and around Brodsworth Community Woodland which has been created from the waste tip of the former Brodsworth Colliery. Leaving the Hall the four of us walked along the Hall access road and through fields to Pickburn village. After a short distance walking on roads, past the abandoned Pickburn Arms, we crossed the A1 via a footbridge which gave direct access into the Community Woodland. Walking on gravel tracks we reached the summit of what was coal waste having walked through tree lined areas. What a change from the black scar which dominated the landscape some 25 years ago! At the summit we stopped for a group photo, it was then downhill past a pond created during the tip reclamation, then back across the A1 on the footbridge we had used earlier. It was then back through Pickburn village walking along quite roads admiring the old Brodsworth Estate worker cottages until we reached the driveway to the Hall. It was then a short walk up the driveway to the Hall and a welcome cup of tea or coffee at the café.
Whilst we were walking Angela of Doncaster Ramblers, who volunteers at the Hall as a garden guide, gave 10 of the carers a guided tour around the stunning gardens at Brodsworth which was extremely well received. Seems once again the garden was more popular than walking today!
Many thanks to Angela, Catherine and Jackie for helping out todays walk and garden tour.
Stephen Tomlinson 23.04.25

Tuesday 22nd Apr 2025.Walk Over Haddon to Bakewell and Back Again.

Twenty two Doncaster Ramblers, Willow the dog and two guest walkers, one from Goole Ramblers and one from Sheffield 40 met in the car park of the pretty Derbyshire White Peak village of Over Haddon. We had a pleasant surprise before the walk, Derbyshire County Council having reduced the car parking charge from £6.50 to £2, this made us all even happier on a beautiful sunny day.
Leaving the car park, it was downhill into the lovely Lathkill Dale, a National Nature Reserve, with its crystal clear limestone river which we followed for a couple of miles to Alport. A short walk through fields then brought us to our coffee stop in a filed adjacent to a static caravan park with great views of the surrounding hills. Refreshed a section of road walking including along the busy B5056 took us past Harthill Hall then it was back into fields and a short steep uphill climb when we were rewarded with spectacular views of the Wye valley and Haddon Hall. Then it was downhill, and after crossing the busy A6 we followed the River Wye and the Monsal Dale Trail to our lunch stop in Bakewell. Refreshed with coffee, beer and ice cream we again crossed the busy A6 then a short steep uphill climb took us to Wiigger Dale. Walking through open fields for some distance with spectacular views of the surrounding hills, including Haddon Hall again, we eventually reached the large abandoned Shining Bank Quarry which we skirted via Baltic Wood. Walking on top of the hills we got great views of the rivers in the dales before dropping down onto the road which we followed for a short distance to the outskirts of Alport. Then it was uphill again along Dark Lane and finally through fields above Lathkill Dale with stunning views of where we had walked along the floor of the dale in the morning, and back to the start point through the village of Over Haddon. Thanks to all who came on this walk and to Angela for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson

Saturday, 19th April 2025 Hartington and Gypsy Bank

Eight walkers (one from Sleaford Ramblers) set off from Hartington on this 10-mile hike on a chilly but dry day which made for pleasant walking conditions. The route took walkers uphill away from the village through fields offering views of the rolling Derbyshire countryside.
The group followed a well-marked path into Biggin Dale where the mid-morning break was taken, allowing time for those who wished to explore a small cave. This dry limestone valley is part of a National Nature Reserve and home to wildflowers, birds, and rocky outcrops. The route followed the quiet dale for several miles before descending to the River Dove.
The River Dove forms the boundary between Derbyshire and Staffordshire. Walkers crossed the river via a narrow wooden bridge, with the more adventurous using the old stepping stones. The path then climbed steeply up Gypsey Bank. The climb was challenging but rewarded the walkers with wide views over the Dove Valley and surrounding hills.
Lunch was taken in Alstonefield, a small village in Staffordshire mentioned in the Domesday Book. It is set on high ground and contains a number of listed buildings and a peaceful village green.
After lunch the return route passed through the lesser known valley of Narrowdale offering a quiet and scenic walk back towards the River Dove. The River Dove was crossed again before the final stretch of the walk climbed gently back towards Hartington.
This walk offered a mix of valleys, river crossings, steep climbs, and open views (not to mention some very narrow stone stiles), making it a rewarding route through the heart of the White Peak area.
Many thanks to Carol and Nigel for leading this varied and interesting walk.

AMG

 Thursday 17th April; Sylehouse & Pollington.

Another warm and sunny day was on offer for this circular six mile walk from Sykehouse to Pollington Lock. A spell of fine weather had ensured all the designated paths were very dry and consequently mud free. Following the leaders briefing we left the meeting point of the Old George Public House and made our way along Chapel Lane. We were soon into the country, and crossed a small bridge over the River Went. From here it was a broad, well defined track towards Pollington. We then used a narrow footpath across a field which included a small footbridge before emerging by the Aire & Calder Navigation. A left turn here and the crossing of a lock gate using a pedestrian walkway brought us to our morning break spot in the vicinity of picnic tables. After refreshments were taken we carried on the canal bank for a short distance before using a road bridge over the canal to start our return to Sykehouse. We walked along a lane for a distance before turning left along a footpath. The footpath brought us down at a low level by the River Went. A left turn was made here to walk parallel with the River Went. The path in places was on an embankment and there were a few stiles to negotiate. We were eventually back at the point where we were earlier in the walk. A right turn here soon brought us to the small bridge over the River Went and towards Sykehouse. A different route was used to gain access to the Old George, making more use of the main street which runs through Sykehouse. Upon returning to the Old George most of the group went into the Wheels Cafe, situated within the pub complex, for refreshments. Thanks to the Old George for allowing us to use their car park and to Gareth Cade for back marking. David Horne 17/4.

Tuesday 15 April 2025 Clayworth

I always think that any walk that starts at Clayworth is best if it begins with a visit to see The Traquair Murals in St Peters Church. Some of us who had arrived early enough did so. They really are good and well worth seeing more than once. I also hope that by paying him a visit St Peter may bestow a blessing on the walk. This seemed to be the case today as the drab weather soon cleared up and got better as the day went on. Thirty of us met at the church and were briefed by Jeremy. We were told to expect 10.5 miles on fairly flat paths across fields and farmland with just a little road walking and a stretch of canal bank at the end. There would be a coffee stop in North Wheatley and a lunch break ( with a pub ) in Hayton. It all sounded great and so we set off down the lane behind the church and into the adjacent countryside. The going was easy and we made good time through the green and pleasant farmland and were in North Wheatley by about 11.30. where we made good use of the tables in the recreation area. Much the same in the second half of the morning. The walk was broken and varied with small wooden bridges and streams to cross and some siles to get over and all the time the scenery was good and the weather improving. Jeremy was setting just the right pace for us to enjoy it all .The Boat Inn at Hayton is alongside The Chesterfield Canal. We ate in the small area by the water before going into the pub for refreshments. From there it was all along the canal bank back to Clayworth. I think we were all surprised by the number of barges moored up there and wondered what it would be like to adopt that lifestyle. One barge was for sale at £50k. So cheaper than a house but a long way from the shops. Later on we had to take a wide berth around a swan that was reluctant to move off the towpath as it kept watch on it's partner sitting on a large nest on the opposite bank. We left the canal at the junction of Meadow Lane and St Peter's Lane and returned to our cars in the village. Thanks very much to Jeremy for leading a lovely walk. To Peter for back marking and to Steve as ever for the photos.
The Traquair Murals were painted by Pheobe Ann Traquair in 1906 when she was visiting the area . More on Wikipaedia .

Saturday, 12th April 2025 Bakewell, Chatsworth and Rowsley circular walk.

Ten walkers, (including a lady who was walking with ramblers for the first time), set out on this 10-mile circular walk from Coombs Road in Bakewell. The first section followed the Monsal Trail, formerly part of the Manchester, Buxton, Matlock, and Midland Junction Railway.
The route then went uphill through Bakewell golf course, with the walkers ringing the bell to warn golfers of their presence, before ascending steeply through Manners Wood. Open pastures offered expansive views of the limestone landscape with Chatsworth House in the distance. The path then descended towards Edensor village famous for its picturesque cottages and the Grade I listed All Saints' Church, founded in 920.
Proceeding to Chatsworth House through the parkland landscaped by Capability Brown. The route continued along the River Derwent, following the Derwent Valley Heritage Way to Rowsley before the final leg back to Coombes Road.
The warm, sunny weather and good company made for an excellent walking day.
Many thanks to Brian for back marking.
AMG

Thursday 10th April 2025 Gringley on the hill Gringley on the hill

A cloudy start greeted 23 ramblers for the gentle walk down to Clayworth but the sun began to break through during the writer's introduction. The sunshine lasted for the entire of the morning as it got increasingly warmer. Setting off from Beacon Hill on the Eastern edge of Gringley we walked through the attractive village before crossing the dual carriageway with care. We picked up the southern footpath close to Topley farm
noting that the farmer had obligingly marked the way across his fields. We continued down to Clayworth passing Lords wood and Newlands.Our coffee break was at the beautiful 12th century St Peters Church where we could view the Traquair Murals the largest works of art in the east of England. They were created by an illustrator Phoebe Traquair in 1904/05 and restored by Elizabeth Hirst in 1996. The writer had addressed the group about the Murals initially and more about these in the historical note which follows. After the stop we passed the Sherwood Rangers cemetery and joined Toft Dyke Lane. We passed close to Highfield Farm briefly joining the Trent Valley Way and Lovers Lane before taking many fields back to Lancaster Road and Gringley. An enjoyable walk for the Thursday regulars and grateful thanks to Rob for quiet back marking over the 6 mile ramble.
Historical note
St Peters Church Clayworth was built between 1150 and 1180 and is a grade 1 listed building. Phoebe Tra77quair was born in Ireland in 1852 the sixth of seven children but is usually referred to as Scottish because the majority of her work as an illustrator jewellery designer and embroiderer was created in Scotland. Her elder brother was William Richardson Moss a keen art collector who owned a number of works by Dante Gabriel Rossetti the founder of the Pre Raphaelite Brotherhood. Phoebe was clearly influenced by William Blakes poetry and Rossettis rich and vibrant colours. The purpose of the church paintings in medieval times was to introduce a largely illiterate population to scenes from the bible and the Traquair Murals were only one of two created by Phoebe in England. The Clayworth paintings were originally commissioned by a Lady Osborne as a thank you for the safe return of her son Joseph of nearby Wiseton Hall from the Boer War.He went on to have an illustrious military career but before that he competed as a sailor in the 1908 London Olympics under the name of Joe Laycock (a note for trivia fans)
Nigel Ball

 Tuesday 8 April 2025 Edale Loop

What a great day to do this walk. 20 of us met in the car par park adjacent to the railway station in Edale village. Still a little chilly but bright and clear with the prospect of sunshine later. After being briefed by our leader David we walked up through the village to where the The Pennine Way starts next to The Nags Head pub and then began what was to be a steady and relentless ascent towards Kinder Scout. The views were already magnificent and we could look back and see The Great Ridge with Mam Tor in the distance. Through Upper Booth we went before taking a short coffee break at the bottom of Jacobs Ladder. We could see the climb in front of us. The path gets its name from a bible story in Genesis 28: 10-19 where Jacob dreams of a stairway leading to heaven. I can think of other descriptions for the stairway in Edale. It was all a bit disconcerting that as we huffed and puffed our way up we were passed by youngsters and teenagers who were running ! Not to mention the group who were doing it in yellow plastic fancy dress as Ali G, a banana and two bumblebees. But we enjoyed the challenge and made it to the trig point from where we could see as far as Manchester . After that it was mostly easy. Either level or downhill all the way. Just one rocky downhill path to negotiate but otherwise we were on the flagstones round Swines Back, Brown Knowle and Rushup Edge with a nice lunch break ( bathed in sunshine ) at Edale Cross. All the way we could see for miles and miles across the ups and downs of this lovely part of The Peak District. Truly uplifting . Thanks to David for arranging and leading with aplomb. Also Steve for back marking and the photos. CP 

 

 Saturday 5th April 2025 Wetherby & Stockeld Park.

A very bright and sunny morning was the order of the day as seven ramblers joined the leader at Wetherby Wilderness car park. The walk started by walking alongside the River Wharfe, initially underneath a viaduct carrying the road overhead. All the paths used during the walk were very dry and mud free. Soon we crossed a small footbridge and turned left, making our way carefully across a golf course. We emerged on a lane which by turning left was to take us into Linton and the morning break stop. There was a seat here, “Franks seat”, which was utilised by some members of the group. After a pleasant few minutes we moved on, walking through the village centre and taking a right turn along a lane leading to the Wood Hall Hotel. We walked along here for quite a distance, finally turning off along a footpath marked for Sicklinghall. There were quite a few twists and turns along here, before emerging by a few properties. We turned right then quite quickly left to walk parallel with Sicklinghall. A further right turn along a good track brought us to Sicklinghall Church, situated at the west end of the village. The group eat their lunches here on seats situated in the churchyard. A stop at the village pub, the Scotts Arms, had been arranged in which the group sat outside in the spacious garden. After refreshments were taken, we carried on through the village, noting the Village Hall and a small pond on the left. We then used a minor road to gain access to Stockeld Park. This entrance was for pedestrians only as a barrier was preventing vehicular traffic from passing through. We walked through Stockeld Park, passing over cattle grids and noting the buildings dotted about. The main visitor centre was on our right just as we were leaving the park. We carefully crossed over a busy road that links Spofforth and Wetherby and used a path opposite. This passed through farmland and provided access to the “Harland Way”. The Harland Way is a former railway line, closed many years ago but now converted into a leisure trail for walking, running and cycling. We turned right upon entering the Harland Way which was the Wetherby direction. We used the Harland Way for quite some distance, before bearing right at a fork. This brought us to the site of Wetherby Railway Station. The buildings have long been swept away and the site is now used as a car park. We were now back in Wetherby. We made our way back to the small footbridge where we were earlier in the walk and retraced our steps to Wetherby Wilderness Car Park. Thanks to Dave Tonkin for back marking. David Horne 5/4/25.

Thursday, 3rd April 2025 - Langold Circuit

There was a cold nip in the air, but the sun was shining brightly.  Two members, only, were brave enough to wear shorts. Thirty-five of us met in the car park adjacent to Langold Lake.  The history of the Langold Country Park goes back over 200 years.  It was designed in the 1750s for Langold Hall, which was never built.  Alterations were made in 1818, with the joining of the lakes and in the 1890s a weir was built.  In the 1920s mining developed and in 1927 the Firbeck Coliery Co bought the land and it became a leisure facility for for the Langold miners, principally for fishing.  In 1946 the coal industry was nationalised and the NCB expanded the leisure facilities in the park.  A children’s swimming pool and a bandstand were added.

The first Langold Gala was held in 1929 with accounts claiming that 10,000 visited the Park.  The Park came particularly well known and popular for its swimming. The British Long Distance Swimming Association Championship were traditionally held at the Lake. There were children's events in the bathing pool and demonstrations by the country’s top swimmers, also synchronised life-saving displays and comedy items by Swimming Club members. Spectacular stunts included explosions and dive-bombing.  Other stunts included a submarine explosion, the trapeze artist, ‘The Great Alganso’ doing a tight rope walk, as well as Jack Revel, known as Mr Langold Lake who was renowned for his dare devil dive from the 35’ diving board into a patch of burning petrol, performed until 1978.  The lido was removed in 2013 and new play facilities were added in 2014.

We set off out of the park and into Dryscarr wood, which is an SSSI.  Most notable today were the thousands and thousands of wood anenomes. When we left the wood it was into open, rolling countryside before reaching a narrow wood and then crossing the B6463 and descending Salt Hill towards Firbeck.  Beyond the wooded area on our right was Firbeck Hall.  Built 1594 by William West, a lawyer of Moorgate Hall, Rotherham, the Hall had a succession of owners over the next few hundred years, including  being willed to the Ecclesiastical Commisioners, who sold it to Frances Harriet Miles in 1853.  In 1898 it was inherited by Sydney Gladwin Webb a  West Riding MP, who 1909 attempted to sell it but failed. It was then rented out.  In WW1 it was used by Belgian refugees.  It was late rented  by Mr Albert Orlando Peech, chairman of Steel, Peech and Tozer but during his time, in 1924, a serious fire occurred.  In 1935 an  auction was planned. However Mr Cyril Nicholson, a Sheffield stockbroker, bought the house, 1500 acres estate, including 6 farms, 14 smallholdings and some cottages.  He then, with two business partners developed the hall and land into an up-market country club.  Firbeck Hall will forever be remembered for the celebrated period between 1935 and 1939. Although Cyril Nicholson had bought the estate he had secretly been making plans with two business associates. Between them they turned the old family house into the Firbeck Hall Club. The hall retained its outward appearance but its old interiors were, by modern standards, inexplicably destroyed. The old panelled walls gave way to brightly covered walls and the interior rooms were covered almost entirely with mirrors. The fashionable art deco style was created. The club became a country club of the rich and famous, with the nearby airfield frequently used to bring customers from London etc.inluding the Prince of Wales and Amy Johnson. Such was the increasing reputation of the club, that the BBC transmitted its weekly Saturday show “Late Night Dance Music” with Henry Hall, Carroll Gibbons and Charlie Kunz from Firbeck. But the outbreak of WW11 was the death knell of the club.  Firbeck Hall was taken over by the Sheffield Joint Hospitals Board and the dwindling country club shunted into the nearby Lake House. It became an annexe of the Sheffield Royal Infirmary  for the duration while the aerodrome was converted into RAF Firbeck, comprising four squadrons from 1940 to 1944. The dream had died and in 1943 Cyril Nicholson put Firbeck Hall up for sale. There were no takers for the estate and it would take until 1945 for the Miners’ Welfare Commission to acquire it as a rehabilitation centre.  In 1984 it transferred to the Trent Regional Health Authority as a convalescence home for industrial injuries but this eventually closed in 1990. For years Firbeck Hall remained derelict.  It was bought by successive owners in 1996 and 2010 before being bought by Ashley Wildsmith in 2014. He created an exclusive residential development.

We walked through the village of Firbeck before turning due south, crossing the B6463 again, and reaching the edge of Letwell, where we took our mid-morning refrshments. We continued to work our way southwards before turning west to walk along the base of the well-wooded former spoil heap of the Firbeck colliery and arrived at Langold Lake again, and hence to our cars.  We finished this 5 mile walk at exactly 12.30.  Thans to Rob, Nigel and Alfie for ensuring that nobody was lost!  David Gadd

Tuesday 1 April 2025 Priory Etc

We thought the weather gods were playing an April Fool's joke on us when we arrived for the start of this walk. The forecast had been for a bright and warm day but it was in fact overcast misty and chilly in the National Trust car park at Nostell Priory. Twenty two of us set off, confident that things would improve as the day wore on. And so it proved to be. By early afternoon we were perspiring and taking off layers of clothing. We began the walk by leaving Nostell and almost immediately crossing the A 638 to enter the woodland adjacent to the lake. Then across the area that has been reclaimed from the old colliery workings and under the railway towards Wintersett. It was easy going all the way. The paths were good and it was dry underfoot after what was reported to be one of the driest March's on record.  Arriving at The Anglers Country Park we went half way round the lake before stopping for a coffee break. Then we did the second half to complete the full loop of the water. By now the sun was out and helping to show-off the area at its best. Across the fields we went towards Crofton. A short back track was needed when we got the wrong side of a hedgerow but this was compensated by the fact that a field that had been ankle deep in mud on the recce was now hard and dry. On through Crofton and its attractive churchyard and then across the A638 again to get to our lunch stop in Sharlston. We ate sitting by a small pond. A few people visited the local pub whilst others sunned themselves and/or dozed in the warm sunshine. Up through Sharlston village and across farmland to Foulby where we tucked back into the estate lands surrounding Nostell Priory. A long loop took us up to The Obelisk at the top of the estate and then down through dappled shady woods before approaching the house itself to end the walk. A pleasant and undemanding 10 mile walk in nice surroundings and spring sunshine whilst sharing good company. What better way to spend your time. CP.
Nostell Priory estate covers 300 acres of parkland .The house was bult circa 1733 by the Wynne family. It has been owned by The National Trust since 1953.
The Anglers Country Park is one of three adjacent reservoirs in an area given over to fishing birdwatching and walking. Wintersett and Cold Hiendley are the other two.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after.

Saturday, 29th March 2025 From Forges to Follies

Fourteen walkers, including a Leeds Rambler, set off on this easy 9-mile circular walk from Elsecar Heritage Centre. The weather was perfect for walking, sunny, dry and mild. Elsecar is a model industrial village developed by the Earls Fitzwilliam from the late 1700s as a coal and iron working community.
The route passed several monuments and follies built by the Earls, including the Needle's Eye, Hoober Stand and the Mausoleum. The sandstone pyramid known as the Needles Eye was allegedly built to win a bet that a coach and horses could pass through the eye of a needle.

Coffee was taken at Hoober Stand, the most prominent of the follies, with splendid views all around, including in the distance the folly called Keppel’s column.
On the approach to Wentworth Woodhouse the walkers passed a large herd of deer. Wentworth Woodhouse has the longest frontage of any country house in the UK. This building is England’s grandest semi with the East and earlier West fronts being built back to back.
After lunch in the picturesque village of Wentworth the walkers made their way back to Elsecar.
Many thanks to Carol for back marking.
AMG

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Tuesday 25th Mar 2025. Wentworth Figure of 8.

Twenty six members met at the Wentworth Garden Center car park on what was thankfully a dry day after heavy overnight rain for a 11 mile figure of eight walk centered on Wentworth village which is part of the Fitzwilliam Estate.
Leaving the car park on the first loop of our figure of eight, we were soon in fields with our coffee stop at Kepple’s Column visible in the distance. Initially the underfoot conditions were good but this deteriorated rapidly as the footpath crossed a recently planted field which with the recent rain had turned into mud which stuck to your boots. Leaving the mud behind, a short road walk took us through the pretty village of Scholes, then it was through fields again to our coffee stop at Kepple’s Column which has in the last couple of years been extensively renovated, see photos for a picture of the information board for the history of the Column. Refreshed we walked through Scholes Wood and across more very muddy fields to the bridge crossing Dog Kennel Pond. Fortunately, it was then good tracks to the Deer Park (only a handful seen in the distance) and uphill to views of the Big House (Wentworth Woodhouse). Leaving the house behind us it was a short walk to our lunch stop at the war memorial (some 200m from our start point) in Wentworth Village where some members took advantage of the hospitality offered by the George and Dragon public house. Fed and watered we set of on the second loop of our figure of eight walk which took us past the church and Almshouses then it was across fields to the village of Harley. A busy road section with no pavement was negotiated with care then it was onto the Timberland Trail an offshoot of the Trans Pennine Trail through a reclaimed pit tip and fields onto the Barnsley Boundary Walk to the park, reservoir and Heritage Center at Elsecar. It was then uphill through Kings Wood and fields with the spire of Wentworth Church convincing us we were near the end until we finally got back to our start point having completed the second loop of the figure of eight. Thanks to Neil for back marking and to everybody who came on this walk. Stephen J Tomlinson.
Historical information Wentworth Woodhouse. The original Jacobean house was rebuilt by Thomas Watson-Wentworth, 1st Marquess of Rockingham (1693–1750), and vastly expanded by his son, the 2nd Marquess, who was twice Prime Minister. In the 18th century, the house was inherited by the Earls Fitzwilliam and the family of the last earl owned it until 1989. It now belongs to the Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust and is undergoing restoration. The building has more than 300 rooms, with 250,000 square feet (23,000 m2) of floorspace, including 124,600 square feet (11,580 m2) of living area, and was, until it ceased to be privately owned, often listed as the largest private residence in the United Kingdom. It covers an area of more than 2.5 acres and is surrounded by a 180 acres of parkland, and an estate of 15,000 acres.

Saturday 22nd March 2025 – Ashford-in-the-Water, Monsal Head and Shelron

7 of us made the journey to Ashford-in-the-Water on a mild, cloudy, but dry morning. We were soon warmed by the walk uphill towards Monsal Head where we had a break and enjoyed the views over the famous viaduct. We crossed the viaduct negotiating fewer bikes than we often do there. One unusual vehicle was for 2 cyclists cycling side-by-side, allowing greater stability and shared effort. We walked up the other side of the valley to enjoy more views of the valley, including the large weir. We dropped down briefly to the valley floor before beginning to walk up Deep Dale. From the top of Deep Dale we headed to Sheldon for lunch. The fire in the Cock and Pullet pub was surprisingly seductive for a mild day, but we tore ourselves away to head back to the Wye Valley. The way down was steep, down the Great Shacklow Steps provided by the Derbyshire Dales Ramblers Group more than 30 years. The walk back down the River Wye to Ashford was a gentle finish to a strenuous walk and the threatened showers had held off.

Thanks to Angela for the photos and video.

P.O.I.
The name Ashford derives from the Old English æsc and ford, and means a ford where ash trees grow. In 926, the village was known as Æscforda and in the Domesday Book of 1086 it was Aisseford. The addition of "in-the-Water" occurred in the late 17th century, and reflected the proximity of the village to meanders of the River Wye In the Domesday Book, Ashford was described as one of the locations in the area where lead was refined.

In 1786, Ashford had mills for carving and polishing the local black marble. By 1848, it had 950 inhabitants The village passed to the Cavendish family in the 16th century (from the Nevilles) and was finally sold off in the 1950s to pay death duties.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

 Thursday 20th March 2025 Sandall Park

On a Beautiful Spring Day, 25 walkers which included Allison a new lady also new to the group set of on a walk which took in 2 old woodlands.
The start included an obstacle course under a fence which was negotiated with finesse
The chattering was in full flow everyone appeared to be enjoying the sunshine
We continued along woodland paths on to mere lane and under West Moor Link and eventually came to Eden, well at least a budding estate.
Next stop kiddies play area with seats where well-deserved coffee was enjoyed.
We continued through woodlands to a pool were all the congregation were told this was the very pool where Excalibur of King Arthur fame was tossed.
The leader was most surprised when no one believed him.
We returned by bridle way back to cars so nice to have the sun on our backs.

Tuesday 18 March 2025 - Bamford

With a backdrop of blue skies and sunshine, 23 Ramblers met near Bamford at 9:30. These included Sam, on holiday from Guildford, and Anita who usually walks with Rotherham group. The glorious weather was to last all day as the group walked part of Stanage edge in the morning and Bamford edge in the afternoon.  From Stanage there were wonderful views towards the Great Ridge and Kinder Scout.  The afternoon climb up Bamford edge rewarded the group with even more spectacular views of Ladybower and Derwent Reservoir. Thanks to George for back-marking. PR

Thursday, 13th March 2025 - Wellingley, Rossington, Stancil Circuit

On a cold squally morning 24 of us met at Wellingley.  Parking had been arranged on the concrete farm yard, although some parked on the anple grass verge.  We set off, passing Billy Wrights Lane, wondering why there was no apostrophe in his surname and whether it referred to the former Wolverhampton Wanderers and England defender  who married one of the Beverley Sisters.  A few minutes later we stopped  at Wellingley Grange.  This is  beautiful old building, dating back to the C15th and belongs to the church, hence the word 'Grange'.  Granges were outlying farms belonging to a monastery.  From here we strolled along Egg Lane  where we joined Carr Lane and walked alongside the tall security fence of the iPort.  We reached a footbridge which crosses the River Torne and started a steepish climb to the top of the old Rossington pit slag heap. The name Rossington translates from the old Anglo-Saxon name of 'Farm on the Moor'. However its more recent history was dominated by the coal pit, which was sunk in 1912.  It was closed in 1993 but maintained until it was bought by RJ Budge in 1996.  It was then sold to UIK Coal for demolition and onward regeneration.  Harworth Estaes, the property arm of UK Coal, developed plans for 1,400 new homes as well as a mix of commercial and community uses as well as the regeneration of the 'tip' by planting 19,000 trees, areas of wildflwer meadow, wetlands, hedging and a shrub habitat.  Completition date appears to be some way off.  We climbed the 'tip' and descended towards the burial ground.  Just beyond it, enjoying a brief moment of sunshine among the squalls, we stopped for our refreshments.  We made our way across the flat fields towards Stancil, climbing a high stile to get into the field which is a scheduled monument, the land only being used for stock and not being ploughed.  Stancil is a corruption of stone dwelling and was a settlement in the Iron Age with a Roman villa being discovered in 1938 along with the a collection of human bones.  The Roman villa was a modest affair, possibly linked to the Roman fort a mile away. The low-lying land in the area was a swamp from about 500AD until it was drained by Thomas Tofield in the late C17th.  From Stancil we followed Stancil Lane back to Wellingley and the cars. This walk of just under 6 miles ended at 12.45.  Thanks to Dave,  Nigel and Alfie ("What's it all about?") for back-marking and to Wellingley farm for letting us park on their land.   DG

Tuesday 11 March 2025 North Elmsall

The early start of 09.30 did not deter 32 Ramblers from meeting on the outskirts of North Elmsall village just off the A638 between Doncaster and Wakefield. Briefed by George ( who unusually for him , promised us a gentle flat walk) we set off through the village accompanied by dogs Milo and Cookie. The high temperatures over the weekend had disappeared and the morning was bright but windy and chilly . We were glad to get moving. The route took us in a generally northerly direction out of North Elmsall then through the edge of Upton and onto Old Thorpe Audlin. After that we dog-legged back to the west and having crossed the busy Doncaster Road twice, with views of Wentbridge in the distance, we had a welcome coffee stop. The walk so far had been bracing in the morning sunshine and had afforded us lovely views over the rolling green countryside. We carried on west in a similar vein until swinging south towards Badsworth where we took our lunch stop in the church yard. We were staring to get cold and as we left a very slight drizzle started and we thought our walk might be spoiled. But it wasn't. The drizzle ended and the sun came out again to warm us . A bit more of the fields and farmland of the area before we entered Upton and made our way back to the cars through its streets. Well done to George for finding and leading a ' pleasant 10 mile stroll ' in such a nice area. Thanks to Steve for the photos and to Tony for back-marking. CP

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after

Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Saturday 8th Mar 2025 Calver Circular
20 of us gathered outside the school in Calver on a sunny spring morning. We set off up the River Derwent before setting off up an over to Stoney Middleton. We passed the Roman Bathswent through the village and up again to stop for a break above Coombs Dale. We continued up the dale and then climbed some more to reach the heights of Longstone Ridge. We descended to Great Longstone for lunch where some also went to The Crispin pub. There was more climbing in the afternoon to Hassop Common and as we approached Calver, views over Baslow to Chatsworth House. As we descended to Calver in the late afternoon sun, it felt like a summer's evening. Re-crossing the River Derwent took us back to our cars.

Thanks to Dianne for a great walk and (with Frank) taking 10 of is in 2 cars on a day when badly parked cars littered our way home.

P.O.I.
The village is thought to be a Roman settlement, perhaps based on lead mining, but there is currently no archaeological evidence to prove this. A 19th-century bathhouse over a hot spring is known locally as The Roman Baths, but this was built in an unsuccessful attempt to establish a spa resort. (After Stoney Middleton Youth Club cleared undergrowth in the early 1980s, the building was consolidated and made secure by local craftsmen with the aid of a grant by Peak Park

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Thursday 6th Mar;. 2025 Brodsworth Community Woodland

Thirty ramblers joined the leader for this ramble around Brodsworth Community Woodland, with an extension into Highfields Country Park. The weather was bright and sunny. Underfoot conditions were excellent. A spacious car park just off Longlands Lane allowed all vehicles to comfortably park. Following the leader briefing, the walk started. We began by following various low level paths through the woodland, making our way to a small footbridge. We crossed the bridge and turned right, temporarily leaving the woodland area. A tarmacked track then took us to a bridge over a former railway. We used a flight of steps to descend to trackbed level but immediately turned left to walk alongside a small pond and then along the edge of some allotments. Before long we were entering Highfields Country Park with its lake coming into view. We used a lakeside path to make our way to our morning break spot in the vicinity of some benches. After refreshments were taken, we carried on a little further to a point where we joined a former railway line. This used to be the line into Brodsworth Colliery but is now a leisure trail. We used this trail for quite some distance, arriving at the point where we were earlier in the walk and retracing our steps to the small footbridge. Here we returned to the Community Woodland area. The return route to the car park used a longer, higher route than earlier. Good views to the west were obtained including a sight of Brodsworth Hall in the distance. Following a few twists and turns we rejoined our earlier route and then it was just a short walk to the car park. Thanks to Dave for back marking. David Horne 06/03.

P.O.I.
Brodsworth Hall, near Brodsworth, 5 miles (8 km) north-west of Doncaster in South Yorkshire, is one of the most complete surviving examples of a Victorian country house in England. It is virtually unchanged since the 1860s. It was designed in the Italianate style by the obscure London architect, Philip Wilkinson, then 26 years old. He was commissioned by Charles Sabine Augustus Thellusson, who inherited the estate in 1859, but the original estate was constructed in 1791 for merchant and slave owner Peter Thellusson. It is a Grade I listed building.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after

Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Maintenance Team Work Report, Wednesday 5 March 2025

Wednesday 5th March saw the first session of path maintenance for 2025. Four Ramblers, 1 volunteer and a member of the City of Doncaster Rights of Way team fitted 6 marker posts in the Hatfield and Hatfield Woodhouse areas.
Working from a faults list provided by Doncaster Ramblers path wardens to the City of Doncaster Rights of Way Department the following work was carried out.
2 way marker posts installed on Hatfield 4 at the intersection of Hatfield 14
1 way marker post installed on Hatfield 4 at the intersection of Hatfield 12
An existing way marker post on Hatfield 4 was fitted with new markers.
1 way marker post installed on Hatfield 34 close to Hatfield Woodhouse village hall.
1 way marker post installed at the intersection of Hatfield 40 and 39.
1 way marker post installed at the intersection of Hatfield 39 and 41.
A total of 10 hours was spent on the above tasks
A further way marker post should have been installed at the northern end of Hatfield 41 but due to access problems the work was not carried out and the City of Doncaster Rights of Way Department have decided to issue an enforcement notice.
Stuart Twell 05.03.2025

Tuesday 4 March 2025 - Planes, Boats and Automobiles

The sun was shining as 17 of us gathered at Whitwell Woods for today's walk. Crossing the busy A619, we headed across the field to Whitwell village. More fields and farm tracks took us on a loop back to crosss the A619 again by Darfoulds nursery. Heading north, we reached the Chesterfield canal at Shireoaks. There then followed a very pretty stretch of the canal past Shireoaks marina and a series of locks to Turnerwood for our lunch stop. After lunch we left the canal and walked past Netherthorpe airfield before entering Whitwell Woods. A pleasant stroll through the woods took us back to our cars. Thanks to Jeremy for back marking. PG

Note: a version of this walk can be found in the Routes section of the main Ramblers website (Whitwell Woods to Turnerwood circular).

 Saturday 1st Mar 2025 - North Cave to South Cave

9 of us found each other among the crowds of birdwatchers at North Cave Wetlands on a cold morning that promised to become a perfect day for walking. The start of the walk was flat, following Drewton Dale into the edge of the Yorkshire Wolds. We had a break in the Dale before continuing up it, joining the Yorkshire Wolds Way and turning up Comber Dale to take us to the top of Little Wold. After stopping to catch our breath and admire the view back down Comber Dale, we followed the ridge of Little Wold. On this section we were regularly passed by charity runners. We descended Little Wold and immediately ascended Great Wold. After taking in the view of South Wold, we walked down into the town for lunch (and a visit to the Bear Inn for some). The afternoon route was flatter, through Cave Castle Golf Course and Everthorpe to North Cave.

Thanks to Eric for reminding me that I'd left my map on a table outside the pub. I'm sure I would have managed to lead the group back without it, but I would have been irritated to lose the map and map case.

P.O.I.
The Yorkshire Wolds are hills in the counties of the East Riding of Yorkshire and North Yorkshire in Northern England. They are the northernmost chalk hills in the UK and within lies the northernmost chalk stream in Europe, the Gypsey Race.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

 Thursday 27th February 2025– Haxey.

Permission had been obtained from St Nicholas Church at Haxey for the group to use the Church Hall car park. A steady procession of vehicles entering the car park were in evidence ready for our walk which today was going to Westwoodside and Haxey Turbary. 28 ramblers were present with the leader on this occasion. It was a very bright morning and underfoot conditions were good. The walk started by going through the churchyard before using steps to access Church Lane. After a few yards we were walking along country footpaths. A good view of the countryside to our left was visible. The occasional building was passed before arriving on the edge of Westwoodside. Here we made our way uphill using residential roads to the main road from Doncaster. After crossing carefully we used a lane to get a little further uphill. The walk then turned right at the top and continued east for a few yards before using another path on the left to head north. This gradually went downhill and gave us a marvellous view of the countryside ahead looking north. Various paths and lanes were used to get to Haxey Turbary, passing Haslams Farm with its narrow gauge railway track and Haxey Carr with its few houses scattered about. Haxey Turbary is a nature reserve and was the venue for our morning break. The group used a circular path to see a little more of Haxey Turbary. We then retraced our steps to a road junction nearby where we had originated from but continued ahead on the lane towards Haxey. After a brief stop for water we took a pleasant track on the left which meandered at a low level and allowed access to some steps by a bridge. We climbed the steps to emerge on a former railway line, now converted to a very pleasant walkway. We headed south for a short distance before using a further flight of steps to leave the railway path and gain height in order to cross the former railway at an overbridge. This was another point in the walk where there were good views. We carried on the same path which eventually emerged onto a road which would take us into Haxey and the Church Hall. Thanks to Dianne and Nigel for back marking and to St Nicholas Church for allowing us to use the Church Hall car park and for opening the Church Hall.
David Horne 27/02.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Tuesday 25th Feb 2025.Wombwell to Worsbrough and back again

Thirty one members including Glynn from Leicester Ramblers, Vicky who occasionally walks with us, Julie of Doncaster Ramblers who walks on Thursday with our group but decided to join us for her first Tuesday walk, and Yvone from Doncaster, via Hong Kong, who joined us for her first Doncaster Ramblers walk, met at a car park just of the Trans Pennine Trail in Wombwell.
Leaving the car park a short road walk brough us to the Dove Valley Way/Trans Pennine Trial (TPT) which we followed for about 2 km when we joined the Barnsley Boundary Walk which follows the towpath of an abandoned canal. Leaving the canal behind us our route took us past Hillies Golf course and under the Dearne Valley Way to the outskirts of Hemingfield. Walking on bridges over the railway and the Derane Valley Way a short walk through Wombwell Wood brought us to the B6096 and a section of road walking. Footpaths through field brought us to Blacker Hill then it was downhill on footpaths through areas of reclaimed coal spoil tips which eventually brought us to the busy A61 at Worsbrough which was crossed carefully. A short walk brought us to Worsbrough Reservoir and Mill, for historical details see below, and our late lunch stop with a café and toilets available. Refreshed we walked across the reservoir dam and rejoined the TPT heading eastwards in the direction of our start point picking up those who had taken of fluids at the Ship Inn during their lunch stop. Leaving the TPT where the current active railway line crosses the TPT on a viaduct it was uphill onto footpaths through fields which took us to the outskirts of Wombwell and back onto the Dove Valley Way/TPT which took us to our start point. During the walk the weather was mixed rapidly changing from sunshine and warm to cloudy and cool but the day was dry and the underfoot conditions not too bad. Thanks to Angela for back marking and to everybody who came on this 11 mile walk. Stephen J Tomlinson

Historical information Wosbrough Mill and Reservoir. The first record of a mill at Worsbrough was in the Domesday book of 1086, although the exact location of the mill along the River Dove is unknown. The oldest part of the mill standing today dates from about 1625 and forms the two storey stone building known as the Old Mill, which houses the waterwheel. Before the Mill House was built in the mid 18th century the miller and his family would have lived in the mill itself. There are large fireplaces on both the ground and first floors and the lintel over the fireplace on the first floor is inscribed with several dates and initials of the millers. The Old Mill was probably modernised in the early 1820’s to improve its output, and in the 1840’s the New Mill was built next door. The machinery in the New Mill was powered by a steam engine and a third floor, where grain could be stored in bulk, was added. Trade for corn and flour began to drop off towards the end of the 19th century as cheap imported wheat came in from abroad. By the early 20th century Worsbrough’s New Mill became disused and the steam engine was scrapped. The old water mill continued to grind corn and oats for the local farmers to feed their animals well into the 1960’s. In 1972 West Riding County Council began to restore the mill as a working museum. The steam engine had been scrapped in 1922 so a rare 1911 Hornsby hot-bulb oil engine, formerly from Sykehouse Windmill was rebuilt in the engine room. The museum opened to the general public in 1976. It is now owned and operated by Barnsley Council. Wosbrough Reservoir was built to supply water to the Worsbrough branch of the Dearne and Dove Canal and it was completed in 1804. It was enlarged in 1826, when the depth was increased by about 1.5 metres. Two new spillways were installed in 1984 to comply with the Reservoirs Safety Act.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Saturday, 22nd February2025 – Carcroft

A sunny, dry warm day saw thirteen walkers set off from Carcroft, a village approximately 6 miles north of Doncaster. The walk followed a path along Ea Beck, a small river that flows eastwards into the River Don at Thorpe-in-Balne. This beck has historically been prone to flooding, leading to the construction of flood defences in recent years.
Continuing, the group crossed over the A1 road towards Hampole, a small village with historical roots dating back to the Domesday Book. The name "Hampole" is derived from the Old English name "Hana" and "pōl," meaning "Hana's pool."
The walk then led to Barnsdale Bar, an area historically associated with the legendary figure Robin Hood. Barnsdale Forest, as it was once known, is mentioned in medieval ballads as the outlaw's base of operations.
Lunch was taken in the churchyard in Skelbrooke, a village noted for its Grade II listed Church of St Michael and All Angels. The church, of medieval origin, was rebuilt in 1872 following fire damage. The presence of an ‘ecoloo’ in the churchyard was a welcome surprise.
After lunch the walkers made their way back to Carcroft completing this circular 11 mile walk.

Many thanks to Carol and Nigel for leading this walk.

AMG

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Tuesday 18th Feb 2025 Kirk Bramwith Snowdrop Walk.

Twenty six of us met on a very cold but thankfully after the recent weather a day with a little bit of sunshine. After a short briefing and a warm welcome to Franks new teeth (see photos) we were off along the flood banks of the River Don to our coffee stop at St. Mary’s Church, Kirk Bramwith where our walk leader had arranged for coffee and cake to be available for purchase. This is a lovely little church full of interesting features which are summarised at the bottom of this report. Refueled by an exceptional homemade chocolate cake a short road walk brought us to Top Lane Bridge at Braitwaite, we then followed the towpath of the New Junction Canal for some distance to Sykehouse Lock and Bridge. Whilst walking along the canal we were passed by a commercial vessel carrying fuel which I was advised can be seen weekly travelling through Sprotborough on the River Don, a great way to get traffic of the roads. Leaving the lock behind us it was across wet fields to our lunch stop at The George, Sykehouse. Refreshed we retraced our steps to Sykehouse Lock then followed a very wet and muddy bridleway for some distance to New House Farm and the road beyond. It was then back into drier fields until we reached the road which took us back to our start point in Fishlake. Thanks to Gareth for leading this walk which was just over 11 miles, to Neil for backmarking and not least to the lady at St Mary’s who opened the church for us and provided excellent refreshments. Stephen J Tomlinson

Historical information St Mary’s church, Kirk Bramwith. Although likely to be on the site of an earlier church St Mary's was started in 1120. It remains an original Norman church. The tower was constructed in the late 13th/early 14th century. Its single bell was made in York in 1350 and is believed to be the oldest bell in the Diocese of Sheffield. The main doorway is Norman and the original font is believed to be Saxon. The church has several fine stained-glass windows, one dedicated to George III and Queen Anne and installed in gratitude for the victories in North Africa during the 1939-45 world war. The church furniture, most of which was made by the internationally famous craftsman Robert Thompson of Kilburn, North Yorkshire. His work includes the pulpit, lectern, hymn boards, main door and all the pews. His trademark mouse can be found around the church, and visitors can search for all twenty-seven.

Saturday 15th February 2025 Sourdough Ramble

Four resilient ramblers embarked on a nine-mile walk starting at the Ivanhoe Pub on Sprotbrough Road, on a cold and cloudy day. Fortunately, the forecasted light rain largely held off.
The group crossed fields reaching Marr (a small village noted in the Domesday Book) pausing there for coffee.
The walk continued through Melton Wood, a local country park before reaching High Melton, a village dating back to the Norman era. The next stop was Cadeby, where the group took advantage of a bus shelter for lunch.
Heading back toward Sprotbrough, passing the top of Sprotbrough Flash, a nature reserve managed by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust.
AMG

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Thursday 13th February 2025 Armthorpe Pit Top & Sandall Beat Wood

A large group of 26 ramblers made their way to Sandall Beat Wood car park. The weather was grey and overcast as it had been for a few days. Following the leaders briefing we set off along a broad track which provides vehicular access to buildings opposite Armthorpe Park. About fifteen minutes later we passed Armthorpe Park noting plenty of seats and a Children’s playground. Next was a footbridge crossing a railway line which brought us into the Pit Top area. Markham Main Colliery once stood here but upon closure in the 1990’s the site was turned into a very pleasant landscaped green area. Various routes were used to make our way to the morning break spot where some slabs were put to good use for people to sit on. The walk continued through Sandall Beat Wood initially skirting a small stream then venturing around the edge of the woods. Soon we were temporarily out of the woods, using a path enclosed by a waist high sturdy wooden fence. A deer was spotted just as we were close to leaving the path on the edge of Cantley. A right turn was performed here and further along the path we went back into Sandall Beat Woods heading north. It was quite good going here and we were soon back at the spot where we had taken our morning break. Here we briefly went back into the Pit Top area to use paths allowing us to return to the footbridge. We retraced our steps back over the footbridge, past Armthorpe Park and then to the car park. Thanks to Dave Tonkin for back marking. David Horne 13/02/2025

Tuesday11th Feb 2025 Harthill Circular Trail Walk.

Twenty nine members met at the car park in Harthill by the side of the leisure center on a cold, cloudy and damp winter morning though we all agreed it was not as cold as the previous day. Leaving Harthill, it was uphill into muddy and slippery fields exposed to a cold easterly wind. Early thoughts that it was warmer than the previous day soon dissipated. Carrying on through muddy fields brought us to our coffee stop at the pretty hamlet of Top Hall. Before carrying on we were serenaded by Malcolm, our walk leader, with a number of Factoids about the nearby Netherthorpe Airfield which we would shortly be walking past. A downhill section brought us to the Cuckoo Way which in this area follows the towpath of the Chesterfield Canal. Following the canal for several miles, passing several locks, we reached Kiverton Park where the canal enters a tunnel whose entrances have been sealed off as the tunnel has collapsed in several places. It is understood plans are a foot to reroute the canal and bypass the tunnel so it can be reconnected to the rest of the inland waterway system. A short walk-through fields brought us to Kiverton Water and Country Park created from the site of the abandoned Kiverton Colliery and our lunch stop. Lunch stop was brief as the site was exposed to a cold easterly wind. Continuing on the Cuckoo Way brought us to the M1 motorway followed by muddy footpaths once again to the village of Woodall. From Woodall, road walking through the village and past Harthill Reservoir, which provides water for the Chesterfield Canal, brought us back to our start point. Thanks to Malcolm and Debs for leading this walk and to Norman for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

 Saturday, 8th February2025 Kirk Bramwith Snowdrop Festival Walk 

Nineteen ramblers embarked on an 11-mile leisurely walk from Fishlake. The weather was cold and overcast with occasional light rain and a brisk easterly wind making it feel colder.
Fishlake was mentioned in the Domesday Book as "fiscelac," derived from Old English meaning 'fish-stream'. The village has a history of severe floods, notably in November 2019 when the River Don overflowed, affecting over 170 homes and businesses. Initially the walk followed the River Don upstream.
The group paused at St Mary's Church in Kirk Bramwith to enjoy the annual Snowdrop Festival. This Norman church, established around 1120, has a Norman doorway adorned with beakhead carvings and zig-zag patterns, and a tower constructed in the late 13th or early 14th century. The church houses furniture crafted by the renowned Robert Thompson, known as the ‘Mouseman’ of Kilburn. His signature carved mice can be found throughout the church.
After enjoying warming hospitality and the sight of blooming snowdrops, the walkers continued to Sykehouse for lunch. The return journey followed the New Junction Canal back to Fishlake.
Many thanks to Gareth for leading this walk and George for back marking.
AMG

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after

Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Thursday 6th Feb 2025 Doncaster Ramblers Press Release – Misterton to Walkeringham

A staggering 36 ramblers turned up for this gentle walk between the two North Nottingham villages. There were one or two newcomers including Martin. After a short address from our leader Rob we set off from the car park of the Red Hart.
After a little road walking we crossed a couple of fields and stiles to join the towpath on the Chesterfield canal heading south. We left the canal at Smith's Bridge and walked up into Walkeringham via Caves Lane. At a pleasant communal garden we stopped for our coffee/lunch break. We continued through the village and traversed several fields reaching Misterton on Tupcroft Road. We walked through the village and briefly rejoined the Chesterfield canal before branching off and returning past the church to the pub car park. Nearly everyone partook of the excellent sandwiches and soup kindly provided by the landlady Jackie but funded by Rob and donations. (Rob did not want me to mention his generosity).
An excellent end to a ramble under blue winter skies. Thanks to Rob for his efficient leadership of a large group and thanks to Dave Kerry and the writer for sharing back marking tasks.
NB

Tuesday 4 February 2025 – Scotton Scotter and KL

22 of us ( including newish man Steven and returning old friend Chris ) met in the community hall car park in Scotton . The briefing brought some good news ( the weather forecast was fine and bright all day ) and some bad news ( the pub in Kirton Lindsey would be closed when we were there ). The walk was scheduled to be just over 10 miles and fairly equally divided between road walking and muddy fields. We set off towards Scotter. Road side all the way . In Scotter we had a very early coffee stop ( with cake to celebrate Al's birthday ) in the gardens that sit alongside the River Eau in the centre of this pretty village. A short path through adjacent woodland brought us up to Kirton Road and another stretch of road walking towards Kirton Lindsey. But before reaching the town we took detours across a couple of the aforementioned muddy fields. The farmers in this area do not seem to take much notice of where footpaths are supposed to run and most of the time we found ourselves traversing ploughed and planted land where the route of the path was not clear. Lunch was on the playing fields at the top of the hill in Kirton Lindsey. Then it was across the town square and down the hill on the opposite side of town before getting back into the countryside to cross the railway line and head west towards Northorpe. We didn't actually go into the small hamlet but instead turned right on its outskirts down Monson Road for our final stretch of road walking back to Scotton. Thanks to Tony for back-marking and to Steve for the photos. CP

Check out Scotton on Wikipedia for interesting stuff about St Genewys (to whom the church is dedicated) and what he is patron saint of. And also the gruesome murder there of Sir William de Cantilupe in March 1375.
Check out Kirton Lindsey ( or Kirton in Lindsey. It seems to answer to both ) to find out that Catherine Parr the 6th wife of Henry VIII once lived there and also info on RAF Kirton Lindsey. First used in 1916 by the Royal Flying Corps and more latterly the home to Spitfires amongst other aircraft.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity .

Saturday 1st February 2025 Mexborough to Conisbrough and Cadeby

10 of us met outside Mexborough Railway Station on a grey morning. We set off along the canal that runs alongside the railway and the River Don. We crossed the river where there used to be a ferry crossing and crossed the railway too to Old Denaby. We went across country to The Crags on the edge of Conisbrough. This area that was home to many industries was our first stop. We followed The Crags around Conisbrough before entering the town centre via Wellgate (passing the well which the water supply for the area until 1903). Wellgate brought us to St. Peter's church (one of the oldest churches in England). A few steps took us to Conisbrough Castle. We crossed the river and climbed up to Cadeby where we had lunch in the churchyard of the redundant church of St. John the Evangelist. Some of us visited the Cadeby Inn before heading back down to the end of the canal. Some of the group saw two Roe Deer as we followed the canal back to Mexborough. A short diversion from the canal took us past the parish church of St. John the Baptist and the Almshouses back to the station.

Thanks to Angela for the photos.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Thursday 30th January Sturton-le-Steeple

24 ramblers turned up for this walk on a crisp winters day under blue skies. Jayne and Paula were newcomers and the writer briefly addressed everyone. He first confessed that the walk was longer than advertised and would be around 7 miles. The reason for this was to avoid a steepish climb and a field which could have cattle. We started across a number of fields to the hamlet of Fenton and North Leverton and traversed a total of 10 kissing gates up to that point, which meant a fairly slow progress. This was accentuated by some flooded footpaths. After walking through the village of North Leverton we joined the Trent Valley Way and reached the prominent windmill where we had our coffee/lunch break. The windmill was built in 1813 and is a grade two listed building. Suitably refreshed we continued along and up Retford Gate, a deceptive climb which stretched the group somewhat. We passed Caddow Wood and turned North

on to Caddow Lane and down to the Rathole Lane railway crossing. There was then a steady climb passing close to Sturton High House and we reached Blue Stocking Lane. This was part of the amended route which should have been named Brown Stocking Lane because of the deep mud we encountered! Amazingly no one fell over and we moved eastwards on to High House Road and eventually rejoined the Trent Valley Way (Springs Lane) back to the start. During this stretch we passed the point where Rob had an unfortunate fall some months ago which led to the walk being renamed Sturton le stumble!
Thanks to Rob for back marking and assisting the writer on part of the amended route. Also grateful thanks to Nick for being landed with photographic
duties.
NB

Tuesday 28th January 2025. Along the Edges

Sixteen ramblers and two dogs dog met at Haywood National Trust car park. Two more delayed walkers joined at elevenses. Fortunately, the rain which had accompanied the drive had stopped and the rest of the day was mild and mainly dry. A variety of scenery was experienced.
The walk went along the top of Froggatt, Curbar and Baslow Edges. Visibility improved allowing impressive views of the surrounding countryside across Curbar towards Chatsworth.
Descending down to Curbar for lunch the walkers passed the ‘Round House’ (in the Civil War prisoners were held in this lockup prior to being taken to Sheffield gaol). Then two Pinfolds. Stray sheep and cattle were rounded up by the Pinder and kept in the Pinfold, a purpose-built enclosure for stray animals. Their owner had to pay a fine to release them.
After lunch the walk followed the River Derwent upstream to Froggatt Bridge passing through woodland. The final leg involved a steep climb back up to Froggatt Edge.
Thanks to George for back marking.
AMG

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday, 25th January 2025– Pickburn

Seventeen walkers set off on this 9-mile circular walk from Pickburn, a small village near Doncaster. The weather was sunny and dry, with temperatures around 6°C.
The route led past Lound Hill, a notable elevation in the area, providing expansive views of the surrounding countryside. Continuing to the historic village of Hooton Pagnell known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Elevenses were taken in the grounds of the Grade I listed St. John the Baptist Church.
The route then proceeded to the small hamlet of Moorhouse. Approaching Windy Mount, gentle inclines took the walkers to their lunch stop, before looping back to Pickburn.
The terrain throughout, although muddy in parts, was varied but manageable, making it suitable for a leisurely pace. The clear blue skies and bright sunshine made for a delightful winter walk.
Many thanks to Peter for leading this walk.
AMG

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Thursday 23rd January 2025 Epworth & Low Burnham.

17 ramblers joined the leader for this leisurely ramble. We assembled at Belton Coffee House, located on the A161 between Belton and Epworth. The weather was cloudy with light rain forecast for mid morning. Underfoot conditions were generally good with little mud. Following the leaders briefing we set off in a southerly direction towards Epworth. Soon we were in close proximity to a mill, with views over Epworth to the right. The track carried on to the A161. We turned right here, past another mill now very tastefully converted to a private dwelling. As we approached Epworth we crossed the road, walked past Epworth Garden Centre and made our way up some steps to St Andrews Church. Here the leader said a few words about the church and of the Methodist movement which had its origins in Epworth with the Wesley brothers, Charles and John. We then walked through the centre of Epworth. Epworth Old Rectory, the childhood home of the Wesley Brothers, was noted on the left before taking a path on the right heading towards Low Burnham. We used this for quite a distance eventually arriving at Low Burnham. We took our morning break just before arriving at Low Burnham. Suitably refreshed, we carried on through Low Burnham, crossing the A161 again before using a broad track to progress. The next two miles or so were on field footpaths. Our return route was through Epworth but on residential roads to the west of the town centre. The mill we were in close proximity with earlier was visible in the distance as we made our way back. Soon we met the point where we were on our outward route and from there it was just a short walk to the car park. The rain did not appear until we were almost back at the car park where we arrived at 1240. Thanks to Rob for back marking. David Horne 23/01.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Tuesday, 21st January 2025 - Langold and Hodsock Priory

A rather larger group than usual - 40 and 3 dogs, met at Langold Country Park car park for a leisurely 10.5 mile walk. This included 4 new to the group who were welcomed warmly. Langold Lake and surrounding park was originally landscaped to complement a stately home that was never built in the early 19th century. As the coal mining industry grew,  including the local  Firbeck Colliery, the park and lake were used by coal miners and families for recreation especially fishing.After a short briefing, including information for members from a recent positive meeting with the council about our path maintenance programme, we left the car park north along the drive and walked through Dyscarr Wood. We then continued through fields along good tracks in an anticlockwise loop. We then walked through another part of Dyscarr wood to return to Langold lake where the many benches and tables (and recently refurbished toilets) welcomed us for our coffee stop.

We then walked along the lake with a number of waterfowl and flocks of birds enjoying the dry weather. We walked around the edges of the landscaped 81m high Firbeck Colliery Spoil Heap towards Buckwood farm. We crossed the road and continued south before turning left through Carlton Wood to arrive in Carlton in Lindrick. We were warmly welcomed at the Sherwood Ranger Pub where there were plenty of seats and tables outside and they did not mind muddy boots for those going to the bar and facilities. They even provided a big tin of free biscuits!We left Carlton along good tracks towards Hodsock Priory. Although never a priory this impressive building has received many kings to stay over the years. The Cressey family originally set up the estate in 12th century. The Clifton’s lived there for 14 generations with the last building the gatehouse in the 16th century, possibly for a visit by Henry VIII. The rest of the priory has had many additions and alterations by subsequent owners.

Having admired the house we then set off along wide tracks as the sun started to appear through the clouds. Passing livestock in the fields and snowdrops in the woodland the time passed in many conversations and we were soon back at the car park after an enjoyable, and not too muddy walk for January! Alasdair and Neil

Sunday, 19th January '25 - Tickhill History of the Landscape

On a cold Sunday morning 48 people gathered to do a 5.5 mile walk exploring the history of the area. The group included Tom Platt, Chief Programmes and Delivery Officer from Central Office, here to speak in the SYNED AGM in the afternoon. We were ally joined by Sally Jameson, MP, and a couple of guests.  After the briefing we set off on a right of way which almost certainly linked the pre-Tickhill settlements of Lindrick and Dadesley, turning right at Common Lane and then left toward Eastfield Farm. This was originally a Saxon settlement, another of the settlements once on the edge of the wetland which occured from about 500AD until it was drained by Thomas Tofield in the late 1700s. From Eastfield one of the routes across the wetland went to Limpool, the other route being what is now Sunderland Street. From Eastfield we could see All Hallows Hill, upon which a Sazon church once proudly stood. We heard the story of the death of William Oddy before walking down to the main road, turning right and then onto Wellingley Lane and up to the bridge over the A1M

After the bridge we turned down a track running parallel to the motorway and vis various paths to Stancil Lane. This took us to the farm at Stancil, where we had our refreshments before hearing about the Roman villa, and the large number of human bones found by chance in 1938 when the farmer started to dig out to build a barn. Various artefacts are now housed in the Doncaster Museum. Later, in 1379, the records show that there were 15 married couples and 27 single people old enough to be assessed for the poll tax.  About 200 years later there were only four families in the settlements. Stancil is now farmed by one family.  On leaving Stancil we walked to Hopyard Lane, the start of which marks the place were the track across the wetlands from Eastfield Farm made its way towards Limpool.  At the northern end of Hopyard Lane there once was a hopyard, which raises questions about where were the hops grown. From Hopyard Lane we we followed Common Lane to the bridge over the motorway and then back to the Tithes Lane pavillion. Thanks to Steve Tomlinson and Gareth Cade for back-marking this large group.  David Gadd   

Saturday, 18th January 2025   Sprotbrough

This was a leisurely 10-mile walk for 16 people and a dog. The weather was mostly clear and dry with temperatures just above freezing.
The route began on well-maintained paths and tracks, leading to the Sprotbrough salmon and eel ladders which allow the migration of fish species past weirs on the River Don.
Continuing, the path passed the site of Levitt Hagg, a former limestone quarry village prone to flooding. Once a thriving community, it was abandoned in the mid-20th century and has now been reclaimed by nature
The walkers had their elevenses on top of Conisbrough Viaduct, an impressive 21-arch structure 1,527 feet long spanning the R. Don and made of around 15 million bricks. Completed in 1909, it was part of the Dearne Valley Railway. It is now a public footpath offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
A lunch break was taken at the Ivanhoe Pub, named after Sir Walter Scott's novel which was set in this area. This establishment provided a warm and welcoming atmosphere for walkers.
The final leg of the journey followed the Trans Pennine Trail to Cusworth Hall, an 18th-century country house set in landscaped parklands. The hall now serves as a museum, showcasing the history of South Yorkshire.
Many thanks to Dianne for leading this walk and to Peter for back marking.

AMG

Thursday 16th Jan '25 - Roche Abbey Ramble

On a bright cloudless and frosty morning twenty-eight of us, plus Alfie the dog, met at Roche Abbey.  During the briefing newcomer Julie was introduced, along with Sophie, visiting her parents from London. The ground underfoot was hard with frost as we made our way to the abbey.  Founded in 1147 by monks from Newminster Abbey in Northumblerland, this site was chosen because of the existing quarry which could be used to build the abbey and the plentiful supply of water from Maltby Beck and from Hooton Dyke. Twenty-five years later the buildings were completed. At its height it supported a community of 175 men, of whom about 60 were the choir monks, the remainder being lay brothers.  The first building we had come across was the Great Gatehouse, originally a two-storey building.  from the west-facing porch the monks dispensed food to the destitute and from the east-facinggate hall they admitted guests and monitoted entries and exits. The large room over the porch and hallwas probably used for settling legal disputes with tenant landowners. The Roche Abbey records have either been lost or destroyed so there are no accounts of the abbey's activities.it is known, from other sources, that the quary continued to be worked, thus providing an income for the abbey. It is known that there were 14 monks and an unknown number of novices at the time of the disolution by Henry V11 on 23rd June 1538.

We left the abbey and followed a clear parh through King's Wood, taking the left-hand track near the top to bring us out on flat open countryside with extensive views towards Slade Hooton and beyond. We also saw a deer which scampered along about 100 metres from us, pausing to take a good look at us. Laughten en le Morthen soon came into view, with the magnificent spire of All Saints Church dominating. In the mid 11th century Edwin, Earl of Mercia, is believed to have built a Saxon hall in the village but following the Norman Conquest the village and its lands were given by William the Conqueror to Roger de Busli, a Norman baron. To enforce his rule Busli built Laughton castle, a motte and bailey castle, the bailey of which is now the churchyard of the 14th century parish church.

We had a refreshment break in the childrens playground adjacent to the village hall and then set off to the road, walking for about 300 metres before turning left onto the track known as Kirk Croft Road. By this time the sun had melted the frost and the ground had become very muddy in places. After about 30 minutes on the bright and airy track we reached Long Thwaite Wood before passing into delightful sheltered track. We reached some cottages and soon onto a minor road which led us into Firbeck. We took a footpath directly alongside St Martin's Church and soon to the RAF Firbeck memorial, marking the site of an airfield which was originally used to take rich and aristocratic people to the exclusive club in Firbeck Hall, which closed in 1939 and later became a hospital to rehabilitate injured miners before becoming disused until it was bought and developed as a very expensive housing development. From the memorial we made our way, mostly on firm tracks, to the village of Stone, passing some unusual states in a garden, one of which was a life-sized giraffe reaching up to a tree for food. From Stone we briefly walked up a minor road and turned left through a narrow gate and headed towards a road, crossing a stile and  passing through a gate before the abbey came into view once more.

Thanks to Rob for back-marking. Because of the mud underfoot this was a rather tougher than usual short walk, but all seemed to enjoy it and we finished it at 1.40.  David Gadd

 

Tuesday 14th Jan.2025. - More Abandoned Canal, Railways and Coal workings.

Twenty five members from Doncaster Ramblers plus Glynn from Leicester Ramblers and June from Rotherham Metro Ramblers met in the car park at Rother Valley Country Park on a warmer morning than those experienced all last week. The park was opened in 1983 having been created from former open cast coal mining. Though the weather was warmer, and after a while layers were shed, in frost hollows and shaded areas the ground was still frozen and slippery. In contrast in areas in the sun the ground had thawed and the ground was wet, muddy and slippery.
After the usual prewalk briefing we followed the banks of the River Rother in a southerly direction until we encountered the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) which follows the track of an abandoned railway. About 2 miles into our walk, we left the TPT and a short uphill stretch brought us to another abandoned railway which we followed eventually leaving the railway behind us and walking on footpaths through the reclaimed waste tip for the former Westthorpe Collier where coffee break was taken. After a short section of road walking through Upperthorpe we were walking in fields and woods, apart from crossing the busy A618, until we passed under the M1 into the village of Woodall. After a short road section through the village, it was uphill through fields to Harthill where lunch was taken in the churchyard and use made of the Beehive Public House. Refreshed, it was downhill to Kiverton Country Park which was created when the waste tip of Kiverton Park Colliery was reclaimed after the mine was closed in 1994. Our route then took us onto the Cuckoo Way which follows an abandoned railway to the M1, which once again we walked under. A short section of field walking brought us to the the abandoned Chesterfield Canal near Norwood passing the abandoned lock gates and ponds. Continuing following the canal through an industrial area we finally left the canal towpath and a short walk woodland walk brought us to the access road of the Rother Valley Country Park and a short road section back to our start point. Just under 11 miles was walked and 740 feet climbed. Thanks to Bob for back marking and to everybody who came on the walk. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday 11th January 2025 In the Footsteps of Romans

Fifteen ramblers met at Cusworth Hall on a cold, sunny, frosty day with temperatures never rising above freezing. This was a leisurely ramble through Cusworth Country Park before following the Roman Ridge to Highfields Country Park. Lunch was taken outside, in the winter, sunshine on the picnic tables of a nearby pub.

Returning we passed the remains of the Motte and Bailey at Castle Hills before joining the newly refurbished Trans Pennine Trail back to Cusworth.
Many thanks to Peter for backmarking.
AMG

P.O.I.
A motte-and-bailey castle is a European fortification with a wooden or stone keep situated on a raised area of ground called a motte, accompanied by a walled courtyard, or bailey, surrounded by a protective ditch and palisade. Relatively easy to build with unskilled labour, but still militarily formidable, these castles were built across northern Europe from the 10th century onwards,

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Thursday 9th January 2025 – Sykehouse and Pollington

A bitter cold snap was in progress as 13 ramblers assembled at the Old George public house, Sykehouse. It was to be a very sunny morning. Road closures were in evidence due to flooding, caused by snow and heavy rain the preceding weekend. The original plan to reach Pollington was not possible due to the flooding. We turned left upon leaving the pub and then quickly turned right along Chapel Lane. Where Chapel Lane bears left, we carried straight on. The ground was very hard due to the previous nights sharp frost. Soon we were able to access a broad grassy track through a small gate. Flooding was witnessed at first hand along here as a field was submerged. We used this track for quite some distance, passing the small hamlet of Eskholme, noting the huge expanse of water on our left. We emerged alongside the New Junction Canal. We made our way to a footbridge where we crossed the canal to the other bank and took our morning break. Afterwards we used the canal towpath for quite a distance, crossing Sykehouse Road where a lifting bridge is located. There were large chunks of ice in the canal. We carried on using the towpath to Kirk Lane where we turned right and used Kirk Lane to make our way towards Sykehouse. The lane ends at a crossroads and by turning left here along Broad Lane we were able to get back to Sykehouse. Most of the group made use of the cafe within the Old George for refreshments before heading home. Thanks to Nick for back marking.

David Horne 09/01.

Tuesday 7 January 2025 A Walk Around Cyningesburh Parks ( aka Norman's Birthday Walk )

25 of us ( including Adele who had joined Ramblers two days previously and whose first long walk this was) met in the car park of the social club just around the corner from the walk leaders house in Conisbrough. It was nice and bright but there was still a lot of frozen snow and ice on the ground and it was cold. These turned out to be the conditions for the whole of the walk. All the way round we crunched on what was left of the snow that had fallen a couple of days previously. Norman gave us our briefing and also some local historical information before we set off. In return we all wished him a very happy birthday. Then it was off into the frozen wastelands around Conisbrough. North West towards Old Denaby and then south to Hooton Roberts where the staff of The Earl of Strafford allowed us to use their outside tables for our coffee stop and Norman provided cake and cheese ( as has become the custom on his birthday walks ) to sustain us against the cold. From Hooton Roberts it was South East to Micklebring and our lunch break at The Grazing Hart where again the nice staff let us eat inside in the warm whilst taking on some liquid refreshment. After Micklebring we retraced our steps back under the motorway before taking a direct northerly route back to Conisbrough. I think it is fair to say the conditions underfoot made it tough going all the way. In some parts it was hard to get a decent grip and where there had been a slight thaw it was squelchy with mud. But the snow did lend a certain something to the views and the surrounding countryside. Where usually there would be green fields today it was a complete white- out ( see the photos ). In some ways it was an enjoyable change. As usual Doncaster Ramblers embraced the prevailing conditions and had a good time. Thanks to Norman for planning and leading. Phil for back-marking. And Steve for the photos. CP
Cyningesburh is the Old English name for Conisbrough and means 'king's fortified place' or 'king's stronghold'. It was once described as one of the most important places in Anglo Saxon and Viking South Yorkshire. The castle was the inspiration for Coningsburgh Castle in Sir Walter Scott's novel Ivanhoe.
The Earl of Strafford ( 1593 - 1641 ) after whom the pub in Hooton Roberts is named was chief adviser to Charles1. He was however impeached by The Long Parliament and beheaded. A rumour has it that he and his wife and daughter were the three skeletons found in Hooton Roberts St John's church when work was being done there in 1895.

Saturday 4 January 2025 A New Year Clumber Meander

Once again we got lucky with the weather. One day later and we would have been trudging through snow and getting wet from sleety rain. But the weather for our Clumber Meander was actually quite nice. Chilly but dry and reasonably bright. Just what we needed to stride out and shake off the last dregs of Christmas and New Year torpor. Nineteen of us including three guests ( and one dog ) met in the middle of the park. The walk was a sort of overlapping figure of eight . A six and a half mile loop around the lake in a clockwise direction in the morning. And then another 5 mile loop around the lake in an anti-clockwise direction in the afternoon. Elevenses were at Hardwick Village and the lunch break at The Courtyard area to take advantage of the refreshment outlets and toilets.
Sometimes we were in the dense forested areas of the park and at other times we were crossing the more open heathland areas. Sometimes on muddy paths and sometimes on the tarmac roadways. Either way Clumber never disappoints and the scenery all around us on this January day was great. Bare trees and frozen grass. Crossing the wooden footbridge just after Hardwick , Clumber Bridge on the approach to the Courtyard and the cricket pitch are always little highlights in Clumber. But today it was the animal life that provided most delight. A solitary deer has been adopted by one of the herds of longhorn cattle. Watching its antics as it behaved like a sheepdog trying to herd them was quite something. Lots of oohing and arghing and jokes about what sort of deer it was. ( No idea etc ). It was still the main talking point when we finally reached the cars and prepared to head home. Thanks to Steve for the photos and Peter G for back-marking . CP
Clumber Park is part of the ancient woodland of Sherwood Forest and covers 3800 acres. For three centuries it was the country seat of the Dukes Of Newcastle. It is now owned by The National Trust. The house was demolished in 1938 but the chapel and Pleasure Grounds still remain.

Saturday, 28th December - Monyash

Six walkers began their 11-mile circular route at Monyash, a village situated at the head of Lathkill Dale in the White Peak. The day was cool and dry with fog occupying the valleys.
An extended elevenses was taken at the Magpie Mine near Sheldon allowing the group to explore the well-preserved remains and information boards. This lead mine has a history spanning over 200 years, including periods of productivity and disputes not to mention murder.
The route went into and out of the spectacular and aptly named Deep Dale before continuing to Taddington where lunch was taken in the village playground. Then uphill to the highest point of this walk, Sough Top. This provided the walkers with 360-degree views of the surrounding rolling, upland terrain.
The walk continued to Chelmorton, (a linear village with ancient field systems), then Flagg before returning to Monyash. This ramble will be remembered for the wonderful scenery and many stone stiles.
Thanks to Carol and Nigel for leading this walk.
AMG

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Friday 27th December 2024 Twixtmas Walk and Quiz

The weather was grey ,damp and misty but our spirits were bright and cheerful when 22 of us met in the car park of the Horse and Groom in Armthorpe. The briefing told us that the walk would be about 6.5 miles. Looping out of Armthorpe towards the M18 and Branton before swinging back to Old Cantley and the edge of Sandall Beat Wood before returning via the old pit tops and the housing estate behind the pub. And so it proved to be. We took a short coffee break about half way round but otherwise get up a fair pace to ensure a prompt return to the Horse and Groom for the much anticipated quiz.
Once everyone was settled with a drink and had ordered what food they wanted we wasted no time in getting on with the main event of the day. Bob's quizzes are are always a test for the grey matter. This one was all about news events and happenings in each of the 12 months of 2024. How could we possibly have forgotten everything so quickly. Congratulations to the winners , runners up , and losers . And thanks to everybody who came along and took part. Thanks also to Bob and Dave in absentia for setting the quiz. Another good day in excellent company. CP

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

 Thursday 19th December 2024 Belton and Churchtown

A very bright but cold morning was on offer at Belton Coffee House, situated on the main (A161) road between Belton and Epworth. 20 ramblers, nearly all suitably attired in hats and gloves, were ready to enjoy the walk. Following the leader briefing, we set off in a southerly direction before turning right along a track. There was a cold wind blowing over this track as it was quite exposed. We gradually followed the path round a curve to then face north. Underfoot conditions were good with little mud. Before long we crossed a small footbridge and walked along a rural country lane (Northferry Lane) with houses dotted about. There was a T junction at the end of Northferry Lane. Here we turned right into Belshaw Lane. This was a pleasant quiet residential road to stroll down. At the end of Belshaw Lane we crossed Carrhouse Lane and took a footpath opposite which took us to the small hamlet of Churchtown. This is a delightful place featuring the imposing All Saints church, a pub and a few quaint houses. We took our morning break here. There was a seat in the churchyard which three ladies made use of but most people made the most of a wall between the churchyard access road and the church to either sit on or to put their snack on. The next section of the walk took us over field footpaths and tracks before entering Mann Lane. There was a T junction at the end of the lane. As with Northferry Lane we turned right here and made our way along Westgate Road. After a while we came to a roundabout where a memorial is situated. The group used a pedestrian crossing nearby to cross the A161. We made our way briefly through a small housing area then onto a very pleasant tree lined walkway which was formerly a railway line, long since closed. This took us in a southerly direction for quite a distance where, after a second crossing of the A161, we made our way back to the car park, just a matter of yards away now. We were back at the car park at about 1220. Thanks to Rob for back marking.
David Horne 19/12.

Tuesday 17th Dec 2024 – Festive Cusworth Circular

Forty ramblers arrived early to partake in the festive refreshments (port, wine, mince pies, shortbread, chocolate biscuits) generously provided by members. A dry, mild day allowed the event to be held outside. They were joined by two more walkers and a dog en route.

This was a leisurely 10-mile ramble through Cusworth Village and around Sprotbrough Flash. Elevenses were taken next to the canal with Jackie and Catherine kindly providing further alcoholic drinks. After lunch we visited a local hostelry with the walk continuing downstream along the levee of the R. Don before joining the Trans Pennine Trail back to Cusworth.

Many thanks to all those who provided refreshments, to Neil for his excellent car parking skills and to Steve for back marking.

AMG

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday, 14th Dec 2024 The Robin Hood Way from Walesby

Seven ramblers began their walk at St Edmund's Church North Nottinghamshire. The weather was perfect, sunny, no wind and blue skies.
The route followed a section of the Robin Hood Way, a long-distance footpath that weaves through areas associated with the legendary outlaw. Leaving Walesby, the group passed through Blackcliffe Plantation, a mixed woodland that thrives on the area's sandy soils. Here hundreds of noisy starlings sprinkled the walkers with a liberal coating of guano.
Heading north, the path skirted Clumber Park before turning east toward Elkesley. However, reports of flooding near the River Poulter required a detour via a small hamlet called Bothamstall before re-joining the Robin Hood Way.
The loop concluded with a gentle ascent back to Walesby to complete this 10-mile walk. Many thanks to Martin for leading his first Saturday walk and for providing the refreshments during elevenses.
AMG

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Thursday 12th Dec 2024– Loversall to the Amazon.

A group of 15 ramblers plus the leader assembled at Annabels car park in Loversall. The morning was misty and foggy to begin with. The group set off in a southerly direction before turning left along a footpath towards the iport. Loversall Hall was passed on the way. The path was quite wide at this point but narrowed as we approached the lakes. Through the mist we could see in the distance the giant warehouses (including Amazon !) which make up the iport. Just before the small bridge over the railway we took a left turn and soon afterwards another left turn to walk parallel to our previous path. Puddles were in abundance along here but the group made good progress to a spot in the vicinity of Annabels where we had our morning break. Afterwards we used a small bridge to cross over the motorway and proceeded to use a good track close to the motorway. Soon we were at a point where we met a walkway which was formerly a railway line. The group turned left and followed this trail for quite some distance. Eventually, just before an overbridge, we took a path on the right to climb a little and followed the path over the bridge. Soon we were in Hall Balk Lane. This emerges on Tickhill Road where we turned left crossing over the motorway again. The next left turn was Bubup Hill. This took us back into Loversall where we arrived back at 1215. Thanks to Annabels for allowing us to use their car park at Loversall and Malc for back marking.
David Horne 13/12

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Tuesday 10th Dec 2024    Xmas walk and meal
(Sandall Beat Pre-Christmas Dinner Walk)

On an overcast but thankfully dry winters day 46 ramblers from the Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday walking groups gathered at the Wheatley Golf club for the pre-Christmas dinner walk. A total of 58 people had signed up for the meal but a number of people for various reasons decided to accept the hospitality of the golf club and have a later pre dinner coffee instead of going on the walk.

We left the club at 10.00, and after safely crossing Armthorpe road proceeded down a track which leads to Sandall Beat wood where we walked following the boundary of the wood until we reached the playground area and the bridge over the little used railway line. After crossing the railway line we headed out of the wood and walked up the spoil heap of the old Armthorpe coal mine which has been reclaimed into South Moor Wood a great upland area often frequented by dog walkers and outdoor lovers. We then walked back along the base of the ‘pit top’ back to Elm wood where we had our coffee break. Suitably refreshed the walk continued down to Crowther wood and then along the edge of Cantley Park back into Sandall Beat Wood and along through the wood adjacent to the railway line back to the footbridge over the railway line. We then traced our way backward following the way we had come, up the track past the stables back to the golf club returning by 13.00.

People then changed for dinner and after a light refreshment at the bar proceed into the dining area. The meal was served promptly and very efficiently at 13.45 by some charming young ladies. The 3-course meal was excellent and everyone complimented the golf club/caterers on a great meal.

Footnote : Due to the favourable response by everyone could people please put in their diaries the date and venue for the Christmas Meal 2025 (ie next year)
Wheatley Golf Club : 9th December 2025

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday 7th Dec 2024 Whitwell Wood, Shireoaks and Thorpe Salvin

It was still and there was just a little drizzle in the air as 7 gathered in the layby at Whitwell Wood, but we doubted our sanity as Storm Darragh was forecast to arrive soon. We set off through the shelter of the wood and soon headed along one of the spokes of the wheel that the tracks through the wood form. In the centre of the wood we took another spoke. Back out of the wood, we headed past Netherthorpe airfield (where the planes were securely fixed to the ground) to Shireoaks. We joined the Chesterfield Canal and sheltered under one of its bridges to have elevenses. We followed the canal to Thorpe Salvin where we headed to The Parish Oven pub. Perhaps because we'd been walking quickly to miss the worst of the storm, we arrived before the pub was open, but by the time those of us who hadn't eaten all their food at elevenses had eaten our lunch, it was open. After enjoying our drinks and admiring the Christmas decorations in the pub, we set off with the strengthening wind at our backs. Back in the wood, its shelter was welcome. We followed the rim of the wheel back to our cars. The wind was quite strong now, but we felt lucky to have walked without suffering badly from the storm.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Thursday 5th Dec 2024 Clumber Park

A dry day with a little warmer weather than of late greeted 23 ramblers outside the cafe in the Courtyard. After a brief introduction to the walk by the writer there was a short talk about the history of Clumber Park. We then set off alongside the lake and after crossing the same headed for Hardwick village. During this stretch we saw Santa jogging with his lady but he did not appear to have brought any presents for us. We skirted round and through Hardwick rejoining the lake near the weir.Here we stopped for a coffee/toilet break and then resumed a lakeside walk before taking a little used footpath into Hardwick wood. Care had to be taken at this stage because of protruding tree roots which were partially hidden by autumn leaves.
We crossed Lime Tree avenue for the first time and then doubled back to it via Burnt wood and Cottage Plantations. The final stage took us along Robin Hoods Way before taking us back to the start.
An enjoyable walk (I believe) and there was a nice touch when John who had only walked with us occasionally said we were the most friendly group he had walked with.
Many thanks to Angela who took some photos for us and to Rob for his calm back marking.
History note
Clumber Park was owned by the Dukes of Newcastle for three centuries and Clumber House was one of the four Nottinghamshire dukeries.The others are Welbeck Abbey Thoresby Hall and Worksop Manor.
Clumber House was demolished in 1938 by the owners to avoid a tax bill.The National Trust purchased the Park in 1946 and it was opened to the public in the late 1950s
Nigel B

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Tuesday 3rd Dec 2024 Abandoned Canal, Railways and Coal workings.

Twenty members from Doncaster Ramblers plus Glyn from Leicester Ramblers met at the car park at the Anglers Country Park which between 1974 and 1982 was the site of a 250-foot-deep opencast coal pit. On completion of coal extraction, the site was reinstated creating a large lake which is a haven for wildlife.
Leaving the car park, we walked into Haw Wood following the 9-foot-high boundary wall of the Walton Hall Estate which was constructed by Charles Waterton in the 17th century to keep poachers out and the animals in of what was the world’s first nature reserve. Apparently, he kept all sorts of exotic animals in the parkland. Leaving the wood to the south of Walton we came to the abandoned Barnsley Canal which was constructed in the 1790’s as a transport link for the Barnsley coal reserves to reach a wider market, it was finally abandoned in 1953. Following the towpath south we reached the dam of Cold Hiendley Reservoir, which was constructed to supply water to the canal, where coffee break was taken. Continuing south we again followed the Barnsley Canal, which forms part of the Trans Pennine Trail for some distance to Royston, the site of the former Monckton Colliery (1878 to 1960) and Royston Drift Mine (1975 to 1989). A short road section took us to Rabbit Ings Country Park the site of the former collieries waste tip. Climbing to the top of the reclaimed spoil heap we had good views of the surrounding countryside, including the TV mast at Emley Moor which is a common sight on many Doncaster Ramblers walks. The monument at the viewpoint showed how important coal mining was to the industrial history of this part of Yorkshire. Descending the spoil heap followed by a bit of road walking brought us to our lunch stop at the pretty church at Felkirk, the majority of which was built in the 1600’s, though Christian worship is thought to have taken place on the site since Anglo Saxon times. The church was open and it was nice to see the inside of the church beautifully decorated for Christmas. Refreshed, both physically and spiritually, a short section of road walking brought us to an abandoned railway line which we followed in a northerly direction for some distance towards New Crofton passing through the old mining villages of Ryhill and Havercroft on the way. Just short of New Crofton we left the old railway line and entered the northern end of Anglers Country Park then followed the west side of the lake back to our start point. About 10.5 miles was walked on a cold but dry December morning which turned into a sunny and pleasantly warm afternoon. Thanks to Angela for back marking and to everybody that came on the walk. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday 30th November 2024 Around Elsecar

Fifteen walkers met at Elsecar Heritage Centre, a key site in South Yorkshire's industrial past, featuring restored workshops and exhibits. The weather was mild for late November, with temperatures reaching 12°C making for pleasant walking conditions.
The route passed local landmarks, including the location for the filming of Kes, a classic British film capturing Yorkshire life, before reaching the historic Spittal Houses at Derricroft, the remnants of former agricultural workers' dwellings.
The latter part of the walk went through the estate village of Wentworth whose architecture reflects the wealth of the Fitzwilliam family, who historically owned much of the land in this area.
Returning to Elsecar, the trail wound through fields and woodland, offering views of the rolling South Yorkshire countryside. The heritage centre served as an ideal endpoint, with opportunities for people to explore its shops and cafés.
Many thanks to Carol for leading and to Nigel for back marking.

AMG

Thursday 28th November 2024 Dunscroft, Quarry Park & Dunsville.

On a somewhat cold but bright November morning 25 ramblers plus the leader assembled at the Hatfield Chace Public House. Following the leader briefing we set off from the car park onto Doncaster Road but very quickly turned left along Coppice Lane. Care was needed here due to ice on the road surface. Coppice Lane emerges onto residential streets which we used before entering Quarry Park. A good broad track was used to make our way around the edge of Quarry Park. A frost the previous night had ensured the ground was firm and had kept any mud at bay. Our morning break was taken by a picnic table at the edge of Quarry Park just before reaching St Marys Road. The walk continued along St Marys Road before using a pedestrian crossing to cross the busy A18, the main road through Hatfield. Here we made our way alongside the road in a westerly direction before turning left, just at the end of the row of houses, along Park Lane (actually a grassy track). This was followed for quite some distance before encountering a T junction at the bottom. We turned left here along Rake Bridge Road followed by Rake Bridge Bank to another T junction. A further left turn was required here to access Sheep Cote Lane, going through a small industrial area before emerging on the boundary between Woodhouse Lane and Mosscroft Lane. We went straight ahead, along Lings Lane, which took us through a built up area with houses back to the Hatfield Chace. Thanks to John for back marking and to the Hatfield Chace Public House for allowing us to use their car park and for the hospitality shown to the group.
David Horne 28/11.

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Tuesday 26 November 2024 Three Lakes Classic (Whiston and Ulley)

This was to be the first walk that Malc had led. It was on his home turf and so we were expecting good things, especially after his wife Debbie's walk earlier in the year had been such a success. Nothing like healthy competition to produce good walks. Anyway 34 of us turned up. It certainly started well as Malc had arranged good parking in the pub car park in Whiston. ( more later ). We got a good briefing from Malc and set off out of Whiston towards the nearby M1. The walk was a 10.5 mile anti-clockwise loop through the countryside and farmland to the south and then to the north of that motorway. Along the way we passed through parts of Catcliffe, Treeton and Aughton before returning to Whiston. There were some short bits of road side and urban sections but mostly we were in woods or alongside fields. A little muddy in places up and down here and there but nothing we couldn't cope with.
But really the walk was about the industrial heritage of the area and water. And to some extent the relationship between the two. Malc explained as we went along.
First there was the River Rother. Once one of the most polluted and dead rivers in the UK it is now a haven for fish and wild life. Then there were Waverley Lakes and Treeton Dyke. These were also once polluted and clogged with detritus of all kinds but are now transformed into nature reserves and fishing lakes. And last there was Ulley Reservoir where we had our lunch. Built in 1871 it almost burst (and would have flooded most of Sheffield ) in June 2007. The villages of Whiston, Treeton and Catcliffe were evacuated and a stretch of the M1 closed while 4 million litres of water were pumped out. Treeton did not however escape altogether. It was flooded by rainwater in the 2017 Sheffield Floods. We had taken our coffee break by the side of Treeton Dyke. The slag heap slopes on the opposite side were the site of the infamous Battle Of Orgreave during the 1984 Miners Strikes when striking miners pickets and police from South Yorkshire and The Met clashed outside the local coking works. Today the area is more peaceful and being taken over by a new housing development.
After such a good and interesting walk 19 of us didn't take much persuading to show our appreciation of the pubs parking by going in for a drink. Thanks very much to the land lord and staff at The Sitwell Arms. And of course thanks to Malc for leading and informing along the way. Steve as always for the photos. And thanks to Gareth for back marking and last but not least to Debbie for keeping an eye on things. You know how the saying goes ....' behind every great man etc ' Charlie P

Saturday 23rd November 2024 Cusworth Circular
Six stalwart (some might say stupid) ramblers set off in the heavy rain brought by storm Bert, having first been fortified by port and mince pies.

This 9-mile ramble passed through Cusworth Village and around Sprotbrough Flash before returning via the Trans Pennine Trail. Morning coffee and lunch were taken in the welcome shelter provided by one of the bird hides overlooking the Flash. Drinks were taken next to an open fire at the delightful art deco Ivanhoe pub.
Many thanks to all who chose to come out on this very wet day.
Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
AMG
P.O.I.
The Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) is an exciting route for walkers, cyclists, wheelers and horse riders linking the North and Irish seas, passing through the Pennines, alongside rivers and canals and through some of the most historic towns and cities in the North of England.
The Trail from coast-to-coast between Southport and Hornsea is 215 miles (346km) long.
A north-south route connecting Leeds and Chesterfield, a spur to York and a spur to Kirkburton means there are approximately 370 miles (595km) of Trans Pennine Trail available to explore.

Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Thursday 21st Nov 2024 - Haxey

19 Ramblers turned up at Haxey playing fields on a crisp November morning which produced a beautiful blue sky for the duration of the walk . Rob briefly provided a background for the walk confirming that there were no major safety issues apart from crossing railway lines twice and some road walking. We set off briefly in the direction of Graizelound before taking a footpath in a south westerly direction across fields and tracks. We passed Sandbeds farm on to Boswell Lane and reached Akeferry Road. At this point Rob discovered a sparrowhawk which had been trapped in some bushes and he managed with some difficulty to extricate the bird from its position without being bitten. The bird flew happily away, saying ’Thank you’ to Rob as it took off. We moved southerly on to Langholme Lane and crossed the Warping drain into Langholme Wood. There in a lovely glade was our coffee/sandwich stop. After leaving the wood we reached Tindale Bank road and soon turned off heading north to re-cross the Warping drain. We came to the southern outskirts of Westwoodside and then made our way across the fields back via Lordsfolds Lane to Haxey.
An enjoyable ramble in great albeit cold weather for walking led reliably by our Bird Whisperer! This shall be henceforth designated as the Sparrowhawk Walk
Nigel Ball

Tuesday 19 November 2024 Silkstone

There had been a heavy snowfall the night before and so we were not sure what to expect when we got up and got ready for this walk. Would the travelling be difficult and what would conditions underfoot be like. Whatever our misgivings 21 Ramblers turned up at Pot House Hamlet on the outskirts of Silkstone. Everyone reported relatively easy journeys and the weather looked good. Dry and bright and nowhere near as cold as some of the forecasts had led us to expect.

Pot House Hamlet is an interesting place. Silkstone is mentioned in The Domesday Book ( before towns like Barnsley existed ). The beck that runs through the hamlet has over the years been used as a source of power and supported industries such as glass making , pottery and grain grinding. More recently it has been a centre for local farming and rose growing. Many of the old buildings at Pot House Mill Farm have been renovated and now house cafes and retail outlets.

We left the car park there and went straight across the road and into the snow covered countryside and then across Silkstone golf course. We looped back west and then south and east to bring us almost full circle to Silkstone Common and our lunch stop at The Station Inn public house.  (The only pub I have ever been in with its own train timetable board). All the way it had been like a winter wonderland as we went in and out of small wooded areas, across small streams  and up and down across the  snow- white farmland.The afternoon was over similar terrain and again was very white and snow covered as we left Silkstone Common and went east and then north through Hall Royd Wood and then cut diagonally across Silkstone Fall to get back to Pot House Hamlet. What a change the walk had been. Our first taste of winter. And a very good taste at that. The weather had been pleasant and the vistas clean  and pure white rather than the green we usually get. We had all enjoyed it greatly. Some of our more childish members had even indulged in snowball fights and delighted in making the snow cascade on others heads from the overhanging branches. It's not every week you get the chance to do that !   Thanks to Phil for leading and to Mel and Norman for back-marking. Steve as ever for the photos. CP  

Non-members welcome,  on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after  

Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving”  campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving  -or use  #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity .  Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings.  Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday 16th November 2024 - Heatherdene to Win Hill and Hope

13 of us left Heatherdene car park near Ladybower Reservoir on a grey, drizzly morning. After crossing the dam wall we began zig-zagging up Win Hill, through trees at first, then out onto open moorland. A final rocky path took us to the summit where we stopped for a break and to enjoy the views, which were not impressive in the misty conditions. The leader claimed he could see the cement works near Hope (which is normally in view on most of this walk). A long zig-zag took us down into better conditions, with occasional glimpses of blue sky, and eventually into Hope for lunch. Some of us opted for the Old Hall Hotel and its cosy log fire.

The afternoon took us around the lower slopes of Win Hill with views of the Hope Valley and back down into the Derwent Valley where we joined the Derwent Valley Heritage Way though Thornhill Carrs Nature Reserve and along the route of an old railway line back to Ladybower.

Thanks to Martin for back marking

Thursday, 14th November, 2024 - Tickhill - Haworth Stroll

On a stunningly beautiful morning twenty-five walkers, including Paula and Jacky for their first walk with us, and two dogs, Alfie and Willow (her first time with us too) left the Buttercross at 10.00 and walked around to Mill Dam for a quiet briefing.  Firstly, a reminder about the Christmas dinner at the Wheatley Golf Club on 10th December - all info on the website.  Secondly, info about the recent AGM and a request for 2-3 more committee members on the basis that all committees need new blood, even from people who only joined recently. Then, standing beneath what is known as the curtain wall, we had some info on the history of the castle.  Roger de Busli was gifted the Manor of Tickhill by Willian the Conqueror after the Battle of Hastings in 1066. The first castle was made of wood but after a seige in 1102 the curtain wall was built and the castle re-built in stone. By the 17th century it had fallen into disuse but was re-fortified by Sir Ralph Hansby for the Royalists, but then razed to the ground in 1648 by Oliver Cromwell's soldiers to prevent its use as a stronghold in the future.  

We then set off behind the castle to walk towards a footbridge,  where we turned right and made our way to a stile which can be difficult to climb  but which the farmer refuses to allow a kissing gate to replace it, at no cost to him in time or money. From there we walked across a field to a bridge over a stream. Then we walked towards and then alongside the thunderous A1(M) before passing under it and into the outskirts of Haworth, in Nottinghamshire.   We turned right at a main road, passed the Haworth cemetery and walked under the A1(M) again and into the grounds of the Styrrup golf club.  Styrrup is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, the name possibly referring to the shape of a nearby hill.  We stopped on some benches for our refreshments before continuing on the right of way through the golf course to a narrow footbridge and through the Millenium Wood into Winney Haugh Lane and thence into Water Lane, which we followed back to Mill Dam, currently fenced off while the sluice is given some attention. 

We returned to the centre of Tickhill at 12.25.  Thanks to Dave Nicholson for efficient back-marking and to all present for being such a lovely group!  David Gadd

Tuesday 12th Nov 2024 Holmfirth from Hade Edge.

Nineteen members, including a visitor from Stockport Ramblers, met on a cool but dry Autumn day opposite the Bohgaw Trout public house on the outskirts of Hade Edge for a 9 mile circular walk with a lunch stop in Holmfirth.
Following the usual briefing, during which we were warned to watch out for slippery areas due to the Autumn leaf fall, we were off downhill to a small reservoir on the River Ribble. Circumnavigating the reservoir, we descended to the base of the dam then it was uphill following Fox Clough to the top of the hill. A short distance on the Kirklees Way brought us to White Gate Road. Crossing the road, we skirted the top of Dobb Dike and Crow Hill on the HVC (Holm Valley Circular) Walk until we reached our coffee stop in the picnic area close to the dam of Ramsden Reservoir. Refreshed, we walked along the road above Brownhill Reservoir then downhill to Hinchcliffe Mill and Upper Stubbin. Leaving the road, we took the footpath which follows the River Holme eventually meeting the A6024 which we followed to our lunch stop in the centre of Holmfirth which has plenty of cafes and pubs which provided a group of thirsty walkers with all sorts of liquid refreshment. After lunch we followed the B6106 for a short distance followed by a steep climb on a footpath up Under Bank then along the ridge to New Dunsley. A downhill section brought us to the River Ribble at Washwater which got most of the group thinking as we started on top of a hill we must have another steep climb ahead of us. So, it proved to be with steep sections interspersed with less steep areas to give us a breather, until we reached the very large Longley Farm Creamery which produces yoghurt and other milk products such as cottage cheeses. Walking on the road through the dairy a short steep uphill section through fields brought us to Dunford Road which we followed for a short distance to our start point. The weather was kind to us during the walk and the going underfoot was reasonably dry so what more could we ask for. Thanks to Martin for leading a great walk in stunning countryside, George for back marking and all walkers for coming along. Stepehen J Tomlinson

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday 9th November 2024  Epworth & Haxey.

17 ramblers accompanied by the leader assembled at Belton Coffee House on a very grey overcast morning. Following the leader briefing, we set off in a Southerly direction along a former railway line, closed many years ago and now a pleasant tree lined walkway. We were to see evidence of this former railway line as the walk progressed. A left turn allowed us to view a restored mill at close quarters, before using a roadside pavement to enter Epworth. We walked past the garden centre before using a flight of steps to reach St Andrews Church. The leader said a few works about the history of the church and about the Methodist movement having its origins in Epworth. We carried on through Epworth, passing Epworth Old Rectory, before using a field footpath on the right to head for Low Burnham. Our morning break was taken just before reaching Low Burnham. After our break we carried on going south through Low Burnham. Further field footpaths took us into Haxey. Our pub stop near St Nicholas Church at Haxey was appreciated by the group before leaving at 1pm. Our return route was mostly made using field footpaths and the railway path. There was very little mud as there had’nt been much rain in the days before the walk. We approached the outskirts of Epworth along a minor road before using residential roads to get to the point on our walk where we were in the morning. From here it was good going back to the car park where we arrived at 2.45. Thanks to Dave Tonkin for back marking. David Horne 9/11.
Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after

Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Wednesday 6th Nov 2024 Doncaster Ramblers maintenance team report

Wednesday 6th November saw the final session of this year for Doncaster Ramblers path maintenance volunteers. The tasks this session involved working at two sites in the Rossington area.
At the first site we removed a dangerous stile and replaced it with a gate. This involved a lot of hard digging in clay to remove parts of the old stile and a concrete post. After the site was cleared the gate was fitted and concreted into place, a short section of fencing was also erected to make the field stockproof. The work was carried out at the junction of Footpaths Rossington 3 and 4. The work was carried out by three volunteers.
The second site was on Footpath Rossington11 in an area where the footpath has been rerouted. Three marker posts were fitted to show the new route. This task was difficult due to the distance from the parking area. The volunteers had to walk to the locations carrying the equipment and consumables. Four volunteers and a member of the City of Doncaster Council Rights of Way section completed this task.
In total 14-man hours was spent on the two tasks
A big thank you to all have taken part in this year’s activities and to the City of Doncaster Council who have assisted and provided materials and tools.
Stuart Twell

Tuesday 5th November 2024 - A Bubwith Experience

The day dawned grey when 25 Ramblers, including Lynn from Pocklington, gathered in the car park on the edge of Bubwith for a slice of apple cake and the obligatory briefing.

Departing the car park the walk took a route through the churchyard and onto the river Derwent bank, this route was continued for about 1.5 miles before turning to follow a path across the adjacent field before reaching a road on the outskirts of Breighton.

From here the route followed the road past the entrance to Breighton airfield where a short history lesson was imparted about its wartime past.

Continuing along the road through the hamlet of Gunby before reaching a disused railway embankment where the obligatory elevenses break was taken with more history of the railway.

After the break the walk continued for about 2.5 miles on the embankment which is part of the Bubwith Railtrail.

Leaving the trail for Harlthorpethe crossing some fields to Glebe Farm before turning west for the lunch stop which was taken by a copse on Aughten Common

After the lunch stop road walking was continued crossing the B1228 before turning south with the route ending back in Bubwith and the car park.

A thanks to John for back marker and Steve for the usual photos.

Stuart Twell

 Saturday 2nd November 2024 – Sir William Hill from Eyam.

Eleven people (two from Chesterfield) and two dogs set off from the Hawkhill Road car park in Eyam on an overcast but generally dry day for this 10-mile walk.

Eyam is one of the largest villages in the White Peak and is best known for its connection to the bubonic plague which arrived in the village in late August 1665 in a parcel of cloth sent to the village tailor. The villagers decided to isolate themselves from surrounding communities so saving the lives of thousands in the surrounding area. Over the 14 months of the plague 260 Eyam villagers died out of a total population of 800. Our walk through the village passed the victims cottages and the churchyard where many are buried. On leaving the village we passed the boundary stone where villagers left money in coin slots full of vinegar in exchange for food brought up the hill from Stoney Middleton.

Descending the hill into Stoney Middleton passing the Roman Baths, where the spring water is a constant 63°F all year. Downhill to the river Derwent before walking upsteam to Leadmill Bridge. The route then followed the secluded valley formed by Highlow Brook giving splendid views overlooking Hathersage and the Edges beyond. A stiff climb up Eyam Moor before reaching Sir William Hill. A gentle descent over fields which offered views across the White Peak before a steep descent back to Eyam. Congratulations to Hannah a Thursday walker undertaking her first longer walk and to Deet’s two grandchildren (age 9 and 11) for completing this strenuous walk.

The only other point of note is that yours truly fell and came back covered in mud.
AMG

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

 

 

 Tuesday 29 October 2024 From Thrybergh Country Park

The lake at Thrybergh was originally built as a reservoir to provide drinking water for a growing Doncaster population in the 1870s. In 1980 it was taken over by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council and turned into a country park and nature reserve. Well used by the local community it boasts good parking ( at a small fee ) , toilets and a cafe. All of which were made good use of by the 20 Ramblers who met for the start of this walk. We rounded the lake in a clockwise and then went left up the steadily rising Thrybergh Lane in the rough direction of Conisborough . We passed the attractive church of St James on the edge of Ravenfield village on the way. The church is really all that is left of the original Ravenfield estate. The house was demolished in the 1920s and the lands broken up and sold off at about the same time. Dropping down the hill we detoured around Firsby Reservoirs and Nature reserve before re-joining the main path and taking our coffee break. Up the slight hill and then across fields and farmland ( a bit muddy in places after all the recent rain ) and then we followed Park Lane up to the main A630. We had to cross and then re-cross this road to make use of the footpath on the far side before getting back into the countryside on Firsby Lane. This eventually led us to the edge of the woods of Ravenfield Park which we went into after a short al fresco lunch stop. This part of the old estate has been taken over by a private fishing club who have done an excellent job of restoring it. The climb up through the woods with views back over the fishing lakes below was a delight. On leaving the woods we repeated some of our earlier steps in reverse and started to head home. Firstly through the lovely village of Ravenfield which still had some of its wonderful wall and hanging baskets of flowers. Still nice even in late October. And then secondly along the line of the defunct railway that once ran from there to Bawtry. Fallen trees occasionally made this a bit of an obstacle course . Limbo dancing under or climbing over depending upon the state of your hips. Back at the lake we completed our circumnavigation clockwise. Thanks to all who came on the walk. But especially Steve for the photos and Neil for backmarking . Charlie P

Spoiler alert
Final paragraph is X rated

 As we emerged from the trees onto the lane to get our coffee we disturbed a courting couple in a clinch in a car. They did not look best pleased to see us as we started to sit down not far away. They did not wave as they drove away either. One walker who shall remain name less did say it was a pity we had not arrived few minutes later when they might have had their clothes off. There were also jokes about possibly saving two marriages and preventing unwanted pregnancies etc. Also a comment from someone about it only being 11.15 in the morning. I had to remind him he'd been young himself once !

Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

 Saturday 26th October 2024 White Edge, Curbar, River Derwent and Froggatt

Starting at The Haywood National Trust car park, a group of 10 walkers (one from Manchester and a second from Leeds), set off on this 10-mile walk, on a perfect autumn day.
White Edge, one of the gritstone escarpments in the Peak District gave open views of moorland with mist in the valley below. Passing an old stone signpost and its more recent companion stone the walkers reached the Wellington monument (a 19th-century landmark commemorating the Duke of Wellington).
Descending to Curbar for lunch. The walkers then followed the right bank of the River Derwent upstream passing Calver Weir which was built in the 19th century to power nearby mills.
A stiff climb and scramble up to Froggatt Edge where several climbers were observed. The walk continued along the top providing spectacular views over the Derwent Valley and the surrounding hills in the warm autumnal sunshine.
Thanks to Brian for helping to lead this walk.
AMG

Tuesday 22 October 2024 Bardsey ( Charlie's First Steps )

Apparently this walk was so named because it was the first walk I ever did with Doncaster Ramblers about seven or so years ago. I felt honoured but in all honesty could not remember any of it. That may have been because of failing memory or perhaps as I prefer to believe because Pete chose to lead it in the opposite direction to that which we had taken back then. Twenty two of us plus two dogs met to undertake the walk . We would start in Bardsey and visit Thorner and Scarcroft villages on a 10 mile loop in what is a fairly affluent area either side of the A58 road between Leeds and Wetherby. The weather was great for a late day in October and so after Pete had briefed us about roads to cross and the risk of low flying golf balls from Scarcroft Golf Club we set off in good spirits. We were looking forward to a nice dry walk in a lovely area with a pub stop at lunchtime. What could be better. And so it proved to be. The rain of previous days had left some of the early tracks a bit muddy in places but generally the terrain was good. The walk rolled and flowed across fields, down lanes and through areas of mixed woodland with the occasional stream to cross via picturesque bridges and fords. The countryside was green and lush and the trees were looking resplendent in their autumn colours. The views were super in all directions. Elevenses were al fresco at a point where three paths met and then lunch was on the village green in Thorner where there were plenty of tables and benches at which to enjoy our sandwiches before heading to the adjacent Mexborough Arms to wash them down. As always the company was excellent and there was a lot of laughter all the way round as good natured banter was exchanged between friends. Thanks to Pete for leading, to Julie for back-marking and Steve for the photography.
Bardsey is mentioned in The Domesday Book as Berdsei .Part of its name refers to the fact that it stands on a small hill. It once hosted a railway station that was closed in the Beeching cuts of 1964.
Thorner also appears in The Domesday Book as Torneure meaning Thorn Bank. It also used to have a railway station; also closed in the Beeching cuts.
Scarcroft was once renown for have the most expensive street of houses in Leeds.

Saturday 19th October 2024  Holmfirth

Fourteen ramblers set off from Hade Edge, a small village in West Yorkshire, on a wet October day. Fortunately, the rain stopped shortly after the start of the walk to be followed by excellent visibility with warm sunny weather.
The walkers headed downhill past Holme Styes Reservoir making their way towards Holmfirth for lunch. Holmfirth is located in the picturesque Holme Valley and is famous for its association with the BBC sitcom ‘Last of the Summer Wine’. A stop was made at St John’s church where Bill Owen, who played Compo, is buried next to Peter Sallis, who played Cleggy in the series.
After lunch it was uphill back to the start of this 10-mile walk. Along the way, the group enjoyed panoramic views of the Holme Valley, a region known for its rolling hills and scenic beauty. The weather held, making for a pleasant and invigorating walk through this historically rich landscape on a fabulous autumnal day.
Thanks to Martin for leading this walk.
AMG
Non-members welcome, on Rambler walks just turn up and you will be well looked after

Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Thursday, 17th October 2024 Edlington Ramble

On a beautiful Thursday morning 20 of us, and one very small dog, met in the lay-by adjacent to St Peter’s Church in Old Edlington. The church became redundant in 1962. After closure the condition of the church deteriorated and in 1966 the roof was removed and the plan was to demolish the church except for the tower. However the Churches Conservation Trust, in 1971, took responsibility for the church and roof was replaced and the church restored. The church, built from locally-quarried limestone, was built in the 12th century. The briefing included a request for more people to take the simple Ramblers online course and to lead walk. Every possible measure of help needed is offered, from buddying, planning a walk, to providing walks. The group were told about the AGM in Finningley on 10th December and invited to attend and to consider joining the committee; all committees need new blood at times. After this unusually long briefing we set off through the churchyard, crossing the road to have a look at the plaque which briefly tells the story of the white greyhound, before walking down in Edlington, turning left at the supermarket and walking into the Martinwells Lake area, an area where bricks used to be made. Leaving the lake we followed a rarely-used footpath, somewhat brambly and very muddy with clay, and made our way to Stringer’s Nursery. Here we turned left off the road, beside the waste disposal site, and followed a disused railway trackbed to Clifton Hill Bridge. We turned right up the road for a short distance before walking along Common Lane.
After half a mile we turned right onto a track and right again onto a rarely-used footpath. This was difficult to negotiate in places, with overhanging brambles obstructing us. We crossed under the disused railway and soon reached a stile, at which point the countryside opened out and we were in the Conisbrough Parks area. We crossed this field towards Conisbrough Parks Farm, where we turned through 90 degrees and headed towards Clifton. A short but steep climb took us to the flat area at the top, a perfect place, in good weather, to rest and take our refreshments. After this we followed a narrow path in woodland - clearing this was the first maintenance job Doncaster Ramblers did for the council many years ago - before finishing the climb to Beacon Hill, the highest point in South Yorkshire (142 metres) and the home to two communication masts. We then walked through the village of Clifton onto a track which took us back to Old Edlington. Thanks to John for back-marking and for everyone for being such a lovely group to lead.
David Gadd

Tuesday 15 October 2024  New Mill to Castle Hill

13 Doncaster Ramblers and Nicky from Sheffield all met on a disappointingly misty and murky morning outside the church on Sude Hill in New Mill. Disappointing because the weather forecast had led us to expect something better and also because our leader Martin told us that on a clear day the views would have been superb. From the top of Castle Hill you could sometimes see nearly as far as Bradford. But today was not a clear day. After the briefing we left New Mill and headed north towards Biggin, Top Of The Bank and then Thurstonland on a ridge that climbed steadily towards Farnley Tyas. Despite the mist the views were great in all directions. Rolling hills and valleys with wooded sides that we occasionally cut through to cross small streams. Martin had told us there would be 3 stops. Coffee around eleven, a short lunch stop at Castle Hill and then a pub stop in Honley. The castle at Castle Hill is really more of a stand alone tower. It was built in 1899 to commemorate 60 years of Queen Victoria's reign. We could see what Martin meant about the views. Even with the poor conditions we could still see for miles around. Marvellous. From there we descended into Honley and as promised called at The Jacobs Well pub. On leaving Honley we dropped even further down into the valley and took a path alongside the River Holme. Here we passed the scene of one of our lady members famous 'rucksack floating ' incident of a few years earlier. ( It still raised a smile amongst those who were there at the time ). More lovely green and rolling West Yorkshire countryside eventually got us back to New Mill and the sting in the tail. Sude Hill is a steep climb at the end of a 10 mile walk ! Thanks to Martin for a well planned and super walk in a lovely area. Once again thanks to Steve for the photos

Saturday 12th October2024 Cawthorne 

8 of us met at the green in Cawthorne. We were promised very little flat walking and passing Cannon Hall we went up and down through miles of beautiful rolling farmland and woodland. It was only slightly marred by the clouds that occasionally brought us some drizzle, but when we stopped at Hoylandswaine for lunch, the sun came out. Leaving Hoylandswaine, we thought we'd spotted another group of ramblers having lunch, but they turned out to be dry stone wallers. The sun continued to shine on our return journey through more beautiful rolling countryside. We passed an information board about a mining disaster at Norcoft. Glimpses of the tower of All Saints Church told us we were nearly back at Cawthorne and we were going to beat the arrival of the forecast rain. Thanks to Peter for leading a lovely walk and introducing many of us to unexpected beauty in an area we thought we knew.

Thursday, 10th Oct, '24 - Thrybergh Circular

On a beautiful morning the leader welcomed several newcomers to the walk, distributed a few ICE cards, encouraged members to enjoy the Christmas lunch at the Wheatley Golf Club on 10th December, and described today's 7-mile walk.  A brief history of the Thrybergh Country Park followed: in the 1880s it was opened as a reservoir to supply Doncaster's growing needs. However throughout it's history it was never entirely successful because of the vast amount of water escaping from its bed.  By the late 20th century it was considered to be no longer viable and in 1980 it was sold to Rotherham MBC, who turned it into a wonderful conservation area and country park in 1983. Today it provides an important habitat for birds and other wildlife, with over 155 species of birds being recorded as well as 20 species of mammals.  It is an important stop-over for migrating birds. Twenty-six of us completed the whole 7 miles, walking anti-clockwise around the lake and exiting it to stroll along a road up to Ravensfield. We paused adjacent to a bridge of a disused railway line which  opened in 1907, two years after the nearby Silverwood colliery opened.  The colliery closed in 1995.  Ravenfield itself existed in the 9th century with the Danes.  The Domesday Book of 1086 records that William de Warenne held the Manor of Ravenfield as a gift from his father-in-law William the Conqueror.

Walking through the village we turned up Garden Lane to a narrow stile which took us into open countryside.  We crossed the field to Church Farm and, after another narrow stile, we crossed a huge field to Arbour Lane.  Turning right we followed the ancient tree-lined lane to the Thornberry Animal Sanctuary, which we passed through to reach Ravenfield Grange Farm.  We turned left, passing a lady hoping to persuade the council to take responsibility for cutting the path alongside the road.  After about half a mile we turned left onto Park Lane, by-passing Conisbrough Grange Farm.  After a while we stopped for refreshments before continuing through a strip of woodland onto the open countryside of Conisbrough Parks and ultimately down to the isolated hamlet of Firsby.  At Firsby we turned left and by-passed the Firsby reservoir and Ravenfield Park.  After half a mile we climbed a few steps to a crossfield path which took us directly to Ravenfield Church.  The church was built in 1756, replacing a medieval church. It is is noted for its one-handed clockface. The church was paid for by Mrs Elizabeth Parkin, a wealthy Sheffield socialite who inherited a huge fortune.  Presumably inheritance tax was not a major issue in those days because after the church was built  she had a Georgian mansion built to replace Ravenfield Hall.  The Ravenfield Estate was sold off in lots in the 1920/30s and was largely unoccupied until the Second World War.  Returning soldiers from the evacuation of Dunkirk were billeted there and a prisoner-of-war camp was built in the park.  After the war the building remained empty and was used for storing straw.  There was a serious fire in 1962 and the remains were demolished in 1962.  From the church we made our way to the bridge over the disused railway line and then back down the hill to the lake, where we completed our anti-clockwise circuit back to the cafe and car park.  Thanks to Charlie for his careful and considerate back-marking.  David Gadd

Wednesday 9th October 2024  Maintenance Team Work Report, 
Today saw another Doncaster Ramblers maintenance session this time in the Moss area. This was the third attempt in the Moss area to rectify footpath faults, the work was delayed previously by flooding and on another occasion by shortage of workforce to achieve a meaningful amount of work.

The morning was fraught with weather risks with a forecast of heavy rain however four Doncaster Ramblers, 1 non rambler volunteer and the Rights of Way Manager from DCC installed/replaced marker posts on the following footpaths.

• Footpath Moss 18. Two marker posts installed.
• Footpath Moss 16. One post installed at the intersection with Footpath Moss 18, one at the intersection with Footpath Moss 19 and one at the intersection with Footpath Moss 20.

An attempt to install a new marker post on Footpath Moss 22 was abandoned due to access problems.

Find ProW here map here
https://www.doncaster.gov.uk/services/culture-leisure-tourism/public-rights-of-way-pages

The next session in November is likely to be the last in 2024.

During a conversation between Doncaster Ramblers and the DCC Rights of Way Manager appreciation of the work square checkers do was expressed as it keeps footpath problems to a minimum and therefore footpath claims against DCC are virtually non-existent. This led to a discussion on future ways of improving safety on the footpath network, one area which may be explored is the replacement of stiles on footpaths with a high footfall with kissing gates which will also improve accessibility to the network for those with mobility issues.

Stuart Twell 09.10.24

Tuesday 8th Oct 2024 - A Round at Lindrick.

Twenty four members met by the church in South Carlton for an 11 mile walk on a potentially wet day.  However, for once our luck was in and it stayed dry all day and as a bonus it was quite warm for the time of year so layers were soon being removed.  After a short briefing and history lesson from our joint walk leaders Neil and Alasdair we were off through fields to Carlton Woods which as predicted by our walk leaders proved to be the muddiest part of the walk.  Continuing through fields we reached the outskirts of Woodseats and then on to “Millionaires Row” where we stopped for our coffee break with Millionaire Shortbread made by Alasdair’s wife, very nice it was too. “Millionaires Row” is so called because of the size of the houses and their gardens, who else can afford a Bloodhound Missile (see photo’s) and a Hurricane airplane as garden ornaments!  We soon came to the busy A57 which we crossed with care then we followed Lindrick Dale, crossing the railway by a level crossing which brought us to the Chesterfield Canal which we crossed and walked through Old Spring Wood until we reached the canal again.  Another quick history lesson from Alisdair then it was onto the canal towpath which forms part of the Cuckoo Way, past several sets of locks, including a triple stair lock, to our lunch stop at Turnerwood Bridge.  Refreshed it was back across the railway on another level crossing.  We then followed the concrete trough of the canal water feeder, through the woodland of Moses Seat and into Lindrick Golf course which is famous for holding the Ryder Cup in 1957 (see photos).  Past the Club house we risked life and limb crossing the A57 again.  A pleasant walk-through woodland and fields brought us to Owday Lane and a 500m section of road walking then it was back into fields eventually reaching South Carlton where we walked past Carlton Mill (see photos) and the church as we got back to our cars.  Many thanks to Neil and Alasdair for leading and back marking this walk on a route many of us had not done before. Stephen J Tomlinson

 Thursday 3rd Oct 2024 - Sprotbrough

On a sunny day after sorting the parking out 21 ramblers set of from Melton wood after a brief chat about the exciting adventure before us we set off down minor road to proceed on to footpath to Sprotbrough After information give about Sprotbrough we proceeded down to river In the wonderful sunshine coffee was taken.  After our break we proceeded along trans pennine trail to the impressive viaduct. All present were told of the Cadeby mining disaster in 1912 when over 200 men lost their lives 5000 ft below our feet Onward up the hill to cadeby and down to High Melton after having negotiating a difficult style Several methods were in operation On to Hangman stone Lane Were the story goes that a man stole a sheep after fastening the sheep on the rope it slept around his neck the sheep ran of strangling the man. 
We continued through field paths in to Melton Wood and back to our cars. We were joined by Sean from Lincoln Ramblers and Angela who was making her 2nd appearance.   A good day was had by all

P.O.I.
Sprotbrough
The place name 'Sprotbrough' is first attested in the Domesday Book of 1086, where it appears as Sproteburg. The name is thought to mean 'Sprot's borough'. Much of the local land was owned by the Fitzwilliam family until the 15th century, when the Copley family emerged as major landowners. Sprotbrough Village harbours the Grade I listed St Mary's Church and The Old Rectory – the childhood home of Second World War flying ace Douglas Bader.

The Cadeby Main Pit Disaster
This was a coal mining accident on 9 July 1912 which occurred at Cadeby Main Colliery in Cadeby, West Riding of Yorkshire, killing 91 men. Early in the morning of 9 July an explosion in the south-west part of the Cadeby Main pit killed 35 men, with three more dying later due to their injuries. Later in the same day, after a rescue party was sent below ground, another explosion occurred, killing 53 men of the rescue party.

Tuesday 1st October 2024 - Coombs Dale and Longstone Moor.

Nineteen of us met at the Gordon Booker Memorial Ground in the Derbyshire village of Calver for a 10 to 11 mile walk in the Derbyshire Dales and Moors. Unfortunately, the weather was not kind to us so it was waterproofs on before we set off with the hope from the weather forecast that it would improve as the day progressed. How wrong we and the forecasters were!   A short distance uphill over Calver Low brought us to Coombs Dale which was a gentle but steady climb for some distance to Black Harry Gate where coffee break was taken. By this time the rain was heavy and the amount of rain we have had over the last few days was evidenced by the amount of water flowing down the footpath in Coombs Dale. Continuing on a gravel track we were soon entering Longstone Moor and as well as the rain had to contend with high winds which made it a bit chilly so it was hats and gloves for some. Battling the wind and rain we finally reached the cairn at the top of Longstone Moor (390m altitude). Martin our walk leader told us that when he did the pre walk he had great views from this spot and could see Chatsworth House. Not a chance today! Walking along Longstone Edge we started to look for a sheltered location out of the wind to stop for lunch, eventually finding a spot in an abandoned mine working. Lunch was over pretty quickly and we continued along Longstone Edge in the wind though the rain had started to ease. Dropping downhill a little we walked through an area of old workings (Limestone quarries?) until we reached a point where a decision needed to be made. Martin gave us the option of continuing on the planned route which would take us down the River Derwent and back to Calver along the river, with the warning the river might be in flood, or to take a slightly shorter route direct to Calver shortening the walk by a mile or so. The safe option was taken so we followed the shorter route avoiding the river. A long downhill section took is into Calver and back to our cars. A total of 9.3 miles was walked with 1400 foot of ascent. Thanks to Martin who led the walk, his first for Doncaster Ramblers, in an area a lot of us were not familiar with. Thanks to Dave and Alisdair for back marking. Thanks to all who came to support Martin on this walk despite the weather. Stepehen J Tomlinson

Saturday 28th September 2024 – Langsett

6 of us met at Langsett on a bright and sunny morning marred only by a cold wind. George led us, as promised, over the moors and into the Upper Don Valley. We picked up a short section of the Trans Pennine Trail, then crossed the River Don. We stopped for coffee at a bench provided by the kind householder for walkers to rest. Refreshed we headed up to the Royd Moor viewpoint for some great views. A stroll downhill brought us to Millhouse Green and the Blacksmith Arms where the landlady very kindly allowed to eat our sandwiches inside (with our beers).

We re-crossed the river and after climbing out of the valley saw Langsett Reservoir glittering in the sunshine. We descended to it and had the pleasure of bumping into Steve in the main Langsett car park. It wasn't much further back to our cars. Thanks to George for leading a great walk.

Thursday, 26th September ’24 - Plod from the pub and back again

Twenty of us met in the car park next to The Maple Tree, near Tesco. These included Sharon and Angela as first-timers, Savannah for her third walk, and Milo for his umpteenth. Debs was leading her first Thursday walk, after completing the Ramblers online course successfully - “It was easy, just common sense” she said. At our meeting time of 10.00 there was a hint of rain in the air, with the forecast suggesting much more to come.  We set off across the dual carriageway and down the slope onto the trackbed of the Dearne Valley Railway (DVR). This took us near to B&Q and then for about a half a mile to a bridge over the M18. Over the bridge we viewed a huge wetland area, and the huge industrial buildings of the iPort. We soon passed Annabel’s, which opens from Friday through to Monday - not Thursdays - and serves drinks and snacks. Just after Annabel’s we made use of a set of big rocks, placed there to provide a seating area for refreshments!

After a short break we continued initially south and then east on Rake’s Lane, a pleasant path, to Loversall.  Loversall is an ancient settlement well established in Saxon times and recorded in the Domesday book.  We passed Loversall Hall, the Loversall estate having changed hands many times  over the years since Norman times and in 1720 was purchased by a Thomas Dixon who, one mile north of Loversall,  built St Katherines Well – a place for the benefit of those wishing to partake in “cold health bathing”!  The present Hall at Loversall was built during the Dixons’s residency and completed around 1750.  It currently provides commercial office space as well as a venue for weddings, etc.

Loversall has an attractive Norman Church, St Kathrine’s Church, which dates back to at least 1207. We continued through the village, passing a track on the right to the wooden WI Hut, as well as being the home of Loversall Womens Institute, is the venue for Loversall Parish Council Meetings and other community events.  It is believed to have been purchased from the army for £55  and transported to Loversall.  We left Loversall and crossed over the M18 again, turning right immediately afterwards and walking along Hall Balk Lane to go under the Dearne Vally trackbed of the DVR and into Woodfield Plantation housing estate and back to the car park adjacent to The Maple Tree, where many of us went into for a drink and some lunch.  The early hint of rain in the air came to nothing and many of us removed a layer or two as the morning warmed up and the sun came out. Thanks to Debs for excellent leading and to Malc and Milo for back marking.           David Gadd

Tuesday 24 September 2024 - Sample the Grapes Of Wath

Elsecar Heritage Centre was the start point for today's walk. Built in 1850 as a base for workmen supporting the various activities of the Wentworth Woodhouse estate, it was taken over by the NCB until the 1980's and later developed into its current incarnation.  We walked through Wentworth village and then on to Hoober Stand for our morning break.  Hoober Stand was built for Thomas Watson-Wentworth to commemorate the suppression of the 1745 Jacobite rebellion.  Watson-Wentworth was made the first Marquis of Rockingham by George II for his part in this (which may partly explain why he was keen to have a monument with his new title on it).  From here we continued to Wath for lunch and some refreshment at the local Wetherspoons, whose prices seemed to go down well with the group.  After this, we walked through the town and past Manvers Lake, created as part of the restoration project after the closure of the Manvers/Wath mining complex.  Soon afterwards, we picked up the Trans Pennine Trail and followed it back to Elsecar.  Thanks to Jeremy the back marker and Charlie the stand-in photographer. PG

Saturday 21 September 2024– Whitby Coach Trip Short Walk

The short walk was about 4 miles from High Hawsker to the swing bridge across Whitby harbour. Eleven of us did it. It was mostly on the Cinder Tracks that run all the way from Scarborough to Whitby. We got onto them about 200 yards out of the village. Nice and flat and easy to walk on, The Cinder Tracks follow an old railway route and are dead straight all the way. The weather had brightened a little from earlier but was still dull and overcast so we didn't dawdle or take any refreshment stops but we did pause occasionally to enjoy the good views across the adjoining countryside and off the viaduct in particular. The tracks end at the top of Whitby town and it was here that we dropped down the steps and then through picturesque Pannet Park before joining the hustle and bustle of Whitby's seaside throng. At the harbour we all went our own ways. A well earned coffee, beer, ice cream or whatever took our fancies. The fish and chips came later . Thanks to everyone who completed this walk and helped make it good fun. Charlie P

 Saturday 21st Sept 2024- Whitby Coach Trip Long and Medium Walk

Forty five of us boarded the coach in Doncaster for the ride to the Yorkshire east coast on a cloudy/misty Saturday morning. Updates from Neil kept putting the time the mist would lift back by an hour every time he looked. As we got towards the coast the mist became a thick fog/sea fret and we were beginning to wonder whether we would see any of the spectacular coastal views I had promised.
The long (10.5 miles) and medium walk (6.5 miles) planned for the day was to follow the Cleveland Way costal footpath to Whitby. The long walk stared at Ravenscar where 20 of us were dropped off, the coach which then proceeded in the fog to Robin Hoods Bay where 12 alighted for the medium walk lead by Neil. The coach then dropped off at High Hawsker where the short walk (3.5miles) lead by Charlie started, see his separate walk report and photos.
At Ravenscar the fog was pretty thick with poor visibility but fortunately it quickly improved though a thin mist persisted all day. Our first stop at the abandoned Alum works gave us our first sea and cliff view of the day where we were also entertained by the site and sound of numerous seals, during the walk seals were often visible, there heads bobbing about in the waves. It was then uphill and down dale on the costal path to Boggle Hole and then Robin Hoods Bay where we stopped for lunch on the beach and the slipway, some took advantage of the public house being open! By this time the medium walkers were well on there way to Whitby battling the on coming runners who we were to encounter latter on our walk.
After lunch it was the steep climb up the road from the bay past the pub which Gareth told us had served him the best pint of Old Peculiar ever to pass his lips! At the top of the hill the Cleveland Way again follows the cliff top footpath and it was not long before we started to meet the runners, 200 plus, who were running 60 miles from Gisborough to Filey! It has to be said some of the participants looked like they were not going to make it! A short stop for a coffee break and a breather, the medium walkers had stopped for a lunch break half way to Whitby, it was then uphill and downhill to the old lighthouse and fog horn after which we got our first sight of the ruined Whitby Abbey in the distance. Eventually we reached the Abbey and it was down the Abbey steps, no time to look for Dracula’s grave, as fish and chips and liquid refreshment beckoned.
The long walkers arrived at Whitby at about 4.30 pm and the medium walkers about an hour before. Rehydrated and fed the coach left Whitby at 6.00pm and it was back to Doncaster with Charlie testing our mental agility with his quiz.
Thanks to Charlie and Neil for leading walks on the day and the quiz. Thanks also to Gareth and Tony for back marking on the day. Finally, thanks to all who came on the coach trip, your support is appreciated. Stephen J Tomlinson 

Thursday 19th Sept 2024 Walk to Walkeringham

23 Ramblers plus two doggies assembled at the Red Hart pub in Misterton for the walk to the nearby village Walkeringham.  This was to be led by the writer and although an easy walk it would be a little further than usual for a Thursday at 7.5 miles.  We welcomed Sue, a friend of Brendan, for the first time and Brendan was celebrating his birthday the number of which was not disclosed!  Savannah was also present just for the second time.  After a description of the walk the writer went through some "housekeeping "including a request for more walk leaders to volunteer for the Thursday walks . The online walk leaders course was recommended by the writer who had completed the same, much to his shock particularly because of the need to show commonsense.
We set off under overcast and cool conditions and soon left the village on our way to join the Chesterfield canal. Once on the towpath we headed south towards Walkeringham and eventually came off at Smith's Bridge. We walked up to and through the village before stopping for coffee/lunch in the garden of the Fox and Hounds by kind permission of the owner Dennis.  Moving across the main road we took Station Road to the railway line.  At this point about ten of the Ramblers disappeared for a few minutes unbeknown, to the writer, to go and see the village donkey.  Duggie, Rob and the writer had first encountered the donkey previously when unseen by them the donkey brayed behind the hedge and frightened the living daylights out of them. It would have looked a sight on video as they leapt in the air!  The group reassembled and headed down to the River Trent then walking the footpath along the same to the edge of West Stockwith.  We crossed to the Basin where bridge 75 marked the end of the Chesterfield canal.  For us however it was the start of the same as we took the 2 mile towpath back to Misterton and the Red Hart.  A good number of the Ramblers took advantage of the drinks available there which acted as a thank you for the landlady Jackie who had allowed us to park at the pub in the first place.  Many thanks to Rob and Kerry for back marking and special thanks to Teresa for volunteering to take photos and producing such excellent ones for us.  The slightly further distance for a Thursday did not appear to be a problem for most of the group and all came back safely.  Nigel

 Wednesday 18th Sept 2024 Doncaster Carers Walk at Lotherton Hall

The last Doncaster Carers Walk of 2024 took place at Lotherton Hall on a lovely sunny late summer/early autumn day, ideal walking weather. Lotherton Hall is the former home of the Gascgoine family, with the house and the estate being gifted by Sir Alvery Gascgoine to Leeds City Council in 1968 on the understanding the grounds and the house were to be open to the public. Since 1968 a small wildlife park has been developed along with visitor facilities such as car parks, toilets and a café.
Two carers joined Neil and myself on a 4 mile walk. Our first port of call was to admire the large herd of deer in the parkland. Continuing through the parkland it was into open countryside and through Ringhay Wood. We then followed the edge of the wood and through recently sown fields towards the A1M near Micklefield. Turning north across Hook Moor, which is dominated by 5 large wind turbines, four of which were in operation. A convenient bench near one tower was a great place to take a short refreshment break and take in the views. We all commented how quite the wind turbine were apart from the occasional squeal, it was suggested a quick spray with WD40 was required. It was then back into Ringhay Wood before rejoining the initial footpath and retracing our steps back to the Hall through the gardens.
During 2024 Doncaster Carers and Doncaster Ramblers have carried out 8 walks. Thanks to all the carers who have joined us on these walks, hope you enjoyed them. Thanks also to Neil, Angela, Jackie, Catherine, Ian and Tony of Doncaster Ramblers who have helped out on these walks, apologies if I have missed someone. Without your help these walks would not happen. Stephen J Tomlinson

Tuesday 17 September 2024 Langsett

The 15 of us who turned out for this walk were not only blessed with excellent weather but also with another great walk from George. We met in the free car park just before reaching The Flouch Inn roundabout on the A616. A ten and a half mile loop. Firstly to the west and then north would take us in a clockwise direction through woodland and over moors before getting back to the main Langsett car park and back through the woods on the topside of the reservoir to return to our start point. George briefed us about roads to cross etc and described the general nature of the walk. ' A nice easy stroll with some mole hills'.( Always the master of understatement ). And so it proved to be as we progressed up towards the River Don and then swung right to our coffee stop at Catshaw ( where the lady resident of one of the cottages joined us for a chat ). Then it was on to Royd Moor Hill and its viewing point. We took another short break here to enjoy the panorama and catch our breath before moving on again. Lunch was at The Blacksmiths Arms in Millhouse Green. Unfortunately it was closed ! But we were able to make use of the tables and seating in the beer garden. So not all was lost. Out of Millhouse Green and now heading generally south we crossed The Don again and then crossed Thurstone and Hartcliff Moors to get back to the main Manchester Road and Langsett Reservoir. A last breather before the short last stretch home. It just seemed longer than it really was. Perhaps we were all just ready to finish by then after another good workout from George. The sun had shone all day , the views had been superb in all directions and the banter had as always kept us going on the tough bits. Thanks to George for leading ( once again ) and to Neil for back-marking ( once again ) and Steve for the photos ( once again ). CP

Saturday 14 September 2024  Scarcliffe

10 of us gathered near St. Leonard's church in Scarcliffe, wrapped up on a sunny, but cold morning. Much of the early part of the walk was through woodland, but we were soon warm enough to require a stop to take off some layers. We visited the villages of Upper Langwith and Nether Langwith, but most of our walk was in fields and woods. We stopped by what we thought was a quiet farm track for coffee and watched two large tractors and even larger trailers squeeze through the gate.

We skirted the southern edge of Shirebrook and after a break for lunch we touched the western edge of Shirebrook before heading back across fields and through woods, catching glimpses of the church tower as we approached Scarcliffe. Thanks to George for leading this lovely, gentle walk and disproving the idea that he only does strenuous walks. BU

Tuesday 10 September 2024 - Thurcroft Whiston Circular

A leisurely 10.5 miles in the South Yorkshire countryside. Thurcroft lies just to the east of the M18 just  before it joins the M1. Seventeen of us met at the far end of New Orchard Lane on the edge of the village. The weather forecast was not good and so it was no surprise that it began drizzling as we were getting kitted up ready for the start. Later on in the morning  there was a period of heavier rain but fortunately it stopped around lunchtime and we dried out nicely in the afternoon. Our leader was Debs. This was to be the first walk she had led. Debs briefed us about the conditions we could expect, the arrangements for refreshment breaks and the risks we might encounter crossing roads etc and then we were off. There were a couple of walkers who had lived, worked and married in Whiston but they were the the exception. Despite not being far from home this turned out to be unfamiliar territory for most of us. And surprisingly nice territory as well. Intersected by both the aforementioned motorways ( that we crossed and recrossed at regular intervals ) the countryside around here  is rolling farmland and pleasant woods. Good wide open spaces and some splendid views. Elevenses were  on a sloping spot on the edge of one of the woods with a handy bench where some us could take in those views. Lunch was by the side if Whiston cricket ground, where once again there were some well placed seating to rest on. Good planning by our leader that was appreciated by all. After Whiston we started to turn back in the direction of the cars. After crossing the M1 we went through Morthen and back across the fields to Thurcroft. A great walk that had been enjoyed by all. And made better for having been shown  new area virtually on our doorsteps.  Thanks to Debs ( and her assistant Malc ) for planning and leading so well. Thanks to Tony for back-marking . CP

Saturday, 7th Sept, '34 - Lord's Seat and Eldon Hill

Eight Ramblers began their moderate circular walk from Castleton Visitors Centre.  The weather was cool and cloudy, with temperatures around 16 degrees C with a light breeze.  The group passed several show caverns, including the Blue John Cavern, famous for rare Blue John stone.  This semi-precious mineral is found only in the Castleton area where mining for it begaon t in the 18th century.  Unfortunately, low cloud meant the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside were not visible. Elevenses were ar Mam Nik, a mountain pass at a height of 517 metres. The walk then continued along Rushup Edge, a high moorland ridge overlooking the Edale Valley.  This ridge, part of the Dark Peak, is characterised by its gritstone geology and heather-covered moorlands.  The contrasting terrain soon became evident as the group descended into the limestone hill country west of Castleton, an area of rolling hills and distinctive white limestone outcrops.  Lunch was taken in Perry Dale, a peaceful gem away from all the tourists who visit Castleton. Thanks to David who showed the walkers an alternative route back into Castleton avoiding the steep descent via Cave Dale. AMG 

Thursday, 5th Sept, '24 - Wadworth to the West

Twenty-one of us, including newcomer Savanna, transferring from Cambridgshire, met behind the church in Wadworth on a disappointingly cool morning with a hint of rain in the air.  We set off across the parkland and passed Wadworth Hall, unfortunately largely hidden behind tall hedges.  Around the corner we went into and along the narrow strip of woodland known as The Shrubbery, which once belonged to Wadworth Hall. The Shrubbery has a fishpond, three wells and a ha-ha as well as being an SSSI.  We left this woodland and walked along Short Gate until we reached the footpath which heads due west towards Wadworth Wood.  This wood is a commercial wood, unlike Edlington Wood, which we passed into after going under the M18.  Walking north through the wood we paused at an ancient earthworth which runs across the whole wood.  Heading to the north-east corner of the wood, near Wood Lane, we paused again at the site of an Iron age settlement - undergrowth hiding any signs of the settlent.  About 10 minutes walk later we paused again at a site where, about 12,000 years ago, after the last Ice Age and before tree growth was established, early hunter-gatherers made a base from which to hunt.

Retracing our steps we took a path heading westwards, stopping for refreshments before continuing through the wood until we reached a path heading due south.  We followed this path until we were close to the M18 again, crossing under the motorway.  We then skirted Wadworth Wood before turning up an ancient track to reach the opposite end of Short Gate and, after the obligatory group photo next to the lovely sign into Wadworth, we walked into the village.  We reached Wadworth at 12.15, giving us time to change footwear and prepare for the passage of the Tour of Great Britain cycle race.  Countless police motorbikes passed through Wadworth, blue lights flashing, followed by the procession of cars with spare bikes on top, and finally the cyclists themselves raced through in a blur of movement and colour, with a helicopter filming the race from above.  The local primary school had come out to watch and the screaming children added to the sense of occasion. Thanks to Malc and Milo for back-marking.  David Gadd

Wednesday, 4th Sept, '24 - Carers Walk, Brodsworth

The latest Carers Walk for 2024 took place at Brodsworth Hall.  Two carers joined Steve, Catherine and Neil of Doncaster Ramblers on a 4-mile walk to and around Brodsworth Community Woodland, which has been created from the waste tip of the old Brodsworth Colliery.  Leaving the Hall the five of us walked along the Hall access road and througfh fields to Pickburn village. Passing the abandoned Pickburn Arms we crossed the A1 via a footbridge which gave direct access to the community woodland.  Walking on gravel tracks we reached the summit of what was coal waste, having walked through tree and marsh lined areas.  What a change from the black scar which dominated the landscape 25 yeats ago!   At the summit we stopped for a group photo, drink and a snack, it was then downhill to cross the A1 again. It was then back through Pickburn village, walking along quiet roads and admiring the old Brodsworth Estate worker cottages until we reached the driveway to the Hall. It was then a short walk to the Hall and a welcome cup of tea or coffee at the cafe.

Whilst we were walking Angela, of Doncaster Ramblers, who volunteers at the Hall as a garden guide, gave 13 of the carers a guided tour of the stunning gardens at Brodsworth Hall, which was extremely well received.  It seems the garden was more popular than walking today!

Many thanks to Angela, Catherine and Neil for helping today's walk and garden tour.

Steve Tomlinson

Tuesday, 3rd Sept, '24 - Along the Edges

Nineteen Ramblers (one from Guildford) and a dog met at Haywood National Trust car park.  Fortunately, the rain which had accompanied us on the drive had stopped and the rest of the day was sunny and warm with a gentle wind. Throughout the day we experienced a variety of scenery.  Before coffee, at the Wellington Monument, we walked along Froggatt, Curbar and Baslow Edges where a larger number of Highland cattle than expected were grazing.  Good visibility provided impressive views of the surrounding countryside across Curbar towards Chatsworth.  Descending to Curbar for lunch we saw the 'Round House'.  In the Civil War prisoners were held in this lockup prior to being taken to Sheffield gaol. We. also passed two pinfolds.  Stray sheep and cattle were rounded up by the Pinder and kept in the pinfold, a purpose-built enclosure for stray animals.  Their owner had to pay a fine to release them.  

After lunch we followed the River Derwent upstream to Froggatt Bridge passing through woodland.  The final leg of the walk involved a steep climb back up to Froggatt Edge, where the panoramic views provided a rewarding end to the journey.  Thanks to Gareth for backmarking.  AMG

Saturday, 31st August, 2024 - Lumsdale

Ten walkers began this 11.5 mile strenuous hike on a warm, sunny day heading south from Lumsdale. Passing through the village of Tansley, a small settlement known for its historic mills and picturesque landscape, the route took the walkers through fields and woodland, offering views of the rolling Derbyshire countryside. The mid-morning break was at St John the Baptist Church in Dethick, the 13th century building rich in history. The walk leader had arranged access to the church, allowing the group to explore the interior.. The church is noted for its connection to the Babbington family who in the 16th century were involved in the Babbington Plot against Queen Elizabeth 1.

From Dethick the walk continued downhill towards the Cromford Canal. Along the way, the walkers explored the Aqueduct Cottage, a quaint and historic building undegoing restoration. The canal itself was once a vital transport route during ine Industrial Revolution, linking the Cromford Mills with the wider canal network.  Lunch was taken at Cromford. Cromford is famous for its asociation with Sir Richard Arkwright, a pioneer of the Industrial Revolution who established Cromford Mill, one of the world's first water-powered cotton-spinning mills.

After lunch the walkers crossed the River Derwent before a steep climbup to Riber Castle.  This 19th century castle, built by John Smedley, a local mill owner, stands on a hill pverlooking Matlock providing wonderful views.  The final stretch led the walkers downhill then back uphill to Lumsdale. Many thanks to George for leading this varied and interesting walk. AMG

Thursday, 29th August 2024 - Tickhill to the North and South

Fifteen of us met at the Buttercross, and we immediately moved around the corner along Tithes Lane area for a quiet place for the briefing.  Introductions included one guest walker, Sally Jameson, recently elected MP for Doncaster Central. Sally had accepted an invitation to walk with us.  Debs then told us about completing the online course to be a Ramblers walk leader. She said it took 4 hours and 10 minutes, but that some of the material could be skipped,  that it was all common sense and easy and that she was glad to have done it.  After some misdirection by the leader we crossed over the A1M and walked along Hopyard Lane, originally, and surprisingly, the site of a hop yard. We passed the field of 180 trees being grown for cricket bats before turning east at the point where one of the two routes across the wetland, this one coming from Estfield farm and going towards Limpool farm, both originally settlements on the edge of the wetland. The wetland  existed from about 500AD until it was drained by Thomas Tofield, of Wilsic, in the late C17th. We soon joined the River Torne and followed it to Sheepwash Lane, continuing alongside the Torne until we reached the footbridge which crosses it, where we had a refreshment break. Suitably refreshed, we continued to Sunderland Street, the second of the original crossing points oner the wetland. Going under the A1M this time, we followed a path alongside it, climbing two stiles topped by iron bars and then walking alongside a field of 'elephant grass', in reality a biofuel. We crossed a  magnificent footbridge, very recently installed by Doncaster City Council and  joined Water Lane, which we followed around to Tickhill Mill pond and the centre of Tickill. Thanks to Gareth for back-marking. David Gadd

Tuesday 27 August 2024 Haxey and Epworth With A Turbary

25 Doncaster Ramblers met in the big layby next to Haxey Primary School. The walk was to be nice and easy. Just over 10 miles on good paths and tracks with only a couple of roads to cross and and a few hundred yards of town pavements in Epworth. Flat all the way and the weather forecast was good. But before we could set off there had to be a short history lesson. Back in time there were what were known as ' Rights In Common '. These described activities that the hoi polloi were allowed to carry out on common land. They covered stuff that occurred naturally rather than being produced or grown by landowners etc. There were 6 basic ones: Pasture was the right to graze cattle and livestock, Piscary was the right to take fish etc from rivers and ponds, Estover was the right to take timber and reeds for building and bedding, In Soil covered the right to take sand and gravel, Pannage allowed your pigs to eat acorns etc in the woods and Turbary was the right to cut peat for fuel. Turbary is now used to describe an area where that activity used to take place. Today we would visit Epworth Turbary at coffee break time. The area is now a nature reserve.
We set off north out of Haxey and were soon in open farmland much of which was given over to growing commercial turf. A change from the usual wheat ,barley and sweetcorn that is also grown in the area. We reached the turbary after about 3.5 miles and had coffee in the shelter of the trees outside the bird hide. The whole area was very dry and so there there was unfortunately not any bird life to see. From the turbary we looped round to the north west of Epworth before dropping down past the windmill and through the entrance to the garden centre before stopping for lunch at the play area behind the church. We now had only about 3.5 miles left to do so we spent about an hour in Epworth variously sampling the delights of its cafes shops and The Queen's Head public house. The return leg of the walk was mostly along the straight line of the old Axholme railway. The occasional information board about the line and what the area used to be like before it was drained as well as Rob's tales of his grandfather ( who looked after the line for the railway company and used to live in a now demolished house beside the line ) held our interest during what might otherwise have been a bit of a slog to the finish. Thanks to Steve for the photos and to Neil for backmarking once again. CP

Saturday, 24th August 2024– Hartington Figure of Eight

Five walkers set out on this nine-mile figure of eight route from Hartington, on a cool, overcast day. The village is known for its historical cheese-making and picturesque limestone buildings. Temperatures were around 15°C, with intermittent light rain. A gentle climb out of the village, offered views of the surrounding limestone hills. The area lies in the Peak District, famous for its rolling hills and dry-stone walls. From Hartington, the group walked towards Sheen, a small village mentioned in the Domesday Book, passing through fields and quiet lanes typical of the Derbyshire countryside. The route continued to Brund and then to Hulme End where the walkers stopped for elevenses. Holme End is a small hamlet near the River Manifold. This river is notable for disappearing underground in some places due to the region's unique karst landscape. Climbing out of the valley to reach Warslow for lunch, where there were wonderful views towards Ecton Hill, with the overcast sky creating a moody atmosphere over the landscape. Blackberries were picked. Continuing, one short period of heavy rain saw the walkers sheltering beneath a tree. The walk passed through the hamlet of Townend before looping back towards Hartington. Despite the grey skies and occasional rain, it was a rewarding walk through some of the Peak District's most charming countryside. Many thanks to Carol and Nigel for leading this lovely walk. A M Gibson

Thursday 22nd Aug 2024 Clayworth and the Idle Valley

25 ramblers attended close to Saint Peters Church in Clayworth on an overcast and blustery day. This meant that most went for jackets and fleeces even though the forecast was ultimately good. Rob then introduced us to the walk including reference to any hazards.It was also mentioned that walk leaders were required for Thursday rambles in September and the group were encouraged to submit their applications.
We set off opposite the Church and joined the Chesterfield canal at Otters Bridge. The route to Hayton is long but thankfully had been cleared of vegetation for the path had recently been overgrown.Coffee stop was at Townend Bridge Hayton by which time almost everyone had been disrobing in the sunshine. We safely negotiated the narrow bridge and joined the track called Chain Bridge Lane in the direction of Lound. We reached the Idle Valley Nature Reserve and then skirted it northwards. We then took footpaths and fields back to Clayworth.An easy walk of 6.5 miles impeccably led by Rob
Nigel Ball

Tuesday 20 August 2024 Wirksworth

It turned out that Wirksworth was in fact going to be our mid way and lunchtime stop. This walk actually started in Cromford where 24 of us met just outside the main entrance to Cromford Mill. Cromford will forever be associated with Sir Richard Arkwright ( 1732 - 1792 ) who is generally considered to be one of the pioneers of The Industrial Revolution. Along with his partners Arkwright built Cromford Mill in 1771. It was the first ever water-powered mill. He later built Haarlem Mill outside Wirksworth. This mill is thought to be the inspiration behind George Elliot's novel The Mill on The Floss. Back in the day Wirksworth was also known for lead mining , textiles and quarrying. This part of Derbyshire is dotted with examples of that industrial past. There are mills , pumping stations ,quarries and of course The Cromford Canal. In between you get the glorious Derbyshire countryside with wooded areas giving way to big wide vistas. And lots of sheep ! Who would have thought there are so many different types. Something to hold your interest at every turn.
We left Cromford in light rain and that generally kept up as we climbed up through the woods and then on to our coffee stop at The National Stone Centre close to Middleton Top. Fortunately the weather had greatly improved by the time we later reached Wirksworth and we were able to enjoy our sandwiches and a welcome drink at the Feather Star pub in the centre of the village. From Wirksworth is was a steady climb up (with good views across the valley to Crich) before eventually dropping down to join the towpath of the Cromford Canal for the final section back to the cars. Once again we had been well led and 'put through our paces' by George and had enjoyed a happy day in good company. Thanks to Steve for the photos and to Neil for back marking. C Pratt

Saturday 17th August 2024 Longshaw Trek

Twelve walkers gathered at Longshaw Lodge. The weather was perfect, with clear skies, a light breeze and temperatures around 20°C, making it an ideal day for exploring the Peak District.
The group set off, following the path along Burbage Brook. This brook flows through the Longshaw Estate, a former hunting ground, now managed by the National Trust.
The walkers took the middle path along Burbage Edge, a gritstone ridge offering impressive views across the moors. Burbage Edge is known for its striking rock formations, shaped by millions of years of natural erosion. The group then crossed the brook at the historic packhorse bridge, a reminder of the ancient routes that once crisscrossed this area, used by traders and travellers alike.
After crossing the bridge, the path climbed steadily towards Carl Wark, an ancient hill fort dating back to the Iron Age. Its rocky defences provided an excellent spot for elevenses, providing expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
The walk continued across Hathersage Moor, a vast expanse of heather and peat bog before passing an old sheepfold and heading downhill. This path gave the walkers splendid views of the Hope valley, Mam Tor and the great ridge leading to Losehill. Lunch was taken at Hathersage Booths.
After lunch, the route descended to the River Derwent. The walk followed the river through Coppice Wood, a tranquil woodland offering cool shade. Upwards again for the final leg to Padley Gorge and Bolehill Quarry, an old gritstone quarry where climbers were testing their skills, before returning to the Longshaw via Owler Tor. Many thanks to Brian for back marking.  AMG

P.O.I.
The name of Longshaw is thought to have derived from the long wood in Padley Gorge. There are remains from Bronze Age and medieval human settlement in the area. Millstones were made from the gritstone at Yarncliffe Quarry back to the 15th century. There are two guidestoops (stone guide posts) from the early 1700s on the estate, required by an Act of Parliament[which?] to help travellers across open moorland. The Duke of Rutland acquired the estate in 1855. He built Longshaw Lodge for shooting parties at the estate. The Longshaw Sheepdog Trials have been held since 1898 and are supposed to be the oldest to be run every year in England. The duke sold the estate in 1927 to Sheffield Corporation. In 1928, Ethel Haythornthwaite spearheaded an urgent appeal to the Yorkshire public, which helped Peak District and South Yorkshire CPRE to raise the funds to buy the 747-acre (302 ha) Longshaw Estate, which was threatened with development The estate was given to the National Trust in 1931. Courtesy Wikipedia

Thursday 15 Ausgust 2024 Marr Wood

On a dull day 23 walkers (including 4 new walkers) set off from Marr Wood. We proceeded along a minor road to High Melton, then down Hangman's Stone Lane, where all present were told about the legend of how it came to be named. We then carried on through Marr Wood and a comfort break, where coffee  was taken and it was explained that it was part of the woodland that existed in this area 3000 years ago. We proceeded into Marr village, which was one of a few villages that had no one killed in the Great War. After re crossing the road, we took a bridlepath through fields awaiting harvesting. People were chattering away, which is always a good sign. Then it was on to the minor road and back to the cars, a total of 5.3 miles

 Wednesday 14 August 2024 Maintenance Team Work Report,
The day saw eight Ramblers members and an employee of Doncaster City Council carry out work on Footpaths Fenwick 7 and 11, details below.

Fenwick 7. Was reported as overgrown and stile broken. The broken stile was removed, vegetation cleared and 2 marker posts put in place. A stile was fitted at another location on the same pathway.
Fenwick 11. A footbridge had been built by local residents and was becoming dangerous and a slip hazard. The footpath sign was obscured by vegetation. The vegetation was removed and a new bridge built which hopefully will last many years.

Annotated photographs of the work carried out by our members on Footpaths Fenwick 7 and 11 are also available on our website.  A Total of 16-man hours were spent on these tasks.

Stuart Twell. 15.08.24

Tuesday 13 August 2024 Lumsdale

Lumsdale is just to the north east of Matlock in Derbyshire. Our walk was going to be about 11.5 miles and would take us south from Lumsdale and through Tansley and Dethick before reaching the Cromford Canal and turning north to reach Cromford itself. Then it was across the River Derwent and towards Matlock Bath and Matlock before arriving back in Lumsdale. The walk was graded as Strenuous . And so it proved to be. Everywhere in that part of the world is hilly and our leader seemed to have planned a walk that really encompassed that feature of the landscape. We were up and down grassy slopes and woodland paths all day. The only respite was the part that was a stroll alongside the canal towpath before lunch.( Where we spotted a dinosaur in the woods on the opposite bank ) Fortunately the weather was superb and the scenery equally great. And we had plenty of water stops to get our breath back. So whilst we made great play of how tough some of the hills were we secretly loved every minute of it. Why else would we keep coming back for more. ( Next week's walk is in the same area with the same leader ).
Nineteen Ramblers ( including one guest from Nottingham ) were on this walk. All the way along there were excellent views and pretty well kept villages to enjoy. Our coffee break was in the grounds of St John The Baptist Church in Dethick.The key was available and so we got to see its interior and read about the local history from the pamphlets inside. Lunch was on the edge of the car park at Cromford where we made use of the picnic tables and the public toilets. There was also an ice cream van. So we made use of that as well. Refreshed after lunch we strode onward and upward again in the woods to the east of Matlock Bath where we could see the cable cars for The Heights Of Abraham in the distance and then Matlock itself even further in the distance. We were nearly home by then; but our leader had saved the steepest bit until the end . My word those last few steps up through the woods to where the cars were parked were steep. Thank you George for a super walk. Thanks also to Steve for the photos

Saturday, 10th August 2024 New Mill to Castle Hill Circular
This 10-mile walk began at New Mill, a small village near Huddersfield, known for its historical ties to the textile industry. The weather was mild with a light breeze and occasional sunshine, making it pleasant for walking. Starting next to the church, the route followed quiet country lanes and footpaths, gradually climbing uphill.
The path offered good views of the surrounding countryside, with rolling hills and patches of woodland. As the trail continued, the Holme Valley came into view, with its patchwork of fields and small villages nestled in the landscape. The valley, known for its picturesque scenery, is a key feature of the West Yorkshire countryside.
After a few miles, the trail reached Castle Hill, a prominent landmark visible for miles around. Castle Hill is the site of an ancient Iron Age hill fort, and its history dates back over 4,000 years. The hill is topped by Victoria Tower, a 19th-century structure built to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. The site has been important throughout history, serving as a defensive position and a place of settlement.
From the summit, there were excellent views across the Holme Valley and beyond, with the Pennines visible in the distance. The clear weather allowed for a far-reaching panorama, making the climb worthwhile.
Returning to New Mill via Honley, alongside a small river in bright sunshine, the 16 walkers could reflect on a walk which offered a blend of natural beauty, historical interest, and a touch of local character.
Many thanks to Martin for leading this lovely walk.

AMG

Tuesday 6 August 2024 Binbrook

13 ramblers turned up to do this 13 mile walk. We were testing our luck. As it turned out our luck with the weather was somewhat variable. In the morning it drizzled on and off and the weather was not as good as had been forecast. But in the afternoon it brightened up and we enjoyed some sunshine. Our luck with the views and scenery was however splendid throughout. The Lincolnshire countryside did us proud. The fields of barley, wheat ,oats and other crops seemed to go on forever. They glowed in the autumn light and were dotted with wild poppies and cornflowers. The villages out here are pretty well kept. I do not recall seeing so many old Methodist and Wesleyan chapels on a walk before.

We met at the car park in Binbrook. There are public loos there. After the briefing from Gareth we set off and were soon up and out into the countryside and enjoying the first of those views back over the village. The first of our 3 stops was in Ludford for coffee. It was still drizzling at this time and a select few of us managed to shelter in the church porch whilst the others opted for trees or the benches at the War Memorial. Gareth told us the tale of a local landowner Mr Hands who years ago had named a village lane in memory the love of his wife . Her name was Frances but she was known as 'Fanny.' So the village now has the wonderfully named Fanny Hands Lane. After Ludford we zig- zagged across more of those marvellous fields and through hedgerow, following some sections of The Viking Way until we reached Tealby for our lunch stop. The Kings Head is a quintessential village thatched pub dating back about 700 years with a super beer garden. What a great place to be. After Tealby there was only another 5 miles to go ! Some of it uphill. But again there were those views to compensate for our efforts. So it was onward and upward through Kirmond Le Mire and back to Binbrook. Another great walk from Gareth. Thanks to Angela for the photos.
Charlie P

Saturday, 3rd August 2024 Redmires reservoirs and the Rivelin valley

Thirteen walkers, two of whom were new to the group, began this walk near the Redmires Reservoirs in the Peak District. The weather was mild and partly cloudy, with temperatures around 18°C. The initial climb up to Stanage Pole was challenging but rewarding. Stanage Pole is a notable historical landmark, marking the boundary between Yorkshire and Derbyshire.
From here we walked on top of Stanage Edge enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding moorlands. Stanage Edge, a famous gritstone escarpment popular with rock climbers and walkers alike. On the top of the edge we came across several circular drinking holes made by drovers to water their packhorses. We continued along the edge until we reached Mostar Lodge.
Turning east, we descended through Hollow Meadows. This area is known for its beautiful scenery and scattered woodland. The path then led us down into the Rivelin Valley rich in industrial heritage, with remnants of old mills and dams along the river. Following the river along the woodland path, we enjoyed the peaceful environment and sound of running water.
Lunch was taken at Wyming Brook, a scenic nature reserve with steep, wooded slopes and a fast-flowing brook. After eating, we climbed up through Wyming Brook, taking in the natural beauty and varied wildlife.
The final stretch took us along a path behind the Redmires Reservoirs. The reservoirs, constructed in the 19th century to supply water to Sheffield, provided a fitting end to our journey.
Many thanks to Phil for leading this lovely walk.

AMG

Tuesday 30th July 2024 Blacktoft Sands & Marshlands -

On perhaps the warmest day of the month 15 ramblers met at Whitgift church to do a circular walk around the Blacktoft Sands and Marshland area. Before the walk started the walk leader brought to everyone’s attention the clock face of the church which have the numerals XIII instead of the normal XII. Local legend has it that the painter had visited a local ale house during his lunch break.
The walk started on top of the levee which provides the flood defence from the River Ouse. We followed the levee giving great views of the river and the few pleasure boats on the river, passing the Whitgift light house, until we reached the Blacktoft Sands RSPB nature reserve. The nature reserve is one of the top bird watching spots in Yorkshire where in the spring the top species to look for are marsh harrier, bearded tit, bittern and avocet. At this point we had our early morning cup of coffee. There are public toilets at this point. Suitably refreshed we continued the walk along the banks where the River Trent joins the River Ouse and after about a kilometre we turned right at the Drain sluice and followed the Adlingfleet Drain inland. we continued until we reached a farm at Garthorpe Grange where lunch was taken in a shaded area.
We continued along the bridleway track to the edge of the village. We walked through Adlingfleet village passing the church which has a Marshland walks information board and turned right onto Pinfold Lane which become a track known as Cow Lane. Turning right from Cow lane we followed a track between the fields which passes through a co-op farm and joins the A161 Goole-Crowle road. We proceeded with care on the road turning right and just beyond Causeway House we took another right and continued down a quieter road for about a kilometer leading back to Whitgift church. NT
P.O.I
Blacktoft Sands RSPB reserve is a nature reserve in the East Riding of Yorkshire. It is managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, which leases the site from Associated British Ports.[
The site is on the southern bank of the Ouse, west of its confluence with the River Trent, opposite the village of Blacktoft, and is a wetland. Being at the beginning of the Humber Estuary, the water is slightly saline. The reserve's tidal reedbed is the largest in England. It is managed using a mixture of grazing with our six konik horses, reed cutting and maintaining and excavation of pools within the reedbed. Courtesy Wikipedia

Saturday, 27th July 2024 Fairholmes to Alport Castle

Eleven ramblers, including a new lady from Saddleworth, met at Fairholmes a popular starting point for walks in the Peak District. The weather was clear and mild, perfect for a day out. From here, the route headed up towards Lockerbrook. In the early 20th century Lockerbrook was one of the sites used during the construction of the Derwent and Howden Dams.
The path then followed the River Ashop, winding through lush greenery and past the remnants of old farmsteads. This river flows into Ladybower Reservoir, one of three large reservoirs in the Upper Derwent Valley.
Continuing along, the walk followed the River Alport, which leads towards Alport Castle. This area is notable for its dramatic landscape, a result of landslides that occurred thousands of years ago. The steep ascent to the ridge near Alport Castle was challenging but rewarding with expansive views over the valley below.
The path along the ridge provided a panoramic view of the surrounding moors and valleys including a view of the ridge between Mam Tor and Lose Hill. The final stretch descended to the Derwent Reservoir. This reservoir, completed in 1916, is famous for its role in the Dambusters training runs during World War II.
The group returned to Fairholmes along the shore of the Derwent Reservoir. This varied route showcases the best of the Peak District's diverse landscapes. Clear skies, a gentle breeze with only one short shower, added to the enjoyment of the day.
Thanks go to Brian, Derek, and Deet who took it in turns to back mark.
AMG

Thursday 25th July 2024 – To the woods to the woods

On a dull day 12 walkers set of from Sandal Park
After a brief history of the park it was explained that there were no roman remains or nearly thick sorry neolithic artifacts on route. We proceeded down bridleway into Shaw Lane Wood it wasn't long before chatter could be heard We proceeded to Mere Lane and then under a busy road to enter another bridleway which took us in to Edenthorpe Wood
We proceeded past what will become a large estate and on to kiddies play area were refreshments were taken.
Some of our lady's indulged themselves on the swings
We continued on back in to Shaw Wood and eventually back to the cars
The sun greeted us at the end of our walk
Judging by the comments the walk was enjoyed by the group
Tony Liversidge

P.O.I. Sandal Park
Before 1841 the land was the site of a brick works and the lake is a result of the extraction of clay from the area. It was 1940 before it was officially opened as a park.
The park plays host to 3 football pitches and a fishing lake and a smaller lake.Prior to the 1980s the fishing lake had small boats for park users to use hence the park is known locally as the 'Boating Lake'. There are also two children playgrounds, one of which was built in 2010. The funding for the second playground came from central government through the playbuilder scheme and the Veolia Environmental Trust. The playground includes equipment which encourages children's balance and fitness and a children’s play train which reflects the heritage of the park as there was once a children's train in the park which was removed in the late 1970s There are also 3 fitness trails with fitness equipment. Courtesy Wikipedia

WEDNESDAY 24th July 2024 CARERS WALK HAREWOOD HOUSE,

On a warm and sunny day, the fifth carers walk of 2024 took place at Harewood House, home of the 8th Earl and Countess of Harewood, the Lascelles family who made their fortune from sugar plantations and the slave trade in the 1730’s. In recent times the source of the family’s fortune has been addressed by the current Earl including taking part in various television programmes on the subject. The family purchased what was the Gawthorpe Estate in 1738, demolished Gawthorpe Hall and had the current house, designed by John Carr, built in the 1760’s. The house is renowned for its Robert Adams interiors, art collection and Chippendale furniture. The parkland, which we walked around, was designed by Capability Brown and the Italianate terrace in front of the house, which we also walked through was designed and constructed in the 1840’s by Sir Charles Barry.
Ten of us took part in this gentle 2.5-mile stroll through the gardens and parkland of the Harewood Estate. Leaving the car park we headed downhill towards the lake. Crossing the dam which creates the lake we walked around the lakeside to the walled kitchen garden. Retracing out steps along the lake we diverted into the Himalayan Garden, which was constructed in the 1930’s by the 6th Earl Harewood and his wife Princess Mary, the only daughter of King George V. Uphill out of the garden we entered the South parkland with magnificent views of the house, heading towards the lake again we turned uphill through the parkland and onto the Italianate Terrace. Leaving the terrace behind us we entered the north parkland and walked to and visited All Saints Church. There has been a church on this site since Norman times with the current building constructed during the 14th century. The church is no longer used for worship and is in the care of the Church Conservation Trust. It was a short stroll back through the north parkland back to the car park and a chance for those who wanted to go inside the house to do so: this included viewing the latest art exhibition in some rooms. A good day was had by al. Thanks to those that came along especially to Neil, Angela and Catherine of Doncaster Ramblers for helping out. Stephen j Tomlinson 24.07.24

 Tuesday 23rd July 2024 A Wolds Eye View

A pleasant morning greeted 30 Ramblers including one member’s grand daughter in the North Cave car park at the start of an 11.5 mile walk. The usual briefing took place before setting out for the Drewton estate which was achieved by crossing the A1034 and picking up an old disused railway track and passing some very smart looking holiday accommodation on one side of the road and the palatial Drewton Manor on the other side of the road.
The morning break was taken at the bottom of an area known as the warrens which also overlooked a chalk stream. After the break the route continued through Low Hunsley plantation and East Dale before crossing the B1230 and picking up the dual path of the High Hunsley Circuit and Wolds Way, before arriving at North Newbald for Lunch
After a suitable lunch break (both hostelries were shut) the route went past the Norman Church with its spectacular modern day carving in an old tree.
Passing this the route then went onto road walking for a short distance skirting some of Hotham which has several large manor houses and halls finally arriving back at the start point.
A usual vote of thanks to Steve for photos ,Norman for road watch and John for back marker
Stuart Twell
P.O.I.
The High Hunsley Circuit is a 25½ mile circular walk in the East Riding of Yorkshire,that visits the villages of Walkington, Skidby, Brantingham, South Cave and Bishop Burton. The paths themselves are also used by other routes, Yorkshire Wolds Way and Beverley 20.

Thursday 18th July 2024 - Tickhill Landscape Walk

On a beautiful warm sunny morning 24 of us met at Tickhill's historic Buttercross. The group included newcomers Kerry and Ali, and Ben from the Chesterfield group. We also had for company, Alfie, who behaved himself and drank plenty of water during the walk. The briefing took place in the quiet of the recreation park on what was almost cetainly a route liking the pre-Norman settlements of Lindrick and Dadesly. The area was under water from about 500AD until it was drained in the late 17th century by Tomas Tofield.  We followed the path, over an old stone stile, to Common Lane, where we turned right and then left towards Estfield farm.  On the roadway we were on the edge of the former wetland, which today has a number of settlements - Lindrick, Tickhill market place, Estfield, Wadworth, Loversall, Old Rossington, Hesley, Limpool, etc - which were established when the area was under water. Estfield itself was a Saxon farmstead and was the start one of the two routes in this area which crossed the wetland, the other being what is now Sunderland Street. From Estfield farm we followed the right of way to the A60, pausing to admire All Hallows hill, the site of a Saxon church. Further along the A60 a small track comes in on the left. This is Oddy Lane, William Oddy being killed in 1676, possibly in the process of carting stones from the church out to farms at Wellingley or Stancil for a new building.

After a short walk along the A60 we turned into Wellingley Lane and over the A1M motorway. The Doncaster by-pass, as it was known, was opened in 1961 and the existence of a right of way from Wellingley Lane to the motorway indicates the lack of attention to rights of way in the '60s.  After a short pause, under shade, to hydrate, we continued on lovely paths to Stancil Lane. Just before we reached it we paused, again under shade, for our refreshments, moving on when we realised that a farmer was waiting for us to move away before he continued spraying his field.  At Stancil we admired scheduled monument 1142, which is a field. But not any old field. This field was once the location of a Roman villa, discovered in 1938 after bodies were found. The police were called but soon realised that an archaeologist was necessary. Some work was carried out that year, then in 1939, when two rooms were uncovered within a larger building, and the remains of a bath-house. Finds included pottery, Roman coins, etc. A total of about 80 human skeletons of all ages and both genders were found, all dating from the Anglo-Saxon period.  Stancil was recorded in the Domesday Book (1085) and  in medieval times records show that in 1379 there were 15 married couples and 27 single people old enough to be assessed for the poll tax (plus children of course) and yet 200 years later there were only 4 families in the settlement.  Now the settlement consists of one family.  So, this field once had a Roman villa and a medieval village - certainly not 'any old field'.

From Stancil we headed broadly south, walking through successive fields with a very clear rights of way between the crops. When we reached Hopyard Lane we turned east at the point where the original route from Estfield farm would have crossed the wetland. We soon joined the River Torne, following it around to Sheepwash Lane and beyond, crossing the river on a bridge repaired by the Doncaster Rambles maintenance team a few years ago.  We crossed the A1M once more and then walked among houses back to Sunderland Street and the Buttercross, reaching it just after 1.00. Thanks to Dave and Rob for backmarking.  David Gadd

Wednesday 17 July 2024 Maintenance Team Work Report,
Four Ramblers members plus 1 guest volunteer and an employee of Doncaster City Council install marker posts and carry out other works in the Askern and Norton area, see list below.

• Footpath Norton 18 finger post installed at junction with footpath Norton 19.
• Footpath Norton 19 finger post installed where footpath joins Rings Lane.
• Footpath Owston 15 finger post fitted at junction with footpath Askern 1. Also, metal steps cleaned, and vegetation cleared from bridge. Further clearance work was carried out where the footpath meets the A19.
Also considered was installing a fingerpost on footpath Askern 7 at its intersection with Norton 20 but it was concluded this area was susceptible to vandalism and a new post would probably not last long.
A Total of 10-man hours were spent on these tasks.

Stuart Twell. 18.07.24

The next maintenance session is Wednesday 7 August 2024 and if you would like to volunteer contact:

Stuart Twell, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Pete Smith, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tuesday 16 July 2024 The Other Side Of Wetherby

I could not believe how lucky we were with the weather. The forecast was not good and it was drizzling heavily as we left Doncaster. But by the time we got to the start point in Wetherby it was dry and we did not get a drop of rain all day. In fact by lunchtime we were getting too warm as the temperatures began to rise. Fifteen of us made the early start from The Wilderness car park alongside the River Wharfe. The walk was going to be 13+ miles to the east of the A1. Almost entirely flat apart from one very short but very steep bit to get off the main path down to the riverside. A bit of road walking and a couple of roads to cross but otherwise good tracks and paths and some fields. There would be no designated refreshment stops. So coffee, lunch and other breaks would be al fresco and random. Along the way we would pass various points of interest. The River Wharfe on a number of occasions, a racecourse, two prison establishments, a large trading estate, a field full of big goats, two ( sadly closed down ) public houses and a sewage works. Providing they came in the right order we would know we were not lost. We left the car park going east by the footpath out of the far bottom corner and were quickly under the underpass of the A1. Turning north we went alongside this noisy road before turning east again for the racecourse and the first prison ( Wetherby Young Offenders ). We looped back to join the Wetherby Railway Path past the trading estate and the second prison ( Thorp Arch ) before negotiating that treacherous piece of banking to the riverside. Now on the other side of the Wharfe we lunched before starting the second half of the walk that would take us past the goats and into Boston Spa. Despite being the owner of the closed down pubs Boston Spa was looking good. It is an attractive town with some lovely houses and a nice riverside walk ( with a weir ). We left by crossing the bridge and proceeded north on the roadway before going left and west into the countryside and back alongside the river again. Coming across the sewage works told us we were still on the right route. As we approached the end of the walk some dark clouds appeared in the skies and I thought our luck with the weather was about to fail. But it didn't and some of us even managed to enjoy ice cream and lollies from the van in the car park before setting off home. Thanks to everyone who turned up, took part and supported on this walk (especially Steve and Neil for the photos and back-marking.). CP

Saturday, 13th July 2024 Railways, Reservoirs and other R’s

This leisurely 11 mile circular walk, started at the Anglers Country Park at Wintersett on a warm, dry day. Sixteen of us made our way through Wintersett, Ryhill, Felkirk and Rabbit Ings Country Park before stopping for lunch in Royston. Here we were entertained with live music and had the opportunity to get to know various reptiles (not the human variety).
After lunch our walk continued on the Trans-Pennine Trail and part of the disused Barnsley Canal through Haw Wood.

Many thanks to the kind cyclist who spotted and returned a mobile phone that one of our number had dropped and to Gabriel for leading this lovely, varied walk.
Angela MG
P.O.I.
Royston The village is recorded in the Domesday Book as Rorestone with the name deriving from Hror's or Roarr's farm /settlement (Hror/Roarr-s-tun).The village was in the wapentake of Staincross. Originally a farming village, Royston joined the Industrial Revolution with the construction in the 1790s of the Barnsley Canal, and later a branch of the Midland Railway. Both are now disused. Royston had a colliery called Monckton Colliery (1878–1966).This was replaced by Royston Drift Mine. There was also, a clay works and brick works but these are all now closed, although a coke works operated until recently on the mine site processing coal brought in by road. Royston Drift Mine opened in 1975 and closed (after a relatively short period in coal mining terms) 14 years later in 1989.The site is now the site of Rabbit Ings Country Park, which is now home to all five species of owls to be found in Britain. A large shirt factory with the brand name Valusta provided local employment from the 1940s through to the 1980s. Burberrys also had a factory on Midland Road Courtesy Wikipedia

Thursday, 11th July 2024 - Hatfield Moor Neolithic wander

On a miserable damp morning fourteen of us set off from the Humberhead Peatlans car park near Boston Park farm. We made our way to the site of the facsimile of the Neolithic trackway, where a 3 metre high viewing platform has been built. In October 2004 a number of worked wooden poles were discovered by a local man, Mick Oliver, who was walking across the site.  Further investigation showed that the site was a late neolithic timber trackway, about 45m long, extending from dry land across a shallow pool to a wooden platform. Mick took me to the site when it had been partially excavated. The platform and trackway were built of locally available wood, but it is believed that the selection of the wood probably had a deeper meaning with the builders.  The design of trackway narrows at the platform edge, widening to the platform at the end. The location of the trackway is significant in that it is not situated closer to the drier land. it is situated parallel with the dryland ridge which would have allowed people on dry land to view the activities taking place on the structure. This leads to the suggestion that the structure was used as an arena for performances, entertainment and ceremonies. The real trackway is about a mile to the north and, after excavation, was re-buried, with special arrangements to ensure that it did not dry out.

Hatfield Moors is a 3500 acre biological site of Special Scientific Interest. The site is managed by Natural England. In The Gentleman's Magazine 31 August 1727, George Stovin made reference to Hatfield Moor: "Here is great plenty of furze buſhes, and variety of game, ſuch as hares, foxes, kites, eagles, curlews, ducks and geeſe; there is no houſe or cottage near it, and but a few old oaks, fallows, and birch”.  The Hatfield and Crowle moors had been used for small-scale extraction of peat for fuel from medieval times, and probably much earlier, but commercial extraction of the peat for animal bedding began in the 1880s. The peat was cut on the moors and, once it had dried, transported to several works on 3 ft narrow gauge tramways. The wagons were pulled by horses to works at Creyke's Siding, Moorends, Medge Hall, Swinefleet and Hatfield. There was also a network of canals supplying the Moorends Works. Horses used for transport until after WW2. The process of peat extraction was mechanised in the 60s, then loading onto trains in 1981. Surface milling was introduced in 1985, which completely stripped the surface of large areas of the moors. Peat cutting ceased in 2001, although stockpiles of peat were removed until 2005.

Sixty or so years ago the moors were considerd to be worthless and various schemes were proposed to use them. A scheme to cover the moors with ash from coal-fired power stations, and possibly municipal rubbish, was proposed in 1962, and again in 1969. Another plan of the 1960s was to build a regional airport on the moors; this proposal was revived in 1971. Further ash-tipping schemes were voiced in 1974, as was a third plan for an airport in 1976. There were also plans to use the moor as a dump for colliery waste in 1978, when Thorne Colliery was upgraded and reopened.

Although official attitudes did not place much value on the moors, William Bunting moved to Thorne after the Second World War and became an advocate for moor preservation. Thought to be rude and irascible, he began a campaign to recognise the ecological importance of the moors. He asserted that the enclosures of the 1800s, when common rights were replaced by private ownership, had been illegal, as was much of the commercial exploitation of his time. He seemed to have a good deal of evidence to support his claims, and took several major utilities to court over acts which he felt were illegal. He won a series of high-profile cases, which he used as publicity to advance the case for conserving the moors.  In 1972, Bunting began direct action, aided by local residents, local naturalists, and students. During the week, the peat extraction company Fisons would cut drains to begin the process of lowering the water table. During the weekends, Bunting's Beavers, as his team became known, would walk onto the moors and construct dams across the new ditches, to retain the water levels. By the summer, the Beavers appeared to be winning the battle, and their activities were featured on BBC television. Fisons dynamited eighteen of the dams, but the activists were undeterred and began rebuilding them. Finally, Fisons conceded defeat, and negotiated with the Nature Conservancy Council on the future management of the moors in 1974. The government granted some 4,560 acres  Site of Special Scientific Interest status in 1981. Although this had little immediate effect, it has contributed to subsequent appreciation of the area and its importance as an ecological resource.

Deep below the surface of Hatfield Moor is an anticline or fold in the geological strata.  This rock structure was first discovered in the 1960s, when British Petroleum and the Gas Council where searching for possible deposits of oil. Drilling for oil-bearing formations took place in 1981 and the Hatfield Moor natural gas field was discovered when the drill broke through into it. A major blow-out occurred, which ignited and destroyed the drilling rig. After 17 days of burning, the Texan oil fire specialist "Boots" Hudson arrived to bring it under control, and the fire was finally extinguished after 38 days. Gas was then pumped from the gas field until 2000, from when it has been used as a natural storage facility for gas. The gas-field is at a depth of 440 metres.

After sharing the site with a large group of students we took a route to the east and, just after turning northwards, we stopped for our refreshment break. We continued on a wide open track, passing huge 'ponds' occupying areas from which peat had been removed as well as areas of cottongrass and many young invasive silver birch sapplings. At the end of this track we turned to the west along the raised trackbed of one of the rail tracks. Water to the north of us, water to the south of us, and myriad swifts above us having their fill of the insects life around us. At the end of this trackbed we turned south, along the edge of a wood, accompanied by the sound of inmates in one of the nearby prisons. Just before we reached the site of the facsimile of the trackway we took a short walk to the site of the aircraft crash of September 1941 when a plane attached to RAF Finningley being flown by a Polish crew of six, returning from a bombing mission over Cologne, crashed. Of the 6-man crew, only two men survived. On leaving this sad site we followed the route back to the car park, reaching it at about 12.30.  My thanks to Dave Churchill for his effiient back-marking. Historical information for this walk comes from a variety of sources, including personal, but mostly to Wikipedia.  David Gadd

 WEDNESDAY 10.07.24  CARERS WALK STANAGE AND BURBAGE EDGES,

Three members of Doncaster Ramblers and 5 carers boarded the mini bus outside Wards in Doncaster for our annual more strenuous walk, along Stanage and Burbage Edges. Fortunately, we were blessed with a dry, cloudy and windy day, ideal walking conditions for the great views this walk has to offer. Thank goodness the weather was not heavy rain like the day before the walk. The mini bus dropped us of at Redmires Reservoirs to the west of Sheffield then it was off uphill to Stanage pole which marks the boundary between Derbyshire and Yorkshire and the pre industrial pack horse route between Sheffield and Manchester. A stop to catch our breath at the pole and to take a group photo then it was across the moor to Stanage Edge where we were greeted with the magnificent views along the Hope Valley, in the distance we could see Mam Tor and The Great Ridge which some of the carers had walked with us two years ago on a very wet day. Walking along the edge for some distance in a southerly direction we finally reached the trig point at an altitude of 457m where we dropped off the edge to find shelter from the wind for a coffee and a bite to eat. It was then downhill to Upper Burbage Bridge, crossed Burbage Brook and up onto Burbage Edge with stunning views across the valley of Carl Wark and Higger Tor. Following the edge for a couple of miles we finally saw our destination, the Fox House Inn on the A6187 where our mini bus was waiting, though we did have time for a pint or a coffee! Thanks to Neil and Jackie of Doncaster Ramblers who assisted on this walk and thanks to the 5 brave carers who came on the walk. This is a hard walk for those not used to walking 6 miles in tough underfoot conditions but they all managed it magnificently but I am sure they were happy to see the inn at the end. Well done to all. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Tuesday 9th Jul 2024 - Two Halls and a Castle

Once again the weather seemed to be against us. Monday had been fine and dry with some good periods of sunshine. Tuesday was the opposite. Heavy rain in the morning was followed by heavy drizzle later. It was not really until we were finishing the walk that it cleared and some brighter weather arrived. At the same time it was quite warm, so for most of the day we puffed and panted and perspired in our wet weather gear. Not that any of that prevented 22 Ramblers enjoying themselves. The walk route was new to most of us and the countryside and views ( when not obscured by rain clouds ) in that area are great. Bolsover Castle, Sutton Scarsdale Hall and Hardwick Hall were rarely out of sight and there was a good variation of tracks and paths through woodland and across fields of wheat and barley to take our minds off the weather conditions. Add to that a series of ' fascinating factoids ' from Alasdair concerning the history and residents of the 3 properties will help most of us remember a super walk ( apart from the rain ). We set off from the car park on the StockleyTrail just off the A617 and headed north and it was not long before we could see Bolsover Castle in the distance off to our right ( cue first factoid ). Turning left as we approached Carr Vale we passed a wetland nature reserve before crossing a muddy field for our morning coffee stop on the site of civil war battlefield (cue second factoid ). Then another muddy field and over the M1 to reach the ruins of Sutton Scarsdale Hall ( factoid number three ). From there we were soon into Heath and a very welcome pub stop at The Elm Tree . Tables outside to sit at and large umbrellas to shelter under. Excellent . Although by then the rain had mostly stopped anyway. Pressing on we eventually went south and having once again crossed the M1 entered the grounds of Hardwick Hall where we tarried by the side of the lily pond for an afternoon coffee stop to admire the view of the hall and to receive our last factoid from Alasdair. The way across the grounds back towards our cars seemed like a steady climb after what had otherwise been a generally flat walk. But perhaps it was just that we were getting tired after 11+ miles. Thanks to both Alasdair and Neil for devising the walk and sharing the leading and back-marking. Steve for the photos and finally to Frank who is making the role of ' gateman' his own. CP

Saturday, 6th July 2024 To the Pole And Back
9 resilient ramblers met at Fox House despite the forecast of rain. We walked towards Lady Canning’s plantation. Our route then took us south of the three Redmires reservoirs before passing Stanage Pole to reach Stanage Edge. Here lunch was taken behind a wall to shelter from the wind. Heavy rain could be seen approaching from the west over the Hope Valley; so donning waterproofs we headed for Upper Burbage which is where the rain finally caught us up. This lovely walk took gave us splendid views over Sheffield, Hallam Moors and the Derwent valley. Many thanks to Carol for leading and for the rhubarb.

Angela M Gibson

Tuesday 2nd July 2024 Heights of Abraham.
Sixteen members met at Cromford Mill, near Matlock Bath, on what was fortunately a cool and overcast summer morning, though the sun did come out in the afternoon. What lay ahead of us on this 10.5 mile walk, billed as strenuous due to the 2600 feet of climbing, would have been very unpleasant on a hot summers day. After a briefing by our Walk Leader George, we were off for a short distance along the river Derwent before crossing the busy A6 to our first climb of the day up steep steps. Walking high along the wooded valley side with ups and downs we passed under the cable car taking tourists to the Heights of Abraham, made us wonder who are the fools! Then it was uphill again to the viewing point at the Heights of Abraham for a welcome coffee break and to take in the spectacular views across Matlock and the Derbyshire Dales. Refreshed, a relatively flat section brought us to Salters Lane after crossing the Limestone Way then it was downhill to Snitterton Hall. Then imagine our surprise when it was another very steep uphill climb to Brightgate after which we were all grateful for our lunch break resting our back against a Limestone dry stone wall. A welcome flat and gentle downhill walk brought us to Upper Town and yet another steep climb out of the village and downhill to the pretty village of Bonsall. Our last uphill section of the day took us from Bonsall around the edge of a working Limestone quarry then it was a steep downhill through woodland to the A5012 and back to our start point. Thanks to George for a great and challenging walk with fantastic views and to Dianne for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson

Saturday, 29th June 2024 Holmsfield and Linacre Reservoir
9 ramblers met at Holmesfield on a perfect day for walking, dry and warm, expecting to walk to Fox House. Unfortunately, due to illness the planned walk could not go ahead. Peter stepped in with an alternative walk to Linacre reservoir and back. This lovely walk took us through a mixture of woodland and wildflower meadows.

Many thanks to Peter for putting this walk on at such short notice.

AMG

Thursday 27th June 2024 - Hooton Roberts Wander                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       "Shall i wear a top over my T-shirt?", "didn't know whether to wear shorts today" were snatches of pre-walk conversation. The weather was warm but breezy. Most decided that a T-shirt was enough and so sixteen set out, leaving the Earl of Strafford car park. The Earl had kindly allowed us to park in their lower car park.  We immediately passed through the adjoining churchyard and walked down the narrow road beside the church, then to climb gently into open country to come across our first sight this year of a magificent field of blue cornflower. We pose for a group photo before descending to Old Denaby and as we stopped a lady from the farm, driving past, warned us that the bottom section might be boggy because the was a problem with their field drains. She was correct. We walked along Denaby Lane until we reached The Green, where two smiling faces greeted us prior to our climb. A steady climb through the beautiful old wood took us to the level ground and ultimately to the area known as Denaby Thicks, where a skateboard park provided us with seating and some shade for our refeshments. Once refreshed we walked past the outskirts of Conisbrough and crossed the A630 onto the broad track of Park Lane. Throughout the middle ages Conisbrough remained a large village rather than becoming a town, as during this time the royal lords neglected it. During the 1400's there were coal pits in Denaby Fields and two mills in Conisbrough; one on the Mill Piece and one at Burcroft; these survived into more modern times. Parkland covered almost half the area and it was used as a hunting ground. Conisbrough Parks (which included Parks Farm, Conisbrough Lodge and Birk Lodge) was of Anglo- Saxon and Danish origin and was the only park in South Yorkshire except for Sheffield Manor. In 1575 farm timber was sold locally for £1900, and in 1656 a document shows that the woods were leased to Thomas Bayville Pagdin Wilson. Gervais Boseville owned Conisbrough Lodge at that time and part of the park was leased as agricultural land. It is recorded that in 1392 a total of 580 deer were killed on the Great Haye, or hunting forest, of Conisbrough. We left Park Lane to follow a footpath down to Firsby, passing several air shafts which carried water from the old reservoir at Firsby to Doncaster. The reservoir is now a nature reserve. Firsby itself is a tiny hamlet but Roman pottery kilns have been found in the area. From Firsby we gently ascended a huge field to Hooton Cliff, from where we descended to Hooton Roberts once more. Most of us went into the Earl for some very welcome refreshments. Thanks to Dave Churchil for back-marking.  David Gadd

 Tuesday 25th June .2024. Grangemill from Cromford Mill.
Thirteen members met at Cromford Mill on a very warm and sunny day for this 11 mile walk. Definitely a day where you needed to make sure you were carrying plenty of water to replace the fluid lost on the 2000 feet of climbing. The walk started at Cromford Mill the birthplace of the modern factory system when in 1771 Sir Richard Arkwright built the first purpose-built mill for the manufacturing of cotton textiles. Cromford Mill is a Grade 1 listed building of worldwide importance. Though textile manufacturing is now no longer carried out in the area, during the walk we came across plenty of examples of modern industry with many abandoned and working limestone quarries. There was also plenty of evidence during the walk of another long-gone industry in the area, lead mining.
From Cromford it was uphill to the pretty village of Bonsall and our first water stop of the day at the old stone cross in the village centre. Another short uphill section brought us to the Limestone Way where a welcome coffee break was taken. The Limestone Way then took us through the abandoned Bonsall lead mine before leaving the Limestone Way and walking downhill to the little village of Grangemill where we rejoined the Limestone Way for a short distance. It was then uphill again for some distance to Griff Grange where a welcome lunch break was taken close to the wind farm. Refreshed it was downhill followed by another climb, passing under an abandoned railway line and through the recently cut hayfields then onto Middlleton Moor. Leaving the moor it was downhill through Middleton Village, the footpath took us around the working Dene Quarry then it was a long downhill section back to our start point at Cromford. Thanks to George for leading this lovely walk and to Martin for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson

Saturday, 22nd June 2024 Laughton Forest and Scotton

Fifteen ramblers met in the car Park on East Ferry Road, about 2 miles north of Laughton village, for this 10 mile walk over flat land on a dry, warm day. We began and ended on forestry paths through lovely Laughton Forest. In between we visited Scotton Common Nature Reserve and Scotton village. Lunch was taken in Scotton where we visited the Three Horseshoes cafe.

Many thanks to Charlie for leading this lovely walk.
AMG

Thursday 20th June '24 - Langold and Hodsock

A lovely sunny morning was on offer for this 6-mile walk from Langold Lake and Country Park car park to Hodsock and back. There were 16 walkers and after the leader's briefing we set off in an easterly direction through the woods, crossing the A60 to a track opposite. We walked for quite a distance along this track before turning right. This footpath took us through the grounds of Hodsock Lodge Farm to a further broad track. Soon we were at a junction of paths and, after a brief pause for drinks, turned left along a narrow path towards Hodsock. The path soon widened and became more defined as we arrived just outside Hodsock Priory for our morning break. After refreshments were enjoyed, we set off heading north along more good paths to meet a broad track and turned left. We eventually arrived at the point where we were earlier in the walk. From here we retraced our steps back to the car park. Many thanks to Rob Elvidge for back-marking. David Horne

WEDNESDAY 19th June 2024 CARERS WALK RIPLEY CASTLE,

On a warm and in parts sunny day the third carers walk of 2024 took place at Ripley Castle and village just to the north of Knaresborough in north Yorkshire. Ripley Castle has been in the ownership of the Ingilby family for over 700 years and is still owned by them. Seven hundred years ago Edward II was on the throne and the Ingilby’s collected the taxes for the king which paid for the construction of Windsor Castle. Nine of the close conspirators of the Gunpowder Plot were close relations or associates of the Ingilby family.
Nine carers joined 4 members of Doncaster ramblers on a short 2.8-mile walk, the walk was kept short as we had to be back at the castle by 1.30 so the carers could participate in the prearranged guided tour of the castle. Leaving the castle, after a group photo kindly taken by a castle guide, we joined the Nidderdale Way. A short walk brought us to the stone dam which creates the lakes in the pleasure grounds of the castle, another group photo opportunity. Continuing on the Nidderdale Way for about 1 km and passing through Hollybank Wood we turned north uphill through fields to High Rails Farm then it was downhill on a track past Park Lodge. Just after the lodge we could peer over the estate boundary wall and admire the herd of deer in the distance with Buzzards in the sky above them. Eventually we rejoined the Nidderdale way and retraced our steps past the dam and back to the castle gatehouse. Great views were had of the North Yorkshire countryside during the walk and Ripley is a lovely picture-perfect village with a great ice cream shop. Thanks to all the carers who came on the walk and to Angela, Jackie and Catherine of Doncaster Ramblers for their help during the walk. Stephen J Tomlinson

Tuesday !8th June 2024 Sheffield and Derbyshire Eastern Edges and Moorland.

Twenty-six members met at the National Trust Shilito Wood car park on a good day for walking, no rain, a bit of sunshine, some blue sky and a cooling breeze. After the usual briefing, which warned about the possible very muddy conditions which proved unfounded, the ground has definitely dried out since the pre-walk two months ago, we were off down the wooded valley of Millthorpe Brook. After 1.5 miles we left the valley and started the first steep climb of the day north towards Lydgate. At the top of the hill a well-earned coffee break was taken overlooking the lovely hayfields with wildflowers which we had just walked through. Refreshed we carefully crossed the B6054 and continued downhill in a northerly direction through fields and woodland, with a Heron and Buzzards in the sky, to Totley on the southwest edge of Sheffield. Crossing the A621 and negotiating the granite cobblestone covered footpath we arrived at the Cricket Inn, Totley Bents, aptly named as the cricket pitch backs onto the pub. Lunch sat on the grass in the cricket ground was followed by liquid refreshment then the start of the steepest climb of the day up a stoney track to the top of Bole Hill. The majority of the group left the track and walked uphill to the cairn at the top of Bole Hill and were rewarded with great views over Sheffield, a few took the slightly easier option of following the track still uphill though. Reunited, a short uphill section brought us to the flat moorland of Brown Edge and Flask Edge which eventually brought us to the B6054. Another careful road crossing and we were onto the wet peatland of Big Moor, passing an abandoned reservoir, and then into the valley of Bar Brook. Another road crossing then it was onto Ramsley Moor and across the earth dam of the abandoned Ramsley reservoir which has been breached, then a short road walk brought us back to our start point at Shilito Wood. A nice walk with a good variety of scenery and landscapes and great views in an area not normally walked by Doncaster Ramblers. Thanks to Neil, Angela and Charlie for backmarking. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Saturday, 15th June 2024 Wirksworth
Six ramblers met at Cromford Mill near Matlock for this 10 mile walk. After walking uphill through woodland, we were offered splendid views towards Cromford Moor. The rain started as we passed the National Stone Centre and joined the High Peak Trail, becoming biblical by the time we reached Middleton Top. A picnic table awning provided welcome shelter until the rain bated. The Engine House for the world’s oldest beam engine can be found at Middleton Top. Its purpose was to get wagons up and down the steep hills on one of the world’s first long distance railways. We lunched in Wirksworth, after which we were blessed with dry weather. The walk continued climbing up to Bolehill before descending to High Peak Junction and following the Cromford Canal back to our vehicles.
Many thanks to George for leading this lovely walk.
AMG

 Thursday 13th June 2024 Gringley on the Hill 

20 ramblers attended  at Beacon Hill at the Eastern edge of the village for the six mile walk to Clayworth and back. After a brief introduction from the writer we set off across the dual carriageway and down Lancaster Road on fields and footpaths. We traversed Lovers Lane and skirted Highfield Farm before turning south on to Toft Dyke Lane. At this point the footpaths were becoming an overgrown jungle and the writer inexplicably missed a right turn ploughing on down to reach the Beck in the centre of Clayworth. This however meant a wander along the pleasant High Street to St Peters Church where there was a coffee break. There was an opportunity to view the Traquair Murals in the chancel which are the largest works of art in the east of England. They were created by an illustrator Phoebe Traquair in 1904/05 and restored by Elizabeth Hirst in 1996 .Afterwards we set off past the Sherwood Rangers cemetery and northwards on tracks past Newlands and Lords Wood. Fields took us past Topley Farm and after a short ascent we reached Gringley. We walked through the attractive village to return to Beacon Hill. It had been a pleasant ramble enjoyed by all. The writer apologised for his slight error on the footpath but refused to resign (topical political in joke). Grateful thanks to Rob for back marking. 

Historical note

St Peters Church was built between 1150 and 1180 and is a grade 1 listed building . Phoebe Traquair was born in Ireland in 1852 the sixth of seven children but is usually referred to as Scottish  because the majority of her work as an illustrator jewellery designer and embroiderer was created in Scotland. Her elder brother was William Richardson Moss a keen art collector who owned a number of works by Dante Gabriel Rossetti  the founder of the Pre Raphaelite Brotherhood. Phoebe was clearly influenced by William Blakes poetry and Rossetti's rich and vibrant colours. The purpose of the church paintings in medieval times was to introduce a largely illiterate population to scenes from the bible and the Traquair Murals were only one of two created by Phoebe in England. The Clayworth paintings were originally commissioned by a Lady Osborne as a thank you for the safe return of her son Joseph  of Wiseton Hall from the Boer War.He went on to have an illustrious military career but before that he competed as a sailor in the 1908 London Olympics under the name of Joe Laycock (a note for trivia fans).

Nigel Ball 

Tuesday 11June 2024 Clumber Park Circular

14 Ramblers met at the crossroads on Lime Tree Avenue to embark on this 17 mile epic that began and ended in Clumber Park. Along the way we got as far as Cresswell Crags to the west and Norton village to the south before returning very tiredly back to the start. Fortunately the weather was kind to us. An early threat of rain and chilly conditions soon passed and it settled down to dry and at times pleasantly warm. We were briefed by Catherine and Jaqui about the terrain ( mostly flat ) and risks ( a couple of roads to cross and some roadside walking ) and we were ready to go. Albeit a little apprehensively because of Catherine telling us how badly they had got lost on a previous recce of the walk. At first we went north across Cottage and Burnt Oak plantations and then west on The Robin Hood Way via Drinking Pit Lane to the point where it leaves the woods at South Lodge. We stopped here for coffee and bumped into a splinter group of Doncaster Ramblers who had chosen to recce a another ( shorter ) walk in the area. Across the fields to Cresswell for a short facilities stop and then south east to Norton and The Wellbeck Estate where we stopped for our lunchbreak outside one of the many attractive estate lodges. On reaching the Budby / Worksop Road we we re-entered Clumber for the final leg home. Fair to say that by now we were becoming aware of how far we had already walked and how far we still had to go. But fired up by the sugar content of the sweets that our leaders had dished along the way we were in good spirits and pressed cheerfully on. We eventually crossed the lake at Clumber Bridge and carried on right for the Clumber Courtyard and the car parks. We were tired but felt good at having gone the distance. The walk had been lovely. The surroundings in Clumber, Cresswell and Wellbeck were green and quiet and took you away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The company was good and as mentioned earlier it didn't rain. What more could you want . Thanks to Catherine and Jaqui for a great walk. CP

FOOTPATH MAINTENANCE UPDATE JUNE 2024
Four volunteers from Doncaster Ramblers with Stuart Horrocks from City of Doncaster Council carried out vegetation clearance on a footpath to the north of Doncaster City Centre. The task involved cutting back and clearing vegetation which was obstructing a footpath in the Highfields/Woodlands area. One area was particularly overgrown as demonstrated in the before and after photos above. To see all the photos from this work session click on the photos tab on the Doncaster Ramblers website Home Page. Photos should be available by 12 June 2024.

To complete the works a signpost was erected at the junction of the Roman Ridge with the cleared footpath. A good morning’s effort was put in by all.
Pete Smith 09.06.24
The next maintenance session is Wednesday 10 July 2024 and if you would like to volunteer contact:
Stuart Twell, mobile 07970 541335 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Pete Smith, 07853 705306 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Stuart and Pete are always looking for extra pair of hands.

Saturday 8th June 2024 “Mills & Greens”

A breezy rather overcast morning was on offer for the group of 13 participants who assembled at Worsbrough Mill & Country Park car park. After the leaders briefing we left alongside Worsbrough Reservoir before using a broad track through the country park. A narrow footbridge followed by a narrow path was used before a gate on the right enabled us to make our way up to a small housing area. There was a minor road available here which was used to take us up and over the motorway, before carrying on along the road to a T junction. Turning right here along another lane brought us to a further footpath where we turned sharp left along the path in the direction of an obelisk. The paths around here were quite damp with long grass in places. The group then proceeded in a south westerly direction using various paths and tracks before entering Broom Royd Wood. Our morning break was taken at the other end of the wood. Further footpaths including a small footbridge and a lane in the Hermit Hill area were used to make our way to Stainborough Fold. From here Hood Green was a short walk away along a minor road. There was nice rolling countryside appearing by now. On arrival at Hood Green a refreshment break was taken using the benches positioned on the village green. After an initial descent from Hood Green we used a pleasant level tree lined path to head for our pub stop, the Strafford Arms. The path brought us onto another lane where we turned left then right at a crossroads for a short uphill walk to the pub. Drinks were enjoyed using the chairs and tables outside the pub. It was quite sunny now. We left the pub at 2.30, retraced our steps to the crossroads but carried straight on. Using a track from the lane a little further on, we reached the Trans Pennine Trail. Here it is a former railway line and it is a pleasant, wide, well surfaced path although it was necessary to keep an eye out for bicycles. We used the Trans Pennine Trail for about 1.5 miles before leaving it and using a path alongside Worsbrough reservoir. We were nearly back now. A north/south path above the reservoir allowed us to return to Worsbrough Mill and the car park. Thanks to Dave Tonkin for back marking. David Horne 08.06.

Thursday 6th June; Fishlake & Fosterhouses.

19 ramblers accompanied by the leader assembled near St Cuthberts church in Fishlake on a bright warm morning. During the walk briefing the leader explained that a number of paths in the Fishlake area had found to have become overgrown and rutted, therefore unsuitable to take a group along. The route was therefore chosen to make more use of lanes and the River Don flood defence bank at the southern edge of Fishlake which was perfectly useable. The group departed shortly after 1000, taking the path around the back of the church before emerging onto Pinfold Lane. A right turn here enabled us to head north, passing a grounded old plane. Ahead we turned right onto Sour Lane before turning left along Wood Lane. Here we were beginning to leave Fishlake, albeit briefly. A sharp right turn at a junction of paths brought us onto a broad track which we followed for a short distance before using another path on the right which brought us onto the flood defence bank. This was followed for quite a distance with a view looking west towards Stainforth. We came down from the bank and made our way back into Fishlake for our morning break. After refreshments were taken we returned to Pinfold Lane but this time carried on along the lane for some way towards Fosterhouses. A few houses were visible here before we made our way along Millfield Road to Trundle Lane. Here we turned left to return to Fishlake but to give the group a rest from the roadside paths and lanes which had been used since our break we turned right then left to use a shady tree lined footpath away from the traffic . Before long there was a crossing of paths. We turned left to rejoin Trundle Lane further along and from here it was a short walk to St Cuthberts Church. Thanks to Rob for back marking. David Horne 06.06.

Tuesday 4th June 2024 Hoping To See A Tropical Sea

Nineteen ramblers, and one dog, gathered outside the Tourist Information Centre in Castleton for this 10-mile walk. The weather forecast was for rain showers all day, however we were blessed with much better weather, light rain at times with a stiff cool breeze.
As we entered Cave Dale we passed through the seaward edge of a former coral reef formed when Britain occupied a position nearer the equator. Frequent stops up Cave Dale made the going easier.
Elevenses was taken at Mam Nik picnic site. Exiting via the top of the picnic site meant that we were already a third of the way up Mam Tor, making our climb to the triangulation pillar a little easier. Here we stopped to admire the location of the former tropical sea, now occupied by the villages of Castleton and Hope.
Our walk along the ridge, which separates the Dark Peak to the north and the White Peak to the south, gave us spectacular views over both the Edale and Hope valleys. It also gave us a view of the face of Mam Tor (the largest landslide in the UK) and the former road to Manchester whose repair has been abandoned due to the land beneath slowly moving downslope.
Walking along the ridge we passed Hollins Cross before climbing Back Tor and then Lose Hill, where lunch was taken. We then descended down grassy slopes into Hope. A leisurely walk along the river took us back to Castleton.
Thanks to Gareth, Derek and Steve for back marking.
AMG

Saturday, 1st June 2024 Chesterfield Canal and Brimington Common

Eighteen ramblers, three of whom were walking with us for the first time, gathered at the Chesterfield Canal Hollingwood Hub Visitors Centre on a calm, dry day. The first and last thirds of this walk were along towpaths next to The Chesterfield Canal. A walk across Brimington Common was sandwiched in the middle. Lunch was taken in Brimington where there was a play area with tables. Unfortunately, the promised ice cream stop wasn’t possible because Tapton Lock Visitors Centre was closed. Many thanks to Charlie for leading this lovely walk.
AMG

Thursday 30th May; High Burnham & East Lound.

21 ramblers were present for this morning walk starting at St Nicholas Church at Haxey. The group assembled in the Church Hall car park. The leader provided the usual briefing including details of the route. Shortly after 1000 we started our walk turning right as we left the church hall driveway. We walked through the centre of Haxey before utilising a footpath taking us out of Haxey in a northerly direction. Paths were dry and in a good condition. The group reassembled before a flight of steps, just after a bridge, took us down onto a former railway line, now a most pleasant tree lined walkway. Good progress was made from here as the path was wide and level. Before long we were at the spot where we were to take our morning break. After the group were suitable refreshed we made our way on a good track to Low Burnham. The walk went through the village before turning left over a stile onto another footpath. This was narrow at first but soon became wider and therefore easier. The few buildings of High Burnham were visible on the right up a hill. Our path was easy to follow. There were a few well defined left and right turns and eventually we were at the top of the hill at High Burnham. The leader pointed out East Lound, where we were heading next, visible to the left down a hill. Another brief stop was made here before the group set off initially down the hill towards East Lound. The hill levelled out as we approached East Lound. A walk along the path by the main road through the village allowed the group to view the various buildings which make up East Lound. A right turn, near where the buildings were ending, allowed access to more good tracks towards Haxey. Shortly Haxey church was visible again ahead. As we were approaching Haxey we used some steps to descend onto a former railway line (the same line as we were on the trackbed of earlier). A left turn at the bottom of the steps took us in a southerly direction to the end of the trail by a road. By turning right here it is a short distance through Haxey centre back to the Church Hall. Thanks are due to St Nicholas Church for allowing us to park at the Church Hall and to open the hall in order for the group to use the facilities. Thanks also to Rob for back marking. David Horne 30.05.

Tuesday 29 May 2024 Laughton Forest and Scotton

Laughton Forest is just off the A169 about half way between Gainsborough and Scunthorpe. The Tuetoes car park is somewhere on its western edge about 2 miles up East Ferry Road. Twenty of us (along with Archie) met there for the start of this walk. The weather forecast was not particularly good and waws the subject of much debate before we set off. Some donned wet weather gear and some did not. We were briefed about the nature of the terrain and roads to cross etc and then we were off into the forest. The first third of the walk ( up to coffee break ) was all under the canopy of tall trees and on good forestry tracks and paths. Nice and flat with no stiles or fences. There were some muddy parts where the forestry vehicles had churned things up but nothing too bad. After coffee we exited the woods and crossed the main road to head off towards Scotton village. To get there we had to cross Scotton Common Nature Reserve. This is open flat countryside and we had been warned it could be wet underfoot. But in the event it was nowhere near as bad as feared. A series of white topped finger posts showed the way across the fields. Up to this point and indeed even as we entered Scotton village there had not been much rain. Just a bit of light drizzle here and there. We stopped for lunch at the recreation area by the church in Scotton and it turned out the rain had been waiting for this to happen. For the 40 minutes or so that we spent there it rained quite steadily. And then it stopped just when we ready to leave. We left Scotton on the same path that we had entered by, but then rather than going back across the common we carried on straight ahead back toward the woods. Across the main road again and then a very long and straight forest path before turning right just before reaching East Ferry Road got us back to the car park. Nine a half pleasant and unchallenging miles in a not often visited part of Lincolnshire. Thanks to Stephen for the photos and to Neil and Angela for sharing the backmarking.

The church in Scotton is dedicated to St Genewys. Researching this name leads to confusion. Apparently it is sometimes given as Genewy's but this thought to be an error arising from a mistake on an early Ordnance Survey map. Sometimes its mixed up with St Genevieve. But Genewys was male. I like the idea that it derives from Genesius. He was the patron saint of actors, clowns, comedians, converts, dancers, musicians, printers,epileptics and rather oddly those who have been tortured. Most of whom can be found within the Ramblers membership.

Saturday 25th May 2024 Linacre Reservoir
12 walkers one of whom joined us from Cheshire. Weather perfect for walking - dry and sunny with a gentle breeze. Very varied walk over rolling hills through meadows full of buttercups, woodland and streams.

P.O.I.
There are three reservoirs at Linacre, built between 1855 and 1904 and, between them, they hold more than 240 million gallons of water. The reservoirs are surrounded by fields and bluebell woods.

A network of trails and footpaths crisscross the valley and Holme Brook cascades through as it makes its way to Chesterfield. The paths are well edged and you can make up any length of walk you like. Part of the trail around the Upper Reservoir crosses the water on a boardwalk - parents with children should take care as it has no railing.

In spring, the woods around the Reservoirs are carpeted with bluebells and they were, at one time, coppiced - information boards explain how coppicing worked. You can find many oak trees, along with beech, alder (which likes to keep its feet wet), larch and pine. Conifers are often planted next to reservoirs for two reasons. They keep away farm animals which might pollute the water and, after a few years, they can be sold for timber.

The site is a haven for wildlife. Nuthatches, flycatchers and woodpeckers can be seen and heard as they flit among the canopy and kingfishers and mandarin ducks can be spotted around the water's edge. Courtesy Visit Peak District and Derbyshire

Thursday 23rd May 2024 - Wadworth Wander

On a chilly, breezy morning a dozen of us met at Wadworth Church for this walk of just over 5 miles. After the briefing, which included information about the September coach trip (details on the website), we crossed the cricket field to Wadworth Hall, which is a grade I listed Manor House. It was built in 1749 for the Wordsworth family by the renowned northern architect James Paine. It is currently a private residence and has been since approximately 1995. The house, however, has served a number of purposes over the past 250 years. We then walked around the corner and walked into The Shrubbery. The site was donated to the Woodland Trust in December 1994 from the Wadworth Hall Trust. The wood was formerly part of the grounds of the Hall, and still contains some garden features including an old fishpond and Ha-Ha wall. Also within the woodland are 4 wells known as the Gospel Wells, which were covered by metal grids for safety in 1995. The wells, Ha-Ha and fishpond are historic landscape features. The wood has been designated a Site of Scientific Interest by Doncaster Council, being a deciduous woodland on limestone with a species rich flora. 

From The Shrubbery we wandered to Wood House Lane, for one of the finest views over Doncaster before backtracking to Green Lane to reach the right of way which crosses surely one of the largest fields in the area to reach Wadworth Wood, which we passed through to reach the pass under the M18 and enter Edlington Wood. Wadworth Wood and Edlington Wood are as chalk and cheese, the former a commercial wood with little or no undergrowth or birdlife, the latter a rich haven of both, with a phenomenal archaeolgical record. There are the earthwork remains of a Romano-British settlement consisting of enclosures with many finds, most of which date to the 3rd to 4th centuries and earthwork remains of possible Early Medieval or Medieval settlement of rectangular buildings. Between January and August, 1935, Romano-British brooches, pottery and Roman coins were found by the woodman, Mr. Cameron, and his family. The site was later investigated by archaeologists, and again in 1945. Much earlier than the 3rd and 4th century site is the Mesolithic site in the area of The Crags. During the final stages of the last Ice Age, which peaked at 21k years ago, and ended 11.5k years ago,  Edlington was a place of settlement for the Palaeolithic/Mesolithic groups of early nomadic humans. The groups had followed the improving climate northwards as the ice sheets covering Europe retreated. In 2003 the South Yorkshire Archaeological Survey found  evidence that these early groups of humans had been using caves and natural outcrops in Edlington wood as shelters and bases for hunting. Additionally quantities of flint tools from the period were unearthed near to a rock shelter in the wood. During the period in which the tools can be dated the landscape of the area was a vast treeless tundra, with forestation occurring only as late into the period as 7500 BC. More recently LIDAR has shown a huge network of old tracks, field boundaries, etc in the wood. All this archaeological evidence exists because the area has never been ploughed. Two large areas were cleared in the 1970's in anticipation of limestone quarrying, but the quarrying never actually happened. 

Stopping for our refreshments on a convenient fallen tree we continued through the wood until we reached a junction, where the well-known story of the white greyhound was told. Viscount Molesworth, MP for the West Riding was saved from death by his faithful dog when a gardener, told to check the outside toilet, was killed by the villain hiding inside. On the death of the dog a monument was erected. Of the dead gardener, we have no information. We passed under the M18 once more and followed a path to the south of Wadworth Wood, and thence back to Wadworth Church, reaching it at 12.35. Thanks to Barry ('I know my place') for assiduously backmarking.  David Gadd  

WEDNESDAY 22nd May 2024 CARERS WALK POTTERIC CARR,
Unfortunately, the wet weather made many carers hesitant about coming on the day out to Potteric Carr, a large wetland nature reserve managed by Yorkshire Wildlife Trust about 2 miles outside of Doncaster city centre. This wetland was once part of the Humberhead Levels a huge flat plain covering some 2000 square kilometers spread across Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire which drained 20% of England’s landmass into the Humber Estuary. In 1968 Low Ellers nature Reserve was founded, this was the forerunner of Potteric Carr, which in the last 50 years has grown into the 200 hectare reserve we have today.
About half a dozen Carers chose to stay dry and have a coffee in the reserve café, however two brave souls, Ian and Pauline, joined Steve, Angela, Neil and Ian of Doncaster Ramblers on a 4.5 mile walk around the perimeter of the reserve. The underfoot conditions were good as we stuck to the to the hard-standing footpaths. A lot of the wildlife was sheltering from the rain but we did see swans, swallows or swifts (I can never tell the difference) and an egret. Management of the vegetation on the reserve is assisted by ponies, Highland cattle and ancient breeds of sheep, all of which can withstand the potentially harsh weather conditions and all of which we saw. We also saw a large field of spectacular buttercups and areas of yellow water iris which had just come into flower on the wetland margins. We took shelter in one of the reserve hides about halfway through the walk for a rest, brew and a bite to eat before continuing and finding our way back to the start point at the Visitors Centre. Potteric Carr is a great place to visit and walk even in wet weather and Yorkshire Wildlife Trust well worth supporting. Thanks to all who came on the walk especially to Ian, Angela and Neil of Doncaster Ramblers for their help. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Tuesday 21st May 2024 Farndale and Rudland Rigg.

Ten of us braved the 2-hour journey to meet at the car park at Low Mill in Farndale in the North Yorkshire Moors. Some were probably wondering why, as it was raining, but not to heavy. After a quick briefing by Gareth our walk leader we followed the road out of the village for a short distance then it was on footpaths up a steep hill to Petergate where great views of Farndale greeted us even though the cloud was obscuring the hill tops in places. It was then across open moorland covered with Heather and Bilberry before dropping down to Harland Beck for our coffee stop. Fortunately by this time, though still some low cloud, the rain had stopped, and the energy exerted coats and fleeces were stored in rucksacks. A short bit of road walking brought us to the stone track of Westside Road which follows Rudland Rig along the top of the moor. After what seemed like a never-ending uphill slog, just long not steep, we reached the trig point at 375m, it seemed a lot higher! By this time the wind had got up and coats were taken from rucksacks to give some protection before continuing along Westside Road for some distance before turning east on another stone track which eventually took us down a steep incline into Farndale itself. By know the cloud had lifted and the sun came out giving us some stunning views of Farndale until we finally arrived at our lunch stop in Church Houses. After lunch the sun stayed out and a short road walk brought us to High Mill after which we followed the footpath by the River Dove back to our start point. The walk from Church Houses to Low Mill is really stunning and is well known for the daffodils which flower in profusion during the spring. Was the walk worth a 2 hour drive, definitely, but not the sort of distance you would want to travel every week. Thanks to Gareth for leading this walk and to everybody else who came along and made it an enjoyable day. Stephen J Tomlinson

Thursday 16th May 2024 Beckingham

19 of us attended outside the All Saints Church in the pleasant North Notts village of Beckingham. When this walk had been planned by Rob and I we had agreed that it was too muddy and wet for a winter walk so we decided mid May was a good bet...how wrong we were...

However we set off through and then around the village heading south in the direction of Saundby. We then branched off westward on public footpaths fields and tracks. In a small wood we had to divert slightly because of flooding but managed to negotiate the brambles without mishap. We then carried on to Dogholes wood by which time we were enduring persistent light rain and muddy fields. We next reached Clayworth Woodhouse which is little more than a large farmhouse and then turned eastward for a coffee break at the edge of Beckingham wood. Thankfully the rain now stopped and everyone marched on with renewed vigour. There was some easy road walking back to the delightfully named South Sandy Furze Farm but we had one last muddy field to cross before reaching the dual carriageway which took us back to the Church. Despite the muddy conditions everyone kept their usual good humour and banter.As always the ramble was expertly guided  by Rob.

Nigel

Tuesday 14th May 2024 Sir William Hill from Eyam.

Fifteen gathered (including Barry from Chesterfield Ramblers) in the Hawkhill Road car park in Eyam on a day that was forecast for heavy rain all day. Fortunately, the rain stopped by lunchtime.
Eyam is one of the largest villages in the White Peak and is best known for its connection to the bubonic plague which arrived in the village in late August 1665 in a parcel of cloth sent to the village tailor. The villagers decided to isolate themselves from surrounding communities so saving the lives of thousands in the surrounding area. Over the 14 months of the plague 260 Eyam villagers died out of a total population of 800.

Our walk through the village passed the victims cottages and the churchyard where many of them are buried. On leaving the village we passed the boundary stone where villagers left money in coin slots in exchange for food brought up the hill from Stoney Middleton.

We descended the hill into Stoney Middleton and continued downhill across fields to the banks of the river Derwent. Following the river up steam our walk passed through stretches of indigenous woodland alternating with riverside pasture. Elevenses were taken on boulders next to a tributary of the Derwent.

Near Grindleford we were joined by a young lady from Boston USA who left us at Leadmill Bridge. Our route then followed the secluded valley formed by Highlow Brook giving splendid views overlooking Hathersage and the Edges beyond.

Leaving the brook our walk saw us undertaking a stiff climb up Eyam Moor, stopping several times to admire the view towards Mam Tor before reaching Sir William Hill. There followed a gentle descent which offered views across the White Peak before a steep descent back down to Eyam.

Thanks go all the walkers for being so cheerful and to Neil, Derek and Phil for taking it in turns to back mark.

Angela M Gibson

 Saturday 11th May 2024 – South Cave and Elloughton

12 of us met in a layby just north of South Cave on the busy and noisy Market Weighton road. It was a relief when we started walking, to be soon on a quiet lane steadily climbing Little Wold, where we joined the Yorkshire Wolds Way. We then set the pattern for the morning by walking down from Little Wold and up the aptly named lane Steep Hill to Great Wold where we had coffee while enjoying views over South Cave and back to Little Wold. After another up and down, we descended to the pretty church of All Saints on the edge of Brantingham. We climbed up South Wold and left the Yorkshire Wolds Way to enter some strips of woodland, that we followed down into Elloughton, where we had lunch. After drinks outside The Half Moon pub (in the sunshine that blessed the whole day) we set off past St. Mary's Church on a mainly flat route, mainly across fields thought Ellerker back to South Cave. We passed Cave Castle Hotel and one of its grand entrances and walked through its golf course. A path beside South Cave Cemetery took us back to our cars. Thanks to Nigel for back marking.

Footpath maintenance update May 2024

On Wednesday 8th May Doncaster Ramblers completed another session of footpath maintenance. Seven members attended and work was carried out at three footpath locations, see below.
• Tickhill 2 where a marker post was fitted.
• Tickhill 7 where two marker posts were fitted.
• Rossington 8 where a horses stile was fitted to replace an existing one that was not to standard. During the fitting of this stile many passing residents looked amused and pleased that it was being fitted but the best was when 2 horse riders came down the path and used it for the first time. The downside was when two lady dog walkers said it was wrong to allow horses down the footpath, however the council representative supervising the works soon made them see a different view. It appears you can’t please everyone!
A total of 14 work hours was provided by our volunteers to complete the work.
Stuart Twell.
The next maintenance session is Wednesday 5 June 2024 and if you would like to volunteer contact Stuart Twell, mobile 07970 541335 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Stuart is always looking for extra pairs of hands.

Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity . Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings.

Thursday 9th May 2024 Brodsworth Community Woodland.
A very warm morning awaited the group of 27 walkers. The leader gave the usual briefing including the need to keep hydrated on such a warm morning. We set off soon after 10am. The walk initially set off in a westerly direction taking a woodland path over a bridge with a small pond on each side. A short gradient then took us out of the woodland area. We used a footbridge over the busy A1 road then left for a short distance before turning right into Pickburn Lane. A footpath was utilised leading north from Pickburn Lane which we followed for quite some distance. We crossed a lane and carried on northwards. We were required to pause to allow a couple of horses to clear the path in front of us. Before long we were at our mid morning break spot around 11am. Suitably refreshed we departed along a tree lined pathway, the trees providing some shade from the increasing warmth of the sun. A short walk along a narrow woodland path led us to a series of broad tracks, tree lined in some places, with an aroma of garlic filling the air. Another broad track with views of a wind turbine was used to return us to a point in the walk where we joined our outward route. We returned along Pickburn Lane and the footbridge over the A1. A more direct route was used through the Community Woodland to return us to the car park. David Horne

Non-members welcome, just turn up and you will be well looked after
Doncaster Ramblers supports Doncaster City Council “Get Doncaster Moving” campaign Follow them on Twitter/X: @DoncasterMoving, Facebook: @getdoncastermoving -or use #GetDoncasterWalking

Tuesday 7 May 2024 Studley Royal and Ripon

What a lovely walk this was. We were in a splendid part of North Yorkshire and the weather was summery for the first time this year. Everywhere was green and lush but the paths underfoot were dry for a change. Studley Royal was at its best and Ripon was looking good. Twenty of us including Samantha from Harrogate Ramblers met in the free car park adjacent to the Fountains Abbey Visitors Centre. After the briefing we set off on a path alongside the centre that took us firstly past an obelisk and then almost immediately past St Mary's Church. The 80 metre high obelisk was built as an 'eyecatcher' at the end of a formal avenue of trees. But when the church was built in the mid 1800's it completely obscured the view ! St Mary's was apparently built as a memorial to one Frederick Grantham Vyner who was killed in Greece when Greek soldiers tried to rescue a group of tourists who had been captured by Greek bandits. From the church it was down through the deer park ( with its many deer in on show ) for our coffee break . Then through some shady woodland and alongside the river ( where someone had inconveniently erected a fence that had to be circumvented ) into Ripon . Lunch was taken in the large sunny square to the accompaniment of a busking trumpeter who serenaded us in the style of Eddie Calvert. We spent an hour or so in Ripon with some frequenting the local Wetherspoons whilst others just rested or browsed the shops. Then our guest Samantha took over as leader for a while to use her local knowledge to take us to the Spa Gardens where believe it not we saw a knitted tank. A full size Churchill AVRE no less. All part of the local commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of D Day that included knitted soldiers in sentry boxes and paratroopers etc. On leaving Ripon we retraced some of our steps along the river before entering the Valley of The Seven Bridges that winds and climbs steadily back up towards the Visitors Centre. This section is a lovely walk in its own right with small stone bridges crossing a stream at various points before reaching a large lake at the top. There are even a set of well placed public toilets about half way home. Thanks to Gareth for arranging the walk. Samantha for her company and local knowledge. Steve for the photos and Bob for back marking . I recommend anyone looking for good day out to pay a visit to Studley Royal and Ripon. Charley Pratt

Saturday 4th May 2024 Along the Edges
Nine ramblers (three from other groups) and one dog met at the Haywood National Trust car park. Fortunately, the rain which had accompanied us on the drive there stopped and the rest of the day was dry and mild with a gentle wind. Throughout the day we experienced a variety of scenery.
Before coffee, at the Wellington Monument, we walked along Froggatt, Curbar and Baslow Edges where a larger number of cattle than expected were grazing. Good visibility gave views across Curbar towards Chatsworth, with the Emperor Fountain visible in the distance.
Descending down to Curbar for lunch we passed two Pinfolds. In the past stray sheep and cattle were rounded up by the Pinder and kept in the Pinfold, a purpose built enclosure for stray animals. The owner collected them but had to pay a fine.
After lunch we followed the River Derwent upstream to Froggatt Bridge passing through woodland made colourful by wild garlic, bluebells and forget me nots. A steep climb took us back up to top of Froggatt Edge.
Angela M Gibson

P.O.I.
Cavendish bananas were named after William Cavendish, 6th Duke of Devonshire. Though they were not the first known banana specimens in Europe, in around 1834 Cavendish received a shipment of bananas (from Mauritius) courtesy of the chaplain of Alton Towers (then the seat of the Earls of Shrewsbury). His head gardener and friend, Sir Joseph Paxton, cultivated them in the greenhouses of Chatsworth House. The plants were botanically described by Paxton as Musa cavendishii, after the Duke. For his work, Paxton won a medal at the 1835 Royal Horticultural Society show.

Thursday, 2nd May '24 - Hospital Visit!

With permission from the hospital authorities 31 of us met in the overflow car park at St Catherine's hospital, Balby, Doncaster. After the briefing we walked through the Woodfield estate to the trackbed of the Dearne Valley Railway. The DVR was completed by 1908-09 and linked the main line of the Hull and Barnsley railway in the north to the Great Northern and Great North Eastern Railways just south of Doncaster . Built primarily to transport coal from the many developing collieries in the area the line also served passengers between Wakefield and Edlington, although this service ceased in 1951. The line was only 22 miles in length, and that includes the brach line to the collieries. The raised path makes a delightful walk, which we followed for about two km before reaching the link road to junction 3 of the M18. Here we turned due south, with the road above us, before turning west to walk briefly alongside the M18. We crossed the motorway and walked towards Annabel's cafe - closed on Thursdays. We stopped for refreshments on some convenient rocks before continuing the walk along Rake's Lane to Low Farm, on the outskirts of Loversall. We passed Loversall Hall, which was built for the Fenton family of Leeds between 1808 and 1816. We walked into the village itself, using a very short right of way in a field containing two elegant alpacas, to approach the church of St Katherine. It appears to have been built before 1207 by the Fossard family, who owned the manor of Hexthorpe under Count Robert de Mortain (half brother to William the Conqueror). The parish registers begin only in the nineteenth century because on a bitterly cold night in February 1844 thieves broke into the church. They broke open the parish chest, probably in the hope of stealing the communion plate. Finding no valuable contents they made a fire to warm themselves, using the parish registers. In the shallow valley below Loversall runs St Catherine's Well Stream, with the well situated half a mile upstream. According to the historian, Miller, 'this well was once a place of “considerable resort” for the benefit of cold bathing, It was in his time a most delightful meadow where a circular stone bath was built, and the bath was supplied with water in a few minutes..... an elderly woman from Loversal attended every day during the summer season as an assistant to the bathers who were accommodated with dresses gratis and frequently breakfasted in that charming retreat. Needless to say, the old custom has disappeared. The well remains but there are no bathers. The railway (thev DVR) runs close to this still charming spot, which is a frequent haunt of lovers and curious folk.' Following that charming story we crosed the M18 once more and followed Hall Balk Lane for a short distance before taking a footpath towards the superstore and hospital once again. Grateful thanks for Lee for back-marking with his usual quiet efficency. We completed the 6-mile walk at 12.45. David Gadd

WEDNESDAY 1st MAY 2024 CARERS WALK RUFFORD ABBEY,

The second carers walk of 2024 was at Rufford Abbey which is owned and operated by Nottinghamshire County Council (NCC) in conjunction with English Heritage. The former Cistercian monastery was converted into a country house and estate in the 16th century following the dissolution of the monasteries by Henry V111 and passed into the hands of NCC in 1952.
Nine carers and four members of Doncaster Ramblers Jackie, Catherine, Wendy and Steve) met in the car park for our 4 mile walk on a dry and warm mid spring day. A short walk brought us to the stable block adjacent to the remains of the Abbey where a quick comfort break was taken. It was then off through orangery until we reached Rufford Lake, fed by Rainworth Water, which led us to Rufford Mill, more about the mill later. Following the footpath near Rainforth Water we reached the busy A614 where we carefully walked on the footpath for a short distance to the outskirts of Ollerton. A short walk through a 1960’s housing estate brought us to a little used lane which we followed for some distance to the lovely gate house of Rufford Hills Farm where we encountered a lady walking a pack of Wheaton Terriers. A short walk through the well kept drive to the farmhouse brought us to our refreshment stop and a much needed water break as the sun had come out, a pleasant change from the last few months. A walk through a field of horses at the rear of the farmhouse and the careful negotiation of 3 stiles brought us back to Rufford Mill and Rufford Ford. Rufford Mill was a saw mill and is currently used by NCC as a wedding venue. Rufford Ford where the road crosses Rainworth Water was a well known feature where generations of children used to love getting splashed by the passing vehicles. One of our walkers recalled bringing her children to do this many times. Unfortunately, due to a minority misusing this ford NCC have closed the road to vehicles so this childhood delight has gone for good. It was then a short walk through the parkland, past one of the five icehouses constructed on the estate in the 1820’s, only two remain, back to our start point at the car park. Thanks to all who came on this walk and special thanks to Jackie, Catherine and Wendy for their help. StephenJj Tomlinson.

Tuesday 30th Apr 2024 Penistone Circular.

What a delight to have a warm day, blue skies and loads of sunshine to boost the Vitamin D levels depleted by the long wet winter and early spring and as a added bonus it made the views from the hills surrounding Penistone fantastic. Compared to many walks this winter and spring the ground was reasonably dry apart from the occasional short boggy sections, another welcome bonus.
Twenty two members met at the TPT (Trans Pennine Trail) car park and after a short briefing by the walk leader we were off westwards on the TPT for a mile or so then it was the first climb of the day to Hartcliff Hill for coffee with views of Langsett and Midhope Reservoirs. The lovely weather and the uphill walking meant that outer layers of clothing were soon discarded and those wearing shorts had a smile on their faces. After coffee it was downhill onto the Barnsley Boundary Walk which follows an abandoned railway line in the valley of the Little Don River. A mile or so of easy walking brought us to our second, steep, climb of the day followed by a nice long flat section on the hill top with views of Emley Moor mast in the distance. Skirting the south side of Penistone we stopped for a quick lunch near Cubley Hall, a pub stop was promised late in the walk. Refreshed it was downhill to the TPT, which we passed under, then a short road section brought us to the third steep climb of the day, after crossing the River Don over the Boulder Bridge, to High Leigh Farm where the cows were in the fields and their winter sheds were being cleaned, a proper countryside smell! Crossing the A629 carefully it was through fields to the A628 Woodhead Road which was crossed even more carefully, this brought us to our pub stop at the Rose and Crown in Hoylandswaine which had opened early for us and made us most welcome. Refreshed and rehydrated it was a short uphill walk to the top of Hunger Hill where we were greeted with great views of Penistone and the surrounding hills. It was then downhill to Penistone, crossing the River Don again, and back to the start point, completing the 10.5 mile walk just before 1600 hours. Thanks to all who came, especially to Angela for back marking, and to the Rose and Crown. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Saturday 27th April 2024 - Ashford in the Water, Monsal Head and Sheldon

Only 3 of us made the journey to Ashford in the Water on a chilly morning. We were soon warmed by the walk uphill towards Monsal Head where we had a slightly early elevenses and enjoyed the views over the famous viaduct. We crossed the viaduct and walked up the other side of the valley to enjoy more views of the valley, including the large weir. We dropped down briefly to the valley floor before beginning to walk up Deep Dale, which was dotted with cowslips. A steep climb out of Deep Dale took us to Sheldon for lunch. The fire in the Cock and Pullet pub was surprisingly seductive for late April, but we tore ourselves away to head back to the Wye Valley. The way down was steep, but the Great Shacklow Steps provided by the Derbyshire Dales Ramblers Group were still in good shape after more than 20 years. The walk back down the River Wye to Ashford was a gentle finish to a strenuous walk. Brian U

Thursday, 24th April 2024 - Langold Circuit

At our usual start time of 10.00 fourteen of us were ready to start this morning's walk of 5.5 miles on a chilly day. We started with a brief history of Langold Country Park, who's history goes back over 200 years. It was originally designed in the 1750s for Langold Hall, which was never built. In the 1920scoal mining developed and in 1927 the Firbeck Colliery Company bought the park as a leisure facility for the Langold miners, principally for fishing. In 1946 the coal industry was nationalised and the NCB expanded the leisure facilities in the park. A children’s swimming pool and a bandstand were added. The first Langold Gala was held in 1929 with accounts claiming that 10,000 visited the Park. The Park came particularly well known and popular for its swimming. The British Long Distance Swimming Association Championship were traditionally held at the Lake. There were children's events in the bathing pool and demonstrations by the country’s top swimmers, also synchronised life-saving displays and comedy items by Swimming Club members. Spectacular stunts included explosions. Other stunts included a submarine explosion, a trapeze artist, ‘The Great Alganso’ a tight rope walker, as well as Jack Revel, known as Mr Langold Lake who was renowned for his dare devil dive from the 35’ diving board into a patch of burning petrol, performed until 1978. The lido removed in 2013 and new play facilities added in 2014.

We left the park and walked through Dyscarr Wood, notable at the moment for the masses of wild garlic. Some open countryside walking led us to a short section of the Ivy Lodge Plantation before crossing the B6463 - Lamb Lane - and taking the gentle descent of Salt Hill. This track was adjacent to Firbeck Hall, which has a fascinating history. Built in 1594 by William West, a lawyer of Moorgate Hall, Rotherham, it passed through many hands before an attempt to sell it in 1909 failed and it was rented out. During WW1 it was a base for Belgian refugges. In 1924, when it was being rented by Mr Albert Orlando Peech (chairman of Steel, Peech and Tozer) a serious fire broke out and the building became a ruin. In 1935 an auction was planned but Mr Cyril Nicholson, a Sheffield stockbroker, bought the 1500 acre estate. 

Firbeck Hall will forever be remembered for the celebrated period between 1935 and 1939. Although Cyril Nicholson had bought the estate he had secretly been making plans with two business associates.  The hall retained its outward appearance but its old interiors were, by modern standards, inexplicably destroyed. The old panelled walls gave way to brightly covered walls and the interior rooms were covered almost entirely with mirrors. The three men created the Firbeck Hall Club, with mirrors running the whole length of the dining room, a state-of-the-art lighting system, furniture deigned by a fashionable Finish architect. The inside was a triumph, winning acclaim from specialist journals including Architecture Illustrated. “Where once there were darkly-panelled rooms there are now dance halls with maple floors, cocktail bars with stainless steel furniture, dining rooms upholstered with its latest Zebra pattern coverings, grill rooms and billiard rooms.” In the grounds 100’ outdoor heated swimming pool, tennis courts, an 18-hole golf course and championship standard squash courts. Most significant was the new aerodrome, where the rich and famous flew in, including the Prince of Wales and Amy Johnson. Vogue magazine published an entire supplement, featuring ‘beautiful 1930s-clad women posing through the club’s vast grounds. Older readers might remember band leaders Henry Hall and Carroll Gibbons, who performed at Firbeck when the BBC transmitted its weekly Saturday show “Late Night Dance Music”. 

And then the war. Firbeck Hall was taken over by the Sheffield Joint Hospitals Board and the dwindling country club shunted into the nearby Lake House. It became an annexe of the Sheffield Royal Infirmary  for the duration while the aerodrome was converted into RAF Firbeck, comprising four squadrons from 1940 to 1944. The dream had died and in 1943 Cyril Nicholson put Firbeck Hall up for sale. There were no takers for the estate and it would take until 1945 for the Miners’ Welfare Commission to acquire it as a rehabilitation centre. In 1984 it transferred to the Trent Regional Health Authority as a convalescence home for industrial injuries but this eventually closed in 1990. One of our walkers, Rhona, told us that she had worked there in the late '80s. 27-years-later, Firbeck Hall remained derelict, eerily lost and in the most precarious condition. It was bought by successive owners in 1996 and 2010 before being bought by Ashley Wildsmith in 2014. A residential development was then built, with exclusive apartments in the Hall and detached houses around it.

We stopped for our break opposite the church and beside a recently erected village sign, showing a representation of a race course which existed nearby where the first St Leger horse race was held, prior to it moving to its current site in Doncaster. The other side of the sign shows a representation of RAF Firbeck, which took over the airfield during the war. After our break we left the village to be met with a huge ploughed field with an un-reinstated right of way. This was not a welcome site but we all stumbled across it to reach Lamb Lane again. A short section took us to the outskirts of Letwell, from where we continued broadly southwards until we reached the stream which feeds the Langold lakes, when we turned broadly eastwards to walk along the base of the original colliery tip and back to the Lake, where we were sadened to see many, many dead fish before we reached the car park at just after 12.30. Thanks to Dave and Dougie for back-marking. 

Tuesday 23rd Apr 2024 Edges and Monuments.

Twenty-four members, including John a new member from Sheffield and Geoff from South Staffs Ramblers, met at the National Trust car park adjacent to the Robin Hood pub near Baslow on a dry but cool morning which was made chilly by the stiff north wind. Fortunately, apart from the odd spot of rain it stayed dry all day, it made a pleasant change not to have to wear full waterproofs which seems to have been a regular occurrence since autumn 2023. After the usual briefing, a short walk along the A619 brought us to our first footpath which following the base of Gardom’s Edge led us to Sheffield Road which was crossed carefully. It was then a steep climb through ancient woodland to our coffee break at the Waterloo Monument, the break was relatively short as walkers were feeling the bite of the north wind. Crossing the moor behind Baslow Edge past Eagle Stone we followed Curbar and Froggatt Edges for some distance until we reached the A625 and entered the National Trust Earnshaw Estate. It was then a short walk to our planned lunch at the Grouse Inn which due to poor planning by the walk leader was closed for a couple of days for cellar refurbishment, so it was coffee and water rather than a pint! Sober it was uphill again onto White Edge, where we heard Curlews but the usual sighting of deer did not happen, which was followed for some distance back to Sheffield Road which again was crossed with care. It was then onto the wettest section of the walk, proof if it was needed of the wet weather over the last few months, across the moor to Birchen Edge. The footpath took us below the edge, with the Nelson Monument above us, back to our start point at the National Trust car park. Eleven miles were walked, six Gritstone edges visited and two monuments seen. Thanks to all who came on this walk and especially to Angela for acting as back marker throughout the walk. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Saturday 20th Apr 2024 Hoping to see a tropical sea

Five of us, one of whom was walking with us for the first time, gathered outside the Tourist Information Centre in Castleton. Despite the earlier start car parking proved difficult as the walk clashed with a long distance running race.
As we entered Cave Dale we passed through the seaward edge of a former coral reef formed when Britain occupied a position nearer the equator. Following the recent wet weather water was flowing down as soon as we entered the dale.
Elevenses were taken at the Mam Nik picnic site. Exiting via the top of the picnic site meant that we were already a third of the way up Mam Tor, making our climb to the triangulation pillar a little easier. Here we stopped to admire the location of the former tropical sea, now occupied by the villages of Castleton and Hope.
Our walk along the ridge, which separates the Dark Peak to the north and the White Peak to the south, gave us spectacular views over both the Edale and Hope valleys. It also gave us a view of the face of Mam Tor (the largest landslide in the UK) and the former road to Manchester whose repair has been abandoned due to the land beneath slowly moving downslope.
Walking along the ridge we passed Hollins Cross before climbing Back Tor and then Lose Hill, where lunch was taken. We then descended down the grassy but muddy slopes of Lose Hill. In order to avoid the muddy and wet conditions next to the Peakshole stream near Hope our return to Castleton was by paths to the north of the Youth Hostel.
We were blessed with light winds, sunny weather, spectacular scenery and good company.
AMG

Wednesday 17th Apr 2024 Carers walk Nostell Priory

The first carers walk of 2024 was at the National Trust property of Nostell Priory, formerly the home of the Winn family. Five carers and five members of Doncaster Ramblers (Tony, Angela, Jackie, Catherine and Steve) met in the car park for our 4 mile walk on a sunny, all be it with a cold wind, early spring day. A short walk brought us to the stable block adjacent to the “big house” where a quick comfort break was taken. It was then off through the estate parkland passing the lakes and admiring the display of Bluebells in the woodland until we reached the Obelisk Gate at the park boundary. We then followed the edge of the grass parkland, admiring the Kestrel and the Buzzard, before passing through a muddy gate and onto the tarmac track to Foulby passing the Yorkshire Air Ambulance HQ. A short distance along the A638 brought us to a house with a blue pack to John Harrison who made remarkable time pieces in the 1720’s to 1750’s which were needed to predict the longitude position at sea. John Harrison was born in Wragby. Crossing the A638, carefully, we stopped for a quick coffee break then it was along the footpath and cycle track to Crofton Village, by this time the sky was getting a bit blacker and a little hail started to fall from the sky, fortunately this did not persist and it was generally dry for the rest of the walk. From Crofton we turned east and followed the footpath past the site of the reclaimed Crofton Colliery then followed the wooded footpath, again with displays of Bluebells, to the A638 which once again was crossed with care. Entering the grounds of Nostell Priory, through the wrought iron gates, we passed Wragby parish church of St, Micheal and our Lady which lies within the Nostell Estate and made our way back to the Stable Block café. Thanks to Tony, Angela, Jacke and Catherine for helping out on this walk and to the five carers for walking with us. Stephen J Tomlinson

Tuesday 16 April 2024 Epworth and Owston Ferry Loop

31 walkers met in the car park adjacent to St Mary's church in the centre of Epworth. The awful weather on the previous day had fortunately given way to a dry and bright ( but very windy ) morning. Just as well really because the walk was mostly across wide open flat countryside where there is not much protection from the elements. After the briefing we were straight out of the car park and along behind the church and into those open fields. We headed east out of Epworth on good paths and tracks before cutting south on Narrow Lane and Paddock Lane towards our coffee stop. For our coffee stop we found some shelter from the wind on the edge of a small wood. Then we went more directly south on Blackdykes Road to enter Owston Ferry itself. So far so good . No mud and no sign of rain . Just that stiff breeze ! Our lunch stop in Owston Ferry found us at the splendid Crooked Billet where the equally splendid hosts Rachel and Jonathan had opened up specially for us. What a great pub and what a great couple. Their friendly hospitality was wonderful and their enthusiasm for the heritage of the pub and the village did them proud. Pay them a visit if you are in the area. https://www.facebook.com/the.crooked.billet.owston.ferry When the time came to leave The Crooked Billet we made our way up through the main street and then out of the village via Burnham Road . This starts as a tarmac road but soon turns into a farm track as it heads west towards Low Burnham. It also climbs deceptively but steadily uphill until it reaches High Burnham ( the clue is in the name ). At High Burnham we turned north to return to Epworth. The route from here was again across open fields and farmland. But again there was no mud. After so many muddy walks in recent weeks this (and the welcome at The Crooked Billet) was the highlight of the day. We arrived back at Epworth just across the road from The Old Rectory ( home of Epworth's famous son John Wesley one of the founders of Methodist Movement ) And then back to the cars. Thanks to Neil for back-marking and to Steve for the photos. 10.5miles 4hrs 20min Charlie Pratt Pratt

Tuesday 9th Apr 2024 Return of the Neanderthals
Twenty Homo Sapiens with one Copus lupus familaris (a dog) met on a breezy and cloudy morning at the Dukeries Garden Centre at the Welbeck Estate on a cool and breezy early spring morning. The thoughts in most walker’s mind was how wet the weather was going to get? A short walk brought us to Creswell Crags a site of cave habitation by Neanderthals some 40000 years ago when this area was on the edge of the glaciation. We were advised by Alisdair, one of our two walk leaders, that the DNA of Homo Sapiens is 1 to 4% Neanderthal hence the title of the walk. Not sure what he was trying to say about Doncaster Ramblers membership! After walking round the crags, caves and lake it was time for coffee, not sure what we Neanderthals should have been drinking, and to shoot a passing sandwich with an arrow to provide sustenance, though Kerensa cake was a far easier and more enjoyable way of getting food. Refreshed we continued the walk around the perimeter of the massive Whitwell Quarry which produces Magnesium Limestone for the glass and steel industries. Leaving the quarry behind us we crossed the railway line and into the village of Hodthorpe where a short stop was required to don waterproofs as heavy rain had started to fall. Crossing the A60, carefully, we followed Broad Lane to South Lodge of the Welbeck Estate where we joined the Robin Hood Way through the estate grounds. Crossing Gouldsmeadow and Shrubbery Lakes we reached the muddiest part of the walk but fortunately the rain had eased off by this stage and we were nearly back at out start point. Thanks to Neil and Alisdair for leading and back marking this walk and for the local history. Fred and Wilma Flintstone, and Barney and Betty Rubble did not join us on this walk, maybe they did not wish to risk cross breeding with us Neanderthals! Neil advised us the Neanderthals died out because they cross breed with the more successful Homo Sapiens. Might have been better if we had a few more Neanderthal genes! Stephen J Tomlinson.

Saturday 6th April 2024 In the Footsteps of Romans

Ten ramblers met at Cusworth Hall on the warmest day this year. It was a sunny, dry but windy day. This was a leisurely ramble through Cusworth Country Park before following the Roman Ridge to Highfields Country Park where our lunch stop was at a nearby pub. The woods near Highfields were covered with Celandine, Woodland Anemone and the first Bluebells.
Returning we passed the remains of the Motte and Bailey at Castle Hills before joining the newly refurbished Trans Pennine Trail back to Cusworth. Angela A G
P.O.I.
A motte-and-bailey castle is a fortification with a wooden or stone keep situated on a raised earthwork called a motte, accompanied by an enclosed courtyard, or bailey, surrounded by a protective ditch and palisade. Relatively easy to build with unskilled, often forced, labour, but still militarily formidable, these castles were built across northern Europe from the 10th century onwards. The Normans introduced the design into England and Wales following their invasion in 1066. By the end of the 13th century, the design was largely superseded by alternative forms of fortification.

Thursday 4th April 2024 Around the northern part of Rossington

Twelve brave walkers set off from Rossington Park and Ride at 10am.
We crossed the Great North Rd and proceeded along Hayfield Lane to the grounds of the Hayfield and followed the footpath through the dog obedience classes.
We followed the foot paths through the lakes to Warning Tongue Lane then onto Hatchel Woods, where the bluebells are starting to peep through. We stopped for a coffee by the pond.
We went back over the main road to Manor Farm Wood then on through the Warren Point Estate towards Rossington..
Here we went in the local woods were the wood anemones and primroses were flowering and the bluebells were a bit further out. Braving the mud we looked at a few of the carvings then crossed the playing field and onto the footpath over the field opposite.
The hedge along here has been severely cut back and the footpath became very boggy so we cut through the footpath from the Warren to Holly Grove then onto the Brick Pond which looked very attractive and had quite a few anglers fishing.
We returned to the P& R having covered 5.7 miles in time for lunch  Thanks to Tony F for back marking and Kathryn K for leading, report writing and photography 

Tuesday 2 April 2024 - Grasping Nettleton

The sun was shining on the Ramblers car park on the edge of Nettleton as 22 of us gathered for today's walk. Walking back into the village, we joined the Viking Way and headed uphill alongside Nettleton Beck, widely regarded as the prettiest part of the Viking Way. After a while we dropped down through some trees and past an area of old ironstone workings, before heading uphill again, where we encountered the only serious stretch of mud on the day's walk.  Our morning break was taken  at the top of the climb and close to Wolds Top,  the highest point in Lincolnshire (551ft since you ask). A good level track took us eastwards with excellent views all around until we descended to the pretty village of Rothwell. Lunch was taken in the sunshine in the beer garden of the Blacksmith's Arms (by kind permission) and it was with some reluctance that we resumed our walk, once again uphill. Having reached the high point, we turned west and enjoyed a good level track until we could see Nettleton again. From here it was downhill to the village and then uphill to our cars. In total we climbed 760 ft (who said Linconshire was flat?). Thanks to Jeremy the backmarker and Steve the photographer. PG 

 Saturday 30 March 2024 - Hartington

9 walkers set off from Hartington . After rain and hail the previous day the weather gods were very good to us as we had sun all day. After encountering lots of water and mud underfoot we stopped for a coffee break and shared chocolates courtesy of Angela in Waslow. We then set off for the strenuous climb up Ecton ,which was mined for copper, to take in the fabulous views before going downhill then back up through the valley of Wetton. After the hard climb we were rewarded with our lunch break and a pub stop in the village of Wetton. After lunch we headed over to Alstonefield, walked along the side of the river Dove then made our way back to Hartington trying to dodge more  water and very slippery mud. Everyone arrived back in time before to farm shop closed and treat ourselves to a well earned ice cream.  CW

Tuesday 26 March 2024 A Wander on the Chatsworth Estate

Our 'winter' Tuesday programme ended with this lovely walk in and around the Chatsworth Estate. 32 Doncaster regulars were joined by 5 guests from Staines Ramblers who were staying at nearby Tideswell. After the customary briefing from Steve we set off uphill from the top of the car park by the old stable block. We were soon at our first point of interest. The Hunting Tower is an impressive sight. It dates back to 1582 and has had various uses over the years. It is even rumoured that a prince once used it for trysts. It is now available to rent as holiday accommodation for your own trysts. But beware. It would set you back about £2000 for a minimum 3 night stay. We moved on and were soon at the site of the reservoir for the Emperor Fountain. ( We saw the fountain itself later on from the other side of the river as we returned towards the house ). In 1843 the then Duke of Devonshire was told that Tsar Nicholas 1 of Russia intended to visit Chatsworth the following year. He set about constructing 'the worlds tallest fountain '. It once reached a height of 296ft ( 90 meters ). Unfortunately the Tsar did not visit and died in 1855 never having seen the fountain. I think there is a lesson here about not going to a lot of bother if you are expecting people for a visit. Elevenses were taken at an opening in the woods where fallen logs and large flat stones provided good seating.
From there we pressed on across The Rabbit Warren area and down through the aptly named Hell Bank Plantation and Rowsley Wood before arriving at Rowsley itself for our lunch stop. Sandwiches and liquid refreshment in a pleasant and sunny(ish ) beer garden . What could be better. Leaving Rowsley we turned back towards Chatsworth House and picked up the Derwent valley Heritage Way that runs between the River Derwent and and the hilly Lindop Wood . At Carlton Lees we swung left and then descended right to Edensor Village. The village was 'chocolate box' picturesque as always. All the while we had been hoping to see some deer. But oh dear there were no deer. Until that is we were back in our cars and leaving the estate when two separate large herds could be seen on the adjacent hillsides.
A splendid walk in interesting and beautiful countryside. And the good weather held out as well. Thanks to Steve for leading and the photos. Thanks to our Staines guests for coming along and to Neil for back-marking ( at least part of the way ). Charlie PrattP

Saturday 25th March 2024 A hop and a skip to Retford

24 of us (including about 6 or 7 who were new) and one dog met in a large layby just east of Retford during what proved to be an unusually long break between showers on a windy and chilly day. After introductions and warnings about rabbit holes, we set off along a track called Shady Lane, which took us to higher ground. We had some pretty views of Retford in patches of sunshine (when we weren't walking through flurries of rain showers). We passed through Little Gringley and emerging from some woodland, Dianne pointed out the site of Civil War Earthworks. We descended to the southern edge of Retford and having been told there would be no more mud before we got to the pub, tried to clean out boots by walking though any long grass or puddles that we came across. We arrived at The Gate Inn in sunshine and we ate our sandwiches and drank out beers at the many tables outside the pub (though the most accommodating landlord would even have let us eat inside). After lunch (still in sunshine) we followed the River Idle to the centre of Retford then picked up the Chesterfield Canal back to our cars. Thanks to Dianne for leading a lovely and interesting walk, George for back marking and Angela for the photos.

P.O.I.
It is possible that Bawtry acted as a sea port from Roman times, but little is known of this early period. However, it was associated with the sea by the 12th century, when the parish church was dedicated to St Nicholas, the patron saint of seafarers, and the Hundred Rolls of 1276 listed it as a port. There are records of lead being shipped during the early 1300s, and wool was shipped to Dordrecht from Nottinghamshire via Hull in 1337. The prosperous trading community there suffered a downturn in the early 16th century, but subsequently recovered, with lead being shipped directly to London in 1596. In the same year, a ford constructed across the Bycarrsdyke was described as "a great hindrance to navigation

Non-members welcome, just turn up. Doncaster Ramblers try to offer three walks a week. Two Tuesday and Saturday are of a longer distance and aimed at the enthusiast. Our Thursday walks are shorter and perfect for those beginning their walking journey, or those not quite ready to give up

Thursday 21st March 2024 - Sandall Beat

Twenty-two walkers set off from Sandall Beat on an overcast Thursday morning.  Unfortunately we had to park at the side of the racecourse due to police activity in the car park.  The police and even some mountain rescue teams were looking for a missing Doncater woman.  We proceeded over the footbridge to enter what was originally Armthorpe pit tip, which is now wooded and grassed with numerous footpaths.  We proceeded into Armthorpe and down Mere lane to eventually pick up field paths and then on to a children's play area which had seats, but we resisted the chance for a swing and continued our walk to Shaw Wood.  Eventually we came to a small pond which we were told was the pool where the Excalibur sword was thrown; surprisingly no one believed the story.  We then took a footpath which passed a travellers camp site. A nearby  path was strewn with rubbish, which will reported to the council.  On the final section of the walk we passed some beautiful horses, before entering  Sandall Beat again and then back to our cars.  Tony L

Tuesday 19th Mar 2024 - Derwent Edge

The number of walkers at Cut Throat Bridge car park was depleted by the cold bug which seems to be around at the moment. Fourteen, who avoided illness, assembled on a cool and cloudy morning, one of us was so sure of good weather the first outing of shorts in 2024 were on agenda to enhance Vitamin D levels. Much mocked the short wearer had the last laugh as the sun broke through and once we were sheltered from the wind by Ladybower and Derwent Reservoirs as the rest of us were rapidly shedding layers.
After a short briefing by our walk leader Dave Wigley is was uphill to Lead Hill where we were rewarded with spectacular views of Ladybower Reservoir and the surrounding hills of Whin Hill, Lose Hill, Mam Tor and Kinder Scout. Uphill again brought us to our coffee stop in the shelter of Wheel Stones on Derwent Edge. Refreshed we followed the edge to the trig point at Back Tor (538m) where an excavator was carrying repairs to footpaths and the peat moorland. A strange sight in such a remote place! A short walk took us to the viewpoint at Lost Lad which is named after a 13-year-old shepherd boy who died of hypothermia at this spot when searching for sheep in bad weather. It was then downhill to our lunch stop overlooking Derwent Dam and Reservoir, all we needed was a fly past by a Lancaster bomber! Again, refreshed it was a careful descent down a step and rocky path to Derwent Reservoir which we followed to the dam where we were fortunate to see the water overtopping the masonry wall. Following the east side of Ladybower Reservoir for a few miles, past the location of the drowned Derwent Village, we reached the A57 which we crossed carefully. A section of road walking brought us to the Ladybower Inn, no time to stop for a pint, it was the final uphill section of the day back onto moorland then downhill to our start point in the car park. Thanks to Dave for leading this 11.5 mile walk on what turned into a glorious late winter/early spring day which resulted in fantastic views from the hill tops. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Saturday 16 March - Where’s Robin?

Nine enthusiastic Ramblers met in glorious sunshine for this Loxley Valley walk. Helen, a Cambridgeshire rambler visiting Sheffield joined us for the walk. We started at the top of the valley on the North side above Loxley Common. We walked along the top of the valley towards High Bradfield. This afforded great views over the valley and of Agden Reservoir. We took photos at Castle Hill before heading to High Bradfield for a coffee stop on the benches outside the church. In the heat of the sun, layers were removed in preparation for the rest of the walk.
After the descent to Low Bradfield, we navigated the footpath on the south side of Damflask Reservoir and on to the excellent Nags Head for a lunch stop.
We followed the river Loxley after lunch before climbing through the woods of Loxley Common back to the cars. (No sign of Robin throughout the day! Wonder if he operated in these parts when Sherwood Forest stretched this far north and beyond?)
Phil Rawlins

 Thursday, 14th March '24 - Tickhill Stump Cross Lane

Twenty-four of us set off from the Buttercross in Tickhill, walking to the Mill Dam to find a quiet place for the briefing. Introductions were made and the back-marker appointed. A very brief history of the castle was given, it being built after the Norman invasion of 1066. The first castle was built with wood, but later versions used stone. It had a chequered history until 1648, when it was razed to the ground. We walk around Mill Dam to Lindrick. Lindrick, along with Dadesley, to the north of Tickhill, were Anglo-Saxon settlements before Tickhill was establihed. 

We crossed the Worksop Road and entered Friars Lane, adjacent to the old friary - now two houses. We branched off Friars Lane, passing junior football pitches and onto Crooked Lane Head and followed this track over the railway bridge, which once crossed the South Yorkshire Junction Railway. This line opened to passengers in 1910 but had been built mainly to carry minerals. The passenger service finally closed in 1929. After a bend to the right this track becomes Stump Cross Lane, which we followed to Blyth Gate Lane, which we crossed. After about 300 metres we entered land owned by the Sandbeck Estate. In  2010 a notice appeared stating the the route was not a public right of way. This was correct, but people had been using this track for hundreds of years. The name, Stump Cross Lane, indicates the likelihood that there was once a medieval cross on the route. Also, consider that the route follows the high ground in a direct line with Tickhill Friary. Bearing those facts in mind, and wondering why the Sandbeck Estate would want to deny access, I began the process of claiming the route as a public right of way. This involved getting over twenty witnesses to state that they had used the route, ‘without interruption’, over a twenty year period. One witness remembers using the route in the 1950s. This was done and the claim was made by Doncaster MBC. The Sandbeck Estate appealed, which led to a public inquiry, held in December 2012. The consequence of all this was that the inspector concluded that the Order, to create a public right of way, be confirmed.

Upon reaching Sandbeck Lane we turned right for about 800 metres until reaching a footpath on the left. We took this footpath down to the A631, crossing a plank bridge which took us out of Doncaster and into Rotherham. We crossed into Limekiln Lane where there is a memorial to an explosion at Maltby Colliery in 1923, which is where we had our refreshment break. Further along there is a big field on the right, with many many hollows in the surface, where lime would once have been dug out. Hence, Limekiln Lane. After about a kilometre along Limekiln Lane we took a footpath off to the right. This is a delightful path through light woodland, and across fields to the strangely named Denaby Wife Bridge. Then we had a gentle climb to Hindley Lane, which is an enclosed ancient trackway. To the Anglo-Saxons ‘-ley’ meant a forest clearing. These days there are more alpacas to be seen than deer on Hindley Lane. Near the end of the lane we took a very short path to the left, alerting some noisy but secure dogs on our right, descended some steps to Apy Hill Lane and then ascended the steps away from the lane. We turned right and crossed a disused railway line, the site of an overnight stop of the royal train, carrying our late monarch and her husband, passing a small industrial estate and then left into a narrow footpath which reached houses in a cul de sac. We turned right and then left and walk towards the church and Buttercross, ending the walk just before 1.00. Thanks to Glen for back-marking. David Gadd

Tuesday 12 March 2024 - Going For Osberton

Rain was falling and the forecast was unpromising as 16 of us gathered at Kilton Forest car park for a walk around the Osberton Estate. We headed downhill and into Hundred Acre Wood (not the Winnie the Pooh one), where a couple of felled trees provided good seating for our morning break. Emerging from the wood, we were pleased to discover the rain had virtually stopped and we carried on (briefly held up by a flock of sheep) and past the site of the former RAF Worksop, a WWII Wellington bomber base, to Scofton. This had been a separate estate, but in the 1820's was turned into an estate workers village and a private chapel built on the site of the former manor house. This is now St John's church and figures over the door are claimed to be the inspiration for Edward Lear's The Owl and the Pussycat. Whether or not this is true, it provided an excellent stop for lunch. By now the sun was shining and several layers of clothing were removed before we continued on past Osberton Hall. From here it was uphill, through some trees and then alongside the golf course, before returning to our cars. By now, everybody was nice and dry, their boots were  clean and there was a sense of satisfaction that we had cheated the weather.PG 

Saturday, 9 March 2024 - Ladybower reservoir

Eleven ramblers turned up to go walking, including a lady, Liz, from St.Helens, on what should have been a dank and miserable day. But fortunately, the weather was kind to us and it stayed dry all day. After walking up to the view point overlooking Ladybower reservoir, we walked a pleasant path through to a lovely decorated barn, where we had a break. After that we walked along towards Fairholmes, but went up the west side of Derwent Reservoir, and followed a track up again to Lockerbrook outdoor centre, before traversing through fields to our lunch stop. A steady walk down through farmland and around the back of Ladybower inn returned us to the cars. Peter Miller

Thursday, 7th Mar '24 - Roche Abbey Round

On a grey, cool morning twenty-two of us met in the Roche Abbey car park.  The abbey was founded in 1147, one of the founders being Roger de Busli, probably the great-nephew of Roger de Busli, the builder of Tickhill castle. The founding monks came south from Newminster Abbey in Northumberland.  The monastery at Roche originally comprised a walled precinct containing a series of buildings and enclosures, with the church and cloister at the centre. Today the only structures standing to any height are the transepts and presbytery of the church, begun in the 1170s, and the great gatehouse.  After a short walk from the car park we came to the Great Gatehouse. It was re-built in about 1300, a two-storey building of which only the lower storey remains. From the west-facing porch the monks dispensed food to the destitute, and from the east-facing gate hall they admitted guests and monitored entries and exits. Between the two were gates, the larger for carts, the smaller for pedestrians. Unusually for a Cistercian building, in which figurative sculpture was prohibited, the vault springers are decorated with carved heads. Traces of the original plaster and painted detailing of the vaulting remain. Much of the pavement is medieval.  A large room over the porch and hall, with benching around the outer walls, was probably used for court hearings to settle legal disputes with tenant landowners. Three smaller rooms built into the rock outcrops were used as accommodation for the gatekeeper and to store records. 

 The valley’s terrain and the intersection of two abundant water supplies – Maltby Dike and Hooten Dike – determined where the monks set out their buildings.  At the monastery’s peak, the community of about 150 men was composed of one-third monks and two-thirds lay brothers, and each group required a separate set of buildings including a dormitory, day room, refectory, two-storey latrine block and infirmary.  Monks occupied the east part of the cloister, and lay brothers the west. In turn, guests were provided with another, similar set of accommodation in the inner court.  At the monastery’s peak, the community of about 150 men was composed of one-third monks and two-thirds lay brothers, and each group required a separate set of buildings including a dormitory, day room, refectory, two-storey latrine block  and infirmary. In 1538,  about 300 years after it was founded, on the orders of Thomas Cromwell, the abbey was destroyed.

From the Abbey we entered King's Wood, passing Laughten Pond and then gradually ascending until we reached a lovely path along the edge of a scarp slope, with views across undulating land towards Maltby and Thurcroft. This path took us towards Laughten en le Morthen, with the magificent spire of All Saints Church clearly visible. A couple of left turns took us the the Laughten village hall, where we enjoyed our refreshments on seats by the childen's recreation area. Leaving Laughten we walked a short distance before turning left at St John's Farmhouse and along the airy trak of Kirk Croft Road. After about 30 minutes we reached Long Thwaite wood, with its scorched trees from the crop fires of a few years ago.  At some cottages we turned briefly right and then left and onto a minor road which took us into Firbeck. Directly alongside St Martin's chrch we turned onto a footpath, which immediately took us the the memorial, unveiled in 2011, marking the site of the former RAF Firbeck. The light aerodrome previously in existence was requisitioned by the Air Ministry in 1940 and bacame the base for the 613 Squadron.  From here we followed tracks and crossfield paths to the tiny hamlet of Stone where, at a former mill, we turned left for 200 yards, climbing a high stile or passing through a narrow gate, crossing a field, climbing another stile before reaching the field with the magnificent site of Roche Abbey to mark the end of the walk.  Thanks to Tony F for efficient back-marking.  David Gadd   

Tuesday 5th Mar 2024 Thurnscoe, Hooton Pagnell Frickley and Clayton Circular

What a day of contrasts. Overcast and cool in the morning, sunny and warm in the afternoon, dry underfoot in places and in others paddling through a mud bath, pretty South Yorkshire rolling countryside and villages with great views and reinstated relics of the area's mining history with the worst aspects of indiscriminate fly tipping.
Twenty four members met at Phoenix Park, which is the reinstated waste tip of Hickleton Colliery, (Hickleton Main Colliery was a coal mine in Thurnscoe, South Yorkshire, England from 1892 to 1988. In 1933 it employed 2,560 people underground and 500 on the surface. The coal mine's union lodge was the 400th recipient of the Order of Industrial Heroism. On 9 February 1944, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth visited the colliery and thanked the miners for their war effort during World War II. In 2006 a black granite memorial was erected in Thurnscoe cemetery bearing the names of the 161 miners who died at the pit over the years.) and shows how environmental damage caused by our industrial past can be reversed and provide areas for nature and leisure. A quick stop for a group photo at the sculpture commemorating the coal mining past and it was onwards to the high point with views of the surrounding area.  It was then on to Watchley Crag and coffee break in the woods which have reclaimed the old quarry. Refreshed, our next target was the pretty village of Hooton Pagnell, then to Hooton Pagnell Wood and the outskirts of Frickley. Following the south side of the reinstated waste tip of the Frickley and South Emsall Colliery, another good example of repairing our industrial damage, we reached our lunch stop under a railway bridge where we were serenaded by the occasional passing train. Reenergised we tackled the mud and water by Howell Beck made worse by recent excavation works. Thankfully, it was then back on dry land and uphill to the lovely village of Clayton then across relatively dry fields to the outskirts of Thurnscoe. After crossing the railway, it was back into the mud, made worse by quad bikes and 4WD vehicles using the footpath and fly tipping.. Reaching Thurnscoe railway station a short walk brought us back to our start point. Thanks to Neil and Tony for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Saturday 2nd Mar 2024 Strines Reservoir

Six intrepid walkers decided to brave the elements and set off from Cutthroat Bridge. Walking over open moorland in changeable weather, both snow and rain, but with a constant nithering wind. Elevenses were taken in the lee of Sugworth Tower, before continuing down and then up by Strines reservoir. A long and tiring stint up to Derwent edge was followed by lunch at Back Tor. A change in the weather to full sunshine was an excellent bonus, the vista changed from bleak to brilliant. From there it was a mainly downhill walk back to the car park. Peter Miller
P.O.I
Strines Reservoir
The reservoir was constructed in 1869 after the Sheffield Water Committee made the decision in the late 1850s to build four reservoirs in Bradfield Dale to impound water from the surrounding moorland to provide for the growing town of Sheffield. In addition to Strines, three other reservoirs were built: Damflask, Agden and Dale Dike. The name Strines dates from as early as the 13th century, when it was mentioned in the Sheffield Court records as the Water of the Strynd or Strynds, referring to the stream that rose on the moors at the top end of Bradfield Dale and flowed down the valley to join the River Loxley at Low Bradfield.

Thursday, 29th Feb 2024 - Misterton history walk
A staggering 35 ramblers turned up for a pleasant walk in and around Misterton led by Rob, whose knowledge of the area is legendary.There were a few newcomers mixed in with some familiar faces and a prompt start was followed a brief address by Rob. We first left the Red Hart on to Carr Lane and Cattle Road taking a public footpath to the Chesterfield canal. We continued along the towpath to the Basin at West Stockwith where the canal meets the Rivers Trent and Idle. Throughout the walk Rob had paused to address us on many aspects of local history. After a coffee/lunch break in the village we returned to the Idle Bank setting back towards Misterton.  We stopped at the former pumping station with its twin chimneys, named Kate and Ada. The property has been converted into private accommodation in recent years and one of our own, Dave Churchill, had a hand in some of the renovation. We then rejoined the canal back into Misterton. The majority of the ramblers partook of liquid refreshment at the Red Hart, which no doubt pleased the landlady Jackie.  An enjoyable walk for all with no rain and minimal mud for a change.Grateful thanks to Rob for expert and informative leading.  Nigel Ball

Tuesday 27 February 2024 A Stroll In Derbyshire
It turned out that 'a stroll in the mud' may have been a more apt title for this walk. This was a real shame because it was in a lovely and picturesque part of Derbyshire to the east of Dronfield. Much of it was in The Moss Valley, an area which is rightly popular with walkers cyclists and nature lovers in general. The walk rolled uphill and down dale through green farmland and wooded areas. The weather was dry and bright and the views were great. There was even a nice pub stop at The Gate Inn in Troway village. But oh dear the mud. The muddy bits were frequent and sticky. We didn't of course let it spoil our day. We ploughed on and had a great time as usual.Twenty eight of us met in the car park adjacent to the Bridge Inn on the outskirts of Eckington. Martin ( who was deputising for Diane ) briefed us and Malc (who was born and brought up in the area ) gave us a run down on Moss Valley and a lesson on tickling trout in the brook. We set off northerly towards Charnock ( Malc's birthplace ) and then turned west. Elevenses were in a splendid woodland glade, where those with good hearing could listen to a woodpecker somewhere close by. We carried on ever closer to the outskirts of Sheffield before turning south through the woods and alongside Moss Brook on a section of The Sheffield Country Walk. After emerging from the woods we continued into Troway for lunch. Full marks to The Gate Inn for welcoming walkers with muddy boots! The after lunch section involved a bit of rerouting to get round an impassable area until we found ourselves back on the path we had started on in the morning. We returned to the car park happy and cheerful but with tired legs due to the up and down profile of the walk and the difficulty of getting a grip in the slippery conditions. And we all agreed that our first job on getting home would be boot cleaning ready for next time. What's a bit of mud matter when you can get pout and about with friends. Thanks to Martin for leading, George for helping him and especially Malc for the local knowledge and info. Steve did the photos as usual. Charlie Pratt

Saturday 24th Feb 2014 A country walk from Hampole

12 of us joined our leader Carol at the stone bus shelter in Hampole on a frosty, but sunny morning. After being promised mud, we crossed the busy and high speed Wakefield Road and set off across the fields towards Brodsworth. The strength of the sun and the daffodils in the woods suggested Spring is not far off. We stopped in the churchyard in Hooton Pagnell for coffee. I'm always surprised when looking out from this pretty village that I'm so close to Doncaster and looking towards Barnsley. We passed Frickley's isolated All Saints church and stopped on the edge of Frickley Country Park (the site of the former colliery) for lunch. We left the country park along a disused railway line and returned across the fields to Hampole. Thanks to Carol Ward for leading a lovely (and less muddy than expected) walk.
Brian Unsworth

P.O.I.
Hampole is mentioned in the Domesday Book as having two ploughlands, woodlands and three villagers.The name of the village derives from the Old English name of Hana and pōl, meaning Hana's pool, the first part being someone's name. The priory at Hampole was founded c. 1153 by Avici de Tania. When the priory was closed during the Dissolution, it had a complement of 14 nuns.
By the A1 road, near Skelbrooke, is Robin Hood's Well, with its stone cover designed by John Vanbrugh. Little John's Well lies to the west of Hampole village. Courtesy Wikipedia

Thursday 22nd February 2024 Wentworth Village
Nine people braved the weather to walk around the Wentworth area, including two new walkers Diane from Lincolnshire and Jackie who was local Having water proofed ourselves we set of from the garden centre
We were expecting rain and lot of it but the gods were kind to us with just the odd spot
We walked past Hoober stand a monument erected to George 3rd after the Jacobite rebellion
We continued on to Wentworth estate past rotunda and eventually past the Wentworth House which was owned by the Fitzwilliam family who made their fortune mining black diamonds (coal)
They were one of the richest family's in the world
Our mud splatted group finally finished our walk back at the garden centre
Despite the mud the group enjoyed the walk
Tony Liversidge

Tuesday 20 February 2024  A Sculpted Walk
Today the weather gods were kind to us. Apart from a tiny bit of light drizzle at the end the day was dry and bright and breezy. Perfect conditions for a walk that took us up and down across fields and through woods in this green and pleasant part of Yorkshire between Wakefield and Barnsley. Twenty six Ramblers accompanied by dogs Lucy and Milo met in the car park of the Cherry Tree Inn at High Hoyland. This was the first walk that Alasdair and Neil S had led and during the briefing it was explained that Alasdair would lead the first half up to lunch and then Neil would take over for the second half. They would back mark for each other. Basically we were going to take a route north towards our lunch stop at The Black Bull in Midgley and then return south across Stocksmoor Common and the fringes of The Yorkshire Sculpture Park. A couple of main roads to be crossed but otherwise the main risk was mud. It seems impossible to find a walk that does not involve mud at the moment. And so off we went into the countryside. Because we were fairly high up we had great views all around. Emley Moor TV mast was visible in the distance to our left most of the time. Elevenses were on a conveniently placed bit of banking and then off towards Midgley. After lunch we carried on a little further across the road and dipped into the woods a the top end of Coxley Valley and through Earnshaws wood yard before swinging south. We were soon on the outskirts of The Yorkshire Sculpture Park and could see some of the sculptures as we passed. Opinions were roughly divided between art lovers and philistines. Either way it was an interesting diversion that got us all talking about something other than the steady uphill slope we were on at the time. Once again the views across the parkland and lake were super. Approaching High Hoyland via Litherop Road we cut off to take a bridleway that eventually delivered us to to pub car park. A well planned and managed walk from Alasdair and Neil. Thanks to both of them. Thanks also to Steve for the photos. Charlie Pratt

Yorkshire Sculpture Park is an art gallery In West Bretton with both outside and indoor exhibition areas. It shows work by British and international artists including Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth and Damien Hirst. It occupies the 500 acres of parkland at Bretton Hall

Saturday 17th February 2024 To the Castle and Back
Nineteen ramblers, ten of whom were walking with us for the first time, gathered at Warmsworth on a unseasonably, warm and dry day. We walked upstream along muddy paths next to the R.Don to Conisbrough. Coffee was taken near the castle.
The R. Don was crossed at Conisbrough railway station before following the Trans-Pennine trail (TPT) downsteam. Walking through Sprotbrough Flash nature reserve before stopping for lunch overlooking the canal next to the Boat Inn, which had recently reopened after flooding.  The walk continued on the TPT before walking uphill to use a footbridge to cross the A1M. Our walk continued over fields parallel to Sprobrough Road before rejoining the TPT which took us over the river and back into Warmsworth, arriving just before the rain. Many thanks to everyone for their cheerful company and to Brian, Eric and Peter for back marking.
Angela M Gibson

Thursday 15th February 2024 Haxey area

An extremely mild day for February was on offer for this morning walk from Haxey Church to Low Burnham and back. 25 walkers assembled at Haxey Church Hall for the leader briefing. New walkers Denise and Nicholas were introduced before the group set off in a westerly direction towards Westwoodside Good tracks were followed before walking through a few streets at the eastern edge of Westwoodside. The walk then took a northerly direction, crossing the road from Doncaster and using a path alongside a wood. Here views were beginning to open up. A further narrow path through a field allowed us to cross a lane and continue along a broad track. Soon we were at a point in the walk where the track crosses the former Haxey Junction to Goole railway line, closed many years ago and now converted to a most pleasant walkway. Steps at the side of the bridge were used to gain access to the railway trackbed above. This made for good going. There had been a railway overbridge removed at one point so we descended to a farm track and immediately climbed up a gradient to get back onto the track bed which was on an embankment. Our morning break was taken soon afterwards. The walk then went in an easterly direction to Low Burnham. We walked through Low Burnham and took a farm access road, slowly climbing. Haxey church was visible in the distance when looking south. A further footpath was used leading off from the farm access road which gradually descended and met the A161 road. After carefully crossing, we turned left towards Haxey. After a short distance we made our way back onto the former railway line for a little way. This brought us out by another road which by turning right allowed us to walk through Haxey centre and turn into the Church Hall car park. David Horne

Tuesday 13 February 2024 Edwinstowe (Sherwood Forest) Valentines Walk

After invading Britain in 1066 William The Conquerer turned the whole of Sherwood Forest into a Royal Hunting Forest. The area later became popular with King John .( The remains of one of his hunting lodges can still be seen at Kings Clipstone.) Around 1700 large parts of Sherwood Forest were sold into private ownership and the estates of Thoresby, Clumber, Rufford Abbey, Welbeck Abbey and Worksop manor were created. What remains of the ancient woodland around Edwinstowe is now managed by Nottinghamshire County Council and Forestry England. Twenty nine of us began our walk at The Visitors Centre just on the north side of the village. Steve briefed us and off we went. It was dry but still a bit chilly . The paths in the forest are good so we were able to set a good pace. Our first stop and 'photo op' was at The Major Oak . Our second was for a elevenses at a spot where four paths met. The lunch stop was to be at The Dog and Duck at KIngs Clipstone where the aforementioned hunting lodge ruins are located but not very visible. What actually dominates the landscape and the view from the pub garden are the old headstocks of the now redundant Clipstone Colliery in the nearby village. Just before we got to the pub however we came upon the fascinating Archway House ( see photos ). Built by the Duke of Portland it was originally intended to be the first of twenty similar lodges on the Welbeck Estate but none of the rest ever materialised. Niches on the front of the building contain statues of Robin Hood, Little John and Maid Marian. The ones on the back contain King Richard, Friar Tuck and Allan A Dale. Four hares , the emblem of the Portland family, decorate the side panels. After leaving the pub we returned to Edwinstowe on a path that took us alongside the River Maun. As such the landscape and views changed . In the morning it had been trees in all directions and a wooded canopy over us. We now had open fields and the sky above. The last leg was up through Edwinstowe's ,main street with its variety of cafes and shops. Fortunately the light rain that had threatened for some of the time held off and we got back to the cars still dry. Thanks to Janette ( unfortunately absent on the day ) for planning a lovely interesting walk and Steve for leading and taking the photos at the same time. But as usual thanks to everyone who came and walked and talked and made the day very enjoyable as ever. With acknowledgements to Wikipedia . CP

Saturday 10th Feb 2024 Oxspring and Wortley

6 of us gathered in the Oxspring Sport Field car park. The water flowing across the car park and the snow on the fields confirmed that it was going to be wet underfoot. We set off along the Trans Pennine Trail towards Penistone, but soon turned off to cross a field with the remains of snow ramps and an igloo to cross the River Don for the first time. Willow Bridge is a pretty pack horse bridge. After following the river for a while, we climbed up to Thurgoland where we had views of the valley, elevenses and drone flying. We walked to Wortley, enjoying views towards Barnsley. We stopped in Wortley for lunch and a trip to Wortley Club for drinks.

After collecting a stray hat, we set off downhill to the river at Finkle Street. We crossed on the footbridge as the stepping stones were underwater After passing some fishing lakes, we climbed up through the woods to come out near the top of the valley overlooking Stocksbridge. Two horses were guarding our route to Green Moor, which we entered through the former Delf Quarry. We then followed a track down to the river, over a footbridge, passed the old mill and under the viaduct that carries the Trans Pennine Trail. We climbed up to the viaduct and over it (where we could look down on our footprints in the snow) to follow the Trans Pennine Trail back to our cars.

P.O.I.
The iconic Willow bridge is a grade II listed foot bridge, it crosses the river Don at the bottom of Willow lane as part of what was an old Pack Horse route which ran from Bradfield via the Ewden valley to Bolsterstone then on to Stocksbridge, up Underbank Lane to Dyson Cote and then on to Wakefield via this bridge. This route was never upgraded into a Turnpike road which may account for the fact that many of the bridges features still remain intact. It was believed to have been constructed around the year 1734. (courtesy Oxprig Parish Council )

Thursday, 8th Feb 2024 - Wadworth to the Amazon

Ten folk joined the leader adjacent to St John the Baptist Church in Wadworth on a fairly cold morning, with light wet snow falling and a forecast telling us that it would get worse. Undaunted, we set off along the new cycle track towards Loversall. With a population of about 150 and no shops (there is a huge supermarket a few minutes away) it has St Katherines Church, which is a Grade II listed building. It appears to have been built before 1207 by the Fossard family, who owned the Manor of Hexthorpe under Count Robert de Mortain (half brother to William the Conqueror). Within the churchyard lies an early 14th-century tomb chest which is also Grade II* listed. The church is medieval but the parish registers begin only in the nineteenth century. The reason for this lies in the events of a winter's night on 7 and 8 February 1844, when thieves broke into the church. They broke open the parish chest, probably in hope of stealing the communion plate. Finding no valuable contents, they made a fire to warm themselves in the bitter winter weather. Their fuel was the oak chest and most of its contents, namely all the parish registers but the most recent marriage and burial registers. Loversall Hall, next to the church, is a large house, its principal front built by the Fenton family of Leeds between 1808 and 1816, although the buildings at the rear are probably seventeenth century. (Info courtesy Wikipedia). Once we left the shelter of the Hall and it's surrounds, and dropped down slightly to pass Low Farm we were on land which was underwater from about 500AD until the area was drained in the late C17th by Thomas Tofield, who lived close-by, at Wilsic.The light wet snow had, by this time, become a fairly steady snowfall.  A track took us close to the iPort and we stopped on a rail bridge for our refreshments. There was a big decision to be made here - was the effort of removing gloves and rucksac, and rucksac cover to access the coffee worth the effort? The leader decided that it was, but regetted that decision - cold, wet hands not being comforable and not being ideal for taking photos.

We followed a long track alongside the iPort for about a mile, passing some Yorkshire Wildlife Trust volunteers planting several hundred trees. On reaching Carr Lane we turned right and were soon leaving the original wetland as we walked up the slight hill towards Wadworth.  We passed through the village and crossed the main road before reaching the church again at exactly midday. Finally, the leader asked the group if, bearing in mind the conditions, they regretted their decision to come walking this morning. The question was answered with resounding cries that they had no regrets and had thoroughly enjoyed the walk.  DG

Tuesday, 6th Feb '24 - Amongst Thieves and Monks

Twenty two members, including Ben from Chesterfield Ramblers, met in the Thieves Wood car park, south of Mansfield, on a cold and breezy morning. Most of us got kitted up in waterproofs as the forecast was for a day of rain, more about that later. After a briefing by our walk leader Jackie, we were off on our 9 mile walk through farmland and woods. Leaving the car park, we followed the Robin Hood Way which after a mile or so gave us distance views of Newstead Abbey. Staying on the Robin Hood Way (RHW) we reached the pretty village of Papplewick where coffee was taken. We stayed on the RHW for several more miles heading north to the east of Ravenshead where we left the RHW behind us and followed the road to our lunch stop at the Little John Inn. Refreshed, it was a short trek north to Rainworth Water where we rejoined our old friend the RHW which we followed through Harlow Wood, Thieves’ Wood and Normans Hill wood back to our start point. The heavy rain finely came about half an hour before the end of the walk, allowing those of us who had donned waterproofs to feel we had made the right decision. This was the first walk in several months where we finished with clean boots due to the well drained sandy ground and the cleaning effect of the heavy down pour; made a pleasant change! Thanks to Jackie and Catherine for organizing the walk and to those who carried out back marking duties including Tony and Angela. Stephen J Tomlinson.
P.O.I. Newstead Abbey was a Priory not an Abbey and was a victim of Henry V111 dissolution of the monasteries in 1539. It came into the possession of the Byron Family the most famous of whom is the Romantic Poet Lord Byron. Today Newstead Abbey is owned by Nottingham City Council and houses a collection of Lord Byron memorabilia.

Saturday 3rd February 2024 Penistone Circular.

This walk did not get off to a great start as Yorkshire Schools Athletics were holding a cross country running event and the car park was full with their vehicles. However, the ever-resourceful Doncaster Ramblers, using knowledge from previous walks in the area and guile, resolved the parking problem. Fourteen of us met on what was a dry but cloudy day and after a short briefing we were off westwards on the TPT for a mile or so then it was the first climb of the day to Hartcliff Hill for coffee with views of Langsett Reservoir which could just be seen through the mist and low cloud. The next task was to paddle through the very muddy field at Nether House Farm, the Walk Leader was given an award for the muddiest walk of 2024! You were warned at the start! Drier ground greeted us as we walked on the Barnsley Boundary Walk which follows the abandoned railway, then it was the second steep climb of the day followed by a nice long flat section on the hill top with views of Emley moor mast in the distance. Skirting the south side of Penistone we stopped for a quick lunch near Cubley Hall, a pub stop was promised late in the walk. Refreshed it was downhill to the TPT, which we passed under, then a short road section brought us to the third steep climb of the day, after crossing the River Don, to High Leigh Farm. Another award for the Walk Leader “The Smelliest Walk of 2024” as we passed the muck heap. By this time the troops were thinking the pub stop was just in the imagination of the Walk Leader, but no it was real, after crossing the A628, carefully, we were made most welcome at the Rose and Crown in Hoylandswaine. Rehydrated it was a short uphill walk to the top of Hunger Hill where we were greeted with great views of Penistone and the surrounding hills. It was then downhill to Penistone and back to the start point, completing the 10.5 mile walk at 1600 hours due to the large number of stiles negotiated. Thanks to all who came, especially to Angela for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson.

P.O.I.
The Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) is an exciting route for walkers, cyclists and horse riders linking the North and Irish seas, passing through the Pennines, alongside rivers and canals and through some of the most historic towns and cities in the North of England. The Trail from coast-to-coast between Southport and Hornsea is 215 miles (346km) long. A north-south route connecting Leeds and Chesterfield, a spur to York and a spur to Kirkburton means there are approximately 370 miles (595km) of Trans Pennine Trail available to explore.The Trans Pennine Trail is mapped and signed all the way, mainly traffic free and is surprisingly level considering the dramatic scenery along the way. Easy gradients and surfaced paths make many sections suitable for families, gentle exercise and people using wheelchairs and pushchairs. So whether on foot, horse or cycle; for a day or longer; alone with friends and family – the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) can offer something for everyone.
https://www.transpenninetrail.org.uk/

Thursday 1st February 2024 Cusworth

On a sunny morning 26 set of from Cusworth Hall car park including 4 new members Derrick Michelle Deborah and Diane who met us on the TPT. We walked the trail to lower Sprotbrough and down to the river with a lots of chatting could be heard as we wound our way along the Riverside path We passed Swans near to Hexthorpe flats and carried on to walk under the A1 We proceeded up hill passed a large house were the world war 2 pilot Douglas Barder lived On in to Sprotbrough around the cricket field to join up with field path back to Cusworth Hall The walk appeared to be enjoyed by everyone.

P.O.I.
The Old Rectory at Sprotbrough Doncaster is the former home of Sir Douglas Bader. Bader was a reluctant 13-year-old when he moved to Sprotbrough from the Home Counties in 1923 after his mother, Jessie, married the rector. Douglas Bader is well-known for his fighter pilot skills during World War II. Group Captain Sir Douglas Robert Steuart Bader, CBE, DSO & Bar, DFC & Bar, DL, FRAeS (/ˈbɑːdər/; 21 February 1910 – 5 September 1982) was a Royal Air Force flying ace during the Second World War. He was credited with 22 aerial victories, four shared victories, six probable's, one shared probable and 11 enemy aircraft damaged. Courtesy Wikipedia

Tuesday 30th Jan 2024 In the footsteps of Romans

28 of us set off from the car park on Anchorage Lane for a walk that was last walked, as far as I am aware, in November 2016 and led by Peter Rooke. The weather was cloudy and rather cool but with the prospect of sunshine later in the day. After the only hill of the day we reached Cusworth Hall and picked up 3 lonely ramblers making the group 31 in total. We crossed Cusworth Lane and then across a recently ploughed field with no reinstated footpath!! After the previous days rain we were expecting a mud bath but, although muddy, it was not as bad as expected. We then walked along tree lined Long Plantation and into Scawsby Park for our coffee stop. When we were all rested and refreshed we crossed Barnsley Road and walked down to the old Roman Road called Roman Ridge which we followed to just north of Highfields. Although we didn't see any roman relics there were plenty of late 20th and early 21st pieces of rubbish to be seen!! We then entered Highfields Country Park just as the forecast sunshine appeared, we walked around the lake and then branched off, for a rarity these days, of a pub stop at The Highwayman. After suitable refreshments we rejoined the Doncaster greenway and walked through Castle Hills and across Jossey Lane to join an old railway line, now a part of the TPT, and followed it back to the junction with Anchorage Lane and our cars. Everybody seemed to enjoy this local walk which meant no early start and home for afternoon tea!!

Point of Interest:- Roman Ridge is an old Roman Road which was part of the Roman Road called Ermine Street and ran from London to York. In Doncaster it runs from behind the Sun Inn, at the junction of York Road and Barnsley Road, up to Redhouse Interchange and is now a public bridleway. From Redhouse it has been swallowed up by the A1 as has most of the original Ermine Street.

Saturday 27th Jan 2024 Mexborough and Conisbrough

15 of us gathered outside Mexborough Railway Station on a cool, but dry morning. We set off through the streets of Mexborough, passing the pretty parish church of St. John the Baptist (parts of which date back to the 12th century), before walking down to the canal and following it. Many of the houses backing on to the wide canal use it as a great garden feature. At the eastern edge of Mexborough, we left the canal and after skirting the edge of the town, struck out across fields towards the River Dearne with views across the valley to Barnburgh and High Melton. We stopped for elevenses on the banks of the river overlooking flooded fields. We continued following the river and picked up the Trans Pennine Trail and followed that across the river, up the side of the valley and towards the Conisbrough Viaduct. Crossing the viaduct, we were invited to guess how many bricks it contains - 15 million (or was it 12 million, anyway, lots). We stopped above the River Don to admire the views up and down the valley. We walked a little way up the valley to Coronation Park at the foot of Conisbrough Castle, where we stopped for lunch.

After lunch we walked up to the castle and 8th century St. Peter's church and had another break for liquid refreshment. Now fully refreshed, we headed out of Conisbrough (catching a glimpse of the viaduct) through The Crags, then picked up a path to New Denaby with views over the open countryside towards Hooton Roberts, enhanced by a little sunshine. From Old Denaby it was a short walk back to the canal across the River Dearne on a bridge that had replaced a ferry. The canal took us back to Mexborough Railway Station. Thanks to Angela and Gareth for back marking. Thanks to Angela and Dianne for the photos.

Thursday 25th January - Sykehouse Archaeological Walk

Twenty-two of us met in the car park of the Old George pub in Sykehouse which, oddly, is not shown as a pub on the OS map.  There was drizzle in the air but it soon stopped as we walk out of the village. Sykehouse developed in the Medieval period, the first  record of which was in 1404. We walked for a few minutes to Topham Farm, in the hamlet of Topham.  There we were met by Marysia, who had agreed to show us around. She and her husband bought the farm for the benefit of wildlife and have created a huge pond, which attracts a multiplicity of birdlife, and have planted hundreds of yards of hedges. Back in 2002, whilst starting to dig out the pond, the clay from which was needed to repair some of the lengthy floodbank, probably built when Vermuyden was draining the land in the early C17th, signs of human occupation were noted. This led to a significant excavation by the West Yorkshire Archaelogical Service and revealed, ultimately, part of a Late Iron Age and Romano-British enclosed settlement, probably dating between the 1st century BC and the early 3rd century AD. Nine circular structures were identified, seven of which are conventional Iron Age and Romano-British types with ring gullies and entrances. Two structures, one semingly replacing the other, had continuous ring gullies, with no entrances. This was a noticeable discovery in an area previously thought not to have been occupied by humans. This land is part of the Humberhead Levels and, as such, would have been very wet. After all the recent rain that we've had, it's certainly very wet at the moment. A total of 541 sherds of pottery were recovered, including a significant number of Roman pieces, the earliest of which are contemporary with the arrival of the Roman military in the area in the final decades of the 1st century. Many fragments of aimal bones were recorded, mostly cattle, although this may be due to the greater survivabilty when compared to sheep and pigs. Marysia took us to a single-arched brick bridge over the River Went, built in the early C19th, from where we could see a bird hide beside ponds, a haven for birdlife. The Burnet Heritage Trust was established in 1999 for the purpose of protecting the wildlife on the Humberhead Levels,  notably the wildlife of the clay farmlands located to the north of Doncaster.

Resuming our walk we crossed the barely visible disused railway line, which provides one border of Topham farm, was opened in 1916 and finally closed in 1958. The line was intended to serve the new collieries in the belt of country between Doncaster and Goole. It was intended to open for passengers too and although several stations were built, including one at Sykehouse, it never opened for passengers. We soon passed a converted windmill before taking a footpath along the River Went floodbank until we reached the New Junction Canal, which was opened in 1905 and links the River Don Navigation  with the Knottingley Canal. It is 5 miles long and completely straight and was the last canal built in England for commercial traffic. These days it is mostly for leisure boaters. We walked alongside the canal, this part of which is also the Trans Pennnine Trail.  The beautifully-named Yorkshire Pud passed us, with a dog on board which greeted us noisily. We stopped for 'elevenses' at the spectacular Kirk Lane swing bridge, and then continued, seeing two white and one grey heron on the opposite bank, until we reached the Sykehouse Lock Bridge, which is a swing bridge. From there we followed peaceful footpaths back to Sykehouse, where over half of us went into the Old George for a drink and some lunch. Special thanks to Marysia and to Nigel for back-marking and to the Old George for being so welcoming.  David Gadd  

Tuesday 23th January Hatfield Woodhouse

24 walkers gathered at Hatfield Woodhouse Village hall on a blustery and drizzly morning. They included Louisa and new-to-Tuesday Ray for a 9.5mile walk around the edge of Hatfield Moor and its environs. Leaving the village hall the trail went next to the main road before turning down Bull Moor Road,  a public footpath for around 1 mile, before turning right at the end and heading the opposite way down Stainforth Moor Road and then turning left onto Moor Dyke Road for a short distance before we stopped for 'elevenses', taken in less than perfect conditions. After the break we continued on the same road, where we listened to some of the history of RAF Lindholm and its ghost. The next deviation was at the gates of Lindholm Hall where we skirted the edge of Humberhead Nature Reserve until reaching the visitor centre. Here we took lunch close to an area that is a frequent haunt of snakes during the summer. After lunchtime we crossed the A614 and continued on to Gatewood Lane before joining Hale Hill Lane. After a short distance beside the A614 we arrived back at the village Hall. Surprisingly many a seasoned walker had never ventured around this area before and today was a whole new experience. 

POI
RAF LIndholm was built in 1938 under an RAF expansion scheme, housing various units including Polish Bomber Squadrons of which there is a memorial to plane that crashed on Hatfied Moor, killing the crew and giving rise to the story of Lindholm Willie who roamed the building carrying his parachute. Before the airfield closed a story was run on BBC Look North and an exorcism carried out and the ghost reputedly never seen again. Lindholm Hall was built in the 1700s but there is evidence of people living there from 1400s; it is now a buddhist retreat
Stuart Twell

Saturday 20th January 2024  Sprotbrough Ramble
Twenty ramblers gathered outside Sprotbrough Club on Cadeby Road on a chilly but dry day. We made our way across fields to Marr for a coffee stop. Then through Melton Woods to High Melton, then to Cadeby where lunch was taken. Back to Sprotbrough via Sprotbrough Flash pasture land arriving just as the rain started. Many thanks to everyone for their cheerful company and to Diane for back marking.
Angela M Gibson

P.O.I.
High Melton contains eight listed buildings that are recorded in the National Heritage List for England. Of these, one is listed at Grade II*, the middle of the three grades, and the others are at Grade II, the lowest grade. The parish contains the village of High Melton and the surrounding area. All the listed buildings are in the village, and consist of a church, a country house later used for other purposes, houses, cottages, farmhouses, a former village hall, and a milestone.
Cadaby Manor was held in medieval times by the Norman baronial Fitzwilliam family, and later by their descendants, the Copley baronets. Later, it was inherited by barrister Thomas Levett, a native of High Melton, who sold to his brother, York barrister John Levett, who in turn sold it to Edmund Hastings, Esq., of Plumtree, Nottinghamshire.

Close to the village is Cadeby Quarry, a site of special scientific interest, which was notified in 1977 for its geological interest. The site covers 240 acres (97 hectares) of the old quarry. It is one of 35 sites of special scientific interest in South Yorkshire.

Thursday 18th Jan 2024 Epworth and Low Burnham

On a bitterly cold but sunny morning, 21 Ramblers joined the leader for this steady ramble through Epworth & Low Burnham. The ground was hard courtesy of an overnight frost. Heading south from the car park, the group initially used a former railway line now converted to a leisure trail. A left turn allowed us to view a mill (see photograph) with views over Epworth. We joined the A161 at the end of this path and made our way into Epworth. A brief stop was made at the 13th century St Andrews Church where the leader said a few words about the Methodist movement. We walked through the centre of Epworth and passed Epworth Old Rectory, childhood home of Charles and John Wesley, founders of the Methodist movement. A lengthy footpath took us towards Low Burnham. Just before entering the village, we had our morning break. Field paths and tracks were used to make our way back towards Epworth on the other side of the A161. The path went under a small bridge which used to carry a railway line. Finally emerging onto a lane, we turned right to make our way towards the edge of Epworth. We carried on heading north and were soon back at the point where we were earlier in the walk. From there it was a direct route back to the car park. David Horne

Tuesday 16 January 2024 A Walk Through Paradise ( or maybe not )

The secret is out . It turns out Paradise is just a farm and some woodland on the outskirts of Church Fenton. Eighteen of us ( including guest Sean who had come all the way from Lincoln ) and three dogs met outside the local church to pay 'paradise' a visit. It was probably the coldest start to a walk that we had had for a long time but a least it was dry and there was even a bit of weak sunshine as we set off following an inspiring briefing from Gareth. The walk description on the website had promised 10 miles and muddy fields to cross. But fortunately for us most of the the ground was still frozen hard from the previous nights frost. So rather than squelching our way we crunched over hard soil and icy puddles. There were some wet bits however where the ground had not frozen and towards the end of the walk a mild thaw set in to ensure our boots were well and truly mud covered when we got back to the cars. Along the way we went through some lovely wintery landscapes. There were paths across farmland, farm tracks with good surfaces and farms and hamlets to go through. There was also the main railway line to cross. All the way we had seen the trains in the distance and been flown over by light aircraft from the nearby airfield. On reaching Ryther we paused by the side of the River Wharfe whilst Gareth told us about its course from The Yorkshire Dales and its occasional tidal bore ( only 10 - 12 inches so no good for surfing ). After Ryther we turned back towards home. Crossing over the railway once again we this time took advantage of the bridge and some adjacent sleepers as seating for lunch. The route home took us back through Paradise where we were greeted by the same little Jack Russell terrier we had seen earlier. It seemed confused by our return. Perhaps they don't get many people 'just passing through' Paradise .
Back in Church Fenton we all agreed what a very nice and very interesting walk it had been. Thanks to Gareth for planning and leading with aplomb . Steve for the photos and Neil for back-marking ( also with aplomb ). Charlie Pratt

Saturday 13 January 2024 3 Lincolnshire Villages

There were only 6 of us on this walk. Everyone else will have to think about what they missed. There had been a light covering of frost on my car first thing in the morning but as we drove through Bawtry and Gainsborough to get to Glentworth the sky began to clear and the sun came shining through the windscreen. The whole of the walk was completed in lovely bright and clear conditions. Virtually cloudless skies, no wind and that sun on our faces. What better way to spend a Saturday ?
We met outside St Michael's in Glentworth and did a 9 mile loop. Firstly going south to Ingham and then returning north through Fillingham to our starting point. The Lincolnshire countryside was looking good ( a bit muddy in parts but what the heck ) with clear uninterrupted views in all directions. We had a short elevenses break en-route to Ingham and then lunch at Ingham itself. This is a quintessential village with a village green, a shop and a pub. We ate our sandwiches on the benches on the green and then called into the Inn On The Green for a quick one. What with the roaring fire and comfy chairs it proved hard not to stay longer. But leave we did . On through the village and across the fields to Fillingham and its attractive lake covered in wildfowl. Crossing the bridge over the water we spotted a pike lurking in the shallow waters beneath. After Fillingham the path runs pretty much straight as an arrow past a Christmas Tree plantation and then a 'nodding donkey' site ( the second of the day ) back to Glentworth. Walking with a small group has a different dynamic and that, along with the change from cold and wet to dry and sunny conditions had made this a pleasant and relaxing day out. Thanks to those who came. Especially Angela for the photos. Charlie Pratt

P.O.I.
The name Glentworth comes from the Old English glente + worth for "enclosure frequented by birds of prey". In the Domesday Book it is noted as "Glentewrde". The Church of England parish church of Saint Michael dates from three periods, as shown by the varied masonry of its outside walls. The oldest part is the Anglo-Saxon tower. The middle section of the present church is the product of Georgian and Victorian rebuilding. Its eastern end, with its rougher stonework, is largely Elizabethan. Glentworth is the site of Glentworth Hall, an Elizabethan country house built by Christopher Wray. Villagers construct scarecrows for an annual themed 'Glentworth Scarecrows' competition event. (courtesy Wikipedia)

Thursday, 11th January '24 - Tickhill to Haworth

On a grey morning, with mizzle in the air, 21 of us, including guest Carol, met near the Buttercross in Tickhill.  We turned into Tithes Lane for a quieter briefing, before taking a narrow urban path parallel to Sunderland Street and bringing us out at the cricket pavilion, and thence to Sunderland Street.  We walked along until reaching a right of way off to the right just before the bridge taking A1M traffic past us.  We walked alongside it before turning right over the first of two rather high stiles - fine for us, but not, perhaps for older folk or those with hip or knee problems. We crossed a bridge over Bagley Dike before finding the A1M again. This track took us under the motorway and briefly into Haworth before we arrived at the Styrrup Hall Golf course, where we took advantage of their seats to take our drinks and snacks.  Suitably refreshed we followed the right of way through the golf course before crossing a footbridge into Jubilee Wood and then onto the beautifully- named Whinny Haugh Lane alongside Mill Stream.   Water Lane followed, taking us into Tickhill and passing The Mill Dam. Currently this is fenced off.  After many years of stress and worry for residents living in the vicinity of The Mill Dam, work to replace the old failing sluice gate has finally got underway. Work has been hampered by the weather as following removal of the old sluice we had heavy rain followed by snow meaning the high levels of water flowing uncontrolled from the Mill Dam were a cause of concern and put a temporary stop to the works. The levels are being closely monitored before work can be resumed (info from TTC).  We strolled past the site of Tickhill castle, built by Roger De Busli, Tickhill Castle started as an 11th Century Motte-and-Bailey and is one of the oldest remains in the Town. Following a seige in 1102, Robert Bloet added a curtain wall to the rampart around the bailey; the first part of the castle to be built of stone. By the 17th century, the castle had fallen into disuse but was re-fortified by Sir Ralph Hansby for the Royalists in the Civil War, however, it was then razed by Parliament after the defeat of the Royalists in 1648 to prevent its use as a stronghold in the future. The Gatehouse, much of the walls, and imposing mound without any surviving structures remain today. It is now the property of The Duchy of Lancaster and is a private residence open to the public one day of the year. (Info Tickhill Town Council).  We returned to the Buttercross at 12.15.  Many thanks to Di Scolari for backmarking.  David Gadd  

Tuesday 9 January 2024 – Two Castles and Queen Anne's Obelisk

( AKA Norman's Birthday Walk )
Those who went on last years version of this walk will recall that it was a very wet affair. Some may also remember that it went clockwise. This year it stayed wonderfully dry and we went anti-clockwise. 30 of us met in Bagger Wood car park and were greeted and briefed by Norman. No major roads to cross but the fields were still waterlogged and would be muddy in places so gaiters would be in order.  We crossed the lane and over a stile ( the first of quite a few ) towards Top Pit Wood.  Not long after we encountered what looked like a big problem. The small wooden footbridge over Crane Moor Dike was in a poor state and not passable. Fortunately the keen eyed amongst us spotted an alternative further along.  Despite being about a foot deep in mud this got us over.  After that the only difficulty was getting a grip in the slippery conditions underfoot.  However we didn't allow any of this to detract from our enjoyment of the walk. The countryside in this area is lovely and the views in all directions are superb. Elevenses were in a nice wooded glade and lunch was just outside Wentworth Castle. Along the way there were rabbits, squirrels, pheasants and buzzards and in the castle grounds more deer than I could count. One well antlered stag came close ( could it possibly have been the same one as last year?).  All this with the usual good company plus Norman's Birthday cake and cheese back at the car park made for another excellent walk. Thanks to Norman for leading, Phil for back-marking and Steve for the photos. Charlie Pratt

The Stainborough Estate was bought in 1708 by Thomas Wentworth after the nearby Wentworth Woodhouse estate was inherited by another branch of the family the Watson Wentworths. Thomas set about developing the house and grounds in rivalry and to press his claim to the title of Earl Of Strafford. In 1731 he renamed the estate Wentworth Castle. The house is now occupied by The Northern College for Residential and Community Education. The grounds and gardens are run by The National Trust. The remains of Stainborough Castle and St Anne's Obelisk ( built in 1734 ) are parts of the estate.

Saturday 6th Jan 2024 Haxey Hood

14 ramblers were present for this walk
setting off from the school lay by on the Nooking at Haxey heading for Epworth and Low Burnham. The plan was to end the walk and then give ourselves an opportunity to view the start of the famous Haxey Hood game about which more later. We briefly walked on the old
railway track the Axholme Line and then on to Haxey church.We then passed through Upperthorpe and northward towards Haxey Turbary where a coffee break was taken.The journey thus far had been easy walking without too much mud for a change.We moved on to Epworth turbary and eventually down to the Queens Head pub in the town where one or two of us who shall not be named stayed for an hour.Some sampled the cafes in the town instead. Our leader Rob had been regaling us with information about the history and geography of the area on frequent stops which was much appreciated by all of us.After lunch we made for Low Burnham and the historic Holy Well. Once past the village we took Burnham Beck Lane to join back up with the Axholme Line to Haxey. At this point a few went to their cars while the majority stayed on to view the Hood and joined the vast number of people present. After the Fool had made his speech with some difficulty because he was being "smoked"
(part of the tradition) most headed for the field adjacent to the Church where the Sway began.The idea of the game is that the supporters of four local pubs compete to take the Hood (actually a leather truncheon)back to their respective pub.Its a free for all scrum and when the Sway started moving ominously towards us ramblers we made our departure!
Many thanks to Rob for leading us expertly and for guiding us safely back and Angela for some great photos.
An historical note follows but for your information the winner on the day was the Kings Arms Haxey.
P.O.I
The nationally famous Haxey Hood game celebrated on Old Christmas Day 6th January each year used to be a more important occasion than Christmas itself that is at least in Haxey. People flocked to the village from far afield and relatives and friends would come to stay for several days to enjoy all the events that surrounded this long standing tradition.
The usual account of the origin of this boisterous affair says that in 1213 the Lady of the Manor Lady de Mowbray was out riding through Haxey when she suddenly lost her hood in a gale.Thirteen local farm workers pursued the good lady's Hood and one of them (the Fool) retrieved it but allowed another (the Lord) to take it from him and give it back to Lady de Mowbray. The chase had pleased her Ladyship and she wanted the gallant action to be remembered and commemorated on the same day each year.She gave 13 half acres of land to pay for this institution of the custom and for the feast that followed it.
Well now that tale sets the scene for this age long custom of chasing after the Hood and the chief characters in this annual scrimmage are the Lord of the Hood the Fool and 11 assistants known as Boggins and these make up the original 13 men who gave chase over 800 years earlier.
Nigel Ball

Tuesday 2 January 2024 A New Year Clumber RambleRain again. It began as drizzle as we were setting off but soon turned into persistent and increasingly heavy rain as we progressed through the park. Twenty seven of us met up for the walk. I had to be there because I was the walk leader. I can only speculate as to the motives for the other twenty six. Maybe they rely on a different weather app to me. Perhaps they wanted to show support. Or they may just be masochists who feel the need to be wet and uncomfortable. Given the fact they all remained smiling throughout and thanked me for the walk at the end I suspect it may be the latter. Whatever turns you on as they say. Seriously I think it is just being out and about in good company ...whatever the weather ! The walk was lovely when I recced it in August and not bad when I did a final check on Christmas Eve. But on Tuesday the previous nights heavy rain followed by more on the day had made many of the paths boggy and unpleasant.
We left the the start opposite the Clumber Park Hotel and headed west across mixed heathland and through small wooded areas on a not always direct route towards Carburton Bridge. Because of the distance involved and the poor weather we did not stop for the usual coffee break, but after crossing the bridge and turning back eastwards we pressed on to The Courtyard area for a combined elevenses and lunch stop. The cover of the cafe's umbrellas and the toilet facilities providing a welcome respite. Then onwards and upwards we went to cross Lime Tree Avenue and take a path through the woods until we emerged by the entrance to the caravan park. We crossed Lime Tree Avenue again and now went south towards Hardwick Village. The end was in sight but there was one last hazzard. The road that crosses the ford was ( as it has been for some time ) closed to traffic. The adjacent wooden footway was just clear of the water but had large deep puddles at both ends that had to be negotiated. Sad to say some walkers got wet feet. Sorry. Fortunately it was then only a short way on good tarmac roads back to the cars.
On reflection I would like to say that the conditions had enabled us to see a different side of Clumber Park's beauty and charm.
In truth I am unsure if all of the others would agree with me. These are the times when you find out who your friends are.
Thanks to everyone who came. Thanks to Steve for the photos . And thanks to Neil and Angela for backmarking and keeping the group together. Charlie Pratt

Thursday 28 December 2023 Twixmas Walk and Quiz
This year's Twixmas walk and quiz was another roaring success. Not at all put off by the poor weather forecast and perhaps desperate to get out off the house after days of eating and drinking 47 Ramblers ( and several co-opted dogs ) met outside St Michael's Church in Rossington. Just in case we had not had enough chocolate over Christmas Bob began by handing out more before getting round to briefing us on what was to come. Seven miles of walking followed by a brain teaser quiz in the local pub. The walk turned out to be a bit muddy in parts with some nice twists and turns ( but nowhere near as sticky and tricky as the quiz ).
We left Rossington on a path through the housing estate and headed towards The Northern Racing College before doing an about turn on a path behind The Mount Pleasant Hotel. Back near where we started we turned right past Go Outdoors on Littleworth Lane and across the main road into the woods at Hurst Plantation. Elevenses were in a lovely underpass of the new road that was built to take traffic to the now mothballed Doncaster Airport. Soon after that we went through the Hayfield Lakes area and then past the old entrance to The Yorkshire Wildlife Park. Entering the housing off Warning Tonque Lane we had hoped that one Rambler who lives there and had been unable to come on the walk might emerge from his house to cheer us on our way. But it was unfortunately not to be. So we carried on to Hatchell Wood before swinging back towards Rossington on a route that took us under the motorway and for a short distance alongside the River Torne to get back at the cars just after 1 o'clock .
Most us then got out of our muddy boots and proceeded to The Styrrup public house where Bob had arranged that we could eat our packed lunches and he would deliver his quiz. This was not your average pub quiz. Bob ( and his assistant Dave ) had prepared a number of picture boards that not only tested our ability to recognise what we were looking at but also our mental agility to make connections and see differences between what we seeing. It certainly got what was left of our little grey cells working overtime. We all thoroughly enjoyed it. Lots of discussion jokes and banter. Great stuff Bob. Thanks for all the hard work you and your team put into both the walk and the quiz. Thanks also to Neil for back-marking such a large group. CP

Thursday 21st Dec 2023 Clumber Park Revisited
On a wild and windy morning in North Notts a total of six Ramblers and one dog, Alfie, attended for what turned out to be a pleasant stroll through Clumber Park. We set off down to the lake and then took the path into and through Hardwick village. Then we headed eastwards through woodland where we encountered our first obstacle, namely a fallen tree across the path but this was easily bypassed. However soon afterwards a huge tree had been uprooted directly at the junction of two paths and this necessitated a diversion through brambles.The writer then managed to keep up his reputation for accidents by falling head first into said brambles. We then moved on to Crookford farm and stopped for a welcome break from the wind at the ford. After a short rain flurry some sunshine returned and after negotiating Spitfire Hill the magnificent seven returned home along Robin Hoods Way. It had been an exhilarating ramble expertly led by Rob and with only a little mud to contend with which made a pleasant change. Also everyone felt it was a good preparation for the forthcoming festivities.
Nigel Ball

Tuesday 19th December 2023 Festive Cusworth Circular

Twenty-seven ramblers arrived early to partake in the festive refreshments (port, wine, mince pies, shortbread, chocolate biscuits) generously provided by members. Plans to hold the event outside were curtailed by a heavy shower. Fortunately, the walk itself was blessed with dry, mild weather which included afternoon sunshine. This was a leisurely 9-mile ramble through Cusworth Village and around Sprotbrough Flash. Lunch was taken next to the canal near the Boat Inn, which sad to say, was still closed after recent flooding. The walk continued downstream along the levee of the R. Don before joining the Trans Pennine Trail back to Cusworth. Many thanks to all those who provided refreshments, to Neil for his excellent car parking skills and to Charlie for back marking.

Angela M Gibbson

P.O.I.
Picturesque Sprotbrough Flash is one of the richest wildlife sites in South Yorkshire. A mosaic of open water, wetland, woodland and limestone grassland, the site offers a year-round treat for wildlife enthusiasts.

The Trans Pennine Trail is a long-distance path running from coast to coast across Northern England on a mixture of surfaced paths, with some short on-road sections, and with gentle gradients (it runs largely along disused railway lines and canal towpaths). It forms part of European walking route E8 and is part of the National Cycle Network as Route 62 (referencing the M62 motorway which also crosses the Pennines). Most of the surfaces and gradients make it a relatively easy trail, suitable for cyclists, pushchairs and wheelchair users.

Cusworth was first recorded as Cuzeuuorde in the Domesday Book of 1086. By 1560, the original manor house and estate belonged to Sir Christopher Wray, who was once Speaker of the House of Commons, and his family. By 1669, it was owned by the Wrightson family. William Wrightson decided in 1740 to build the current Cusworth Hall, which existed as a home for the family until 1961 when the council purchased it and converted it into a museum, which still operates today. Cusworth has since expanded and is now a relatively affluent commuter village housing professionals working in Doncaster.

Non-members welcome, just turn up and say “Hallo” you will be well looked after

Thursday 14 Dec 2023 - Barnburgh Circuit

After days of rain, this day dawned fine and dry.  from the Crown Inn at Barnbugh ten of ud set out along the road in a southerly direction before turning left after 300 yards along a track towards Barnburgh Grange and on to Melton Mill Lane, where we turned to follow a footpath alongside the road. The original Barnburgh Grange was part of Nostell Priory in whose possession it had been for over three centuries at the time of the dissolution.  At the bottom of this slight hill, near the Dearne Bridge, we took a right of way between a few trees onto a very large, very muddy, field. Someone commented that it was sticky mud. Towards the middle several of us fell forward, as our feet stuck in the mud.  Most were able to stumble on, although for one person, his stuck foot led to a 15 minute nightmare. The problem with getting a foot stuck in mud is that the other foot has to take a lot of pressure to release the first foot. And that foot is then stuck. Several of us spent time on our knees scraping the mud away from a stuck foot in an attempt to free it. Then repeat, again and again. Having finally reached the end of the very muddy area we were able to make reasonable progress up the hill to the Doncaster Road, where we turned right and walked to High Melton.

After refreshments and a much-needed break we crossed the road and followed Hangman's Stone Lane, a dry,  smooth farm track to Hangman Stone Road. However Hangman's Stone Lane has it's own story. The story goes that centuries ago, when sheep stealing was a capital offence, a man stole a sheep from a field at night. He must have injured the sheep because he was carrying it over his shoulders and had tied its feet together with a rope. When he reached the lane now known as Hangman's Stone he stopped for a rest, placing the sheep on top of a stone post whilst he himself sat on the ground. He then fell asleep. The story is that the sheep must have slipped off the stone and the rope, which the man had round his body slipped up round his neck and strangled him, so doing the hangman out of a job.

We crossed Hangman Stone Road to walk along the delightful path through Barnburgh Crags, passing a relatively recent carved face on the cliff face. After about 500 yards we turned left and started our descent, mostly skirting the edges of more muddy fields until we reached St Helen's Lane, which took us directly back to the Crown Inn, passing the site of St Helen's Chapel on the way.  The ruins of St. Ellen's Chapel lie in St. Ellen's field, the most easterly of the open fields in the village. The ruins lie close to what was part of the Roman Ricknield Street now Hangman Stone Road. They are preserved in a copse a few yards away from a dried up well. It is believed that the Chapel was dedicated to Ellen, the Celtic goddess of armies and roads and was later re-dedicated by the early Christians to Helen, the mother of the Emperor Constantine.

So, the end of an 'interesting' walk, a five-miler which felt like ten.  David Gadd

Tuesday 12 December 2023 Norton and The Christmas Dinner

34 walkers met in the car park of the Royal Hotel in Norton for one of the premier events in Doncaster Ramblers social calendar. A bracing walk in the countryside followed by a hearty Christmas lunch. What could be better in the run up to the big day. The weather was predictably poor but we were all in good spirits as Gareth gathered us together for the briefing. He told us the local area was waterlogged from all the recent rain and the local roads were busier than normal due to drivers trying to avoid the roadworks on the A1. So Gareth had been forced to make last minute changes to the route and said he may have to make more as we progressed. As such both the route and the length of the walk were indeterminate. So far so good !
We left Norton and headed north out of the village on lanes and then muddy fields and tracks through Walden Stubbs until we reached Womersley. From there it was much of the same ( just varying degrees of water and mud ) as we turned south to Kirk Smeaton and Little Smeaton before heading east back to Norton. The farmland in this area is fairly open and there were good views in all directions . The small hamlets and villages are mostly in attractive stone and nice to walk through. Fair to say that the walking was perhaps not as challenging 'mud wise' as we had expected and the rain held off until we were almost finished. Along the way we had elevenses in a handy play area with seats and then a welcome pub stop at The Shoulder Of Mutton (what a nice pub ) in Kirk Smeaton. Gareth kept us to a good pace and we arrived back at The Royal in good time for the lunch.
Our hosts at The Royal made us very comfortable and welcome. The lunch was a splendid and noisy affair with all concerned enjoying good food and drink, silly jokes and party hats. Gareth and his helpers had done a great job in getting it all together. His efforts were very much appreciated by everyone. Roll on next year. Cbarlie Pratt

Saturday 9th Dec 2023 Whitwell Wood, Shireoaks and Thorpe Salvin

8 brave (or foolhardy) souls drove through pouring rain to Whitwell Wood (many doubting their sanity). As we set off, the rain had eased a little and the woods provided some shelter and easy walking on forestry tracks. Out of the woods and into the fields, we encountered several streams where there aren't normally streams, but negotiated them without too much trouble. The walk had already been changed from the route advertised because the path to Harthill was flooded (Shireoaks stood in for Harthill). By the time we stopped for a late elevenses at Shireoaks, the rain had nearly stopped. We stopped at a small green with benches at the end of Shireoaks Row, which used to be known as Tub Row because the residents used tubs to collect rainwater for washing because the well water was too hard for washing. From Shireoaks we followed the Chesterfield Canal past several flights of locks to the edge of Thorpe Salvin. We stopped for lunch at The Sorby Recreational Field in Thorpe Salvin and visited The Parish Oven pub.

We left the pub to find the sun shining and made our way through some more wet fields back to Whitwell Wood. I think people were mostly pleased that they'd come out on such an unpromising day. Brian Unsworth

P.O.I.
Whitwell Wood = Located near Worksop, Whitwell Wood is a broad-leaved woodland that covers 171 hectares The wood has a very high nature conservation status and it is has a wide range of flora including over 20 species that are indicators of ancient woodland. There are also numerous features of archaeological interest. Visit the wood to discover the Ginny Spring Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It has been designated for its rich flora including some species rare in Derbyshire.

Thorpe Salvin -The name Thorpe derives from the Norse for an outlying farmstead, while Salvin refers to 13th century lord of the manor Ralph Salvain. There are earlier references to the settlement though, including a mention in the Domesday Book as Rynkenild Thorp, part of Roger de Busli's Laughton en le Morthen estate. This name refers to the settlement's place on the Roman road of Rynkenild Street, now Packman Lane. Within the bounds of the parish is Netherthorpe Airfield which has been active since 1933. The noted Benedictine scholar and royal chaplain Serenus de Cressy was born here in about 1605.

Thursday 7 Dec 2023 - Hooton Roberts

Wednesday, 8th December was a fine day - clear blue skies, sunshine, frosty and hard underfoot - perfect walking weather!  Thursday, 7th December was none of these things. The day was overcast, and forecast to stay that way. There was no sunshine. The ground was wet and often muddy and there was drizzle in the air.  Not perfect for walking for some, but seven of us decided that we needed a walk and some company so we met in the car park of the Earl of Strafford in Hooton Roberts, where the kind landlord allows us to park. We set off on the road behind the church and reaching the bottom of the hill, mercifully clear of dumped rubbish, turned to the right, and north, to climb gently to higher land towards Grange Farm before descending to Denaby Lane.  After half a mile walking through Old Denaby we turned right at The Green and up into Denaby Wood. In the wood we heard that one of our number used to run through the woods as a schoolboy on the regular cross country run, a long, long time ago. On reaching the busy road at the end of the woods we crossed over and walked down to a playground shelter to have our refreshments.  Suitably refreshed we made our way around the outskirts of Conisbrough, crossing the A630 and proceeded to walk along Park Lane.

Back in the 1300 and 1400's Conisbrough Parks was forested and used for deer hunting.  It is recorded that in one year, 1392, a total of 580 deer were killed on the Great Haye, or hunting forest, of Conisbrough. There's hardly a tree left in the area now. After about half a mile we took a footpath to the right, where clearly visible were a number of air shafts from the time when water from the reservoir at Firsby made it's way to Doncaster. The reservoir is now redundant and the site is now a nature reserve. We reached Firsby Hall Farm and took a path across and up a very muddy field to Hooton Cliff, with the hardest rain of the day on our backs.  We descended the muddy track of Back Lane, which is often wet in dry weather, down to Hooton Roberts, where some of us went into the Earl of Strafford for a lovely light lunch.  David Gadd

Tuesday 5 Dec 2023 The Plan B Walk

Plan B because the walk originally planned would have been unwalkable due to mud and ploughed- up footpaths etc.
It was raining when 18 of us met in the layby just off the A631 to the east of Bawtry. 'Oh no' we thought and began preparing for another wet walk. But fortunately we were wrong The rain soon stopped and did not return. Indeed by lunch time the sun was out and we found a relatively warm spot for our sandwiches. After the briefing by Jackie and Catherine we set off. We were going to go behind Barrow Woods to Everton and then across the main road to Mattersey via Pusto Woods before returning across the fields and the main road again to Harwell. Then it would be through the woods back to the cars. The area is familiar to most of us and as such it would be easy to forget how varied and attractive it is. Open farmland with good views. Quiet shady woods. And two pleasant villages with nice churches in Everton and Mattersey. The River Idle and farmland to the far side of Mattersey were heavily flooded from the recent rains. Looking more like lakes than fields. One of the paths proved to be a bit of an obstacle course with huge puddles and menacing brambles. But we managed to overcome it with aplomb ( and a variety of comic walking styles). Otherwise the paths were just wet and muddy. Nothing we hadn't seen before. Another lovely walk in good company and a reminder of why I like the area so much. Thanks to Jackie and Catherine for arranging and leading ( and for the shots of Baileys at elevenses !). Peter for back marking and Steve for the photos. Charlie Pratt

P.O.I.
All Saints Church -The church has been altered and extended through the centuries, and it was restored in 1865–66. It is in stone with slate roofs, and consists of a nave with a clerestory, north and south aisles, a south porch, a chancel, a north chapel, a south vestry and a west tower. The tower has two stages, diagonal buttresses, a northwest stair turret, a three-light west window, clock faces, two-light bell openings with hood moulds, gargoyles, and an embattled parapet with corner crocketed pinnacles. The porch is gabled, the entrance has a chamfered arch flanked by columns with foliate capitals, a hood mould and a finial, and the doorway has a moulded surround.

Saturday 2nd Dec 2023 – Bentley to Thorpe Marsh

11 of us met at Bentley Park as the sun broke through the mist. We were warned about mud and crossing the East Coast Main Line (twice) and were soon on a disused railway line with a springy surface. We walked through Tilt, crossed the East Coast Main Line and into Thorpe Marsh Nature Reserve. We stopped for elevenses at the Barry Foster Memorial Hide. We walked through Thorpe Marsh and turned back to follow (at a distance) the River Don upstream, passing Rockware Glass (now owned by Ardagh Glass) looking over us on the opposite bank at Clay Lane. We headed away from the river to Arksey for lunch. After eating our sandwiches around the churchyard some headed to the pub and some to the cafe.

After lunch, we were soon re-crossing the East Coast Main Line, skirting the former site of Bentley Colliery and back to Bentley Park. The sun was still shining and we were much less muddy than we expected. Thanks to Peter Miller for leading a lovely walk Brian Unsworth .
P.O.I.
Thorpe Marsh Nature Reserve is a 77-hectare (190-acre) nature reserve located south-west of Thorpe in Balne,. The reserve is managed and maintained by a team of volunteers under the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust as well as Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Council. The reserve shares its name with the coal-fired power station which occupied the adjacent land prior to its closure in 1994 and the demolition of its remaining cooling towers in 2012.The site is on an area of lowland susceptible to flooding (floodplain) by the River Don, thus creating an area of marshland on which the reserve sits (hence the appended "marsh").

Thursday 30th November 2023; Sykehouse & Pollington

A group of 15 Ramblers accompanied by the leader assembled at Sykehouse Village Hall on a very bright but cold November morning. Following the leader’s briefing we set out in a southerly direction. The walk proceeded along Broad Lane, the main street through Sykehouse, before turning right along Starkbridge Lane. After some walking along minor lanes, the route then used a field footpath to make our way towards Pollington. Underfoot conditions were generally good. Another minor lane was used upon emerging from the footpath. This lane took us to a bridge over the Aire & Calder Navigation canal where we made our way onto the canal towpath. A short walk along the towpath took us to Pollington Lock where our morning break was enjoyed using a series of picnic tables. Afterwards we walked through Pollington itself, briefly pausing where an information board had been placed. Further minor lanes brought us back to the bridge where we had been earlier for towpath access. From here the walk retraced its outward route back to Sykehouse where an alternative route was taken to make our way back to the Village Hall. David Horne.

P.O.I
In 1940 the Royal Air Force built an airfield called RAF Snaith north-west of Pollington. From it flew primarily these bombing units: 150 Squadron with Wellingtons from 1941 to 1942 and 51 Squadron with Halifaxes from 1942 to 1945. After 1946 it fell into disuse. Pollington parish was part of the Goole Rural District in the West Riding of Yorkshire from 1894 to 1974, then in Boothferry district of Humberside until 1996. The parish church is dedicated to St John the Baptist and is a designated Grade II listed building.

Tuesday 28 November 2023 - 3 Lincolnshire Villages

The weather forecast was for dry bright conditions. No one had to drive through Sheffield . And it was an area we had not been to for a while. So no surprise that we had a good turn out for this walk. 29 of us met at St Michaels church in Glentworth ; an attractive village about half way between Gainsborough and Market Rasen. After some of us had investigated the church and its interesting decorated tombs we were briefed and set off in a northerly direction out of the village before swinging south towards Ingham where we stopped for our lunch break. The pub was unfortunately closed but had given us permission to use their outside seating where we sat in the sunshine for half an hour or so. From Ingham it was straight north to Fillingham with its lake and Christmas Tree plantation then back to Glentworth.
The whole walk from village to village was flat and across open farmland. Mostly on farm tracks and minor roads but some of it across fields that were waterlogged and muddy from the heavy rain the day before. That and a pair of wet and very slippery footbridges were the only drawbacks to an otherwise pleasant stroll in a lovely part of the world . An interesting feature of this' part of the world ' are Nodding Donkey oil wells. A couple of which we passed along the way.
The three villages are all mentioned in the Doomsday Book. Glentworth's name comes from Old English meaning ' an enclosure frequented by birds of prey '. Ingham which was once home to a WW2 airfield is from ' homestead of a man called Inga ' and Fillingham
from homestead of a family named Fygla ' Charlie Pratt

Saturday 25th Nov 2023 Wharncliffe Side, Ewden Valley and Bolsterstone

9 of us gathered at the car park of Glen Howe Park on a bright but cold morning. We were soon warmed by following Tinker Brook back up towards its source. After about a mile we crossed the stream and headed further uphill where we had views back down the valley and across the Don Valley and as followed the side of Spout House Hill we caught glimpses of More Hall Reservoir. We then headed downhill towards the reservoir down some muddy tracks and wet fields were cows and horses had added deep footmarks to the hazards. When we reached the shore of the reservoir, the leader found a spot that the sun couldn't reach for elevenses, though there was a view of the water and reflections of the other side of the valley lit in bright sunshine. We followed the shore to the dam of Broomhead Reservoir, which we climbed to then follow the shore of that reservoir round to the other side of the valley. We were now only a mile from Bolsterstone (our lunch stop) but half of that distance was straight up the valley side and some more wet fields. At the top of the climb we had views of the upper part of the Ewden Valley (including Broomhead Reservoir) and over Stocksbridge.

After lunch we followed the top of the Ewden Valley with views of More Hall Reservoir and even felt the warmth of the sun, before heading downhill towards the More Hall Dam. After crossing the dam we had our final (gentlest) climb around the shoulder of the hill, back across Tinker Brook to Glen Howe Park, still in bright sunshine, but now casting long shadows.
Brian Unsworth

Thursday 23rd November 2023 Tickhill: Stump Cross Lane

On a very windy and mostly overcast day, twenty-three of us, including guests Judith and Boyd, set off from the Buttercross in Tickhill, passing the library and with the site of Tickhill Castle on our left. We held the briefing here, rather quieter than the area around the Buttercross. The castle was built after the Norman invasion of 1066 and had a chequered history until 1648, when it was razed to the ground. We walk around Mill Dam and along Lindrick. Lindrick, along with Dadesley, were Anglo-Saxon settlements before Tickhill was established.

At the end of Lindrick we crossed the main road into Crooked Lane Head and followed this track over the railway bridge, which once crossed the South Yorkshire Junction Railway. This line opened to passengers in 1910 but had been built mainly to carry minerals. The passenger service finally closed in 1929.

After a bend to the right this track becomes Stump Cross Lane, which we followed to Blyth Gate Lane, which we crossed. After about 300 metres we entered land owned by the Sandbeck Estate. In April 2010 a notice appeared stating the th route was not a public right of way. This was correct, but people had been using this track for hundreds of years. The name, Stump Cross Lane, indicates the likelihood that there was once a medieval cross on the route. Also, consider that the route follows the high ground in a direct line with Tickhill Friary. Bearing those facts in mind, and wondering why the Sandbeck Estate would want to deny access, I began the process of claiming the route as a public right of way. This involved getting over twenty witnesses to state that they had used the route, ‘without interruption’, over a twenty year period. One witness remembers using the route in the 1950s. This was done and the claim was made by Doncaster MBC. The Sandbeck Estate appealed, which led to a public inquiry, held in December 2012. The consequence of all this was that the inspector concluded that the Order, to create a public right of way, be confirmed.

Upon reaching Sandbeck Lane we turned right for about 800 metres until reaching a footpath on the left. We took this footpath down to the A631, crossing a plank bridge which took us out of Doncaster and into Rotherham. We crossed into Limekiln Lane where there is a memorial to an explosion at Maltby Colliery in 1923, which is where we had our refreshment break. Further along there is a big field on the right, with many many hollows in the surface, where lime would once have been dug out. Hence, Limekiln Lane.

After about a kilometre along Limekiln Lane we took a footpath off to the right. This is a delightful path through light woodland, and across fields to the strangely named Denaby Wife Bridge. Then we had a gentle climb to Hindley Lane, which is an enclosed ancient trackway. To the Anglo-Saxons ‘-ley’ meant a forest clearing. These days there are more alpacas to be seen than deer on Hindley Lane. On the lane we came across a padlocked barrier, through which had had to clamber. This is a right of way and it should not be blocked. The blockage has been reported to the local authority.

Near the end of the lane we took a very short path to the left, alerting some noisy but secure dogs on our right, descended some steps to Apy Hill Lane and then ascended the steps away from the lane. We turned right and crossed a disused railway line, the site of an overnight stop of the royal train, carrying our late monarch and her husband, passing a small industrial estate and then left into a narrow footpath which reached houses in a cul de sac. We turned right and then left and walk towards the church and Buttercross, ending the walk at 12.40. Thanks to Rob and Nigel, and Alfie of course, for back-marking this walk.
David Gadd

Tuesday 21 Nov 2023 Thurgoland Boundary Walk, Sort Of!

Twenty seven members (including June from Rotherham Metro and Dave from Trafford Ramblers) plus Skylar the dog met at the Cote Green car park, near Wortley, on the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT), to complete the Thurgoland Boundary Walk with a few amendments to avoid a large road section. It was a pleasant surprise to have a dry start to the walk considering the weather we have experienced over the last few weeks plus it remained dry and relatively sunny throughout the day. After the usual briefing it was off along the TPT for a short distance then uphill to the A629 which was negotiated with care. It was then through the fields and plenty of stiles, which slowed progress, to Ayton Woodt by Crane Moor village where some convenient fallen trees provided seats for a welcome coffee break. Passing through the village it was back into fields and more stiles to Bagger Wood, Eastfield and Dodworth Moor End before reaching the Dove Valley Trail on the south side of Silkstone Common. Progress had been hampered by the number of stiles which would have meant a very late lunch stop at the public house so a 20 minute lunch break was taken sitting on the abandoned railway bridge steelwork. Refreshed and refueled it was off along the Dove Valley Trail, then onto the TPT, over the closed Silkstone Common railway tunnels, to the pub stop at The Travellers just to the north of Oxspring. A quick 30 minute break for liquid refreshment and it was downhill into the valley of the River Don which we followed downstream for about 1 Km before rejoining the TPT at Thurgoland Bridge. It was then over the River Don on the abandoned railway viaduct and through the abandoned Thurgoland railway Tunnel to Spring House. Leaving the TPT we crossed the River Don again, twice, taking us past the Lower Wortley Forge Industrial Museum then across the fields back to the TPT and our start point. Thanks to all who joined this walk especially to Neil for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson

P.O.I.

The earliest known written record of Thurgoland is in the Domesday Book of 1086, in which it is referred to as Turgesland. The name is of Old Norse origin and may mean 'Cultivated land of a man called Thorgeirr'. Other sources claim derivation from the Saxon ‘The fee farm in the Ga of Thor’ – meaning the rented farm on the land named in honour of the god Thor.
In the 1840s the Sheffield, Ashton-under-Lyne and Manchester Railway was built running past the village. A station was opened at Thurgoland in December 1845, but closed 11 months later. The two-mile-long Thurgoland Coal Branch opened on 24 November 1847 to serve the nearby Stanhope Silkstone Main Colliery.

Thurgoland was a centre for wire drawing mills. There were three wire mills in the parish: Old Wire Mill is thought to date from 1624, New Wire Mill was built around 1717, and Thurgoland Tilt Mill was operating in the 19th century. (courtesy Wikipedia)

Thursday 16th November 2023; Belton & Churchtown.

There was a good attendance for this walk despite grey skies and a little rain on the way to the car park. 21 Ramblers plus the leader assembled at Belton Coffee House car park for a 6 mile walk. A potential new member, Shamla, was welcomed and the group set off in a southerly direction. The rain had stopped and it stayed dry for the rest of the walk. Field footpaths and quiet lanes were mainly used. The underfoot conditions were generally good. The footpaths brought us out to a residential road. Turning right here took us towards Church Town where we had our morning break. All Saints Church can be found here, a most impressive church which provided a pleasant backdrop for our break. Afterwards we left in a northerly direction across more field footpaths before emerging onto another residential road. An amble along here heading east brought us out to a roundabout by the A161. After crossing carefully we took another quiet road which allowed us to gain access to a path which was formerly a railway line. This is now a very pleasant tree lined pathway. The path was used for quite a distance before it brought us to the A161 again with the car park just ahead. Thanks to Rob Elvidge for back marking. David Horne.
P.O.I
Belton Grade I listed Anglican church is dedicated to All Saints. The church is of perpendicular style. Within its chancel chapel is a 14th-century tomb, supposed to be that of Sir Richard de Belwood.

Tuesday 14th November 2023 Church Fenton

Twenty walkers met outside the church in Church Fenton on a late autumn morning with a watery sun just about breaking through a grey cloud. We set off across muddy fields on public footpaths towards Little Fenton, passing drainage ditches that were full from the previous night's rainfall. Passing through Little Fenton the first problem occurred as the farmer had ploughed in and sown the public footpath. However undaunted progress was made across it to the elevenses stop. After a short break progress was made until the second problem appeared where the public footpath was being built on and no diversion order visible by North Yorkshire Council or Contractor. A diversion was made past Low Hall Farm and out into countryside again following footpaths past Rest Park and Mattram Hall to Biggin for lunch. Lunch was at a pub that appeared to be a community run pub as it was only open on restricted times.
After lunch, following several very muddy paths past Lodge Farm to Paradise Lodge Farm. Skirting the edge of Paradise woodrow deer were observed for the second time in the day. Then a surprise occurred, the farmer had ploughed the field but left a nice smooth track to walk on.
The last bit of public footpath had also being ploughed up and no path left so road walking was taken up, skirting the edge of Leeds East Airport, formerly RAF Church Fenton. Back through the village to our start point, finishing the walk at 14.45. Thanks to Steve for photos and John for back-marking. Stuart Twell
P.O.I.
RAF Church Fenton The station was opened in 1937 and during the Second World War was home to air defence aircraft, a role retained by the Station until the 1960s when it became a training station. The last Station Commander of a self-determining RAF Church Fenton was Sqn Ldr David Morris, who had trained on Chipmunk aircraft at RAF Church Fenton in 1973. Sqn Ldr Morris returned to RAF Church Fenton in 1991 as the Officer Commanding Station Services Squadron, to prepare the as then autonomous station for yet another closure, and transfer into the control of RAF Linton on Ouse as a satellite airfield and Enhanced Relief Landing Ground. The gates of the fully independent RAF Church Fenton were closed at 12:00 on 31 December 1992, However, with its assets such as the Officers' Mess subsequently raised to the ground to save on maintenance, and the married quarters and other buildings sold off piece meal by the MoD, RAF Church Fenton's runways and aviation infrastructure were alienated from the remainder of the administrative site and remained operational until 2013. The satellite airfield Enhanced Relief Landing Ground was sold in 2013 and is now a civilian airfield known as Leeds East Airport.

Thursday 9th November 2023  Clumber Park

25 of us met and parked opposite the Muthu Clumber Park Hotel on the A614 near the (closed) gate into the park.We were rewarded with a sunny and glorious autumn day which was a blessed change from recent rain sodden Ramblers walks.
After a short briefing from our leader Rob we set off down towards the lake and then followed alongside it before branching right on to a little known footpath through Hardwick Wood.
On reaching the well-known Lime Tree Avenue we turned left and then left again briefly on to Robin Hood Way. We then reached our coffee stop namely Central Bark which had been recommended by Alfie. On leaving there we walked towards the lake and passed through Ash Tree Hill Wood. We crossed the lake and walked through the attractive Hardwick village to the ford now opened to pedestrians.There we watched a huge ditcher truck access the ford with some difficulty with some of us secretly hoping the driver might get stuck! But he did not! There was then a steady walk back up the hill to the cars.A brilliant ramble expertly helmed by Rob with thanks to Kathryn for the photos.
NB

Tuesday 7 November -2023 . Stanage Edge to Bamford Edge

The spring ‘23 edition of Walk Magazine listed a shorter version of this walk as one of Britain’s best walks and described Bamford edge as a “lesser-known pearl of the dark Peak”. With such a promising buildup, 23 of us braved the Sheffield traffic to meet at the foot of Bamford edge. We were not disappointed. Paths were muddy but passable and thankfully, we all remained vertical throughout the day! Light rain fell to start but the ascent of Stanage edge gave us wonderful views over to Whin Hill, Lose Hill and Kinder plateau. Soon after coffee, the rain stopped and it remained fine for the rest of the day. After a pleasant lunch stop at the Ladybower Inn, the afternoon climb to Bamford edge afforded even more spectacular views over Ladybower Reservoir, the Great Ridge, and Derwent Valley. We had time to linger at the top to enjoy the views and take photos before our descent to the cars at 3:45. Thanks to Peter for back marking, to Deet for co-leading and to Steve for taking photos. Phil Rawlins.
Note from PR; among the lovely photos there  is someone wearing a "Children in Need" hat, which reminds me it is still time to donate, details on the home page!
P.O.I
The plateau was the location of the Kinder Scout Mass Trespass in 1932. From the National Park's inception, a large area of the high moorland north of Edale was designated as 'Open Country'. In 2003, the "right to roam" on uncultivated land was enshrined into law, and this area of open country has been significantly extended. Parts of the Kinder Scout plateau (except legal rights of way) are still occasionally closed for conservation, public safety, grouse shooting or fire prevention reasons, but prior notice is generally given on the Peak District National Park Authority's website.

Thursday 2nd November 2023 Sykehouse, Eskholme & New Junction Canal.

Seven ramblers accompanied by the leader set off from the village hall at Sykehouse where permission had been granted to use car park. Heavy rain in the days leading up to the walk had caused plenty of puddles, particularly near the start as we were leaving Sykehouse. The weather was cloudy but only one light shower came our way after our morning break. Some of the walk during the first half of the walk was on an embankment which facilitated good underfoot conditions. However, the surrounding fields on the left were flooded with a huge amount of water. What is usually a field resembled more of a lake. My photographs on the website will give you some idea of the scale of the flooding. The walk proceeded close to a small hamlet called Eskholme and further on we joined the New Junction Canal. The canal towpath was used to cross a footbridge to the other bank, at which point we had our morning break. It was then good going using the canal towpath for quite some distance, crossing a road in the vicinity of a lifting bridge before carrying on a little further to where the road from Fishlake comes in. Here we left the towpath and used the road to make our way back to Sykehouse.

David Horne 02/11.

Tuesday 31 October 2023 - Walking To Walkington

If proof were needed that some people never learn from experience, 29 of us met by Skidby windmill on another wet Tuesday. The present mill dates from 1821, although there were mills on the site before then. It is still operational, but not at the moment as the sails have been taken down for refurbishment. After a general discussion on the nature of insanity, we set off past the mill and then past Gallows Hill - reputedly the site where sheep stealers were hanged at the time of Charles II. Not seeing any sheep (or indeed much else), we continued alongside fields through the village and on to the site of the 'lost' medieval village of Risby (probably washed away). Some tall trees provided a little shelter for our morning break, after which we continued to Walkington and the welcoming arms of the Dog and Duck. There they had set aside a room for us, presumably to limit the area requiring mopping afterwards, and we enjoyed a little respite. As we resumed in the afternoon, the rain eased and finally died away. However, any reduction in water overhead was more than matched by an increase in water underfoot and we splashed our way back until, with the windmill in sight, we finally reached dry land. There was a spring in our step as we walked back through the village to our cars, where a number of people said they had enjoyed the day (medical assessments are being arranged). Thanks to  Jeremy for back marking and Steve for taking photos. PG 

Thursday 26th October Misterton history walk

14 intrepid ramblers including our leader Rob and two newcomers Hilary and Steve set off on another rainy day from the White Hart in West Stockwith. The original start point had been altered because of the imminent closure of the Red Hart in Misterton where the car park had been expected to be out of bounds. This meant that the history of the area provided by Rob was slightly shorter than originally planned but there were still a number of stops on route which were very informative. We first of all headed north alongside the fast flowing River Trent and the various water lanes from which the village occupants used to access water for their cottages.We then went on to Ings Lane walking a number of tracks and fields with numerous puddles but thankfully little mud. On reaching the
River Idle at Misterton Rob pointed out the pumping station across the river with its twin chimneys nicknamed Kate and Ada and their history. We walked down towards the Haxey Gate pub and after a coffee/snack break we travelled back to Misterton on the other side of the Idle passing the said pumping station and briefly walking an ancient packhorse trail.
We then joined our third watercourse of the day namely the Chesterfield canal and arrived back in West Stockwith.
At the pub we were joined by a number of experienced Doncaster ramblers who assisted us at the bar! It was also great to escape the fairly continuous rain.
Many thanks to Rob for leading us so expertly and for all the interesting facts. Nigel Ball

Tuesday 24 October 2023 A Three Village Ramble
The best way to describe this walk is ' wet '. Unfortunately it rained from start to finish. The weather did not however deter 14 of Doncaster's finest Ramblers ( including Michael from Rotherham ) from turning up. We started in the car park of Markham Grange Nurseries where we had kindly been given permission to park . Phil briefed us; Steve took the customary group photo and off we went. First into Pickburn where the village stream* runs in a channel in front of the houses and then on across farmland to Hampole Wood. Elevenses were taken in the wood with the trees providing some ( but not much ) shelter from the rain. Across more wet fields and then the main A638 to Hampole village. Then on towards Skelbrooke.(Taking a sensible shortcut to avoid a ploughed field ) Here we had our lunchbreak in the grounds of St Michael and All Angels church. The church itself is attractive enough in its own right but was made more so by the profusion of pink cyclamen which were growing wild everywhere. Back by a different ( but equally wet ) route to Hampole and our cars. I remain amazed by our members ability to stay cheerful, happy and jokey in such poor conditions. Not sure what it says about us. Thanks to Phil for putting the walk on and leading . Norman for back-marking and Steve for the photos. CP
Pickburn gets its name from the small stream which runs through it . ( see above* ).
Hampole is mentioned in The Doomsday Book. Its name derives from Hana and Pol meaning Hana's Pool. There was once a priory there with a complement of 14 nuns ; and also a railway station until 1952.
Skelbrooke used to be a civil parish in its own right but is now merged with Hampole. The Grade II listed church of St Michaels and All Angels has medieval origins but was rebuilt in 1872 following fire damage.

Thursday 19th October 2023 - In search of Black Diamonds

Six walkers set of from Wentworth garden centre for this shorter walk.  We soon entered the grounds of Wentworth Woodhouse and passed the house with more windows than Buckingham Palace.  The group were told that the Fitzwilliam family were one of the richest in the world.  We strolled on over the landscaped countryside, eventually to take field path to mausoleum, which housed the body of one of the men in the Fitzwilliam family who was prime minister in 1782.  We carried on to Hoober Stand, which celebrated the defeat of George 111 by the Jacobites in 1745.  We then proceeded to the folly known as the needle, where it was said a Fitzwilliam, probably on an drunken night, said he could drive a coach through the eye of a needle. The needle folly was built the bet was won.  From the needle we proceed back to car park . This wasa very pleasant walk with good company. Tony Liversidge

Tuesday 17th October 2023 On the Edge with The Special K’s

On a misty, Tuesday morning, 23 ramblers, 2 walk leaders-Kerensa & Kim & 3 dogs met at The Haywood Carpark for today’s walk.
The mist quickly lifted & the sun came out which allowed for perfect views whilst walking the rocky paths along Froggatt & Curbar edge. We passed the infamous Eagle Stone which is a huge tower of gritstone with local legend attached to it…the age old custom is that before they are allowed to marry, the young men from Baslow have to prove their manliness by climbing to the top… not an easy task!
From here, we dropped to Wellington’s Monument for elevenses where homemade carrot cake & cookies were shared out. The monument is dedicated to The Duke of Wellington as a celebration of his victory at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.
Continuing onwards, we dropped down from Baslow Edge to the village of Calver where lunch in the sun was enjoyed. We then walked along the riverside before crossing the bridge & reaching the base of the ascent back up to Froggatt Edge.
Most people removed layers in anticipation of the steep climb back up but more importantly, people were still smiling when they reached the top! After enjoying the views from the stunning rock formations, the final stretch of the walk took us back along the Edge to the carpark.
Thank you to Charlie & Steve for back marking & to all who took photos.

Saturday 14th October; 2023 Summer Wine memories.

The title of this walk was inspired by the TV series “Last of the Summer Wine” which was set in and around Holmfirth, the venue for our early afternoon break. On a very bright but chilly October morning, nine ramblers plus the leader started the walk from the small parking area opposite the “Boshaw Trout” pub at Hade Edge. We started in a westerly direction, with plenty of good scenery on view and some ups & downs in this hilly area. Elevenses was taken by a picnic area close to Ramsden reservoir. Afterwards we descended and used a path which runs between Ramsden & Brownhill reservoirs. After crossing a small footbridge with a waterfall we ascended into Holme. The walk continued on field footpaths towards Digley Reservoir where we did a walk around the reservoir, bordering Bilberry reservoir at one point. A short stretch of road walking followed, at which point we had our first very brief shower of the day, before a descent onto Digley Lane which took us into Holmbridge. Another short break was taken here, with good views of the church just ahead. We carried on via Hinchliffe Mill and a pleasant riverside path into Holmfirth for an extended break. We left Holmfirth at 2.30 using a series of minor roads and field footpaths to make our way back up to Hade Edge where we arrived at 3.30. Thanks to Dave Tonkin for back marking. David Horne

P.O.I.

The town originally grew up around a corn mill and bridge in the 13th century. Three hundred years later Holmfirth expanded rapidly as the growing cloth trade grew and the production of stone and slates from the surrounding quarries increased. The present parish church was built in 1778 after the church built in 1476 was swept away in a flood the previous year. Dr Albert Lister Peace was the church's organist, at the age of nine, in the early 1850s. In 1850 Holmfirth railway station opened, on the branch line built by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company.

Local men who served and died in the First and Second World Wars are commemorated on the Holme Valley War Memorial found outside Holme Valley Memorial Hospital.

Holmfirth was the home of Bamforth & Co Ltd, who were well known for their cheeky seaside postcards – although around the time of the First World War, they produced postcards of a more sober nature. The printing works on Station Road has now been converted into residential flats. Bamforth's company were early pioneers of film-making, before they abandoned the business in favour of postcards. During the early 1900s Holmfirth was well known for film making; During the periods 1898–1900 and 1913–1915 Bamforth and Co. produced what the British Film Institute describes as 'a modest but historically significant collection of films'. (courtesy Wikipedia)

Thursday, 12th Oct '23 - Wadworth to the West

On a beautiful cool morning, twenty-two of us met near the church at Wadworth. A few, in shorts, possibly regettted their choice of clothing as we crossed the field, passing Wadworth Hall. Wadworth Hall is a grade I listed Manor House. It was built in 1749 for the Wordsworth family by the renowned northern architect James Paine. It is currently a private residence and has been since approximately 1995. The house, however, has served a number of purposes over the past 250 years. We turned the corner and entered The Shrubbery, which  was donated to the  Woodland Trust in 1994 from Wadworth Hall Trust. This small narrow mature woodland is situated on a north-facing slope to the north west of the village of Wadworth. Its elevated location makes it a prominent landscape feature in a relatively flat landscape, and is visible from the A1 (M) and M18. The wood was formerly part of the grounds of  Wadworth Hall, and still contains some garden features including an old fishpond and Ha-Ha wall. Also within the woodland are 4 wells known as the Gospel Wells, which were covered by metal grids for safety in 1995.  After passing through The Shrubbery we spent a couple of minutes looking at one of the finest views over Doncaster before descending Tofield Road and turning left to walk under the magnificent structure of the A1M and M18 junction. 

We soon turned into Wood Lane, a track much frequented by fly-tippers. Over many years of walking this track I have never seen it so bad. The problem has been reported to Doncaster Council. After passing this huge eyesore we turned left to skirt the edge of Wadworth Wood, crossing under the A1M and continuing south to Paddock Lane, where we stopped for refreshments. This was followed by a short walk along Long Gate before turning right to walk towards Lodge Farm, by-passing a small reservoir. From Lodge Farm we proceeded to Ant Wood, where we turned left towards Wilsic Hall and on to Wadworth, stopping for the obligatory photo at the sign marking the entrance to the village.  Thanks to John for quietly and efficiently back-marking.  David Gadd

Tuesday 10 October 2023 A Walk to the Viking Way

This lovely walk in the North Lincolnshire countryside was a return of one that Norman had originally led in September 2018. It was well worth it. After a thorough briefing 29 Ramblers ( including one new member and one one ex regular not seen for a long time ) set off from the Co-op car park in Barnetby Le Wold. At first we were alongside the railway track but soon turned off southwards on lanes and paths across farmland towards Hendale Wood. The weather was getting better as we walked and we were soon getting warm and shedding layers of clothing. Elevenses were at the wonderful Bridle Path ' honesty box ' cafe with its welcoming outside seats and tables. The going was fairly easy, flat and dry and with no stiles to slow us down we made good progress and were able to enjoy the splendid views on offer in all directions. Lunch was at The Cross Keys in the attractive village of Grasby ( where Norman had arranged for us to be able to eat our sandwiches in the pub beer garden). Leaving Grasby we picked up The Viking Way for our return section north westerly towards Barnetby again via Searby, Somerby and Bigby . Most of the way the land sloped right to left with the path in the middle making for panoramic views over the adjacent fields. Lincolnshire really is at its best at this time of year. Thanks to Norman for a great 11 mile walk and to Phil for supporting him as backmarker. Photos as always by Steve. Charlie Pratt

BBC Countryfile Ramble for Children in Need 2023    Saturday 7th October 2023

Most Saturdays will see Doncaster Ramblers tackling a ten or twelve mile hike in the wilds of Derbyshire or the flatlands of Lincoln and Nottingham, but not today. Joined by friends from Thorne Ramblers our neighbouring group, thirty three gathered in the car park at Hatfield Moors, for what turned out to be a six mile circular of this sight of special scientific interest. Under the watchful eye of the Humberhead Peatlands National Nature Reserve, a short briefing including H&S issues was held before setting off in a clockwise direction around the site. Within 200m of the start we encountered our first diversion (caused we were told by the risk of falling branches) adding a quarter mile to the route. Luckily the footpaths were in the most part easy going, and the weather, though forecast bight sunshine remained dull all day. Finally back on track, and after 600m of a relatively straight line we had a series of right right left left turns challenging the walk leader’s navigation skills! The stunning vista and lively chatter helped keep everything on track, including tea, coffee, comfort, and “get my breath back” breaks. We now began that long exposed one and quarter mile stretch across the peat. Sadly it was the wrong time of year to see much flora and fauna although a juvenile grass snake was making its way across the footpath as we passed. Turning right and half a mile later we had reached the half way point. Back among the greenery thoughts turned to what it would be like doing this walk in heavy rain, trust Ramblers to look on the bright side. What was bright seeing our target £1k getting ever closer. The end was in sight too as a couple of half mile stretches brought us onto the Peatland Way where we remained for 3/4/mile before reaching both the car park, and a thousand pounds

P.O.I,

Hatfield Moors is a 1400.7 hectare (3461.1 acre) biological site of Special Scientific Interest in South Yorkshire. The site was notified in 1954. The site is managed by Natural England.

In The Gentleman's Magazine 31 August 1727, George Stovin made reference to Hatfield Moor: "Here is great plenty of furze buſhes, and variety of game, ſuch as hares, foxes, kites, eagles, curlews, ducks and geeſe; there is no houſe or cottage near it, and but a few old oaks, fallows, and birch; the ſouse is a little ſtud-bound one, and ſeems ready to fall"

SSSI
Hatfield Moors is the remaining part of a once more extensive raised bog in the Humberhead Levels, and is the second largest lowland raised peat bog in England. Much peat has been removed from the site over the years but peat-cutting has now stopped, and the bog is being allowed to regenerate. Underlying the peat are moraines of sand and gravel, which rise to the surface in one place, forming Lindholme Island. This is the site of a late neolithic timber trackway discovered in 2004, about 45 m (150 ft) long, with rails about 2 m (7 ft) apart, extending from dry land across a shallow pool to a wooden platform. The timber used was poles of pine, a reflection on the local availability of the tree at the time it was built.

On drier patches plants include the dwarf shrubs heather and cross-leaved heath, in wetter places common cottongrass, hare's-tail cottongrass, bog cranberry, bog-rosemary, bog-myrtle and several species of Sphagnum moss. The invertebrate fauna includes the rare mire pill beetle,and other uncommon species of beetle, the bog rush cricket and the large heath butterfly. Birds that breed here include various heathland passerines as well as the nightingale, nightjars and three species of owl. The running water in the drainage ditches provides habitat for twelve species of pondweed, greater bladderwort, arrowhead and the nationally uncommon short-leaved water starwort.

Tuesday 3 October 2023   Harrogate Circular

The weather forecast had been good but it was nevertheless drizzling when 10 Ramblers met in the small car park adjacent to Harrogate Showground. So we were prepared for the worst and some walkers even donned over-trousers etc. Fortunately the rain didn't last and although it got quite windy at times there were also periods when the sun came through and we overheated. This meant there were plenty of wardrobe changes all the way round as we went through regular , ' on/off ' routines.
The walk itself was a 14 mile clockwise loop taking in Stonefall Cemetery ( and its Commonwealth War Graves ), the lovely Knaresborough Lido ( where we stopped for elevenses after walking alongside the River Nidd), Little Ribston ( where we heard about the Ribston Pippin Apple and had lunch on a handy wall overlooking a field full of sheep ) , Plumpton Rocks ( an historic 18th century landscape garden ) , the edge of Follifoot village and finally Rudding Hall Park, before crossing the river Crimple ( avoiding the stepping stones ! ) and back to the cars. The North Yorkshire countryside was lush and green ( and a little muddy in parts ) due to the recent rain. The terrain was mainly flat but nicely varied with urban areas giving way to woodland paths and farm fields and some estate lands as we went round. The company as always was bright and entertaining. Another great walk from Gareth. Thanks to Steve for the photos. Charlie Pratt

Saturday 30th September 2023  Alport Castles Tower Circular
Eleven of us gathered at Fairholmes on a warm, dry day before heading up Lockerbrook. A gentle descent brought us into the valley of the river Ashop, before making our way upsteam to the confluence with the river Alport, where cake was cut and shared.
We then followed the valley of the Alport upstream. After a steep ascent up to the ridge we lunched with a view of Alport Castles Tower. The walk then continued (although disappointingly the rain had now arrived) along the ridge, which provided us with spectacular views of the valley and the ridge leading to Mam Tor, before returning to Fairholmes via Hagg Side. Thanks go to Gareth, Carol and Carmen for taking it in turns to back mark. Angela M Gibson

P.O.I.  The Alport Castles are a landslip feature in the Peak District National Park in Derbyshire. At over half a mile long, it is thought to be the largest landslide in the United Kingdom. The name "castles" comes from the debris from the landslide, which has produced several gritstone mounds that tower over the valley and appear from the distance to look like castles. Viewed from a distance the largest of these, the "Tower", resembles a full-scale motte and bailey castle.The Alport Castles are on the eastern side of the River Alport valley, part of the National Trust's High Peak Estate; they lie north of the Snake Pass and north-west of Ladybower Reservoir.

Formation
300 million years ago, the area now known as the Peak District was part of a river delta that flowed into the sea. The deposits were sorted such that the finest material travelled the furthest and was deposited in the deep ocean as black shales. Further deposits accumulated on the slopes of the oceans and collapsed, resulting in turbidite deposits. Further turbidite flows eroded into previous ones, resulting in the type of deposit seen at Alport Castle. As the delta prograded (the mouth of the river moved further out to sea), the deposits become coarser. In the Peak District this coarse material is the gritstone that caps high points, protecting them from erosion. The exact cause of the landslide is still debated. One theory is that the soft shales below are too weak to support the weight of the heavy sandstone above and collapse under it, or that, because water can run through gritstone but not shale rock, trapped water may have "lubricated" the rock to the point where one layer slid over another, causing the landslide.A further possibility is that a valley glacier steepened the sides of the valley, leaving unstable slopes that failed after the glacier melted, causing the landslide. However, immediately upstream is a normal river valley so any glacier would have been small. Alport Castles has been selected for geological conservation as one of the most significant landslips in Britain.

28th Sept 2023 - Tickhill North and South                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

On a fine but grey morning 22 of us met at the Buttercross in Tickhill. Among the 22 were guests Barbara and Malcolm, and Zoe. To get away from the noise of traffic we went round the corner to the Tithes Lane field for the briefing before setting off across the field, through a housing estate and then over the A1M and onto Common Lane. We turned left into Hopyard Lane, where there was apparently a hop yard some time in the past. We passed a plantation of 180 trees, planted to make cricket bats when they're fully grown. We then turned right, east, heading towards the River Torne, which we followed for about a mile, stopping part-way for our refreshments. We crossed the Torne and followed it for a short distance before taking a crossfield path towards Sunderland Street. We crossed the street for the Tickhill South part of the walk, taking a long straight path adjacent to the motorway.  We turned right, westward, and then left to walk beside a field of tall bio-fuel. After climbing a rather difficult stile, which the landowner rufuses to allow to be lowered or replaced by a stile, we turned right again, climbed another high stile before crossing a field to reach the south side of Castle Fields and a narrow footbridge onto Water Lane. We followed this round to Mill Dam, which is next to the site of the Tickhill castle. The castle was built by Roger de Busli, a major landholder following the Norman Conquest. The castle had had a chequered history, finally being razed to the ground in 1648 to prevent it being used as a stronghold again. We walked around Mill Dam and then towards the Buttercross again, finishing the walk at 12.45.  Thanks to Nigel and Alfie for efficient back-marking.  David Gadd

26th September 2023 Longshaw Trek
Sixteen walkers, plus two dogs, gathered outside Longshaw Lodge for the start of a nine-mile walk. Rain for 30 minutes then dry and warm with clearing skies for the rest of the day.
Our route took us around the lake at Longshaw before following Burbage Brook upstream to the old packhorse bridge. We made our way uphill (boggy in places) to the top of Carl Wark for an extended elevenses where cake was cut and shared.
Across the moor with spectacular views towards Mam Tor, before lunch at Hathersage Booths overlooking the Derwent valley. Descending down into the valley we followed the river downstream through Coppice Wood to Padley gorge. Our route then went uphill through ancient woodland to Bolehill Quarry.
The last part of the walk went across the moor to Owler Tor and then back to Longshaw.
Thanks to Neil, Brian and Dave and for being excellent backmarkers.
AMG

Thursday 21st Sept 2023 Walkeringham
18 of us attended at the Fox and Hounds pub in Walkeringham on a beautiful autumn day for this leisurely stroll to the village of Beckingham. The weather gods were certainly shining on us after a very wet few days. After a brief instruction from Nigel about the possible hazards we might face we set off initially eastwards but very soon in a southerly direction. Two railway crossings were made without incident and All Saints Church Beckingham was an early coffee break. The ramblers were encouraged to look for the church rat 🐀 which resided in an alcove next to the toilet and most people who entered the church found it and were pleased to note it was only a soft toy! We then walked through the attractive village and across the busy dual carriageway leading to a series of fields. Crossing the road from Gainsborough to Gringley we reached a green lane called West Road from which there was a fine view of Gringley. After a short piece of road walking on Wooden Beck Hill we took the footpath back into Walkeringham and the unfortunately closed pub where a group photo was taken. Thanks to Nigel for an enjoyable (hopefully) walk and Rob for a quietly efficient back mark. Also a thanks to Jade for taking over the photographic duties.
POI
The place name Walkeringham seems to contain an Old English personal name Walhhere and was possibly "the village of the people of a man called Walhhere".
The village appears in the Domesday book of 1086 as Wacheringeham and as Wacheringham.
Nigel Ball

Tuesday 19 September 2023 To Emley Tower With Stile ( 31 )

What a shame about the weather.This was otherwise a lovely walk in beautiful countryside with great views in all directions. Emley Moor TV mast was the focal point and was in sight all the way round. But the weather let us down. Steady rain and at times quite strong winds persisted throughout the day and made the going tougher than it should have been. I think all 10 of us, with various degrees of comedy, slipped onto our bottoms at some point. At least thinking about the weather took our minds off the advertised 30+ stiles. I must admit I lost count half way round. What with all that and some overfriendly cows to fend off we had fun and enjoyed ourselves as only Ramblers can.
We started in Clayton West and went north . Basically making a big anticlockwise loop up towards Flockton and then after elevenses swung west across Flockton Moor via Six Lanes End. Pete and Julie had arranged an excellent and very welcome pub stop in Thorncliffe where the landlady at the local pub / club had opened specially for us. So we had our sandwiches, beer, coffee and hot chocolate in dry warm surroundings. Absolutely marvellous. After lunch the rain did ease slightly as we made our way through the hamlets of Roydhouse and and High Chambers and then across Emley Park back to Clayton West to finish the 10 miles. Thanks to Pete and Julie for leading and backmarking and to Steve for the photos.

POI
The current TV mast at Emley Moor has been there since April 1971. At 1084 ft it is the highest free standing structure in the UK ( 10 ft taller than The Shard ! ) . The old mast collapsed on March 19 1969 . See Wikipaedia for details.

Also worth reading on Wikipaedia is the story of the Flockton Grey. A racehorse involved in one of the UKs biggest betting scandals in March 1982 . Particularly intereseting because it was owned by Ken Richardson who went on to further infamy after being convicted of attempted arson at Doncaster Rovers.

Thursday 14th Sept 2023 -Dearne + Don (Pastures Circular)

Having been given permission to use the Pastures Lodge car park, in Mexborough, we turned right from the car park and walked to the Dearne and followed the tarmac path, crossing the river and gaining height. We soon reached the site of the former Earth Centre, now Kingswood, an outdoor activities centre. However some of the site has been used for housing. We followed the path around until we crossed the Don, the Dearne and the Don having joined out of our sight. We were in the location of the once-huge Kilner bottle factory. Passing through Conisbrough station we climbed onto Conisbrough Crags. Now a peaceful and calm place, the Crags have been the site of much activity. What is known as Lady’s Valley was the site of the North Cliff sandstone quarry – at the top of the stone railway running down to the lime kilns below – a title attributed to the story that a woman once hanged herself there. The area hosted all kinds of events – both savoury and unsavoury. Girls from the local Sunday school picnicked there – but in the Depression, prostitutes also met their clients there. Many young girls were forbidden by their parents to go there. Men also flocked from both Conisbrough and Denaby, for illegal gambling sessions there – some posted at the entrances to the area as lookouts against the local bobbies.The constabulary would raid The Crags on a regular basis. Also on the Crags, or rather under them, in the 1870s the Doncaster Water Company began constructing a series of reservoirs at Ravenfield and Thrybergh. A series of tunnels, to carry large-bore cast iron water pipes, were laid. In 1878 tunnelling engineers were stunned to discover massive fossil bones of a mammoth, some of the bones having been gnawed by a hyena. At the far end of the Crags we had elevenses at a scruffy skate park, just after we’d been witness to police, and police dog, activity trying to find somebody, presumably in the woods above us. After our break we crossed the busy road and walked down through Denaby Woods to Old Denaby, where we turned left until we reached Ferry Boat Lane. This took us to the railway again, the Don and the adjacent Mexborough Canal. From here we walked along the banks of the canal, where we came up to the main road - and the Shimmer estate, blighted by HS2 plans. We turned right and walked the short distance back to Pastures Lodge, where many of us enjoyed drinks and a lunch.

I am indebted to the Friends of the Crags for much of the historical information related to this walk, as well as to Tony Liversidge!

POI
John Kilner and Co introduced the Kilner jar to the world in 1842 – and with its unique two-piece seal system with a glass lid and metal screw band, it revolutionised preservation, while minimising the danger of food poisoning. The original jars were large – holding nearly three pints. They were made at Kilners’ original glassworks at Thornhill Lees in Dewsbury. But as demand soared for the jars, the factory’s resources were soon hard-pushed. So Kilner opened a new Providence glassworks, in “Conisbrough”. The works – on the banks of the Don, and adjoining the main Doncaster railway line – covered 11 acres. It had its own private wharf for water transport, and employed 400 people – many living in 76 cottages provided for them by the company. One of Conisbrough’s important industries was the lime kilns. Limestone was obtained from a large quarry on top of Denaby Crags, and a 3ft-gauge, double-track railway was laid on the steep hillside connecting the quarry to the kilns. It was initially a self-acting incline, about a quarter of a mile long, whereby the weight of the loaded wagons going downhill pulled empties back up the hill by means of an endless rope.
From the mid 1850s, a stationary haulage engine was installed. The line’s claim to fame, however, was that it was a railway itself made of stone, laid sometime about 1745 to 1760, and was in operation before iron was thought of as a useful rail material. Also on the crags were bell pits. They were the earliest form of mines and were used to extract not only coal, but also iron ore and many other minerals. Some bell pits went to a depth of 60ft and their crude construction made them dangerous. The name ‘bell pit’ comes from the round bottle shape of the vertical shaft and the mining out from the seam of coal below. As early as 1487, there are records of small bell pits being worked in the fields in and around Denaby Woods. Apparently, such work was carried out by individual families. David Gadd

Tuesday 12th Sept 2023  2-4-1 Nature Reserves

I first led this walk on 15 July this year and opened the report by saying that the weather forecast that day was dire. Todays forecast was even worse. It was raining heavily when we met in the small car park at Daneshill. The forecast was that it would carry on raining heavily until mid afternoon. And it did. Then it slowed to heavy drizzle and then light drizzle and only stopped once we were back at the cars at about 3 o'clock. One walker said he had not been so wet since he fell in a stream near Harrogate.
So the mystery was why 21 people turned up. I was leading so I had to be there...but I wonder about the others. The only explanation they gave was '' we are Ramblers ''.
After the briefing and group photo we set off across the road and into the woods opposite the car park. Looping round we crossed the road again and took the path at the top end of the nature reserve that runs alongside the railway. At the end of this path is a sign pointing the way to The Idle Valley via Sutton Cum Lound. A short coffee break was taken in the churchyard / graveyard of St Bartholomews Church in the village. Leaving the village we headed up the road before turning towards Bellmoor Farm. The alpacas that usually come to the fence to greet you were wisely out of sight in their dry stables. Then past Wetlands and into the Idle Valley Nature Reserve at its top end. We found the river and followed it until we got to the Visitors Centre. By this time the rain had eased a little and some of us were feeling optimistic enough to sit at the outside tables. Our optimism was misplaced and the rain came back with vengance.
After lunch we negotiated the A638 to get back to the outskirts of Sutton. Here we took an interesting diversion around a field behind some bungalows ( I missed a footpath turn ! ) but were soon back on track and back to St Bartholomew's for the return leg to Daneshill. The walk is a sort of 'figure of eight '. On reaching Daneshill we skirted the main lake and as mentioned earlier got back to the cars just as the rain finally stopped. Such a shame that the rain had dominated the day. The area is otherwise attractive and the walking fairly easy and flat in varied woodland and farmland.
A testament to The Ramblers spirit was that my half hearted offers to shorten the walk on a couple of occasions were both refused by the group. Thanks to Neil for backmarking, Steve for the photos and to everyone who came for walking in rotten weather and remaining cheerful throughout . Charlie Prett

WALK REPORT. WHITBY COACH TRIP MEDIUM WALK
SATURDAY 9th Sept 2023
Forty-six people boarded a coach for our annual trip to the seaside on what was going to be the hottest, and possibly most humid day, of the year. A couple of hours later we arrived at our first stop of Staithes where twenty-four dismounted for the long walk (just under 13 miles and lead by Kim, Carmen and Kerensa) following the Cleveland Way to Whitby. Next stop was Runswick Bay where 14 of us alighted for the medium walk (just under 10 miles and lead by Angela) again following the Cleveland Way to Whitby. Those left on board, led by Charlie, did the short walk of 3.5miles from Sandsend to Whitby walking along the beach and promenade.
On the medium walk after getting of the bus a short walk down a steep road brought us to the pretty village of Runswick and the picturesque Runswick Bay, where we stopped for lunch and a comfort break. Then it was off along the beach before tackling the main stiff climb of the day onto the England Coast Path on top of the cliffs. On a very hot day we were all glad to reach the top, take on some liquid and catch our breath. Following the costal path, we were treated to great views of Runswick Bay and Kettle Ness. Staying on the Cleveland Way past the abandoned Alum quarries we dropped down to join the tourists in Sandsend. A short refreshment break was taken overlooking the beach with some taking the opportunity to buy a cooling ice cream. It was then onto the sand walking on Sandsend Beach, Upgang Beach and Whitby Sands, which were busy with holiday makers taking advantage of the hot weather, leaving the beach at West Pier and walking through the town to the coach park at the rear of the railway station to drop our rucksacks and change out of our heavy boots.
All 46 of us then met up at Hadley’s fish and chip restaurant just after 5 o’clock for a well-earned tea and a chance to top up our fluid levels. It was back to the coach at 7 arriving back in Doncaster at about 9 in the evening.
None of the above would have been possible without the hard work and organizational skills of Kim, Carmen, Kerensa and Angela who planned and executed the day brilliantly. Many thanks to the four of them, their efforts were greatly appreciated by all those who attended.
WHAT A GREAT DAY.
Stephen J Tomlinson

9th Sept '23 - Whitby coach trip

On a beautiful, sunny September day, a coach filled with Doncaster Ramblers members & their friends & families headed off to the seaside for a day of hiking. For the A walk- led by Kerensa, Kim & Carmen, 24 of us were dropped off in the pretty seaside village of Staithes where Captain Cook began his working life. From here, we began our route South back to Whitby, following an undulating route along the Cleveland Way which took us to the cliff tops looking down into Port Mulgrave. From here, we continued along the coastal path before heading downwards & being greeted with the very welcoming views of Runswick Bay where our lunch stop was planned.
As the weather was so perfect, a longer lunch was agreed with several people opting to take advantage of this (me being one of them), & having a swim in the crystal clear waters… very refreshing😊. Others enjoyed their lunch looking out over the stunning vista & many ice creams were consumed.
After lunch, our route took us across the Sandy beach & up a particularly steep section back up the cliff side to High Cliff where many of us regretted having a big lunch! At the top, the views were admired while people got their breath back before continuing along the tops to Kettleness. From here we passed an old railway tunnel before dropping down some particularly steep steps into the end of Over Dale where the other end of the tunnel comes out. Continuing on, we walked along the old railway route into Sandsend where we were greeted with another beautiful sandy beach with the tide out. This enabled us to walk the final stretch back to Whitby along the shoreline, where several people opted to remove their hiking boots & enjoy the feel of the water & sand between their toes. The last couple of miles gave us lovely views of the pier & Whitby Abbey getting closer to us which also meant our fish & chips were getting closer! We spotted star fish along the shore & also one of the famous Whitby pirate boats offered a backdrop for photos.
Arriving into Whitby approx 13.5 miles after setting off from Staithes, we all headed to Hadley’s restaurant where we rejoined all the other walkers from the group & enjoyed delicious food before heading back to the coach for the journey home to Doncaster. Carmen had handed out a quiz on the journey to Whitby & cash prizes were handed out to the winners on the way home. A great day was hopefully had by everyone. Kerensa Barker

7th Sept -23 - The One-handed Clock Walk

Fifteen of us, including guests Derek and Louise, met at the cafe area of the Thrybergh Country Park on a very warm morning. After the introductions and briefing we walked in an anti-clockwise direction to the far end of the lake and turned left along Thrybergh Lane to Ravenfield. We paused by an old railway bridge, the railway having come to Ravenfield in 1907 just after the opening, in 1905, of the huge Silverwood Colliery. We walked through Ravenfield, turning up Garden Lane to a stile which took us into open countyside. This particular field was inhabited by a herd of inquisitive cows, who appreared to threaten, but galloped off as we approached them. After this field we passed through Church Farm and crossed a much bigger field to Arbour Lane, where we stopped to take on water in the shade. This led us, after about 400 yards, to follow the right of way across the Thornberry Animal Sanctuary to Ravenfield Grange Farm. We turned left along Moor Lane for about half a mile before turning left again, by-passing Conisbrough Grange Farm as we walked north along Park Lane.  We stopped for elevenses in the shade of a strip of woodland before turning left towards Firsby. From her we turned left again, by-passing the Firsby Reservoir and then Ravenfield Park. After 500 yards a right turn took us across a field directly towards Ravenfield Church and its one-handed clock.  We then walked along Spring Lane to the old railway bridge where we'd paused about two hours earlier. From here we went down Thrybergh Lane and turned right into the Country Park, continuing our anti-clockwise circuit of the reservoir to the car park area. Thanks to Tony for back-marking. David Gadd

POI: Thrybergh Country Park. Thrybergh Reservoir was built between1876 - 1880’s to supply the borough of Doncaster with water. Throughout its history it was never entirely successful, largely due to the vast amount of water escaping from its bed. For decades the purpose of the reservoir was fraught with problems, and by the late 20th century it was no longer considered to be a viable proposition. Thus, it was sold in 1980 to Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council who have turned the site into an admirable conservation area and country park in 1983.Today the country park provides an important habitat for birds and other wildlife. Over 155 species of birds have been recorded as well as 20 species of mammals and 170 species of plants. During spring and autumn it is an important migration stop-over for birds and during the winter months it holds a large population of wintering ducks, geese and swans. Two public bird viewing hides are available. It would be true to say that the cafe area is 'tired' and indeed there is the Thrybergh Country Park improvement project, with an investment of £2.5 million aiming  to improve the facilities at Thrybergh Country Park, with the existing café  being replaced with a larger café, retail and visitor centre which will include an external terrace to provide outdoor seating with views across the reservoir. 

Ravenfield. The known history of Ravenfield goes back as far as the Danes who gave Ravenfield its name in the ninth century.  At the time of the 1086 Domesday Survey William de Warenne held the Manor of Ravenfield as a gift from his father-in-law William the Conqueror. It was held as part of an extensive lordship which included 28 local townships from Aston to Whiston, Conisbrough to Hoyland. The area changed hands many times over the next five hundred years, with the Westby and Hartley families owning much of the land.  In 1316, the Westby family, lords of the manor living at Ravenfield Hall, established the deer park, called Ravenfield Park. In 1749, when the Westby fortune diminished the Ravenfield estate was sold to Mrs. Elizabeth Parkin, a Sheffield socialite who was rich with money she had inherited from family commerce. in 1756 She used her wealth to replace the  medieval church with a new church designed by the York architect John Carr. Mrs Parkin also employed Carr to build a new Georgian mansion on the site of the Westbys' house.

The Ravenfield estate was sold off in lots in the 1920/30s and the Hall was largely unoccupied until the Second World War . The first wartime inhabitants of the hall were returning soldiers from the evacuation of Dunkirk who were temporarily billeted there. A prisoner of war camp was built in the park and the hall was used for training purposes. The prisoners were first Germans and later Italians, and they worked, under guard, in the collieries. At the end of the war they were kept to help with the re-building of Britain and the camp did not close until about 1948. After the War the Hall and Ravenfield Hall Farm were bought by the Heath family. However, the Hall remained empty and was used for storing straw. The Hall was burned in 1961 and the remains were demolished in 1962. The remaining stables and outbuildings were converted into dwellings. 

Ravenfield Park
The area we now know as Ravenfield Park is a remnant of a deer park owned by the Westby family, known to be living in Ravenfield before 1200 AD. It remained with them until 1749.
In 1972 the owner at the time, Mr Heath, sold the valley to the then British Steel sports organisation, Phoenix Sports and Social Club, as an angling facility for their members. In the following eight years the demise continued until in 1979/80 when the angling clubs embarked on a programme of restoration and development. Much of the effort centred on securing the ancient ponds which were in a poor state of repair or had silted up completely but in addition many hundreds of original estate boundary walls were rebuilt and new hedgerows planted. Concessionary footpaths were also established. Restoration and ongoing management work continues today.

The origin of the ponds is as yet unknown, but evidence suggests that there were originally two, the Middle (Carp) and Great Pond, as we know them, with the small New Pond being added later. In the period 1766 to 1773 a lower, fourth pond, now named Burcliffe, was constructed along with the bridge we now use to get to the Great Pond.

During the latter part of the last century, when the River Don was grossly polluted, it was proposed to construct a 60 foot high dam just below the Great Pond to create a reservoir to supply water to Doncaster. Fortunately the scheme was abandoned in favour of building Firsby and Thrybergh Reservoirs.

6th Sept '23 - Nostell Priory Carers Walk

The last carers walk of 2023 was at the National Trust property of Nostell Priory, formerly the home of the Winn family. Six carers and six members of Doncaster Ramblers (Tony, Angela, Ian, Jackie, Neil and Steve) assembled at the stable block adjacent to the “big house” for our 3.5 mile walk on what was a sunny but very warm early September day. A short walk brought us to the Wragby parish church of St. Michael and our Lady which lies within the Nostell Estate. We entered the church and took time to learn about its history, admire the stained-glass windows and read the memorials to the Winn family, one of whom lost his life at the battle of El Alamein during WW2. It was then out of the estate gates onto the busy A638 which we safely crossed into peaceful but mosquito ridden woodland following the Nostell Estate permitted footpaths. Passing through more woodland of the reclaimed Crofton Colliery we came across a small lake with a graceful swan just waiting to be photographed, then it was onto the village of Foulby again crossing the A638 carefully. A short distance along the A638 brought us to a house with a blue plaque to John Harrison, who made remarkable time pieces in the 1720’s to 1750’s which we needed to predict the longitude position at sea. John Harrison was born in Wragby. It was then off the A638 and past the Yorkshire Air Ambulance HQ where we were lucky enough to see the helicopter take off. It was then back into the Nostell Estate where we stopped for a refreshment break sat on logs in the shade of the trees. Refreshed it was a short walk to the boathouse and lake where six swan signets and their mother were resting in the shade on the bank (again to good a photo opportunity to miss) and the heron was playing hide and seek on the water lily pad in the middle of the lake. Finally following the estate footpaths, we walked through the deer park getting great views of the house and then it was back to the start point at the stable block and a welcome sit down and a top up with water. Thanks to Neil for acting as backmarker and many thanks to all the carers who have joined in the 2023 walk programme and a big thankyou from me to all the Doncaster Rambler members who have helped out on this year’s walks. Stephen J Tomlinson 

Tuesday 5 September 2023 Pop Over To Ashover
On one of the best weather days of the year 33 of us met in the North Car Park overlooking * Ogston Reservoir just south of Clay Cross in Derbyshire. The sun was shining and the water was calm and blue. Many of us had not walked in the area before. We were all looking forward to what the day held in store.
After a thorough briefing and some safety notes from Dave B we got underway . We headed north across fields and through farm yards; making steady progress as our group negotiated some narrow stiles and the occasional electric fence. Our coffee stop was taken on the outskirts of Holmgate where a long stone wall provided a welcome rest and a chance to 'take a breather ' . Then on and up we went until we reached the summit of ' Fabrick' or Ashover Rock ; a viewpoint on a gritstone ridge some 299 metres above sea level. From here you get fabulous views in all directions and can see Chesterfields Crooked Spire, Hardwick Hall and Bolsover Castle in the far distances. A short break to take on water and to bask in the scenery and then we began the approach to Ashover itself. Ashover was once known for both lead mining and the manufacture of woolen stockings. The nearby hamlet of Rattle was named for the noise the weaving machines made. By the time we got to Ashover we were hot and thirsty. Fortunately there were 3 pubs and a shady churchyard to choose from.
After lunch we crossed the River Amber ( the river that feeds the reservoir ) and were soon climbing again. We followed the flagstone path or 'trod ' that leads up to the old mine workings. We could almost feel the history under our feet as we trudged up those same stone steps that the miners had used to get to work many years before. Then we went steeply down through woods and fern covered banks to reach low ground just before the reservoir and back to the cars. Many thanks to Dave and co-pilot Bob for leading and to Norman for backmarking such a large group. Steve as always for the photos.

* Ogston Reservoir was originally created to supply water to the NCB carbonisation plant at Wingerworth but nowadays is used by the local populace. It is home to asailing clup and a trout fishery and provides habitat for water birds and wildlife in general .

31st August 2023 Hooton Pagnell Ramble No 3
This Thursday walk, led by Jeannette Walters, to Hooton Pagnell and Moorhouse started from a car park by Frickley Country Park which proved to be a good decision as 28 people gathered at the start point, and everyone managed to find parking space which would not have been possible at Hooton Pagnell village which was the original start point!
The first half of the walk entailed following footpaths across fields which luckily had mostly just been ploughed although in a couple of cases the footpaths had not been reinstated so it made crossing them quite interesting! As it was a lovely sunny morning, walking with lovely views across wide open spaces was very enjoyable. After walking through Hooton Pagnell Wood we then made our way towards Frickley Hall and from there towards Hooton Pagnell Hall. We then arrived in Hooton Pagnell estate village which is perched on an escarpment and is one of Yorkshire’s finest and most unspoilt villages and from the butter cross there are extensive views over the surrounding countryside, which was a perfect spot for a much needed refreshment break.
The second half of the walk was a lot easier underfoot as it followed very well defined footpaths and lanes to the village of Moorhouse. From here we joined up with a disused railway line which took us back to the car park by Frickley Country Park.
Thanks to Tony Foster for backmarking.
A little bit of history – Recorded in the Domesday Book at Hotone – village on a hill – Hooton Pagnell added the second part of its name when the Paganals became its Norman lords of the manor. Since the 17th century much of the village has been in the family (now in a trust) of Sir Patience Warde, a former Lord Mayor of London. When the Warde-Norburys inherited Hooton Pagnell Hall a few years ago they sold off some 2000 items including a poignant letter sent by the former estate manager to his brother, who died alongside Captain Scott on his 1911 South Pole expedition.

Tuesday 29th August - Wharncliffe Wood and a little bit Moor

On a clear dry morning 12 of us met at Wharncliffe/Greno Wood car park at 9.30am including 2 guest walkers, Adelle and Christina. Leaving the car park we walked down through the woods and along the Back Edge to Birley Edge, passing Jawbone Hill and the Birley Stone which has a view point marker giving fabulous views over the Don Valley, Oughtibridge and Middlewood. The Birley Stone dates back centuries and was a parish boundary marker. On reaching Birley Edge we turned and walked back up through Beely Wood which is classified as ancient woodland consisting of oak and birch trees. Elevenses were taken in a woodman's clearing at the end of this wood. We then joined the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) and walked up through Wharncliffe Woods which runs parallel to the river Don and the railway line. The TPT is a well made path and good progress was made. At the end of Wharncliffe Woods we walked up to the village of Wortley where we had our lunch break. Unfortunately, both the Worley Arms and the Wortley Club were shut so we had a shortened lunch break.
On leaving Worley we walked south through Gosling Moor, along the Height to Hannah Moor which leads onto Wharncliffe Moor. We followed the direction of the electric pylons across the moor (which was a Deer Park) until we reached Broom Royd and the edge of Wharncliffe Woods. We then rejoined the main pathway and walked back uphill for the last mile to the Greno Wood carpark. The walk was 13.5 miles in distance and completed in just over 6 hours and thankfully the weather stayed clear the whole walk. Thanks to the backmarkers Charlie and Angela. Peter Gravestock

Tuesday 22nd August 2023 Redmires Reservoirs, Stanage Edgeand Burbage Edge via Fox House Inn.

Twenty four members met on a bright sunny day with a cool breeze in the car park at the far end of Redmires Reservoir for an eleven mile walk. From the car park it was uphill to Stanage Pole where we stopped for a group photo, then it was onto Stanage Edge to admire the spectacular views of the Hope Valley. Following the Millstone Grit edge, being careful not to trip on protruding rocks, we reached the trig point where coffee break was taken. Refreshed we continued to the car park at Upper Burbage Brook, scrambled across the brook then took the footpath on the top of Burbage Edge to the Fox House Inn where lunch and various forms of liquid refreshment were imbibed. After lunch we followed the A6187, Hathersage, Road for a short distance before turning onto the wide gravel track of Houndkirk Road which we followed for some distance before turning north, crossing the heather moor to the trig point at Ox Stones. A short walk then brought us to Ringinglow Road which was safely negotiated then it was back on heather moorland to Brown Edge Quarry (disused) and Brown Edge Farm on Fulwood Lane. Following the lane for a short distance it was back onto moorland and up Rud Hill where excellent views were had of Redmires and our finish point. Crossing the wet peat moorland, passing White Stones, we reached the road by the reservoir and a short distance took us back to our start point at the car park. Thanks to Gareth, Angela and Neil for back marking and the weather gods for giving us a dry day. Who baked the bun with a hair in it will remain a secret, what happens on a Doncaster ramble stays on a Doncaster ramble. Stephen J Tomlinson.
POI. Stanage Pole is located on the border of Derbyshire and South Yorkshire at an elevation of 438m. There has been a pole on this site since 1550 and it is located on the Long Causeway, the old packhorse route from Sheffield westwards. The existing pole, made of larch, was erected in 2016 to replaced a damaged pole and to mark the 65th anniversary of the founding of the Peak District National Park. Courtesy of Wikipedia.

 Saturday 19th Aug 2023 - To the Pole and back
15 of us set out from Fox House and followed a track across Burbage Moor with great views of Sheffield and the heather in full bloom on the moors. We stopped for a coffee break and to admire these views. We then headed towards the Redmires Reservoirs and had views of the three full reservoirs, looking almost like one long lake. We dropped down to near the head of the top reservoir before turning back uphill to Stanedge Pole and Stanage Edge, where we stopped for lunch. Some stayed out in the buffeting wind to enjoy the views of Mam Tor and Kinder Scout, while others found shelter where they could enjoy the warmth of the sun. After lunch we followed Stanage Edge to Higger Tor and Carl Wark. We crossed Burbage Brook then turned to follow it back to Fox House.Thanks to Carol for leading this invigorating walk and to her back markers.

Thursday 17th August 2023 – Epworth Circular
This Lincolnshire walk started from Epworth and explored the surrounding countryside. The route included Epworth Turbary Nature Reserve and along the way passed several windmills, some of which have been restored whilst others languish in decay.
After 18 walkers eventually found parking spaces! we gathered for the start of the walk in the very busy car park at the junction of Church Street and Market Place. We walked towards Albion Hill and onto Rectory Street where we passed the family home of John Wesley, the founder of Methodism. Fire burnt down the original wooden rectory in 1709 and it was rebuilt in red brick. The home is now a museum. We also passed a statue erected in 2003 to honour John Wesley’s tercentenary.
Todays lovely, very chatty group of walkers, then turned onto a waymarked track past an old windmill and followed several farm tracks, one of which, by Skyers Farm, was completely blocked by a recently fallen tree, so we had to improvise by climbing over a couple of wooden fences! We eventually reached Epworth Turbary Nature Reserve for a lovely woodland walk ('turbary' being an old English word for a place where peat can be dug), which is of considerable historic and scientific interest, being one of the few relicts of raised bog in the area. Plant species include cotton grass, cross-leaved heath, meadow-rue and fen sedge. Breeding birds include teal, snipe, woodcock, long-eared owl, tree pipit and both green and great-spotted woodpeckers.
After a refreshment break, we continued on a lane to Sandhill Farm followed by more farm tracks back to Epworth. We stopped to admire a windmill close up before arriving back at Belton Road and the short walk back to Epworth village centre passing the impressive Wesley Memorial Methodist Church which was built in 1889 as a memorial to the contributions made by John and Charles Wesley to world religion.
Jeannette Walters

Tuesday 15 August 2023 3 Reservoirs Ramble
The three reservoirs were More Hall, Broomhead and Underbank. Two to the south of Bolsterstone and one adjacent to Stocksbridge. We met outside the church in the attractive centre of Bolsterstone village. 26 of us ( including Tony who was visiting the area from his home in Devon and decide to join us ). Phil gave us some of the history of the building of the reservoirs and briefed us about roads to cross, hills to climb and a particularly messy farmyard to negotiate before we set off out of the village and downhill across fields into the Ewden Valley to find More Hall reservoir. The path around the water was firstly a wide avenue of horse chestnut trees and then after crossing the dam it narrowed as we made our way through a Fir wood. The recent rain had disappeared and we were enjoying some welcome sunshine as we got to Broomhead and stopped for elevenses. From Broomhead it was a steep climb up towards the hamlet of Waldershaigh and that farm yard ( which turned out to be not too bad at all ). How did these hamlets get their names by the way. We had already skirted around the edge of Wigtwizzle. Leaving 'that farm' we again climbed fairly steadily to our al fresco lunch stop by Wind Hill Farm. The setting lived up to its name. The views were however great; as they had been all the way along and as usual there was plenty of happy chatter and banter as we enjoyed the time outdoors .The after lunch section was down the hill to reach Underbank reservoir by the activities centre and then alongside the water before returning to Bolsterstone behind Stocksbridge across Whitwell and Stone Moors. It had been yet another lovely and varied walk with just the right balance between flat bits and steep bits. Thanks to Phil for leading , Norman for backmarking and Steve for the photos Charlie Pratt
P.O.I.
Place names - In the 15th century, the name of the hamlet was recorded as Wigtwisle, in the 16th century as Wigtwizle, and Wiggtwisle in the 17th century. The name derives from an Anglo-Saxon owner, Wicga, and means Wicga's land at the confluence of two streams Courtesy Wikipedia

Saturday 12th August 2023 - "Walk of Life" Hathersage
13 of us gathered outside Hathersage Swimming Pool hoping that the rain would hold off for a bit longer. We walked down to the River Derwent and turned along it briefly before climbing through fields and woods to the edge of the Offerton Moor overlooking the Hope Valley. We followed the edge of Offerton Moor and stopped for elevenses with a view up Ladybower Reservoir. We followed the edge of the Abney Moor for a while until turning south to go over Abney Moor until we picked up the lane along a ridge leading to Bretton. We'd had some rain, but now wind and rain lashed us as we walked along the ridge with the Barrel Inn at Bretton (which claims to be the highest pub in Derbyshire) remaining disconcertingly distant. A clump a trees gave us some respite from the wind and rain, so we had our lunch there before carrying on to the pub for a drink and to admire the view once the rain stopped. In the afternoon we followed Bretton Brook (with a few thankfully dry ups and downs) to Highlow Brook which we then followed back to Hathersage. There were more showers, but we were rewarded with a rainbow showing against the green of the valley side.

Thanks to Tony, Martin and Eric for back marking and Jeannette for putting the walk in the programme, keeping it in even though she couldn't lead it herself and supplying the GPX file of the route.

Thursday 10th August – Misson & Austerfield.
On a very warm morning, sixteen ramblers assembled alongside Misson Church. Following the leader briefing we set off in a westerly direction from the church and soon were using a broad stony track which would take us into Newington. At one point a family of swans including their young were noted at the side of the track (see photograph). Intermittent stretches of water were noted in close proximity. The track ended on the approach to Newington where we were required to use a narrow pavement alongside the road. Before long a grassy embankment was used for improved views and to get us further away from the traffic. Austerfield was reached and a walk along the High Street was featured. Peter Rowsell, our publicity officer and a resident of Austerfield joined us here, and walked with the group back to Misson. A brief stop was made at St Helena’s church where there were information boards regarding local walking trails to peruse. Our refreshment break was taken at Austerfield village green, a short walk from the church. Our route back to Misson was made by using field footpaths, including one path skirting a golf course. Two small bridges were encountered which have both been renewed recently. The footpaths were in a good condition. Our arrival into Misson was from a north westerly direction where we arrived at 12.40. David Horne

How many Steps?  As little as 2500 a day apparently but it's not the count that matters but the WALKING the health benifits of which is once again in the news.  So if you haven't already give it a go 

Tuesday 8 August 2023 Circular Silkstone

22 of us met in the car park of The Spencer Arms in Cawthorne. The weather was good and with Norman in charge we were anticipating a good walk in a lovely bit of countryside. We were not to be disappointed. Following the briefing we set off out of the village and after crossing the Barnsley Road were soon into lush green fields and small wooded copses with paths running alongside stone walls. The paths were a little overgrown in places and the stiles seem to come thick and fast but but it was worth it for the views. The views were super in all directions ...with Emley Moor TV mast in the far distance and Cannon Hall a bit closer. Elevenses were taken on a log pile in the corner of one of the fields and then it was on again towards Slikstone for the lunchtime stop. Unfortunately both the pubs in the village were shut ( as is quite often the case on Tuesdays nowadays ) . So no liquid refreshment, but we were able make use of some of the outside seating to rest and recuperate a while. We left Silkstone and after skirting around the edge of Silkstone Common and crossing the Silkstone Bypass/ Manchester Road we took a leftward loop before crossing it again and starting the northerly return leg to Cawthorne. Again the scenery and views were wide and uplifting. It was a nice place to be on a Tuesday afternoon in early August. Back at The Spencer Arms ( where they had allowed us to park our cars all day ) we felt obliged to sample the wares ( well there had as you will recall been no chance at lunchtime ) and therefore spent a few minutes enjoying a drink in the splendid beer garden before going home. Thanks to Norman for leading , Phil for ably backmarking and Steve for the photos. CP

Thursday 3rd Aug 2023  Around the Northern part of Rossington

A group of 19 ramblers met in Rossington Park and Ride, South of Doncaster and set off at 10am as planned.
We left the car park and crossed the junction via the lights and walked along Hayfield Lane. Then following the footpaths across the field at the Hayfield pub. We then walked past the fishing lakes and anglers along to Warning Tongue Lane crossed the road and made our way to Hatchel Woods and had a pleasant walk through the trees to the duck pond, where the duck house has reappeared. From here we went towards Bawtry Rd and crossed to Manor woods the walked through Warren point down Stayers Lane and towards Rossington down Toad Holes lane . We did encounter a large puddle on the lane but survived with dry feet.. We look to be getting a large crop of blackberries and hazel nuts this year .We saw a pair of swans with six cygnets on the mother drain , then continued to the woods on the approach to Rossington. Diane informs me that the path from the side entrance was declared an official foot path about two moths ago by the council. I directed the group to view quite a few of the carvings of various forms some of the group were bitten by midges so wear your insect repellent if you want to go yourself. We came out of the wood into the playing field then crossed the main footpath and joined the one at the top of the fields towards the Brick Pond were the water lilies have come out recently , as have the anglers as the weather was good and the rain held off. From here we headed off along Sheep Bridge Rd back to the Park and Ride arriving back at 12.30.
Thank you to every one who attended hope you enjoyed it. Thanks to Tony for taking the photos and Bob for being back marker to check no one was left behind, Bob for back marking and Peter for doing the technical stuff on the website.
Kathryn Kerry

Tuesday 1 August 2023 The Cordwell Valley

Situated to the west of Chesterfield where even satnavs struggle to find it, Linacre reservoir was the start point of our walk. Rain was in the air, but never materialised and 28 of us headed out towards the Cordwell valley. This is a quiet area on the edge of the Peak District and full of villages and hamlets with unusual names. We passed through Cutthorpe and Barlow before taking our morning break, watched from the adjoining field by a herd of curious and slightly frisky young cows. Then it was on to Cartledge, with excellent views of the valley and across to Millthorpe for our lunch stop and refreshment at the Royal Oak (aka the cheese pub). After lunch we continued through Unthank and Pratthall, where a few jokes were had at the expense of one of the group and back to the reservoir. There were plenty of ups and downs and twists and turns on the route, but fortunately Jeremy the back marker managed to keep the leader on the right path. PG 

Doncaster Ramblers Volunteers 2011- 2023
Maintenance Teams
Way back in 2011, when we were all considerably younger, and much fitter, we began a monthly programme of maintenance work in conjunction with Doncaster Council's Rights of Way Department, which involved carrying out improvements and repairs on the 600 or so footpaths and bridleways within the Borough.
We began with relatively basic tasks such as clearing overgrown paths and replacing missing and broken way-mark posts but quickly moved on to repairing stiles, gates, fences, steps and small foot bridges.
Our very first session, which was outside Norton in February 2011, simply involved footpath clearance and fitting 2 way-mark posts, but it was a start.

Over the past 12 years we have carried out over 100 work sessions, normally lasting around 3-4 hours. Work party's have ranged in size, according to the work involved, from 3 or 4 volunteers, to larger groups of up to 8 members.

We have endeavored to spread our activities over all areas within the Borough to ensure that our local footpath network is well maintained for the benefit of those who choose to use it.

Throughout the years we have had the advantage of a thriving, enthusiastic and closely knit walking group who walk on Tuesday's & Saturday's, and more recently on Thursday's as well. The willingness of our members to get involved has made the task of raising teams of volunteers so much easier and since we began we have managed to retain a group of around 25 members who make themselves available whenever possible. Some have put their spades, saws and loppers aside, but a substantial majority continue to help.

Since we began doing maintenance work we have enjoyed an excellent working relationship with Doncaster Rights of Way Department and their input has been vital, ensuring that we can get materials and tools to the various locations. Without their contribution it would have been impossible to carry out many of the tasks involved.
Since our very first session Stuart Horocks from RoW has worked alongside our teams, driving a variety of vehicles to many seemingly inaccessible locations and pushing wheelbarrows full of cement and way-mark posts across muddy fields. I can recall very few occasions when Stuart has not been on site with us.

Footpath Wardens
In addition to maintenance work, our group also monitor all the 600 or so footpaths and bridleways within the Borough on an annual basis. Any problems which are encountered are reported to Doncaster RoW Department and also to our group Footpath Officer and our Volunteers Co-ordinator. Appropriate action is then taken to rectify the issues raised.
Currently, we have 29 Footpath Wardens, each checking an average of 20 paths/bridleways within a specific area of the Borough.
Many members of our group assist both with checking footpaths and any resulting maintenance work needed.
July, 2023

Thursday 27 July 2023 Gringley On The Hill

We met just along from the radio mast on the edge of Gringley village. Being ' On The Hill ' we already had superb views down and across the fields to the south. Twenty two of us were fully briefed by Nigel and then we set off across the road in the direction we had been looking towards Clayworth. It was open farmland all the way. The weather was bright and sunny but the rain from the night before had left some of the paths sticky with mud that stuck to our boots and made the going slippy in parts. Other sections though were good tracks or grassed so we found the going pretty good on balance. The recent rains had also left everything green and lush. In Clayworth we stopped for a longer than normal coffee break to allow time for everyone to visit the church and see its famous Traquair Murals. Just as well we did stay a little longer than usual because as we were about to set off the heavens opened. We mostly managed to get our coats on in the dry church porch. Without lingering to see the murals we would have been back in open countryside and have got considerably wetter. After the break we returned towards Gringley on a looping course that firstly took us south out of Clayworth before turning north and uphill on good paths across the fields until we met the Lancaster Road farm track that leads to the main road. Then it was back to the cars. Unfortunately the rain returned for another go about 30 minutes before the end of the walk ...just enough to dampen our clothes.....but not enough to dampen our spirits! Thanks to Nigel for a good walk, enjoyed by all ,and to Rob for backmarking. Charlie Pratt
P.O.I St Peter’s Church
This beautiful church was built between 1150 and 1180 and is a Grade I listed building and is regarded as one of the finest village churches in the county. It is home to the Traquair Murals, the largest work of art in the East of England, painted by the eminent Scottish artist Phoebe Traquair in 1904/5. The church also features a fine 13th century stone screen - a rare possession in a village church, and the Elizabethan Fitzwilliam tomb, one of the earliest examples of decorative plasterwork in the country.

Wednesday 26th July 2023  Carers Walk. Carlton Lees to Bakewell
How lucky were we with the weather, following a week of pretty much none stop rain, we had a warm and sunny day for the latest carers walk from Carlton Lees, near Chatsworth House, to Bakewell. This walk was the follow up to the Great Ridge walk of 2022 and was aimed at the more able bodied as it included 700 feet of climbing and covered a distance just short of 5 miles. We were pleased to welcome on the walk five from the Stepping Out fund who had travelled from Kent for this walk and four from the Ukrainian community of Doncaster who have recently sought shelter in the UK. Stepping Out provide the funding for all the Carers Walk Doncaster Ramblers are involved in. Nineteen of us, including Steve, Neil, Jackie, Ian and Angela from Doncaster Ramblers, set off at 11 am from the car park at Carlton Lees and a steady climb on the track took us to Calton Houses, a hamlet on the Chatsworth Estate. We then continued uphill through fields to Manners Wood where our uphill walking for the day finished. After the uphill slog we were all ready for a recovery break so we sat for a while to admire the views which were spectacular on such a clear day. After refreshing ourselves with water, coffee and sandwiches off we went through Manner Wood whose shade gave us protection from the sun, then leaving the Chatsworth Estate for the Haddon Hall Estate, we commenced the steep descent to the River Wye. On reaching the River Wye we turned towards Bakewell following the footpath by the river which was bounded by a profusion of wild flowers. The footpath took us through the Bakewell showground, which we reached by 1.45 pm, where the coach which brought those from Doncaster was parked. As the coach was not leaving until 3 pm we escorted the walkers into Bakewell town centre walking over the love lock bridge with great views of the River Wye weir. We then parted company with participants going their own way to enjoy the various types of refreshments Bakewell has to offer. Thanks to everybody who came on this walk especially to Angela, Ian, Neil and Jackie of Doncaster Ramblers, extra thanks to Neil for blackmarking during the walk and keeping us all under control. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Tuesday 25th July 2023 - Kingdom of Elmet

Hoping that the weather gods would smile on us again, 15 walkers including couple of new faces, gathered in Aberford for a walk listed at just short of 10 miles but an earlier recce walk found a better route but increased the length by about 1 mile. The  briefing consisted of details to the walk and of the local history going back 2000 years. We set off down a track through what was the Parlington estate until 1905 when the resident family moved to Lotherton hall and the estate fell into ruins. After an hour elevenses were taken at the entrance to Garforth Golf club. The path continued towards Barnbow Carr and Scholes where we were treated to red kites just above the house tops, presumably being fed by someone. From there a straight track led into Barwick in Elmet for lunch. After lunch ewe continued into the Valley of Plenty, so named because a local farmer had planted numerous fruit trees rhubarb, pumpkins and various berry bushes, along this part of the route. The passed the most unusual spectacle of a compost toilet (see photos) for passing walkers to use.  Further along the route an old fridge provided eggs for passing walkers at reasonable rates, from here the route went through Potterton before going back into fields before crossing Cock Beck twice and finally walking alongside the old iron age fortification of Becca Banks, which led us back to the start in Aberford. Did the weather gods smile on us? -  yes, because it rained most of the way home.  At various points we were treated to information about the area by the leader, including that Aberford has one of the highest maypoles in the country at about 80ft high.  Stuart Twell

Thursday 20th July '23 - Rossington

We met at the burial ground at Rossington. The forecast was reasonable, with rain possible at about 1.00. The forecast was accurate, although the rain was a downpour - rather more than we expected. Nevertheless fifteen of us set off from the burial ground along the backs of the  houses for  before setting off along Hunster Flat Lane, crossing the Torne before climbing a stile onto  Stancil farm, site of a Roman villa and later a medieval village. The field is a scheduled monument, to be used only by stck and never poughed. In 1938, when starting to build a barn, the police were called and when a couple of skeletons were found. It was soon realised that the skeletons were very old and the site was visited by R Smedley of Doncaster Museum, who undertook a small excavation, revealing stone walls and two more skeletons. This led to a proper excavation in 1938 and in '39. A Roman villa wa uncovered.  Two rooms were uncoverd within a larger building, with the remains of a bath-house noted in trenches a little to the east; the walls in the excavated rooms remained standing to a height of 1metre. A total of about 80 human skeletons of all ages and both genders, all dating from the Anglo-Saxon period were discovered - well after the period of the Roman villa. Leaving Stancil we walked along Stancil Lane, pausing for refreshments just off the road. We turned left along a broad right of way and made our way, through a variety of turns, to a track alongside the A1M and Dadsley Well Bridge. We then followed the minor lane around to Wellingley Grange, where we turned left top follow a path through to Egg Lane, a broad track with a narrow path between the wild flowers and grasses. At the end of this lane we arrived at Carr Lane, which led directly to Wadworth. We turned right, along Carr Bank, alongside the vast site which is dominated by new huge Amazon buildings. We then crossed a footbridge and reached the site of the land reclaimed from the Rossington pit. At this point, the forecast rain arrived and immediately we rushed to put on wet weather gear. The view to the Amazon site was partially obscured by the rain and we were not inclined to marvel at the scale of it. Across the top we walked, a couple of us with brollies up, before descending off the reclaimed land towards the burial ground. Thanks to Di Scolari for leading this six miles walk.  DG

Tuesday 18 July 2023 Wetherby and Beyond

Weatherwise this was a walk of two very different halves. The morning was bright and reasonably sunny but it started to rain after lunch and it got increasingly wet as the afternoon wore on. We had however all seen the forecast and the eleven of us who met in the car park in Wetherby had come prepared. I think at the end we all felt we had fared better than we had expected to and had to a large extent 'got away with it'.
The walk was 15 miles to the west and north of Wetherby. The briefing described it as long but not hard; mostly good paths and tracks with very little in the way of hills . Some roadside stuff early on but then countryside with just the occasional stile and one set of stepping stones to negotiate. We set off under and then over the road bridge to get out to The Ings with playing fields on our left and the River Wharfe on our right. Crossing the metal bridge we were soon onto the manicured greens of Wetherby golf course and then into Linton with its large and expensive looking houses overlooking the river. Thanks to our attentive backmarker we found the correct path out of Linton and went up into woods and fields as we made our way towards Sicklinghall. At this time we were enjoying both good views and good weather so we took the opportunity to stop for coffee in the corner of a field where some straw bales doubled as backrests. After passing Sicklinghall village we joined High Lane ( and its adjacent Christmas Tree plantations ) as it swung right towards Spofforth.We went into Spofforth and lunched firstly in the Castle grounds ( where some of us were apparently entertained by a guitarist and singer in the ruins ) and then secondly at The Castle public house. It was as we were leaving the pub that it started to rain. Just drizzle at first but then it became more persistent as we made our way through open countryside and over those stepping stones into the lovely Stockeld Estate ( with its funfair just to our right as we carefully crossed the main Wetherby Road) Then off to Kirk Deighton to start the last few miles back to the cars. Just after crossing the road we came to the disused railway track that is now The Harland Way. It would at this stage have been possible to follow this track straight into Wetherby and avoid some of the rain by shortening the walk by perhaps a couple of miles. The group would not entertain this idea and so we pressed on. Kirk Deighton has an attractive main street with a nice pub with outside tables which on a warmer and drier day may have tempted us to have an unscheduled stop to take on fluids. Today it was just a short one for water . Leaving Kirk Deighton across the fields we were soon back at the aforementioned Harland Way and this time we did take it back into Wetherby. All way back to the metal bridge and along the riverside to the carpark for a 4 o'clock finish. Grateful thanks to various backmarkers ( but especially Neil without whom the walk would have been longer ) and to Steve for the photos. CP

Saturday 15 July 2023 2-4-1 Nature Reserves

The weather forecast was fairly dire. We were expecting blustery winds and thundery showers pretty much all day so we all put on our wet weather gear as soon as we met in the car park. We started with eight walkers but had nine later in the day when one member who had arrived late caught us up in Sutton Cum Lound.
Daneshill Lakes Nature Reseve is just off the A638 at Torworth. The Idle Valley Nature Reserve is also just off the A638 on the outskirts of Retford.They are based around disused and flooded gravel pits and provide havens for flora and fauna ( and at this time of year a profusion of butterflies ) Both are well looked after and maintained by The Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust .Daneshill is the smaller of the two ...but both are well worth visiting. The Idle valley has a cafe and toilets....but the parking is free at Daneshill. Todays walk went from Daneshill to The Idle Valley and back again in a sort of figure of eight.
After the customary briefing we went across the lane and into the woods , making a big loop back across the same lane to the top end of Daneshill. The path towards Sutton Cum Lound runs very close to the main railway line which although it is mostly hidden from view can be clearly heard when a train passes. Our coffee break was amongst the gravestones of St Bartholomews on the margins of the attractive little village of Sutton. Then it was out the top end of the village and into The Idle Valley Nature Reserve itself. After some open heathland and hedgerows we came to the river that gives its name to the reserve and followed it all the way to the lunch stop at the information centre, cafe and toilets. Starting the return half of the walk we had to negotiate a short section of the A638 and Sutton Lane before getting back into Sutton and retracing our steps towards Daneshill. On reaching Daneshill we took a path around the main lake back to the cars..
It has to said that the weather forecast was proved spectacularly wrong( see the photos ). Only for a short time as we approached Sutton Cum Lound on the return leg did it start to rain .....and even then it blew over very quickly. For the most part we were perspiring and regretting having donned overtrousers and coats. Perhaps my Faustian pact with The Devil had finally paid off. It certainly made the walk more pleasant than it might otherwise have been and meant we could enjoy some lovely countryside to the full........ I am just not looking forward to his claim for payment. CP

Non-members welcome, just turn up and say “Hallo” you will be well looked after

Thursday 14th July - Roche Abbey woodland and waterfall loop

Ten walkers, including Helen, new to Doncaster Ramblers, met up for our lovely sunny 5 mile circular walk from Roche Abbey to Laughton en le Morthen passing through Slade Hooton and Brookhouse. En route we walked through the wonderful King’s Wood to Laughton Pond and the pretty waterfall. After about half a mile, we veered right eventually stepping out of the woods, gradually climbing up to Slade Hooton through fields, meeting fabulous views along the path. From here on there are beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. After a short break taken in the grounds of the Travellers Rest pub in Brookhouse, for which I thank the lovely staff, we then continued on tracks to the village of Laughton en le Morthen with its great church and huge 185ft spire. After passing through Laughton en le Morthen, we headed back along tracks to return to King’s Wood and back to Roche Abbey in the sunshine where a few of us had ice cream and drinks from the café.
A little history of Roche Abbey
Roche Abbey, founded in 1147 as a monastery of the Cistercian order, is most notable for the remains of its early Gothic church and for its early 13th-century great gatehouse. At its peak, about 1175, Roche had about 50 monks and 100 lay brothers and servants. The monastery was suppressed in 1538 – an event recorded in remarkable detail by a local clergyman – and many of the buildings were dismantled. Two hundred years later the ruins became the centrepiece of a designed landscape. After 200 years as ruins, the remains of the former abbey buildings and the valley in which they lay underwent a transformation in the 1770s. The 4th Earl of Scarbrough (1725–82) contracted England’s most famous landscape designer, Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, to bring ‘order’ to the valley by remodelling it to contemporary tastes.  Brown engineered a lake and islands over Roche’s southern buildings, substituted a river for the medieval water channels, contrived a waterfall to cascade from the Laughton Pond, and composed irregular tree groupings in surrounding fields. He also levelled the ruins’ irregular walls to provide a uniform grassed foreground for a banqueting lodge.
Jeannette Walters

Tuesday 11th July - Fridaythorpe

Sixteen walkers assembled at Fridaythorpe for a 10.5 mile walk through a series of dales.  The first problem was the forecast had promised a biblical amount of rain, the second was there was no cafe at lunchtime. However after the usual briefing which included things like unusual butterflies, orchids and livestock, we set off. The first dale encountered was Brubberdale where lots of sheep were grazing in the warm sun , after a long pull out of the dale causing people to start removing a layer or two the next dale was Thixendale, this has in the bottom a serpent to represent the swirling water that made these dales at the end of the last Ice Age. By now the Marbled White butterflies were very common species on unimproved grassland which typifies this area.
After Elevenes the next two dales were Bradeham and Wayrham, the latter having a population of Pyramidal Orchids another feature of this limestone grassland. Crossing the A166 a stretch of road walking was undertaken for just over a mile before getting back on to field and making our way to Huggate for lunch. After lunch, with still having not seen a drop of rain, the path was taken towards the last two dales. The first one was Horsedale with a pair of quirky seats for people to take in the vista. Dropping into the bottom of the dale the route then picks up Holmdale with another long pull before the last half mile on farm tracks to get back to the cars and the it decided to rain for just 5 mins.  As usual Steve on Photos and John the back marker this time.Distance 10.5.miles time taken 5 hrs.  POI Fridaythorpe is one of the highest settlements on the wolds at around 500ft. Stuart Twell

Thursday 6th July - A Walk to the Mesolithic

The Wordsworth name appeared in the 11th century after a wave of migration was caused by the Norman Conquest of Britain in 1066. The Wordsworth Family lived in Yorkshire at 'Wadsuuorde' or Wadsworth. The English Language has only been standardised over the last few centuries and names were frequently misspelt on official documents due to illiteracy, giving a possible explanation of why the Hall and its surrounding village is called Wadworth (a variation of Wordsworth). Eighteen of walked across the cricket ground and paused in front of Wadworth Hall. The Hall is a grade I listed Manor House. It was built in 1749 for the Wordsworth family by the renowned northern architect James Paine. It is currently a private residence and has been since approximately 1995. The house, however, has served a number of purposes over the past 250 years. From Wadworth Hall we walked around to The Shrubbery 
The site was donated to the Woodland Trust in 1994 from Wadworth Hall Trust. This small narrow mature woodland is situated on a north-facing slope to the north west of the village of Wadworth. Its elevated location makes it a prominent landscape feature in a relatively flat landscape, and is visible from the A1 (M) and M18. The wood was formerly part of the grounds of the 18th century, Wadworth Hall, and still contains some garden features including an old fishpond and Ha-Ha wall. Also within the woodland are 4 wells known as the Gospel Wells, which were covered by metal grids for safety in 1995. The wells, Ha-Ha and fishpond are historic landscape features. The wood contains many ancient woodland indicator species and Doncaster MBC designated it a Site of Scientific Interest, being deciduous woodland on limestone with a species rich flora. From the Shrubbery we walked along to see one of the finest views over Doncaster before re-tracing our steps and following Green Lane briefly and then turning westacross a huge field with soon-to-be-harvested oil seed rape. This led down the incline in Wadworth Wood before going under the M18 and into Edlington Wood.

Edlington Wood is the largest single area of predominantly deciduous woodland on the magnesian limestone in South Yorkshire. It includes large areas of ancient woodland dating from Romano-British times and supports extremely rich plant and animal communities which reflect the site's antiquity, history of forest management, diversity of soil types and moisture conditions. Edlington Wood was designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIS) in 1979. Aerial photographs of the 1950s clearly show the impenetrable canopies of the massive yews and the amazing black area of pure ancient yew woodlands in the Blow Hall area of the wood. Sadly, although nationally very rare, the largest area to survive into modern times was felled between 1960 and 1973. Yew was evidently one of the original forest tree colonists of what is now Edlington Wood, pollen studies showing it to have been a major coloniser of the open limestone grassland left after the period of the Roman occupation. Certainly Yew was a dominant tree here long before any ornamental or commercial species were introduced.
The venerable yews of Edlington Wood have long been remarked on. The earliest published reference dates from 1731 in the 'Magna Britannia et Hibernia, Antiqua and Nova'. In 1828, the South Yorkshire historian Rev. Joseph Hunter refers to large yew trees obviously of considerable age growing by the 'Dog Monument'.  The Edlington Wood formed the estate of Blow Hall Manor/Wood Hall and was the home of Viscount Robert Molesworth in the late 17th century until the mid 18th century. Robert Molesworth, 1st Viscount Molesworth, and his wife Lady Letitia Molesworth both lived in the property now known as Blow Hall Manor in the grounds of Edlington Wood. Viscount Molesworth was also a Member of Parliament for the West Riding of Yorkshire constituency and an Irish Peer in the House of Lords.
Molesworth used Edlington as a country estate and planted large tracts of the existing woodland. A monument formed its centrepiece and commemorates the dog which is said to have saved his master from being shot by an intruder. Molesworth is said to have held great affection for his trusted companion a snow-white greyhound. The greyhound travelled constantly by his master's side, including the long trips between London, Ireland and Edlington. Tradition and legend recalls that one day when Molesworth was working in the gardens of his Edlington estate, he made his way to the outside toilet when the dog pulled on his masters coat flap, and would not let him proceed. On a second attempt, the dog behaved in the same manner. Surprised at this interruption, he ordered one of his gardeners to go ahead to the outside toilet and on opening the door, was immediately shot dead by a villain there concealed, whose intention was most probably, to rob the house when the family was retired for the night. On the death of this hound years later, Robert had a monument erected to its memory. It was beneath a fine yew tree in the grounds of Blow Hall Manor in Edlington Wood, and consisted of an urn supported by a square pedestal.

We walked along the eastern side of Edlington Wood, reaching the north-east corner, where the track Wood Lane enters the wood. With the aid of a recent academic report Edlington Wood: using Lidar to put ancient fields and old excavations into their contemporary landscape by PC Buckland, PI Buckland and T Prosser it was simple to identify a structure, near which were found two hoards of Roman coins dating from the AD 200's. From here we walked around to the crags. During the final stages of the last Ice Age (peaked at 21k years ago, ended 11500 years ago), a period known as the Upper Palaeolithic and Mesolithic Periods, Edlington was a place of settlement for the Palaeolithic groups of early nomadic humans. The groups had followed the improving climate northwards as the ice sheets covering Europe retreated. In 2003 the South Yorkshire Archaeological Survey found compelling evidence that these early groups of humans had been using caves and natural outcrops in Edlington wood as shelters and bases for hunting. Additionally quantities of flint tools from the period were unearthed near to a Rock Shelter in the wood. During the period in which the tools can be dated the landscape of the area was a vast treeless tundra, with forestation occurring only as late into the period as 7500 BC. Again, the above-mentioned Lidar report shows structures on the ground above the crags.

After finding the right path, identified with several tree stumps suitable for sitting on, we had our refreshments before continuing through the wood, noting a number of the ancient yew trees, before crossing under the motorway again, walking through the field of oil seed rape again, and then into Wadworth once more, finishing at 12.30. Thanks to Rob and Dave for back-marking once again. David Gadd

Wednesday 5th July 2023 Carers Walk Chatsworth House (2)
The latest Carers walk was held at Chatsworth on what turned out to be a dry but generally overcast day. A new 3 mile walk, through Stand Wood, had been organized by for this year’s Carers visit to Chatsworth and five carers joined Steve, Ian, Jackie and Neil from Doncaster Ramblers on the walk. Heading off uphill through the car park and past the stable block we entered Stand Wood by the Chatsworth Farmyard and Adventure Playground. Consideration was given to abandoning the walk and spending our time in the playground but in the end the walk won the argument. So, it was off uphill, gently zig zagging our way up the contours, to The Hunting Tower which was built in the mid 1500’s. After stopping to admire the view (see photos) and catch our breath it was level walking on a track through Stand Wood, admiring the ancient oak trees, taking us to a viewing point where we could see the distant hills, part of the house, the derelict aqueduct and the cascade in the house gardens; a great photo opportunity (see photos). Continuing on the level for some distance through Stand Wood we then started our descent zig zagging onto a lower track which brought us back the farm and adventure playground. We managed, once again, to resist the temptation to go for a play, then it was a short distance back to the car park and the start point. Just under 3 miles was walked in about 90 minutes. Thanks to the carers who joined us on this lovely walk and to Jackie, Neil and Ian of Doncaster Ramblers for their help. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Tuesday 4 July 2023  More Wildlife Walking at Besthorpe.
Thirty one of us met at the sports ground car park in the pretty Nottinghamshire conservation village of Besthorpe on a typical sunny and cloudy English summer day. After a book swap, honey purchases from our resident bee keeper, admiring the Wing Commanders newly shaved upper lip and a briefing by Rob our Walk Leader we were off.
Crossing the Fleet we skirted the edge of the Besthorpe Nature Reserve heading north then turning eastwards until we met the footpath on the west bank of the River Trent where coffee break was taken watching the fishermen, no fish were bothered, and a narrow boat heading upstream. Refreshed we again skirted Besthorpe Nature Reserve, which has been developed from flooded sand and gravel extraction pits, meeting the Trent Valley Way which we followed to the village of Collingham. Lunch and liquid refreshment were taken at The Royal Oak community run pub in Collingham where we were made most welcome. After lunch we walked through Collingham and after following several footpaths, we reached the lovely little village of South Scarle with its picturesque little church. It was then back to the start point, along part of the Trent valley Way, through fields of carrots, cabbages, corn and a large herd of frisky cows which Rob and Neil expertly controlled.
Thanks to Rob for a lovely day’s walking and to Nigel and Dave for acting as back markers. Also, thanks to the weather gods who kept the rain at bay until we were in our cars on the way home. Stephen J Tomlinson. 9.81 miles 4hrs
P.O,I.
Besthorpe Nature Reserve  The Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust has spent many years reworking old sand and gravel quarries into a nature reserve (officially opened in June 2011) with over 100 species of birds recorded including key colonies of tree-nesting great cormorants, a major heronry and sand martins. In 2013 a number of little egrets raised their chicks there – at the time considered to be the most northerly such colony in the UK. The Nature Reserve and car park is accessible from Trent Lane with a nearby SSSI meadow having great burnet plants, together with Yorkshire fog and meadow foxtail grass species. In the spring a range of wild flowers including orchids can be found around the reserve. For an interesting long read follow https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Besthorpe,_Nottinghamshire

Thursday, 29th June '23 - Old Edlington Trundle

Eighteen of us met alongside the Old Edlington church setting off down the hill towards the shope in Edlington, with a detour to read about the legend of the white greyhound and to see the memorial to a plane that was thought to have crashed near Cockhill Lane, Old Edlington, during the war but, it later turned out, had crashed near York. Turning left at the shops we walked to the Martinwells lake, passing through the area and onto the route of an old railway line. Dodging puddles and ovegrown bushes we finally reached the outskirts of Conisbrough, by the Stringers nursery. Crossing the road and passing beside the council waste site, we continued along the route of the old railway. Reaching the road we turned left and then right and walked half a mile until we turned right onto a right of way. Initially this was a wide track but ultimately it bacame very overgrown, being rarely walked and difficult/impossible for the council to get access to cutback. Diane was the heroine, going to the front and hacking away with her walking pole. We gave her a round of applause at the end. The climb to Clifton followed, with magnificent views towards Conisbrough and as far awat as Emley Moor. After our break we continued along another overgrown path, this time without Diane, who'd gone to check a footpath and met us on the final track into Clifton village. We walked through the village and along a pleasant track, ultimately to the five-ways roundabout and Old Edlngton again. Thanks to Dave and Rob for back-marking. David Gadd.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

PS Since this report was written info has come to light that a local man, Dave Glover, researched this years ago but the people who could prove that it did crash in Cockhill Lane are no longer with us.  He is still researching it and one day he believes he will prove that it did crash in Cockhill Lane.

Tuesday 26 Junort wase 2023 Hoping to See a Tropical Sea

Twenty one of us gathered outside the Tourist Information Centre in Castleton for a late start at 10.30 as some of us got held up by traffic in Sheffield, thank goodness for mobile phones. It threatened to be a rainy but warm day so our weather shamen donned waterproof overtrousers, which had the desired effect, as we only had a few drops of rain all day.
Through Casleton village we then entered Cave Dale and passed through the seaward edge of a former coral reef formed when Britain had a tropical climate due to its then position nearer the equator, hence the title of the walk. A right turn at the top of Cave Dale and past Rowter Farm brought us to our elevenses (more like 12 due to the late start) at the Mam Nic car park where we made use of the new picnic benches. Refreshed it was onwards and upwards to the triangulation pier at the top of Mam Tor. Here we stopped to admire the location of the former tropical sea, now occupied by the villages of Castleton and Hope. It was then along the Great Ridge giving spectacular views over both the Edale and Hope valleys. This ridge, one of the most popular walks in the UK, marks the boundary between the Dark Peak to the north and the White Peak to the south. It also gave us a view of the face of Mam Tor (the largest landslide in the UK) and the former road to Manchester whose repair has been abandoned due to the land beneath slowly moving downslope.  Following the Great Ridge to Hollins Cross, Back Tor Nook and up the rocky path to the top of Back Tor we eventually reached the top of Lose Hill, the end of our climbing for the day, and a welcome of late lunch stop sheltering from the wind in the dips on the north slope. Once again refreshed, it was downhill through grassy fields, across the railway track to the cement works and into Hope village. After a stop to use the facilities in the village it was back to Castleton following the footpath by Peakshole water. Thanks to Angela for leading the walk and to Steve, Tom and Gareth for acting as backmarkers.
Stephen J Tomlinson

Thursday 22 June – Haxey, Westwoodside and The Turbary walk
Thirten happy souls met outside St Nicholas’s church in Haxey for this 6.5 mile walk in very warm weather.  Haxey's name originates from the Scandinavian for "Haki's Island". In 1741 this former market town suffered a calamitous fire and consequently has few old buildings apart from the church.  We set off to the far end of Church Street known as Greenhill and there we passed the Piety Cross bearing a white lion on a red shield. This is the heraldic arms of the Mowbray family, the lords of the Epworth Manor that included Haxey and Westwoodside in the Middle Ages. Haxey of course is renowned for it's annual Hood Game played on the 6th January, that day being Epiphany and the "Twelfth" day of Christmas. The "game" involves local teams battling vigorously to acquire a leather "hood" for their local inn. The game's origins are somewhat vague but supposedly reach back to the C13th with some sources dating it specifically to AD1213. It commemorates an incident on a blustery, wintry day when Lady Mowbray lost her scarf (hood) in the wind. From a group of thirteen nearby labourers one chased after it and having retrieved it was too shy to return it to her ladyship. Another, forward enough to do so, she pronounced to be a "Lord" and the former a "Fool". Nevertheless all thirteen received a grant of land - provided they undertook an annual re-enaction. There is a wood carving on the former Isle of Axholme Joint Railway and Rob kindly gave a little talk to us about this.
The former Isle of Axholme Joint Railway was the first to be built under the 1896 Light Railways Act, which was enacted to encourage the spread of rural railway lines by avoiding payment of expensive Parliamentary legal costs. The line opened in sections between January 1900 and January 1905. Passenger trains ceased in 1933 but goods services survived until 1965. We then walked through the Turbary nature reserve. Haxey Turbary was formerly a peat bog where the local populace exercised rights to the cutting of peat and turves. Its drainage was begun in earnest, as indeed it was throughout the Isle of Axholme, in the 1620's by Cornelius Vermuyden on the instruction of King Charles I in order to convert the land for agricultural use, something that met with considerable (often violent) opposition from the local population. Today the Turbary nature reserve is under the guardianship of the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust. After passing flooded quarries we arrived at Westwoodside where we had a refreshment break overlooking the very attractive pond. Earlier in the walk several walkers got quite excited to see a heron on a footbridge and got cameras out. It became obvious quite quickly that this was ornamental! Therefore when we arrived at the pond and saw a warning sign Beware of the Alligator we were quite sceptical! After our short refreshment break, we were then ready to tackle the last uphill mile back to St Nicholas’s Church. On the way we passed the only surviving Methodist Chapel in Westwoodside. A good time was had by all!  Jeannette Walters

Tuesday 20 June 2023 The Sheffield Round

The Sheffield Round is a15 mile loop that combines the rural with the urban on the South Western edges of the city. It takes in parklands, wooded areas with streams and some built-up areas with roads to cross. There are plenty of ups and downs and it can be quite a challenge ....even on a good day. Tuesday 20 June was not a good day. It rained.  At times just steadily and for an hour or so torrentially. Only masochists or Ramblers would turn out on a day like that. And so it was that 14 of us met in the car park by the animal farm in Graves Park. After putting on our wet weather gear and being briefed by Brian as to what we were letting ourselves in for we set off in an anticlockwise direction. Past the golf course, through Gleadless Valley and on to Meersbrook Park before crossing Abbeydale Road. At this time the rain was swapping between heavy drizzle and showers. An area of housing and then Chelsea Park brought us into more housing as we dropped quite steeply down to Eccleshall Road and Endcliffe Park for our coffe break. By now unfortunately the rain was extremely heavy with small rivulets running along the paths. From Endcliffe we climbed steadily up through the Porter Valley towards Porter Clough and Ringinglow. The walk up is very attractive with woodland and the brook running through it .The trees also provded some shelter. Lunch was at the top.The rain had eased enough to tempt most to picnic in the open ..but that soon changed and eventually we all took shelter and and some respite in The Norfolk Arms. After lunch the weather very gradually started to improve as we headed through Limb Valley and Eccleshall Woods and then Ladies Spring Woods ( with its steep steps ! ). With only a couple of big roads to cross and the rain now almost stopped and our clothes beginning to dry we were at last able to relax a little and enjoy the scenery. The last leg was past Beauchief golf club and then across Meadowhead and back into Graves Park and the cars. The final insult from the weather gods was that just as we got there the sun came out. Never mind.  It had,despite the rain been a varied, enjoyable and remarkably cheerful walk in a great area with good company...and that's what matters. Thanks to Brian for leading with aplomb. CP

Thursday 16th June '23 - Langold Circuit

Seventeen of us met in the car park of the Langold Country Park. The lake has a history going back over 200 years. It was originally constructed amongst woodland in the area. The landscape much of which was designed by Ralph Knight of Langold Hall in the 1750s. Ralph Knight was responsible for much of the planting and also created a series of lakes and ponds. His grandson Henry Knight made alterations in 1818 including the conversion of the existing lakes and ponds into two inter-connected man-made lakes to form part of a formal landscape with the intention to build a large house but it was never constructed. By the 1890s a weir with a single arch bridge with boathouse underneath had been constructed. The 19th century boat house still exists today. During the 1920s the area was developed for mining with the former Firbeck Colliery site located to the east of the park. The Firbeck Colliery Company purchased the land in July 1927 and became a leisure facility for the Langold miners principally for fishing. In 1946 the coal mining industry was nationalised and the National Coal Board expanded the leisure facilities in the park. In 1968 the mine closed, and the park was taken over by the local authority. Mining equipment was removed to make way for a children's playground and refreshment facilities. The dam and bank at the east end of the lake were rebuilt c1975. The Lido was removed in 2013 and new play facilities added in 2014. The first Langold Gala was held in 1929 with accounts claiming that 10,000 visited the Park.mmmm

The seventeen included Chrissy, from the Rotherham Metro group, and newcomer Anne, for her first Ramblers walk. We left the park and walked north through Dyscarr Wood, turning west at the end of the wood.  Adjacent to an oval field near the village of Firbeck  we paused and Diane told us it that it marks what was once the private racecourse of 18th century racehorse owner Anthony St Leger, who originated the St Leger Stakes. While the first "St. Leger" race was held on Cantley Common in 1776, was not so named until over a year later, and moved to Doncaster Racecourse in 1778, local legend holds that the race was being run in Firbeck prior to this. St Leger lived at Park Hill, an estate to the south of Firbeck.  After that, we crossed Lamb Lane and gently descended down Salt Hill into Firbeck itself.  We walked through the village, stopping for refreshments in the shade opposite the church. We then walked due south, gently rising to cross Lamb Lane once again and continuing until we skirted the village of Letwell. From Letwell we walked mostly south-west until we reached the western end of Langold Lake. We then followed a path alongside the former spoil-heap of Firbeck colliery. Most of the housing in Langold was built for colliery workers. The first shaft was sunk in 1923, and at its peak in 1953 almost 1500 men were employed underground. But geological problems were ever-present and it closed in 1968.  We reached Langold Lake and followed it around to the very busy play area, toilets, cafe, ice cream stall and car park. David Gadd  

Wednesday 14.06.23. Walk Report. Carers Walk Brodsworth.

The latest Carers walk was held at Brodsworth Hall on a warm sunny summer’s day with a cooling breeze. The majority opted to walk around the magnificent Victorian gardens with 8 brave souls, three carers and five Doncaster Ramblers (Steve, Neil, Jackie, Ian and Tony), choosing the longer walk of just over 3 miles. The eight of us jumped into two cars and drove to Hooton Pagnell, parked at the old market cross and pinfold and admired the views towards Barnsley. Walking along the green lanes of Back Lane, Broad Balk and Lound Lane to Lound Hill and Broadrick Plantation we then turned to the north east on a farm track which we followed for a short distance admiring the view across Doncaster. Turning east we followed a footpath lined by trees and welcome shade which unfortunately was soon lost as the footpath became bordered by open fields of barley and potatoes. At the footpath cross roads we turned east and walked a short distance through a field of wheat to the road at Pickburn which was followed a short distance to the driveway entrance of Brodsworth Hall. A short walk up the driveway took us to the hall and a welcome lunch. A total distance of 3.3 miles was walked in just over 1.5 hours. Thanks to Jackie for taking us back to Hooton Pagnell to recover our cars. Stephen J Tomlinson

Tuesday 13th June 2023 Low Bradfield and 3 reservoirs

Twenty six of us met at the car park in Low Bradfield on a beautiful, but very warm, sunny day. Following the safety briefing off we went on a 10 mile walk taking in Dale Dike, Agden and Damflask Reservoirs all of which are used to supply water to Sheffield. A short walk on the road brought us to the Plough Inn, too early for a pint, then it was walking on footpaths following Dale Dike until we reached Plumpton Lane, a very quiet road, eventually turning off and following the footpath around Dale Dike Reservoir until we reached the marker post at the location of the dam failure which caused the Great Sheffield Flood in 1864. The failure released 3 million cubic metres of water, as the reservoir was being filled for the first time, at least 240 people died, 600 houses destroyed with floodwater reaching as far as The Wicker in central Sheffield. Leaving Dale Dike it was uphill, then downhill into the valley of Emlin Dike where we came across our second expanse of water, Agden Reservoir (means valley of Oak Trees). Following the reservoir to the dam then it was uphill again to High Bradfield and lunch stop in the churchyard, which just happened to be very close to the Old Horns public house, by know it was not to early for a pint. Refreshed it was downhill to Low Bradfield then around the third and final reservoir of the day, Damflask, opened in 1896, giving a leisurely, mainly flat, walk of about 3 miles back to the start point at the car park via the village shop in Low Bradfield for ice creams. Fortunately, about 70% of the walk was in woodland surrounding the reservoir’s which gave us shade from what otherwise would have been a very hot day. Thanks to Dave B for blackmarking and to all those who came out on a very warm day. Stephen J Tomlinson

Thursday 8th June '23 - History of the Landcape around Tickhill

Seventeen of us met at the Buttercross for this slightly longer than usual Thursday morning walk. Three guests included one from the Chesterfield Group and two from the Dearne Valley Group. The briefing took place around the corner, Tithes Lane, from the busy and noisy Buttercross area. Maps were given out showing our roiute and, more important, the area below the 15metre contour line which was underwater from about 500AD until it was drained by Thomas Tofield (1730-1779) who was born in  Wilsic Hall. Tofield was a noted botanist as well as a civil engineer.  From the departure of the Romans and the arrival of the Danes there was an increasingly wet climate. There was a huge swamp from NE Nottinghamshire to the Isle of Axholme, including Hatfield Chase. There's a report of 1609 of Prince Henry hunting on Hatfield Chase with 100 boats. Marsh folk lived on it, getting about by boats or stilts. Hugh le Berker (Hugh the Shepherd) drowned in 1218. A survey of the castle in 1640 mentions water flowing alongside the 'causey' or built up road which is now Sunderland Street. On the edge of the wet land were a number of settlements - Lindrick,  Estfield (Saxon farmstead), Broadheads, Wadworth, Loversall, Old Rossington, Hesley, Limpool, Sandrock, Moorhouse farm, Haworth, Styrrup and Bagley Green - these were all pre-Domesday Book settlements (1085).

Following the briefing we walked along the path towards Common Lane, a route which probably linked the Anglo-Saxon settlements of Lindrick and Dadesley. On reaching Common Lane (an area in which there have been many archaeogical finds such as a Roman brooch and waist disc, and a papal bull head seal (1250), medieval clasps, a bronze buckle, a 1280 penny, etc all found in the 1980's we turned right and then left towards Eastfield Farm, where the strawberry-picking season had recently opened. From this farm, originally a Saxon farmstead, a route led over the wetland to Limpool. just after the farm we learned about All Hallows church, which stood on All Hallows hill, and the story of Mr Oddy and his fatal accident with a cartload of rocks. The A60 was our route for about 400 metres before we turned into Wellingley Lane, crossing the A1M - the original Doncaster by-pass, which opened in July '61. After crossing it we turned right and then via a series of short, straight stretches we stopped for refreshments.

Stancil Lane took us to Stancil, and a field which is a Scheduled Monument. SMs are usually structures - Conisbrogh Castle, Roche Abbey, etc - but this SM is just a field. But it's a field which must not be ploughed - it can only be used for grazing stock. For beneath it was Stancil Villa. Approximately 2 miles SW of Rossington Roman fort it is probable that a Roman officer or a rich Briton built the villa. So impressive was the building that in later times the settlement acquired the name of Stancil, a corruption of 'stone dwelling-hall'. Roman villas were not only elite residences but acted very much as farm estate management centres and it is highly probable that the estate managed from the villa would have managed surrounding farms. The area around Stancil holds cropmark evidence of a large rectilinear field system extending over the entire area. Trackways and a possible large droveway are also present. Some cropmarks are on a different alignment suggesting multiple phases of occupation but all probably relate to activity within the period 500BC to 400AD. To the south of Stancil are cropmarks of uncertain date that may relate to numerous periods of activity over the last 3000 years. Skeletons were found at Stancil Roman Villa in 1938. The police were called out and 'perhaps up to 40 skeletons' were found. The site was visited by R Smedley of Doncaster Museum, who undertook a small excavation, revealing stone walls and two more skeletons. The 1938 find led to a proper excavation later in 1938 and in '39 by Professor Whiting. He uncovered two rooms within a larger building, with the remains of a bath-house noted in trenches a little to the east; the walls in the excavated rooms remained standing to a height of 1metre. Two periods of structural change were noted: a small under-floor heating system. Stancil was recorded in the Domesday Book and later history, from poll tax records, shows that in 1379 15 married couples and 27 single people were old enough to be assessed for the poll tax (i.e. children were excluded), a total of 47. About 200 years later there were only four families in the settlement, and later a single farm. In the 1520-30s John Wirral, a Doncaster merchant, bought the manors of both Stancil and Loversall.

After this epic slice of history we walked south, reaching Hopyard Lane, where we turned left in the direction of the Torne, which we joined and followed around to Sheepwash Lane. Turning right here, and then crossfield paths after 200metres towards Common Lane, the A1M was re-crossed and then into Tickhill. Thanks to Nigel and Dave for backmarking.  David Gadd

Tuesday 6 June 2023 Idle Valley.  The Jim Elvidge Memorial Walk 

The Idle Valley Nature Reserve is just off the A638 Great North Road outside Retford. It is 375 hectares of mixed lakes,wetlands, grassland and scrub and is home to a variety of birds and wildlife. 32 of us met in the car park to be briefed by Nigel, who had stepped as leader in the absence of his 'partner in crime' Rob. He explained that he would be assisted by Kerry and Dave who would try to keep him on route. Out of the car park , across some duckboards and we were immediately into trees and shrubbery as we skirted the first of many small lakes. The good flat path took us all the way along the left bank of the River Idle until we reached Chain Bridge Lane where we stopped for elevenses. The weather was dry but with a chilly breeze so we didn't spend too long there. Instead we crossed to the other bank and followed this as far as Neat Holme Road where we recrossed the river.The track passed lakes and light woodland on alternate sides as we walked into Lound for our lunch stop. The Memorial Gardens on Town St were a perfect picnic spot. Rejoining Chain Bridge Lane at its other end we exited Lound past some industrial works before swinging right and then left past Wetlands and back through more of the nature reserve woodlands ( and getting to see some Longhorn Cattle ) to get back to car park and visitor centre where we had started ten miles and five hours earlier. A good, rural walk in a great area of Nottinghamshire. Thanks to Nigel for leading and David for the photos. Charlie Pratt
(Jim Elvidge was Rob's cousin and had for a long time been a keen Rambler...well known for his smart turnout that invariably included a flat cap. Some of todays walkers wore one in his memory.)

Non-members welcome, just turn up and say “Hello”.  You will be well looked after. Please visit our website https://www.doncasterramblers.org.uk/ for latest information, including future activity. Also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/doncasterramblers/ for details of past Rambler outings. Remember while out observe the Countryside Code and give way to other walkers.

Saturday 3rd June 2023 Heatherdene to Win Hill and Hope

As 11 of us gathered in the car park at Heatherdene, most tried to find a sunny spot to make up for the still chilly air. We started gently with a stroll across Ladybower Dam getting a good look at the overflow. We then climbed steadily uphill. At every choice of path, the choice was always the same: up. The reward was great views from the top of Win Hill and elevenses there. Our descent was much gentler. We first followed the ridge with views of the Hope Valley and then of Edale, then turned back towards Hope and continued our descent to the River Noe enjoying the Hawthorn blossom and flower meadows. We crossed the river at the edge of Hope and made for our lunch stop in the centre of the village where ice cream and beer were popular refreshments. The afternoon started with a brief stroll along the river before we headed down the Hope Valley along the lower slopes of Win Hill with more Hawthorn and flower meadows. When we reached the Derwent Valley we followed the Derwent Valley Heritage Way along a disused railway giving views of Bamford Edge. We crossed the River Derwent at Yorkshire Bridge and had a final climb up the side of the dam wall to Heatherdene. Thanks to Carmen for the photos. Brian Unsworth
P.O.I.
Win Hill is a hill north west of Bamford in the Derbyshire Peak District of England. Its summit is 462 m (1,516 ft) above sea level and it is bounded by the River Derwent to the east, the River Noe to the south west and Ladybower Reservoir to the north, with a ridge running north west linking it to Kinder Scout. The Roman road from Glossop over the Snake Pass crosses the ridge to the north and descends to Hope and the old Roman base of Brough in the Hope Valley, with the Hope Cross, a marker post dating from 1737, at the highest point of the road.

Tueday 30 May 2023 Sir William Hill from Eyam

Our walk started from the free car park on the outskirts of the 'plaque village ' of Eyam. 21 of us ( inc new man Shaun ) were briefed by Angela and set off down the hill and through the village where we passed some of the cottages and the church where lots of the 260 victims of the plaque were buried. Fortunately the plaque left the village around 1666. So the only thing to bother us on the day was some unexpected chilly weather. Out of Eyam and towards Stoney Middleton. On the way we stopped to look at the boundary stone where Eyam's villagers had left money in exchange for for food and supplies from their neighbours. Then it was downhill into attractive Stoney Middleton itself and then left towards the River Derwent and Froggatt, The going was still fairly easy at this stage and the weather was getting a little better. A coffee break with cake ( provided by our marvellous leader) was taken on the way on some boulders beside a small stream and pool. After crossing the river at Froggatt Bridge we stuck to the right side of the river until we reached the Leadmill Bridge; passing Grindleford on one side and then Upper and Nether Padley on the other. Our lunch stop was high up with a splendid view across the valley to Hathersage. After luncn it seemed like it was all uphill, with some climbs up to Eyam Moor and then the Sir William Hill in the title of the walk. By the time we reached the top we were mostly glad that the weather had stayed fresh and not been as warm as it had been at the weekend. In any case we all agreed that the views along the way made it all worthwhile. The return to the car park was at first gently downhill before the final steep drop into Eyam. A lovely varied 11 mile circular walk in . Thanks to Angela for leading, Steve for the photos and Neil, Ian and Steve again for backmarking.
Eyam is a fascinating place to visit. Lots of info on Wikipeadia etc for anyone who is interested. Charlie Pratt

Thursday, 25th May 2013 - Hooton Roberts Ramble

Following the introductions and a plea for leaders of the Thursday walks twelve of us set off from the car park of the Earl of Strafford, car parking kindly allowed by the management, and walked down the hill in a north-westerly direction, before turning to gently climb northwards towards Grange Farm, and then descend to Old Denaby. We walked for about half a mile in Old Denaby before turning right into The Green and then Denaby Wood. We turned right at the busy road at the top before skirting Conisbrough to reach the A630 and cross onto Park Lane.  After a refreshment break we continued along this track until we turned right and began a long gentle descent towards Firsby, noting several old air shafts to our left, signs of the water tunnel below which once carried water from the now-defunct Firsby Reservoir to Doncaster - now a nature reserve. Passing through the hamlet of Firsby we began a long gentle climb towards Hooton Cliff which was followed by a sometimes wet path down Back Lane, back to Firsby. This walk took 2.5 hours. Thanks to the quietly efficient back-marking by June. David Gadd

Wednesday 24th May 2023 Carers Walk Cannon Hall
The latest Carers walk was held at Cannon Hall and Cannon Hall Farm on a beautiful, sunny and warm, late spring day. The majority opted to walk around the Farm (famous from the Channel 5 programme This Week on the Farm) to view the animals, the grounds of the Hall, and the museum housed in the Hall. The majority of the Hall was built in the early to mid-18th century for the Stanhope family who made a fortune locally from coal and iron mining. The house and gardens were purchased by Barnsley MBC in 1951.
Four carers, accompanied by Steve, Ian, Tony and Neil of Doncaster Ramblers opted for a 3.9 mile walk starting at the entrance to the Hall, walking downhill through the pleasure gardens we followed the footpath to Cawthorne cricket ground. After crossing the stream on a stone bridge by the ford we walked through fields taking us past Cannon Hall Farm, crossing a minor road before entering Deffer Wood where we stopped in the shade for a welcome break to take on some fluid. Onwards and upwards we reached the highest point of the walk; it was then downhill until we finally exited the wood at Jowett House Beck and walked through the fields to Jowett House. Following two minor roads for a short distance brought us to the car park at Cannon Hall then it was uphill to the front of the Hall, passing the Deer Shed, before a welcome lunch at the Hall café. Well done to the four carers who completed this walk in under 2 hours and successfully negotiated all the stiles on the route, some of which were not easy to get over.  Stephen J Tomlinson.

Tuesday 16th May '23 - Fishlake to Sykehouse Circular
Twenty-two walkers gathered on the landing in Fishlake on a bright but coolish morning for a briefing regarding todays 12 mile walk. Prior to the briefing the leader explained to some walkers about the history of the adjacent manor house, a mileage stone (more of which later) and the local customs house. Setting off the group went onto the Don flood bank for about 400 yards before turning off to go down the locally known Wood Lane, which turned out to be very muddy in places, eventually coming out at Jubilee Bridge from where the group turned left and followed the path to Ivy House Farm where elevenses were taken. Several members of the group were treated to an impromptu history lesson by the incumbent farmer about another milestone which stated that Tinsley Lock was 30 miles upstream and the one in Fishlake showed a corresponding distance, this is from when the Don was a major waterway. Proceeding onwards towards the River Went floodbank where the direction changed towards the New Junction Canal where a suitable footbridge was used to cross the canal.  Continuing on the Went floodbank which was left at Eskholme, taking a bridleway towards the George pub in Sykehouse and lunch. After lunch a path was taken from the rear of the pub towards Sykehouse lock and then a short stretch on a road before heading back into the fields again, passing Fishlake Covert and NewHouse Farm, before reaching a road again. From Here it was a short strech before hitting Fishlake Nab and the end of the walk. Thanks to Norman for backmarking and Steve for the photos. Distance 12miles; time taken 5hrs 30 mins. Stuart Twell 

Thursday 11th May 2023  Langold & Hodsock. 

There was light rain falling when the group was getting ready at Langold Lake car park for this morning walk. The leader accompanied by eight ramblers set off from the car park and proceeded through the woods before crossing the busy A60 with care. Our next path was directly opposite which was a steady walk along a minor lane in a easterly direction. After some distance we turned off this road into the countryside towards Hodsock. Various fields were encountered including one particularly attractive field where there was a good path through a number of flowers on each side. The group arrived at Hodsock just after 11.00 for a refreshment break. The rain had stopped soon after leaving and by now patches of blue sky were noted. After our break we used further rather muddy field footpaths to enable us to return to the car park. Our route took us through Hodsock Lodge Farm where the footpath runs through an area of the farmyard. We joined our outward route a little later where a short break was taken for drinks. We returned to the car park as on our outward journey, crossing back over the A60 and through the woods.  David Horne

Tuesday 9 May 2023 Lord's Seat and Eldon Hill

I always say that the Peak District never lets you down and I was proved correct by this lovely walk. 17 of us met at the Castleton Visitor Centre to be briefed by our leader Angela. Having crossed the road we were soon up Goosehill and arcing right towards Speedwell Cavern where we crossed the road again and began the steady climb to Treak Cliff Cavern entrance and then ( after a short breather ) past the Blue John Cavern entrance and then Mam Nick. We took our coffee break here. The picnic tables provided welcome seating and our leader provided welcome lemon drizzle cake for our elevenses. But there was to be no long rest and were soon climbing up again to reach Rushup Edge and Lords Seat. The weather was bright and sunny and the views were glorious in all directions. No better place to be on a Tuesday morning in May. Leaving Rushup Edge we swung south and were soon into the lovely Perry Dale. Lunch on a bank alongside the ( surprisingly busy ) track. It was almost warm enough to sunbathe as we again soaked up the scenery all around us. At the end of Perry Dale a sharp left took us up and adjacent to Eldon Hill on our left before turning right to begin the downhill return leg to Castleton. The last section of this leg was the very steep and rocky descent down Cavedale. We had all been warned to watch our steps. We did so but also managed to pause every now and then to marvel at the once again terrific surroundings. Safely back in Castleton we went our separate ways ( some via a local hostelry ) back to the cars and home after another great Peak District ramble. Thanks to Angela for leading , Steve for the photography and various people for backmarking. Charlie Pratt

Saturday 6th May '23  - Hoping to See a Tropical Sea

Nine of us gathered outside the Tourist Information Centre in Castleton on this Coronation day. Three of our number new to the group. As we entered Cave Dale we passed through the seaward edge of a former coral reef formed when Britain occupied a position nearer the equator. Frequent stops up Cave Dale made the going easier. Elevenses was taken at Mam Nik picnic site where cake was shared. Exiting via the top of the picnic site meant that we were already a third of the way up Mam Tor, making our climb to the triangulation pillar a little easier. Here we stopped to admire the location of the former tropical sea, now occupied by the villages of Castleton and Hope. Our walk along the ridge, which separates the Dark Peak to the north and the White Peak to the south, gave us spectacular views over both the Edale and Hope valleys. It also gave us a view of the face of Mam Tor (the largest landslide in the UK) and the former road to Manchester whose repair has been abandoned due to the land beneath slowly moving downslope. Walking along the ridge we passed Hollins Cross before climbing Back Tor and then Lose Hill, where lunch was taken. We then descended down grassy slopes into Hope where we raised a glass to our new king at the local beer festival. A leisurely walk along the river took us back to Castleton. We were blessed with warm, occasionally wet weather, spectacular scenery and good company. AMG

Thursday, 4th May '23 - Roche Abbey Ramble

Fifteen of us, including a couple of new people and a guest, Diane, from Australia, set off from Roche Abbey.  Situated beautifully in the valley of Maltby Beck, Roche Abbey is a wonderful place to start a walk. The abbey was founded in 1147, one of the founders being Richard de Busli, probably the great-nephew of Roger de Busli, builder of Tickhill castle. The founding monks came down from Newminster Abbey in Northumberland and this site was chosen for the gushing stream and because it stood on a seam of remarkable rock. An ancient quarry was developed, the sides of which can still be seen today in the cliff that runs next to the ruins. Twenty-five years later, at the end of the century, the Norman Gothic great church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, was completed. At its height it supported a community of 175 men, of whom about 60 were the choir monks, the remainder Cistercian lay brothers. Just over 300 years later, in 1538, on the orders of Thomas Cromwell, the abbey was destroyed. After leaving the Abbey we climbed steadily through King's Wood to reach open countryside, with wonderful views across the valley and towards Laughten en le Morthen, with the magnificent spire of All Saints Church dominating the village. Passing through the village we reached a children's playground, where we refreshed ourselves. Leaving Firbeck we walked along the airy Kirk Croft Road until we reached Long Thwaite Wood. The trees on the edge of the wood had clearly been scorched by last summer's field fire. Passing some cottages we walked along a minor road into Firbeck.  Turning left onto a footpath alongside St Martin's Church we reached the site of the memorial to those who served at RAF Firbeck. The RAF requisitioned the small airfield here and it became the base of the 613 Squadron. We followed a wide track across fields towards the village of Stone. After leaving Stone we passed through a narrow gap into a field, which we crossed to reach a lane, then a gate and the final, long field with Roche Abbey in full view. This was a lovely 3-hour walk of 6.4 miles. David Gadd.

Tuesday, 2nd May '23 - Monsal Head, River Wye and the Monsal Trail

Twenty seven of us, including Helen and Sandra who joined us for the first time, met at the Monsal Head Hotel on what was a cloudy and cool start to the day; the walk leader was urged to get started as those wearing shorts were feeling the chill. Taking a few minutes to soak in in the spectacular views of Monsal Dale, which was carved in the 300-million-year-old limestone during the last ice age, we were off, after a quick briefing by the walk leader, downhill to the River Wye. Following the river downstream, we reached the A6, crossed it carefully, and stopped for coffee break with flapjack and brownies kindly provided by Kerensa and Kim. Energised from cake it was a short steep climb into Great Shacklow Wood, with vast swathes of wild garlic, then it was back downhill to the valley of the River Wye, past an abandoned mill powered by two water wheels, before crossing the A6 again into the pretty village of Ashford in the Water. Following the river, with a short uphill detour, we finally reached our lunch stop by the river in Bakewell. During the morning the temperature had risen with much disrobing taking place as the gentlemen sweated and the ladies glowed, so ice creams and liquid refreshments were purchased to continue the cooling process. After lunch it was a short uphill section to the Monsal Trail which follows the route of the abandoned Midland Railway from Bakewell to Wyedale, near Buxton, which closed in 1968. It was then past the buildings of Bakewell Station and Hassop Station to the old station platforms at Thornbridge Hall where a short break was taken to top up on fluids as the cloud had lifted to become a lovely warm late spring day. It was then into the Headstone Tunnel cut through 490m of Limestone, exiting the tunnel onto the 300-foot-long Headstone Viaduct which carried the railway over the River Wye on 5 arches. After a short stop to admire the views of Monsal Dale from the viaduct it was a short but steep uphill section back to our start point at the Monsal Head Hotel. Thanks to Gareth for his back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson 

Saturday, 29th April 2023 - Redmires Reservoir and Rivelin Dam

Seven Ramblers plus the leader assembled at Rails Road car park on a cloudy Saturday morning. There was quite a steep ascent at first and in due course we reached the top of the hill. Good views of the surrounding area were to be seen including the Rivelin Dam where we were to be later in the walk. The path levelled off although care was still required as the path, although well defined, had a number of tree roots to be negotiated. We crossed a small stream at one point using stepping stones. Our morning break was taken at Wyming Brook, a most pleasant spot with a bench and a stream running by. The walk continued along a minor road for a short distance before using the path which runs by the south side of Redmires Reservoirs. This was followed to the road where a short walk led us to our next footpath just past the small car park by the reservoir. Here we ventured over moorland with good views and a picnic lunch was enjoyed whilst using this path. Continuing along this path, we turned right along a narrow rocky path which eventually descended onto a broad forestry track. Another right turn here allowed us to use the track to Rivelin Dam where an afternoon break was taken. Our next path was directly opposite after crossing the A57, which gradually climbed up the hillside. Another small section of road walking was undertaken before using another footpath to descend and then make our way down Rails Road to the car park. David Horne.

Thursday, 27th April 2023 Sprotbrough-Cuworth

On a chilly, grey day we met opposite the Sprotbrough Country Club.  After the briefing we went down the steps to the Don and the seven of us started walking towards Doncaster. We soon entered Engine Wood and stopped to admire and wonder at the site of the pump which was built in the late 17th century to pump water from the Don, 100' vertically upwards to Sprotbrough Hall (which was demolished in 1926) to gravit- feed Sir Godfrey Copley's gardens, which included the Great Canal, the Little Canal, the Great Fountain and the Crescent Pool. By 1707 a 35' long lead-lined swimmimg pool had been added in the grounds. The idea for al thisl came when Sir Godfrey visited Chatsworth House and saw the Emperor fountain, with its 290' jet of gravity-fed water. The pump also supplied the village until the water became too polluted. The Don Gorge has been used by animals and people for thousands of years. The bones of wooly mammoths and rhinoceroses have been dug up in the area. Several hoards of coins and jewelry have been dug up in the area, mostly on the south side of the river. There is speculation that the gorge was a boundary in pre-Roman times. The Don itself used to be one of the most polluted rivers in Europe, with hundreds of factories in Sheffield spewing out their waste, however its transformation since the 1970's has been wonderful.  We continued along the lovely path until we reached Newton, where we turned away from the river, passing through Newton itself until we reached the Trans Pennine Trail. We turned to the right along the TPT for about 400 yards before turning left into Cusworth Park. We took the path along the bottom until we reached the Shrubbery, through which we climbed to Cusworth Hall. There we stopped for refreshments, most of us immediately putting on another layer against the chill wind. After our brief stop we descended to pick up the right of way at the southern end of the lake. We followed the path, which took us under the A1M and on towards Sprotbrough. This was a walk of just under 6 miles. David Gadd

Tuesday 25 April 2023 Vicar Water and Royal Sherwood

As you drive into Clipstone you cannot miss the two disused headstocks from the old colliery, still standing as a stark reminder of the village's coalmining past. One of 14 collieries in the Nottinghamshire coalfields Clipstone ran from 1922 until its closure in 2003. Our start point was in the large car park ( with toilets ) at Vicar Water Nature Reserve. Vicar Water is a small tributary of the River Maun and was originall damned in 1870 to create a trout fishery for local landowners The whole area was then turned into a nature reserve when the spoil tips from the colliery were landscaped. 26 of us were once again lucky with the weather. Dry and bright with a promise of sunshine later. After the briefing we set off into the nature reserve and were soon up to the first of two viewpoints over the surrounding area. The second viewpoint included a map showing how many coal mines there had been locally. How different it is today. Rounding the lake we left the nature reserve and headed off into Sherwood Forest. A long loop took us through a heavily wooded section and then via a dissapointingly flytipped greenway to the path that runs behind Sherwood Pines Holiday Village. Coffee in a small glade on the way and then lunch at some handy tables and benches at a sunny crossroads of bike trails. Emerging at the main Mansfield road we went left as far as the Dog and Duck public house where we made an additional stop for refreshment. The pub is on the edge of Kings Clipstone village where King John had a small palace that he used as a hunting lodge for the surrounding 1400 acres of deer park and 70 acres of rabbit warrens. What is left of the palace ruins can be seen in an adjacent field. We then pressed on for the last leg of the walk. Firstly via the narrow pavements in Kings Clipstone itself and then up and onto the wider expanse Cavendish Drive that runs the full length in the countryside behind the houses and buildings. Cutting left across a couple of fields and then a small park area we were back at the main road through Clipstone centre and then the car park. Just over 11 miles. Thanks to Tony for backmarking and Steve for the photos . Charlie Pratt

Thursday 20th April 2023 Sandall Beat Wood.

Ten Ramblers plus the leader assembled at Sandall Beat Wood for this 6 miler to Cantley & Old Cantley. The weather was dry and pleasant for the walk throughout, a complete contrast to when the same walk was held during November 2022 when rain was a feature for a large part of the walk. A broad track brought us quickly out to the offices, gardens and children’s playground which is the focal point of the Sandall Beat Wood area. A brief stop was made to use the toilets before we set off again over a footbridge and made our way on another broad track towards Cantley. A short walk along a residential road took us back into the woods and a refreshment break was taken amongst the trees. Next was a walk along residential roads through Cantley into Old Cantley. Here we were able to regain footpaths back into Sandall Beat Wood. We rejoined our outward route briefly before taking a deviation into the country park area where Markham Main Colliery once stood. The leader gave a little information about the colliery here. Next we made our way back over the footbridge where we were earlier in the walk, passed the offices and took a slightly shorter route back to the car park.  David Horne.
P.O.I.
Markham Main Colliery - Plans for the pit started in June 1913 when Earl Fitzwilliam leased the minerals under his estate in Armthorpe to Sir Arthur Markham. The pit was sunk on 6 May 1916, but following the death of Markham on 5 August 1916, the pit was named Markham Main in his honour. However work stopped on account of wartime restrictions and restated on 21 May 1922. Coal was first recovered on 5 May 1924. The site cost around £1 million and a model village for the pit (Armthorpe) was built. For many years it was used as a training pit for the local area, with a training tunnel. In the 1950s it had around 2,700 workers. A domestic fuel processing plant was built in 1966. In the mid-1980s the pit had around 1,500 employees. When the 1980s miners' strike finished in 1985, Markham Main was the last Yorkshire pit to return to work, three days later. On its initial closure in 1992, it had around 700 workers. The colliery fully closed in 1996 when it had an estimated 50,000,000 tonnes (55,000,000 tons) of coal reserves, enough for around fifty years. The site is now a housing estate, next to Sandall Beat Wood. Between 1920 and 1996, 87 miners died at the pit.

 Tuesday 18 April 2023 Alport Castles Towers Circular

What a super walk this was. Nineteen of us ( including 3 or 4 new faces ) met in the car park at Fairholmes alongside Ladybower Reservoir. After quick introductions and a briefing from our leader we set off. From Fairholmes the only way is up ! .And so it was that we were soon climbing steadily up Hagg Side on the first of the day's uphill bits. Uphill bits proved to be quite a feature of the morning half of the walk. But any puffing and panting and raising of heart rates was more than made up for by the superb Peak District views and vistas that spread out infront and to both sides of us. As the early clouds cleared and brighter breezy weather took over the surrounding countryside looked at its springtime best. A welcome coffee break was taken just before we crossed the A57 at Alport Bridge after we had walked along Woodlands above the River Ashop. Up the valley we went and then turned right to go very steeply up toward Alport Castles themselves. The castles and 'The Tower' are the result of what is, at over half a mile long , said to be the largest ever landslide in the UK. We had a lunch stop just below the summit. Some of the younger members of our group were tempted ( and encouraged ) to climb The Tower but despite our offers to wait they eventually made excuses about not having time. After lunch it was a few more steep steps to the top ( 1,594 ft / 486 m ) and then we began a long downhill section via Rowlee Pasture. It was very windy on the top . But if we had thought the views were good earlier then we should have waited. From Rowlee Pasture you had the whole of the Upper Derwent Valley on one side and Edale, Lose Hill and Win Hill on the other. Magnificent. The final descent back to Fairholmes was down a steep and stony path through Lockerbrook Coppice. Happy and tired after a splendid 10 mile walk some of us had to recharge our batteries with ice creams befrore the drive home. Thanks to Jeanette for leading, Angela for backmarking and Steve and Terry for the photos. Charlie Pratt

 Saturday 15th April 2023 - Tour of Hatfield Moor

After torrential rain on Friday, four of  us turned up on Saturday morning expecting flood & mud. No flood and surprisingly not much mud. We set off from 10 acre lake car park on a 3 mile loop along the side of the lake, out on to the moor and back along the path of  the old peat works railway. We stopped for coffee at 11.15. After our break we set off over the moors and across the old peat workings, which are now being regenerated by Natural England. The sun came out as we made our way to Boston Park for lunch. After lunch it was on to Badger Corner to see what birds were on the lake. Onwards along the green mile to the neolithic trackway and the Polish Wellington bomber war memorial. We looked around the crashed plane site and then made our way back to the car park to finish our 12.5 mile ramble.

 Thursday 13th April 2023  Dunsville

11 Walkers plus leader met at dunsville community centre and after a short briefing set of along Thorne road towards Wyndthorpe Hall where we then took a public footpath across farmland towards the motorway for as far as possible , then turning right on to a track which is also a public footpath. continuing along this path for about 1 mile eventually finishing the path at the potato storage facility. Crossing the road we headed down kings land passing the part restored Lings Mill eventually emerging at the Hatfield Chase pub, Crossing the road and taking the public footpath behind the pub we continued for about 3/4 mile before refreshments were taken. After refreshments a short detour round a small wooded area then across Quarry park back to the start.  Distance 5 miles Time taken 2hrs 10 mins.  Stuart Twell

Wednesday 12th April 2023 Doncaster Carers Lotherton Hall 

The first Doncaster Carers day out for 2023 was held at Lotherton Hall formerly the home of the Gascgoine family, with the house and the estate being gifted by Sir Alvery Gascgoine to Leeds city Council in 1968 on the understanding the grounds and the houses were to be open to the public. Since 1968 a small wildlife park has been developed along with visitor facilities such as car parks, toilets and a café. The day started of dry and cloudy but with a cold wind blowing which in exposed areas certainly chilled the bones with the forecast rain starting to fall in the early afternoon. The weather forecast probably deterred several people from walking with us, the majority opting to wander around the hall, view the wildlife from various parts of the world and visit the café. Two of the carers joined six Doncaster Ramblers on a 4.5mile walk starting at the big house then walking past the deer park, with a large herd visible, and continuing southwards through Ringhay Wood. It was then through open fields, where we really felt the chill in the wind, and pondered when the black clouds were going to give us a soaking. The rain held off and we made our way to the A1M by Micklefield where we turned north across Hook Moor passing close by the wind turbines which were busy generating electricity. Turning east, accompanied by a few drops of rain, took us back into Ringhay Wood, eventually retracing our earlier steps north back to the Hall but this time walking through the gardens with a lovely display of daffodils, past the hall entrance and the chapel to the café and lunch in the court yard. We were grateful the worst of the weather held off until we got back to the café where a welcome hot drink helped to ease the chill in the bones. Thanks to Neil, Jackie, Catherine, Ian and Tony from Doncaster Ramblers who helped on the walk. Even though we only had a couple of people to look after it was worth the effort and at the very least we had 1.75 hours of fresh air, all be it with minimum Vitamin D top up! Steve Tomlinson

Tuesday 11th April Wintersett to Nostell Priory Circular

22 walkers met at The Heronry car park to be met by some good news that the car park machine was not working therefore the parking was free for the day , also the good news that 3 new walkers had joined us for the day 2 ladies and 1 gent .Bob our leader for the day gave us a quick briefing in the bright but very cold weather. Setting off along the transpenine trail which took us through Haw park wood skirting the edge of Walton Hall the home of the first nature reserve in this country which was devised by Charles Waterton ,the path then continued along the edge of the old but now defunct Barnsley canal.A right turn was then made which took us through a golf course and giving better views of Walton Hall.After a short while the obligatory drinks stop was made at Anglers Country Park overlooking Wintersett Reservoir Starting again the path continued towards Nostell through some defunct open cast coal workings. Skirting round Nostell the way was made to the old stable yard for our lunch stop. After lunchtime return journey was started by going through a redundant brick works undergoing restoration(ibstocks),pushing on the Wakefield Way was picked taking us through Wintersett village with a nicely decorated postbox back to the car park. Excellent leadership from Dave with Bob back marking and Steve with the photos. Distance10mls Time taken 5 hrs

Thursday 6th April – Sykehouse.

On a rather cloudy April morning five Ramblers plus the leader assembled at Sykehouse Village Hall where permission had been granted to use the Village Hall car park. We started with a walk along the main street as far as Starkbridge Lane where we turned right and made our way into the countryside. A series of good tracks, albeit rather muddy in a few places, took us towards Pollington. A narrow footbridge was negotiated and then a field footpath before we emerged by the Aire & Calder Navigation Canal. This was a most pleasant spot with canal lock gates and some picnic benches. Our refreshment break was taken here. The walk continued through Pollington itself with a brief pause at an Information Board. Continuing along the main street, we turned right into a lane and a further series of lanes and tracks brought us back towards Sykehouse. By now the sun was out and it was getting quite warm. Another brief pause was made for drinks before a slightly different route was taken for the return to the Village Hall. David Horne 

Tuesday 4th April 2023 -  Robin Hood Way and the Southwell Trail

21 ramblers met at what used to be the old railway station at Farnsfield  at the head of the Southwell Trail. We were led by Rob who confirmed that the walk had been updated to strenuous in part because of some extremely muddy areas discovered on a reconnaissance  last week. It was also noted that the length of the walk would be 13 not 12 miles. We set off in glorious sunny weather on what turned out to be a beautiful spring day and headed south past the church and out into fields and paths up to Combs Wood. We then encountered an extremely muddy ascent on a narrow footpath trying to keep our feet and at the same time trying to avoid banging our heads on the overhanging branches .After a short descent we climbed up to the halfway point of the Robin Hoods Way and had a coffee break in a field with lovely views of the valley. We then walked through Halam and Westhorpe taking in a southern approach to Southwell which brought us to the Minster, our lunch stop. Everyone dispersed to explore pubs cafes and the Minster. After lunch we stopped briefly outside the former home of the famous poet and "defender of liberty", Lord Byron who had lived there between 1803 and 1808. A gentleman dressed in what was probably Georgian attire appeared in the doorway and regaled us with some interesting facts about the poet who he confirmed was "mad, bad and dangerous to know" Rob claimed he had arranged this event -ha ha! We passed several ancient buildings, notably the old police House, old courthouse and the house of correction before passing the Final Whistle pub and joining the Southwell Trail. We then had a pleasant walk along the River Greet to the hamlet of Maythorne where there was a former cotton mill which had been based on designs of Richard Arkwright  of Cromford Derbyshire. We then rejoined the Southwell Trail and continued  along the old Midland Railway  line in bright sunshine to the end of the walk. Grateful thanks to Rob who expertly led us on this varied and pleasant walk and to the back marker whose name escapes me.lso to our rookie photographer Angela. Nigel Ball

Saturday 1st April - “Hats off to Higger”

Fourteen enthusiastic Ramblers and one dog assembled promptly at Fox House for the 9.30 start to this 10 mile circular walk. It was dry, and remained so all day, although wet underfoot in places. We walked the invigorating Burbage edge to start with, providing glorious views over to Higger Tor and beyond. At upper Burbage Bridge we crossed the two streams and walked up to Higger Tor for a coffee break. Great views were afforded from the Tor across the valley to Burbage Edge in one direction and to the Hope Valley in the other. The walk to Hathersage was pleasantly downhill and we were delighted by the sound of a woodpecker on the way. The post lunch retreat was the “Little John” in Hathersage and from there we took the Riverside walk to the bottom of Padley Gorge.  Uphill all the way back to Fox house from this point, but we were all up to the challenge. Thanks to Deet McKay for co-leading and baking ginger cake for us all to share. Thanks also to Peter,Brian and Kez for back marking.  Phil Rawlins

Thursday 30th March – Fishlake.

On a reasonable morning the leader accompanied by a group of ten Ramblers set off from Fishlake along country lanes in a northerly direction. The ground initially was quite wet with some mud and puddles but careful navigation allowed us to keep clear of the worst of the mud. After turning left at a “T” junction we emerged by farm buildings and a junction of paths by a lane. A quick break was taken here to remove a layer of clothing as it was getting warm by now. We carried on in a northbound direction along the lane, going underneath some pylons before turning left along a track. A further left turn quite quickly took us down another track where we had a refreshment break. Carrying on we crossed a lane and took a further track with a couple of properties on the left. The track then curved to the right and brought us out at the southern end of Fosterhouses. We turned right then left along another minor lane for some distance. At the next road junction we turned left noting a decorative “Fishlake” name sign. A footpath led off to the right which we took and then shortly we turned left. This was initially quite a muddy path but dried out as we headed south and met the road that comes from Stainforth. A left turn here took us back to Fishlake noting a mill in good condition on the left and another decorative “Fishlake” sign.  David Horne 

Tuesday 28 March 2023 "Walk of life" Hathersage

This otherwise lovely walk on the Derbyshire moors south of Hathersage was somewhat let down by rain. The magnificent scenery tried hard but the weather simply refused to play its part. The views across the valleys were often shrouded in mist and drizzle and some of the paths were a little muddy to put it mildly. But the 12 Ramblers who took part refused to be down hearted. Seeming to draw a strange pleasure from the challenging conditions we pressed on and laughed in the face of adversity.
Setting off from the car park adjacent to Hathersage Lido we went down to Leadmill and then west to Callow Farm and across Offerton Moor. This initial ascent raised our heart rates and provided a taster for other hills to come later on. Shatton Moor was followed by Abney Moor as we turned south ( and up ). The coffee and lunch stops were necessarily brief ( but nevertheless jovial ) affairs given the wet conditions. Hucklow Edge and then east towards Bretton and our very welcome pub stop at The Barrel Inn. Despite looking like 12 drowned rats we were welcomed in and enjoyed some all too brief respite in the warm and dry. The Barrel Inn dates back to 1597and stands on a table of land some 1300 feet above sea level and claims to be the highest pub in Derbyshire. On a clear day we would apparently have been able to enjoy views over 5 counties ! After the pub we descended carefully and steadily on slippy and muddy paths down Bretton Clough and then above Highlow Brook back to the main road and Hathersage ( wisely missing out a planned section at Hoghall that our leader felt would be a step too steep on the day ). Back at the cars we were all thoroughly wet but also thoroughly happy. Full marks to Jeanette for leading us safely, to Steve for the photos and Peter G for backmarking.
I know Jeanette intends to repeat this walk on a Saturday in the summer when hopefully the weather will be kinder. I highly recommend it. Its a great walk ! Charlie Pratt

Saturday 25th March - Litton, River Wye and the White Peak Dales

How many would turn up for our walk from Litton and classed as Strenuous?  Would it be more even than the 5 in our car I wondered, I needn’t have worried, Doncaster Ramblers as usual were “up to the job” and 18 of us set out for what was looking like a wet and maybe even a chilly walk. Again wrong for although it wasn’t completely dry the predicted wet weather, for the most part, proved incorrect.

The walk started from the village shop in Litton and soon descended down Tansley Dale and with the first climb of the day giving us a glorious view of Cressbrook Dale and beyond. Upper Dale came next where after our coffee stop we crossed over the River Wye and under the Monsal Trail to one of the most strenuous climbs of the day bringing us eventually to another glorious view, this time overlooking Monsal Dale. We then descended close to where the Monsal and Taddington Dales meet and walked back up the side of the Wye. We crossed a footbridge over the Wye near the spectacular sight of the weir, as the river was flowing strongly. We climbed up the opposite side of Mosal Dale to have or lunch at Monsal Head, overlooking the Dale, and for a short while inside the Monsal Head Hotel.

After the well earned lunch we walked down to the River Wye once again crossing over and up the opposite bank to briefly (very) walk along the Monsal Trail. We recrossed the river to come once again to Cressbrook Dale. Our final and most strenuous climb of the day brought us up towards our final destination of Litton Village. Finishing in quite wonderful sunny weather were 18 tired (most of us anyway) Ramblers. Thanks to Teresa for devising/leading the walk and Phil, Angela and Gareth for back marking. Glyn Evans

Thursday 23rd March – Epworth & Low Burnham
On a reasonably bright morning, nine Ramblers plus the leader assembled at Belton Kitchen & Visitor Centre car park. We set off heading south along a former railway line towards Epworth, passing a windmill on the way. It wasn’t long before we were entering Epworth. Our first port of call was St Andrews church. We then took a stroll through the centre of Epworth with its interesting old buildings. A brief stop took place at Epworth Old Rectory where the leader explained a little about the founding of the Methodist movement here. Next it was time to use a lengthy rather windy field footpath towards Low Burnham, with a refreshment break taken just outside the village. We carried on through Low Burnham, and took another good broad track just across the A161. A series of good paths and tracks and a little road walking brought us back into Epworth where we rejoined our outward route for the final leg into the car park. David Horne

Tuesday 21 March 2023 Binbrook

Today's walk had originally been planned for April 2020 but had been cancelled due to the Covid restrictions in place at the time. The idea back then was for a figure of eight to take advantage of the village pub and cafe. Things had however changed in the intervening period of time. The cafe has closed and the pub doesn't open on Tuesdays. Add to that the fact that a local farmer had blocked a bridleway on part of the proposed route ( and was reportedly using aggressive tactics to deter walkers in the area ) and our leader Gareth had been forced to reconfigure the walk to become a 12 mile circular instead. Despite its shortcomings in regard to pubs and cafes Binbrook with its attractive centre, good parking at the village hall and free public toilets ( acceessible via a key from the local shop ) proved to be a good place to start and finish. The area was once home to the Royal Australian Air Force 460 Squadron. The village has a memorial to those who were stationed there and the local church houses a roll of honour.

The walk itself was through some of the glorious rolling Lincolnshire Wolds. Once again we were lucky with the weather. It was a bit wild and windy at times but there was no rain. Rain earlier in the week meant that some of the farm tracks and paths were muddier than we may have wished but the views all around us with open fields as far as the eye could see made this small incovienience and the occasional up hill sections well worth the effort. Twenty six walkers and two dogs thoroughly enjoyed the day. Thanks to Gareth for leading , Steve for the photos and Neil and Tony who shared the backmarking . CP

Thursday, 16th March 2023 - Tickhill to the East

A dozen of us met at the Buttercross in Tickhill for the usual 10.00 start. Because of the louder than usual traffic noise we retreated to the area by the site of the castle for the briefing. After a brief description of the walk and the appintment of Rob as backmarker the question was asked about what would happen if any of us had a major health problem during the walk. Medical help would be given and sought, but how would family be informed? The answer of course is that everybody should carry a contact card. Ramblers produce one, and some were handed out. 

After that sobering start we walked past the Mill Dam and along to Water Lane. A kingfisher has been seen in trees beside the rushing stream, but not today. Round the corner, at the site of the kissing gate installed by our maintenance team a few years ago, we turned and crossed a muddy field, heading towards a field of 'elephant grass'.  Following a field-edge path we came to a stile with an iron bar that needed climbing over. This is one of two stiles in the area which some older people and those with hip problems find difficulty in climbing over. Our relatively fit group climbed it with ease and moved on to the next one, which we also climbed with ease. We then walked along a track towards Sunderland Street, somewhat noisy from traffic on the adjacent motorway. On reaching Sunderland Street we crossed the road, under the motorway, and entered Paper Mill Lane.  After 100 yards we turned right at what must be the tallest footpath sign in Doncaster. The path led us to the banks of the Torne, which we crossed at a footbridge also improved by Doncaster Ramblers maintenance team, before stopping for refreshments.

After refreshments we continued alongside the Torne, crossing Sheepwash Lane and continuing until the footpath turned and we left the banks of the Torne. Ahead of us a recently cleared woodland jarred with the nature all around us before we reached Hopyard Lane. Towards the end of the lane there's a stand of 180 trees, in perfectly straight lines; these are being grown to make cricket bats. At the end of Hopyard Lane there was once, incredibly, a hop yard. Whether hops were grown locally is not known.  The site is now occupied by a Winnebago motor home. We left Hopyard Lane and turned right onto Sheepwash Lane, which we followed around to Common Lane to cross over the motorway before turning left to skirt some new houses and make our way back to the Buttercross, arriving at 12.30.  David Gadd    

Tuesday 14 March 2023 Common and Riccall

This was a completely new area for almost all of us. Skipwith Common National Nature reserve lies just off the A19 south of York. It is apparently one of a few remaining lowland heaths in Yorkshire. About 90% of lowland heaths have been lost to agriculture since Victorian times. But Skipwith Common with its mixture of heather ,woodland ,grasses ,mosses ,scrub , bogs and ponds has survived and is said to resemble how much of the English countryside looked thousands of years ago. And for those of not so interested in flora and fauna there was the added bonus of the area playing host to the remnants of RAF Riccall. Built in 1942 to house Heavy Conversion Unit (HCU ) 1658 it was used as a training base for pilots of Halifax bombers to fly bombing raids over Germany. Patches of runway and the remains of old bomb storage bays are still easily identifiable and an old propellor makes a fitting memorial to those who were stationed there. The airfield was decommissioned and abandoned at the end of the war.
Our walk took us west through the nature reserve and then on to cross the A19 before entering Riccall village and our lunch stop at the Hare and Hounds. Thanks to the landlord and landlady for opening specially for us. The comfy chairs in a warm lounge were most welcome on a chilly day. After re-crossing the A19 it was back towards Skipwith village via good farm tracks and paths with good views across the adjoining countryside. A loop through the village and we were back in the nature reserve again. Our luck held and we got back to the cars just as the weather began to turn colder and wetter. Thanks to Gareth for planning and leading and to Steve for backmarking and the photos. Charle Pratt

Tuesday 7 March 2023 A Hop And A Skip To Retford

Once again Doncaster Ramblers got lucky with the weather. We were expecting a frosty start with a threat that it may even snow later in the day. In fact it was just chilly but really bright and sunny when we met and it stayed that way for most of the day. The big lay-by adjacent to The Hop Pole public house on the outskirts of Retford provided ample free parking for all 26 of us. Diane briefed us about the walk. A couple of busy roads to cross and some large rabbit holes to avoid. Don't do an ' Alice In Wonderland ' was the advice offered. Off we went eastwards on good paths. Down Shady Lane and up Market Hill before looping back along Whinleys Lane towards Little Gringley. The rolling North Nottinghamshire countryside looked splendid and we were encouraged by our leader to pause and enjoy the views as we passed over the occasional stiles. Coffee was al fresco and then it was on again to Grove and Grove Drive to Ordsall. Lunch was a pub stop at The Gate Inn. Many thanks to the landlady and landlord who made us very welcome and let us eat our sandwiches in the bar area. We got so settled that some could have stayed longer and were a little reluctant to leave when the time came. But leave we did and took a path behind the pub down to the banks of the river Idle. We walked alongside the river into Retford and emerged into an older part of the town just a little way from the railway station. What looked like old Coop buildings and Edwardian villas then lined the route to the Chesterfield canal. Taking to the towpath we passed a couple of hopeful anglers and enjoyed seeing the attactive canal barges and backs of the canalside houses with their various decking and mooring areas. Back at the Hop Pole lay-by we rejoined our cars after an uplifting 10 mile walk in some lovely countryside. Thanks to Diane for leading, Rob for backmarking and Steve for the photos. Charlie Pratt

 Thursday 2nd Mar '23 - Auckley and Branton

On a drab morning 15 walkers and Milo the dog gathered at the park and ride at Parrots Corner for a 6 mile walk. In the briefing it was explained that this was a shortened version of the Christmas and new year walk - that does not matter was the comment from those that attended earlier in the year.  Everyone set off at a good pace through Hayfield Lakes where a dog trying class was going on and using kissing gates put in late last year by Doncaster Ramblers, onward we went passing couple of new lambs in a field until we came to pass the Wildlife park where everybody tried to put a name to the animals which appeared to be new ( poss dik dik deer and capybaras).  Onward the group went on public footpaths walking into Branton for a coffee stop at the Three Horse Shoes pub (built around 1910). Here milo the dog showed his appealing face until he got the corner of people's sandwich.  From coffee stop we walked through Black Carr Plantation where the bluebells were starting to grow; this plantation was initiated in the early 1800s and is full of several species of tree.  The next port of call was Hatchell Wood which is another long established wood along with even more bluebells and a duck pond, this led us onto Bawtry road and back to the start. Distance 6 miles, time taken 2hrs 20 mins.  Stuart Twell

 Tuesday 28 February 2023 - 5 Churches Walk, South Rotherham

On a cloudy overcast morning 40 disciples, plus Hugo, assembled in the car park of St Peter & St Paul Church in Todwick to seek redemption by visiting a number of local churches. . We set off walking a well defined pathway eastwards towards South Anston looking down over the valley. After a short stop at St James Church, South Anson we continued through the estate and turned right onto a bridleway that led us down to the Chesterfield Canal. Elevenves were taken at this point. After refreshments we continued up the hill, stopping at the top to take in the views and then followed Lady Field Road, passing Thorpe Salvin Hall into Thorpe Salvin and St Peters Church. We were now blessed with some sunshine and continued westwards passing Loscar wood and Crow wood. A knowledgeable member of the group told us that in the early part of this century a man was found guilty of murdering a retired doctor who was having an affair with his wife and the body was buried in Loscar wood. On reaching Harthill, lunch was taken by the All Hallows church and other refreshments were taken in the Beehive pub. We continued northwards uphill on a bridleway crossing the Cuckoo Way and joined Walsaker Lane then Coalpit Lane, which passed the cemetery joining Church street, which led surprisingly to the chuch of St John the Baptist in Wales. Crossing the Wales road we followed Manor road turning right into Storth Lane, passing the comprehensive school, crossing the railway line and heading back north-eastwards across the fields, following well defined paths back to Todwick feeling spiritually uplifted.

St Peter & St Paul, Todwick. The church is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Parts of the church date back to the 11th and 14th century. Inside the church you will find wonderful horse-box pews,carvings in the roof beams and there is a case containing the Todwick Byble, dated 1639

St James South, Anston. There is evidence the church dates back to 1174 and parts were added during the following centuries . Towards the rear of the church is a 14th century tomb bearing a figure of a man, child and 2 angels.

St Peters, Thorpe Salvin. The church dates from 1130 and the south doorway and Tudor porch is elaborately decorated with carved capitals and 'lozenge and chevron'. There is a remarkable font with carvings showing the four seasons and a baptism scene.

All Hallows, Harthill. This is a norman church with later additions in the 15th and 17th Centuries. The Duke of Leeds used the chapel as a mortuary and the Dukes gauntlets and funeral Pall are on display.

St John the Baptist, Wales. This church dates back to the 10th century with a fantastist Norman south door with bird and human head carvings. Additional parts were added in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Thursday 23rd February – Haxey Area.

Fifteen Ramblers plus the leader assembled at St Nicholas Church Hall in Haxey for this morning walk. The weather was a little dull but improved with more blue sky as the walk progressed. A brief stop for a photograph by St Nicholas Church was accomplished before starting our walk initially east along the main thoroughfare through Haxey. Soon we turned right along a narrow footpath before emerging with a splendid landscape looking south. Turning to the west allowed us to reach Westwoodside using field tracks, and then a little minor road walking brought us out onto the main B1396 road. Having crossed this road with care we went along Mill Lane and then right for a short distance along another lane. A left turn allowed us to use a series of well maintained and dry tracks and paths, eventually arriving at a point where the former Goole to Haxey Junction Railway used to cross. This was where we had a refreshment break. The walk continued along a broad track to Low Burnham, walking through the village and taking a minor road uphill heading south. This gave good views particularly looking south and Haxey Church where we had started was visible. A gradual descent along another good track brought us back to the outskirts of Haxey. One last deviation along a former railway line for short distance took us into Haxey, passing the footpath we had used earlier in the walk and arriving at the car park about 12.40. David Horne

Tuesday 21 February 2023 A Snaith Heritage Board Walk

Traffic problems on the M18 meant that a number of walkers ( including our leader ) were held up en-route to the start. Murphy's Law also found us sharing the car park with another walking group and having to make alternative arrangements in the adjacent side streets. We finally managed to get underway about 20 minutes past 10. After the briefing our group of 30 + 1 dog set off north towards the River Aire where we soon came upon the first of the Heritage Boards that gave the walk its title. This one was at the site of the old 1777 toll bridge (now a ruin and replaced by the new road bridge). Along the riverbank and then south towards West Cowick where a second board gave a potted history of Cowick Hall ( from being the home of the first Viscount Downe to its current use as a training centre for Croda International ). On through Little London and at the edge of the M62 we had board number three telling us about King John's hunting lodge that had once been just across the motorway. We crossed the motorway to find our coffee stop at the local Scouts campsite. Having failed to get any takers for a rousing chorus of Ging Gang Goolie ( no proficiency badges were earned ) our leader urged us on to join a section of the Trans Pennine Trail and then the Aire & Calder Navigation Canal. We followed the canal up to Pollington Lock for a well deserved lunch stop and yet another Heritage Board. Back down the opposite side of the canal and up through the east end of Pollington village we went and soon joined Long Lane for a stretch of roadside walking to cross the M62 again before crossing the A645 and finding Dorr Lane back to Snaith. The path through Saith took us past the church and a Heritage Board about Snaith Priory that once stood on the site. The final piece of history was just around the corner. The old town Lock Up. Dating from 1790 to 1897 it has been restored but is sadly no longer in use. Then it was back to the car park ( via the local pie shop for at least one of us). Grateful thanks to Neil for backmarking , Steve for the photos and the local council for providing the excellent Heritage Boards. CP

Thursday 16th Feb '23 - Belton and Church Town

Ten Ramblers plus the leader assembled at Belton Kitchen & Visitor Centre car park on a rather cloudy Thursday morning. Following the leader's briefing we headed south from the car park before taking a right turn heading into the countryside. A windmill in the distance was noted at this point. A good track was followed for quite a distance before entering a residential lane in Belton. A combination of minor roads, tracks and footpaths took us into the hamlet of Church Town where refreshments were taken near All Saints Church. Leaving in a northerly direction we used a series of field footpaths which allowed the group to cross the busy A161 using a pedestrian crossing. Next was a right turn along a residential road which gave us access to a former railway line now converted to a leisure trail. This line was the Lancashire & Yorkshire Railway between Goole and Haxey Junction. This is a pleasant walk, with a few dog walkers noted and more interchange points as we made our way south. There was a downhill gradient just after an embankment where we met the A161 again. After crossing the road we were back in the car park soon after midday.  David Horne

Tuesday 14 February 2023  A Love(ly) Valentines Day Walk

It was murky and chilly when 37 of us ( including a couple of new members and guests from Barnsley ) met in the car park at Newmillerdam just outside Wakefield. Our leaders, Pete and Julie, got the day off to a flying start with Valentines Day themed cupcakes and then waited patiently whilst one of our more techno-minded members helped the rest with the intricacies of the parking machine. Thank you Angela. After a short briefing and we got under way. Up through the woods above the dam and onto the track that used to be an old railway line that runs straight as arrow towards Notton Bridge. At the bridge we went up the banking and onto the road where immediately after crossing the bridge itself we had our coffee break. By this time the mist had cleared and it was turning into a bright sunny day. Refreshed we went back down the banking on the other side of the bridge and this time followed the path that runs alongside an old stretch the Barnsley canal. Passing one end of Cold Hiendley Reservoir we entered Haw Park woods and headed north to our lunch / pub stop at Walton. On the way we skirted behind Waterton Park and Walton Hall. We were now getting quite warm in the afternoon sunshine and a cooling drink at the New Inn was enjoyed by all. After lunch we joined part of the Wakefield Way back to Newmillerdam where we came into the woods on the east side, walked south to where you can cross and then north on the lower footpath along the waters edge to the car park. Thanks to Pete, Julie and Skylar for leading and to Diane S for back marking such a large group with aplomb.
The old Norse name for Newmillerdam was Thustonhaugh. It was renamed New Mylle Dam in 1285 when a corn mill was built on the site. The estate was owned in the 1820s by the Pilkington family who built 9 gamekeepers lodges ( two of which remain ) to deter poachers. The boathouse primarily housed punts used for wildfowling. Today the site is an important breeding place for Great Crested Grebe
Walton Hall was once the home of Charles Waterton a traveller and naturalist. His collection is housed in Wakefield Museum. Today the house which is set on an island and only accessible by a footbridge is a hotel and spa. Charlie Pratt

 Thursday, 9th Feb '23 - Wadworth Wander

On a bright and beautiful morning twenty-three of us met at Wadworth Church, originating from 1200 and built on the site of an Anglo-Saxon burial ground. We walked across the cricket field and paused opposite Wadworth Hall. The Hall is a grade I listed Manor House. It was built in 1749 for the Wordsworth family by the renowned northern architect James Paine. It is currently a private residence and has been since approximately 1995. The house, however, has served a number of purposes over the past 250 years. After its use as a family home, it was sold to the 'West Riding County Council' in 1957 and was transformed into a nursing home before it was then sold on to a firm of architects. The architects neglected the building by converting it into offices. In the mid 1990s, the architects downsized and the owner  moved his computing business in on part of the ground floor of the hall. After acknowledging its tragic neglect, he set about returning it to its former glory. 

On leaving Wadworth Hall we turned right and soon entered The Shrubbery. This site was donated to the Woodland Trust in December 1994 from Wadworth Hall Trust. This small narrow mature woodland is situated on a north-facing slope. Its elevated location makes it a prominent landscape feature in a relatively flat landscape, and is visible from the A1 (M) and M18. The wood still contains some garden features including an old fishpond and Ha-Ha wall. Also within the woodland are 4 wells known as the Gospel Wells, which were covered by metal grids for safety in 1995. The wells, Ha-Ha and fishpond are historic landscape features. The wood contains many ancient woodland indicator species and Doncaster MBC designated it a Site of Scientific Interest, being deciduous woodland on limestone with a species rich flora. However, some of the trees and shrubs were no doubt planted when it was part of the grounds of the hall including lime and yew with other species such as sycamore arriving through natural regeneration. Main tree species include oak, sycamore, elm, beech, yew and lime. The shrub layer is dominated by snowberry and bramble and blackthorn. Ancient woodland indicator species include, ransoms, bluebell, dogs mercury, wood melick and, yellow archangel. Daphne laureole has been seen on the site and Helleborus foetidus, the stinking hellebore.  On this walk the most striking feature was the thousands of snowdrops about to come into flower.

From The Shrubbery wwe walled briefly to a viewpoint, one of the finest views over Doncaster, before walking down Tofield Road. Thomas Tofield, a botanist and civil engineer, of Wilsic,  drained the low-lying land in the area in the 1760s. At the end of the road we turned left and walked under the A1(M) - M18 junction before turning left onto the track of Wood Lane for 200 metres before turning left again and following the outer edge of Wadworth Wood to the tunnel under the M18. We tracked through this wood until we reached the start of Paddock Lane, where we stopped for refreshments.  We soon reached Long Gate, which necessitated a 500 metre stretch of road-walking before turning right onto a footpath, passing a small reservoir before reaching Lodge Farm and its strange-looking silo. We walked alongside Ant Wood before turning north and walking towards Wilsic Hall. From here we road-walked, stopping for a photo by the sign for Wadworth, before reaching the church once again. Thanks to Tony for ensuring that we lost nobody.  David Gadd   

Tuesday 7th Feb 2023 Dam I Forgot My Flask.

Nineteen members met at the carpark of Rural Lane, Wadsley, Sheffield on a beautiful sunny winters day and it remained that way throughout the walk. The walk started by following footpaths through Loxley and Wadsley Commons, protected areas of heathland. Crossing Long Lane we continued for several miles on the Sheffield Country Walk, passing through the hamlet of Holdworth, and spectacular views of the Loxley valley and the surrounding hills and moorland. A short uphill section took us to Castle Hill at High Bradfield, the site of a medieval motte and bailey castle then it was downhill, via a couple of very high ladder stiles to the churchyard at High Bradfield where a late coffee break was taken whilst once again admiring the great views. Refreshed it was downhill to Low Bradfield, a very pretty small village which was the first populated area to be affected by The Great Flood Disaster when the upstream Dale Dike Reservoir failed in 1864. Following the footpath along the south side of Damflask Reservoir, completed in 1896, brought us to the road across the dam which we followed up Stacey Bank to the welcome site on the Nags Head, our lunch stop. Fed and watered we dropped down to the River Loxley which we followed passing several mill ponds and leats from the valleys industrial past, and a large area of industrial dereliction which is in urgent need of redevelopment, to Normandale. Here we left the valley for the long uphill slog to Wadsley Common then back to the start point. A distance of 11 miles was walked. Thanks to Neil for being an ever-reliable backmarker. Stephen J Tomlinson
P.O.I.
The Great Sheffield Flood was a flood that devastated parts of Sheffield, England, on 11 March 1864, when the Dale Dyke Dam broke as its reservoir was being filled for the first time. At least 240 people died and more than 600 houses were damaged or destroyed by the flood. The immediate cause was a crack in the embankment, the cause of which was never determined. The dam's failure led to reforms in engineering practice, setting standards on specifics that needed to be met when constructing such large-scale structures. The dam was rebuilt in 1875. © Wikipedia

Thursday 2nd February - Pickburn and Hooton Pagnell

15 walkers gathered in Pickburn Lane for a 6 mile circular walk via Hooton Pagnell and Hampole Wood. When the new Brodsworth Hall was built in 1861-62 there was extensive building on the estate which grew to 5,000 acres. Pickburn became an estate village with its row of neat, semi-detached houses, and at Elm Farm just across the road from where we met stands one of the most remarkable farm buildings in Yorkshire. In size and scale it bears comparison with Brodsworth Hall itself, and the exterior is liberally embellished, for what is basically a barn, with traditional Italianate detailing. Above the largest entrance there is said to be a small plaque which is carved with the initials C.S.A.T. AD 1864.

We headed north across Red House Lane and shortly after Green Hills arrived at a crossing point of two paths where a new marker post installed by Doncaster Ramblers in December last year was much admired.  Then along past Rat Hall and down Narrow Balk to Hooton Pagnell where refreshments were enjoyed sitting by the Butter Cross.The view westwards is a wide open vista, and Hooton Pagnell itself is an atttractive village which I am sure was once voted prettiest in England, but  I must admit I can't find any record of this.

We  carried on via Broad Balk and down Old Street before crossing Butt Lane - historic names I am sure - before heading south to Hampole Wood, then turned south back to Pickburn next to a field where extensive muck spreading was in progress. At one point I though a spreading vehicle was heading straight for our group, but fortunately it turned away. The weather was kind throughout and there was no mud, which was much appreciated by everyone. MW

Tuesday 31st January 2023  The Walk with No Name.
Twenty-eight members, including Mel from Retford Ramblers, met in the car park in the pretty cojoined villages of North and South Wheatly, on a sunny but very windy day, for a 9 mile walk in the rolling countryside of North Nottinghamshire. After a short briefing by our walk leader Jeremy, we were off along the green tracks of Muspit and Howbeck Lanes to our coffee stop in the church yard at Clarborough. Magnificent views of the valley of the River Idle were obtained as we reached the highest point before dropping down to the churchyard for our break. Refreshed we followed Lovers Walk Track, all members behaved themselves, to the Boat Inn on the Chesterfield Canal, then it was a yomp for some distance along the canal towpath, trying not to get blown by the wind into the water, to the Retford and Worksop Boat Club marina at Clayworth where lunch was taken. Boats were moored on the canal bank for several hundred metres from the access which led one walker to question how the weekly shop was transported to the boat. We got the answer when we reached the boat club and spotted about a dozen four wheel trolleys. Fed, it was time for liquid refreshment and a short walk brought us to the Brewers Arms in Clayworth, a proper little country pub with two coal fires, excellent Barnsley Bitter and a welcoming landlady. Rehydrated and warmed by the fires, we were off along Mill Lane (a green lane) and The Trent Valley Way to the Roman Road of Haughgate Hill with once again great views across the Idle Valley from the highest point. It was then road walking back to the start point admiring the barn conversions in North and South Wheatley. Thanks to Jeremy for leading a lovely walk and Peter for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson

Tuesday24 Jan 2023 - Going For Osberton

The Ramblers website contains a library of around 3,000 walks which members and non members can access and print off walk directions, a map and other information. 31 of us (and 2 dogs) met at Kilton Forest car park to enjoy one of these walks, around Osberton. Originally two medieval estates, Scoften and Osberton, they were brought under one ownership in 1784 by Francis Foljambe and have remained in the Foljambe family ever since.

From the car park we headed downhill along a good track and entered the grounds of the estate through some woodland.  A good road then took us past the site of RAF Worksop (built in 1942 and operated, mainly for training purposes, until 1960) and on to Scofton village. Originally part of the Scofton estate, in 1822 it was turned into an estate village with workers' cottages, a keeper's cottage , a school and a large stable.  The weather was very pleasant and we took our lunch in the grounds of the church , built in 1833 as a private chapel by George Foljambe as a tribute to his wife, Harriet who died giving birth to their only child. After lunch we continued past Osberton Hall and headed uphill alongside the golf course and back to our cars. Thanks to Jeremy for back marking and Stephen for the photos. PG

Tuesday 17 Jan 2023 - Clayworth

With the temperature below freezing, on a stunning cloudless and windless day, thirty-six of us met at the church in Clayworth for a wonderful walk - perfect walking conditions according to Jeanette. Many of us visted the church to see the famous murals before we set off. The church is a Grade 1 listed building, dating from the early part of the 11th century, with a substantial restoration carried out in1874/5. The murals were painted by Phoebe Anna Traquair, who achieved international recognition for her role in the Arts and Crafts movement. She painted these murals in 1904.

After a lengthy briefing with regards from Peter R passed on to everybody, Charlie pointing out that the programme needs more walks for March, and information on today's walk including the appointment of a back-marker, we set off from Clayorth, downhill to the Chesterfield canal. The canal was part iced-over although the path alongside it was firm and not slippery. There was a distinct lack of wildlife to be seen, with only two swans being seen in the 3-mile length of the canal between Clayworth and Drakeholes we walked alongside - ducks and birds probably huddled up somewhere warm! Just before Drakeholes on our left we passed the Wiseton Hall estate. The original Wiseton Hall was built in 1771 and was demolished in 1960. The estate belonged to the Acklom family before belonging to the wealthy aristocratic Spencer family. We reached Drakeholes, where we stopped in the perfect spot, with seats for most of us, for our morning break. Following this we left the canal to pass over the tunnel before joining it again on the other side. We followed the canal as far as Gringley Top Lock where we turned south to climb gently up to Gringley. At Gringley we had our lunch at the perfect spot on the green beside the beacon. 

After lunch we crossed the A631 and mostly followed field-edge paths down to Clayworth again. By this time the temperature had risen to about 5 degrees above feezing and a long cross-field path was distinctly muddy. The last time walked from Clayworth we used this route, in the opposite direction, but the whole area was then under threat of being a huge solar farm. In fact as we left Clayworth, two local residents seperately approached us, seeking support against the loss of this valuable farmland. Their campaign against the development was evidently successful. We arrived back at Clayworth at 2.30 after a wonderful day's walking. Thanks to the leader and backmarker from all of us. David Gadd

Thursday 12Jan 2023 - Hooton Roberts Ramble

Twenty-one walkers met in the car park of the Earl of Strafford pub in Hooton Roberts. The management of the Earl are happy for groups to use the car park, thankfully for us as there's nowhere else in Hooton Roberts for group parking. After the briefing and intrductions to Amy and Adele, and Phil, all trying us out for the first time, and to visitors John and Tracey from Chestefield and Rotherham respectively, we set off through the churchyard of the St John the Baptist church. The first church built on the site was built by the Normans in about 1100 AD. Much of the village and its surrounding land was owned by the Wentworth Estates as late as the 1960s. Thomas Wentworth, 1st Earl of Strafford was sentenced to death. He was convinced the King would save him, but the king failed to act and Thomas was beheaded in 1641. In 1895, during work to the chancel floor, workmen found the bones of a man with a severed vertebrae to the neck, leading to the thought that Thomas had in fact been secretly buried here. Upon leaving the churchyard we walked down a minor road, much loved by fly-tippers, before climbing gently towards Grange Farm and then descending to Old Denaby, where we walked along the road for about 500m before turning right into The Green and ascending through Denaby Wood. We then skirted Conisbrough before crossing the A60 into Park Lane, pausing for 10 minutes or so to take our refreshments. After about 500m of easy walking along the broad track of Park Lane we turned right and started crossing the muddiest path in the area. After negotiating a swollen stream at the bottom of the slight descent we walked into the tiny hamlet of Firsby.  From Firsby we began a gentle climb across a field, thankfully not muddy, to Hooton Cliff, from where was descended through a narrow wood, much of it very muddy, back to Hooton Roberts. Thanks to Malc for excellent back-marking.  David Gadd

Tuesday 10 January 2023 Woods ,2 Castles ( and Cake )

Despite the awful weather forecast 19 stalwart Ramblers met in Bagger Wood car park. After reluctantly getting out of warm dry cars we all donned several layers of supposedly waterproof clothing and were ready, willing ?? and able to set off. Birthday Boy Norman briefed us about distance and roads to cross etc and we went down the lane and then into the countyside. The rain it did rain and the ground was in places so wet and saturated that it was at times hard to find anywhere where it wasn't over our boots. Some of the paths were more like small streams and what would normally have been the small streams were more like raging torrents. But ably and carefully led by Norman we cheerfully pressed on in good spirits. The area has some spendid scenery and views which it could be argued were in some peculiar way enhanced by, rather than spoiled by, the weather. By the time our lunchbreak arrived the weather had in fact started to improve a little and we were able to find a dryish spot behind Wentworth Woodhouse castle. Here we were delighted to be visited by a large stag that came almost too close for comfort.( see the photos ). After lunch the rain mostly held off and we were able at least to put our hoods down. Even so, because of the slippery conditions, making progress up some of the grassy slopes was hard work. But we got there, and on reaching the car park were rewaded for our efforts with the promised birthday cake and cheese. Challenging conditions but a great walk nevertheless. Thanks to everyone for the good company. Special thanks to Norman for leading, Phil for backmarking and Steve for the photos (have a look; they really tell the story of the day ). CP

Saturday 7th January – Epworth & Church Town.

Ten Ramblers plus the leader assembled at Belton Kitchen & Visitor Centre car park on a rainy windy Saturday morning. Following the leader briefing at which the figure of eight route was highlighted we set off towards Epworth along the course of a railway line now converted to a leisure trail. Soon we were in Epworth. A left turn into Station Road then a small detour to view an old School took us close to Epworth centre. Our route took us along a footpath by Epworth Garden Centre and then a flight of steps brought us next to St Andrews Church. Our route continued through the centre of Epworth, passing Epworth Old Rectory and taking another path nearby heading south to Low Burnham. The A161 was crossed with care here and we used a broad track almost opposite back into the country. Soon a “crossroads” of paths was encountered and our path was a right turn back towards Epworth. Soon afterwards we left this path, went under a bridge, and finally used a country lane to get back into Epworth. We emerged onto Station Road and used our outward route to get back to the car park for the conclusion of our morning loop, arriving at 1230. The shorter afternoon loop was initially using a former railway embankment to head north before crossing the A161 and making our way up Stocks Hill to Church Town. Our pub stop was here, the Crown Inn, and following a break we used field footpaths and a minor road to return to the car park.  David Horne 

Tuesday 3 January 2023 A New Year Clumber Ramble

I always like Clumber Park. It never lets you down. The scenery is great and you can get away from the crowds, but there are toilets and a cafe handy at lunchtime if needed. An added bonus today was that the threatened rain didn't really materialise and we managed to complete most of our walk in dry if overcast conditions. Tweny five of us ( including Pearl and Tony from Retford and Catherine from Dearne Valley ) met at the park entrance opposite to The Clumber Park Hotel and after 'Happy New Years' , hellos and a briefing we set off across the field towards Hardwick Village; taking the lakeside path rather than crossing the ford over the River Poulter because the footbridge is still closed. We struck north nearly as far as the A57 before swinging left along The Old Coach Road that heads westwards. At this stage we were mostly on good tracks and minor roadways so the going was easy. A short break for coffee ,cake ( thank you Teresa ) and sweets ( last weeks quiz prizes ) was enjoyed en-route. Eventually we turned south along a long woodland path that would in time bring us to The Courtyard area and a late(ish) stop for lunch. After lunch we carried on south, crossing the bridge over the lake and then diagonally left up a pleasant woodland avenue and then left and left again. Taking some 'interesting ' paths rather than the obvious routes we found ourselves at the far end of the south side of the lake opposite Hardwick Village once again. From there it was a short hop back across the field to the cars. 10 and a half miles and 5 hours had gone by without hardly noticing. Thanks to Neil for being a trusty backmarker and Steve and David for the photos. Charlie Pratt

Thursday 29 December 2022 Bob and Dave's Twixtmas Walk and Quiz

Perhaps it was the fine weather. Perhaps it was the promise of cake , a quiz with prizes and pie chips 'n peas for lunch . It may even have been the charisma of our walk leader or just the fact that lots of people were ready to get out of the house after the christmas festivities. Whatever it was it drew a crowd of 49 of Doncaster's (and Retford's) finest Ramblers to the car park of The Hayfield Lodge pub.
After being briefed by Bob (who was having to fly solo due to the misfortune of his co-pilot Dave) we set off. Firstly we were shepherded through a metal kissing gate ( installed in the summer by a Ramblers maintenance party ) so that back marker Brian could confirm the count and then it was off towards the entrance to The Yorkshire Wildlife Park. The walk was familiar ground to some but not all. We went through Auckley and Branton before veering left to Black Carr Plantation, crossing Warning Tongue Lane and entering Hatchell Wood for our coffee stop and the promised fruit cake from our leader (delicious). Across Bawtry Road and through some of the new housing before going under the M18 and Great Yorkshire Way into Rossington. Emerging onto Sheepbridge Lane we passed the Park n Ride and crossed the busy junction before taking the old and now overgrown road back to Hayfield Lakes. Seven and a half miles of mixed woodland, countryside and some road walking had been enjoyed by all.  Most stayed on for the excellent grub and the fun and games of the picture quiz. Lots of head scratching and lots of laughter in good company finally reached an end just after 3 o'clock. Thanks to everyone for a great day. Thanks also to Steve for the photos and Brian for backmarking. Most of all thanks to Dave and Bob ( but especially Bob for his calm and careful leadership of such a large group and quizmaster skills ) for all the hard work involved in organising a super Twixtmas walk.

Thursday 22nd December 2022 - Sykehouse Circular

Seven Ramblers plus the leader assembled by Holy Trinity Church at Sykehouse on a rather dull morning. There was light rain falling which was intermittent for the rest of the walk. The group included Jane who is new to Ramblers. We set off along Broad Lane in Sykehouse, the main street through the village, then turned right along Starkbridge Lane which led to Chapel Lane. Our first footpath led off Chapel Lane. Some ponies were noted enjoying some fodder, which had been placed near the footpath but there was no problem passing in close proximity to the ponies. Our paths were generally good with no really muddy areas to walk through. We then skirted round some houses and farm buildings before a long broad leafy track took us onto the New Junction Canal bank. Here we stopped for refreshments by a footbridge before a lengthy saunter alongside the Canal. We crossed a road where there was a sizeable lifting bridge, before arriving at another smaller bridge where we left the canal path. A country lane then allowed us to head back towards Sykehouse, turning left at the end for access onto Broad Lane. After another 0.5 mile we were back at the church where we had started. David Horne

Thursday, 15th December Misson Riverside Walk

Eight Ramblers plus the leader assembled at Misson for this walk. The date coincided with a particularly cold spell therefore the ground was frosty and mostly frozen. It was a very sunny morning, gloves and hats being the order of the day. The group assembled in front of Misson church for a photograph and the leader briefing. We set off punctually at 1000 listening to the church bells. We went down River Lane for easy access to the riverside, and from thereon it was a straightforward easy going stroll along the river bank. We had elevenses at the point where we left the riverside path and headed back along good tracks towards Misson. Much conversation was enjoyed on the walk back before all too soon we were arriving back at Misson at about 11.45.  David Horne. 

Tuesday 13 December 2022  The Don Valley Way, Swinton to Doncaster and Xmas Lunch.
As a change from our usual circular walk, we opted this time for a 10-mile linear route following the Don Valley Way from Swinton to Doncaster. As the train drivers were on strike 14 of us met at the Doncaster Interchange bus station to catch the 0845 Stagecoach 221 to Swinton, arriving at our starting point of Swinton railway station an hour later after viewing all the backstreets of Conisbrough and Mexborough. Four other members joined us at the start point then all 18 set off on a very cold but dry morning through the streets of Swinton up onto the banks of the River Don which was followed to Mexborough railway station. Leaving the river we walked the southern towpath of the Don Navigation past the lock and the old River Don Ferry Crossing at Mexborough, before crossing to the northern towpath via the road bridge at Denaby Main. It was then onwards at a brisk pace to keep warm to our coffee stop at Denaby lock where the navigation rejoins the River Don. After coffee a short section through woods, which would have been very muddy if it was not frozen, brought us to our old friend the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) at the River Dearne crossing. It was then uphill on a snow-covered trail to the spectacular brick built Conisbrough viaduct where we dropped downhill to rejoin the River Don and a speedy walk on the TPT to our lunch/snack stop at the Boat Inn, Sprotbrough where for some the Xmas festivities started early. After lunch we followed the River Don and the TPT under the A1 viaduct to Newton, seeing several Herons, or was it the same one wanting to join us for our Xmas lunch! Then it was passed the prison to Marshgate and the end of the walk just after 2.30, where Kim, Kerensa and Catherine serenaded us with an Xmas song. Thanks to all for attending, to Neil for backmarking, and to the South Yorkshire Mayor for limiting the bus fares to £2!!
A quick change of footwear and a brush up saw some of us meet at the Red Lion for a quick one before 16 walkers and three other members met at 3.30 at La Rustica for our Xmas lunch and a few more drinks. Good food and good company was enjoyed by all and we departed to our abodes sometime after 6 though it is possible other hostelries were visited by some. Thanks to all who came to the meal and made it such an enjoyable experience. Stephen J Tomlinson

Thursday, 8th December 2022 - Tickhill Stump Cross Lane

On a beautiful but cold morning eight of us met at the Buttercross in Tikhill, including first-timers Ann and Shirley. We headed for the famous Mill Pond and then through Lindrick, across the A60 and then to Stump Cross Lane. After about 300metres we entered land owned by the Sandbeck Estate. In April 2010 a notice appeared stating the the route was not a public right of way. This was correct, but people had been using this track for hundreds of years. The name, Stump Cross Lane, indicates the likelihood that there was once a medieval cross on the route. Also, consider that the route follows the high ground in a direct line with Tickhill Friary.  Bearing those facts in mind, and wondering why the Sandbeck Estate would want to deny access, I began the process of claiming the route as a public right of way. This involved getting over twenty witnesses to state that they had used the route, ‘without interruption’, over a twenty year period. One witness, Mrs Betty Kitchen, remembers using the route in the 1950s. This was done and the claim was submitted to and then made by Doncaster MBC, who agreed that it should be a public right of way. The Sandbeck Estate appealed, which led to a public inquiry, held in December 2012. The consequence of all this was that the inspector concluded that the Order, to create a public right of way, be confirmed. So we enjoyed this open and airy route before reaching Woolthwaite Farm, where we turned right along Sandbeck Lane. After 500m we turned left onto a footpath which took us down to the border between Doncaster and Rotherham borough councils. A short while later, on Limekiln Lane, by a memorial to mark a tragic mining disaster,  we stopped for refreshments. We continued towards Stainton, turning right before we reached it at Stainton Bottoms. Walking due east now we soon crossed Denaby Wife Dike, leaving Rotherham and re-entering Doncaster at this point, and followed Hindley Lane towards Tickhill, reaching the Buttercross again at 12.30.  David Gadd

Tuesday 6 December 2022 Blyth Spirits

We parked behind the church in South Carlton just off the A60 between Carlton in Lindrick and Worksop. 26 of us in all. Not bad for a day that was predicted to be the coldest of the year so far. Catherine and her able assistant Jaqui briefed us about roads to be crossed , possible mud and the lunchbreak arrangements before we set off. Across the main road into the marvellously named Liquorice Lane before taking a footpath towards The Hundred Acre Wood. After crossing the B6045 Blyth Road we swung left and north towards Blyth itself on good farm tracks and footpaths all the way. A quick,chilly and mostly standing coffee stop being enjoyed en route. There was a short ( and disappointingly litter strewn) roadside stretch that took us firstly over the river Ryton and then a little up Briber Hill before striking right on the path to Spittal Farm and the road into Blyth. Lunch on the nice village green where there are handy benches and picnic tables and then out of Blyth on the A634 and across farmland with the intention of crossing the River Ryton again. We were unfortunately thwarted in our desires to do this. Recent heavy rain had rendered the route flooded and, despite some brave attempts by some , completely impassable. But like all good walk leaders Catherine and Jaqui had a cunning Plan B. They led us back to the A634 and over the narrow bridge adjacent to the old Charnwood (now Cherry Tree Park ) hotel and then left in the direction of Hodsock Priory. Passing the front of the priory which was looking as lovely as ever we returned westward to South Carlton and our cars. The weather had been nowhere near as cold as feared and had stayed dry and bright all day. The North Nottinghamshire country side had looked splendid. Thanks to Catherine and Jaqui for leading a super walk. Various people for backmarking and to Steve for the photos. Charlie Pratt

Thursday, 1st December - Roche Abbey Ramble

Fourteen Ramblers met at the Roche Abbey car park on a very grey day. The monks, back in 1147, certainly knew how to choose a good site for an abbey. The founding monks came down drom Newminster Abbey, in Northumberland, and decided that this sheltered site, with perfect rock to quarry for building material, and with two streams to provide plenty of water, was ideal. At its height it supported a community of 175 men. The monastery was suppressed in 1538 on the orders of Henry V111, when the buildings were largely didmantled to prevent them being used again. We passed the abbey and walked through Kings Wood, with a short, sharp climb at the top, to a lovely open path with views towards the magnificent spire of Laughten en le Morthen's All Saints Church. Here, taking advantage of seats in a children's playground, we took our refreshments before leaving Laughten to follow the airy Kirk Croft Road - a footpath - before reaching Long Thwaite Wood. Walking alongside the wood we saw plenty of scorched trees from the summer field fires. This led us into Firbeck, passing St Martin's Church to the site of RAF Firbeck, the site airfield being requisitioned by the Air Ministry in 1940 and becoming the base for the 613 Squadron. Crossing several muddy fields took us to the tiny settlement of Stone, where we turned left for a few metres before squeezing through a gate and walking towards Roche Abbey once again. Thanks to Tony for backmarking. David Gadd

Tuesday 29 November 2022 A Sykehouse Stroll

Mist and murk was the order of the day. A real old fashioned late November day. The temperature was down to about 5 degrees and the air was still. But at least it was not raining. 13 of us met at the small garden area opposite All Saints Chuch in Sykehouse. An information board boasted that Sykehouse is Yorkshire's Longest Village. The walk set off across the road and then out of the village in a northerly direction on a country lane and then a path ( part of the Trans Pennine Trail ) across the River Went and farmland toward The Aire Calder Navigation Canal . We crossed at Pollington Lock and went up through the end of the village and into the countryside again. A short coffee stop and then on again before we got cold. A long loop took us close to the M62 ( which we could hear and just glimpse through the mist ) and past Southfield Reservoir to reach our once again short lunch stop where the road bridge crossed the Aire Calder Canal. Our lunchtime entertainment was provided by a mink that patrolled the canal banks and seemingly unperturbed by our presence came quite close to where we sat. A short stretch of road walking and then right onto the raised wind break / banking south of the River Went to come out this time by the New Junction Canal and our return leg. By the side of the canal as far as Sykehouse Lock and then across and onto a footpath between a hedgerow and fields all the way bak to where we began in Sykehouse. The mist had not lifted all day but it had not dampened our spirits. Thanks to Neil for back marking and steve for the photos. Charlie Pratt

Saturday, 26th November 2022 - Upper Burbage Bridge

Thirteen intrepid Ramblers, including the two walk leaders - The Special K’s ( Kerensa & Kim) -  and two new potential Ramblers, Garry & Jess, met at Upper Burbage Bridge carpark despite the not so promising forecast.
The walk initially followed the path along the crest of Burbage rocks, offering fantastic views. Elevenses, including a selection of home baked cakes, were enjoyed on the large rocks before the walk continued through the Longshaw Estate and downstream along Burbage brook. From here we walked into the woodlands of Padley Gorge, enjoying the sounds of water from the brook & waterfall & then into Grindleford. We walked past the ruins of Padley Chapel before taking the steep incline up to the site of the winding drum which controlled wagons used to lower the stones quarried for the construction of the Howden and Derwent Dams. The walk continued through the superb birch woods reaching the higher parts of Bolehill Quarry passing many scattered millstones along the way. The forecast rain had still not made an appearance and lunch was therefore enjoyed overlooking the spectacular Surprise View, which never fails to impress.  After lunch we crossed the road leading up to the heathery moors towards the crags and boulders of Owler Tor.  We continued across the moors through a slightly boggy section to the base of Higger Tor, the final steep section of the walk. Everyone then “enjoyed” this final ascent which included a scramble up the rocks to the summit. The path then took us above the valley of Burbage Brook and back to the carpark. Not a single drop of rain fell which was a definite bonus!!  Kerensa Barker

Thursday 24 November 2022 Wentworth and Keppel’s Column,

Eleven of us met on a cold and windy morning in the car park at the Wentworth Garden Centre. After the usual briefing we set off through muddy fields past Shire Oaks and Trowles woods to the weir at the head of the Wentworth Estate parkland lakes then it was uphill through fields to Scholes village. After following the road through the pretty village for a bit we turned right between the houses onto a muddy footpath, pleased that the Highland Cattle bull with a large brass ring through its nose was separated from us in the adjacent field by a barbed wire fence. Crossing another minor road, it was up hill to Keppel’s Column where we stopped to admire the recent refurbishment work and the view. Then it was into Scholes Coppice, a beautiful woodland, with an ancient settlement and a rather vague footpath which required the use of GPS to get us back on track. Joining the Rotherham Round Walk it was across a muddy and slippery field to the Wentworth Estate bridge at Dog Kennel Pond where we stopped for refreshment. It was then uphill into the estate deer park, with excellent views of a large herd, then along the front of the “The Big House” leaving the parkland by the main access road. Then it was along the public highway back to our start point at the garden centre. A total of 6miles was walked in 3 hours and as a bonus we stayed dry!! Stephen J Tomlinson

Tuesday 22 November 2022 Goole’s Out For Winter

Unfortunately Alice Cooper could not make it but 22 Ramblers did meet in the car park in Goole for this 10 mile walk. We were blessed by a break in the recent bad weather and enjoyed a dry and at times almost warm day. Pete briefed us about the terrain, what roads we had to cross and the lunch arrangements etc. He could not however brief us about one or two pleasant surprises that we would encounter on the way. We set off and were soon on the flood bank alongside the River Ouse. Water to our right and the backs of large well to do houses to our left as we followed the Ouse all the way round until we turned left alongside the River Aire towards Airmyn. On the way we saw the rail swing bridge just outside Goole itself, went under the M62 road bridge and passed a second swing bridge taking the Boothferry Road over the Ouse. Just outside Airmyn was our first surprise. A black squirrel. They are a melanistic sub-group of the greys and quite rare ( 1: 10,000 ). At the time we didn't know just how lucky we were. They are apparently considered to be a symbol of prosperity and abundance for anyone who sees them !
In Airmyn we looked at the village 'clock tower'. The clock still showed the right time. Paid for by the grateful villagers it was built in 1865 to honour the memory of the 2nd Earl of Beverley who had funded the village school. Lunch was taken on the outskirts as we re-entered Goole. About a 50/50 split between a pub and the grounds and cafe of West Park. From there it was on to Goole docks. We passed rows of terraced houses that had presumably once housed the dockworkers and saw numerous dock basins and then, just before reaching the cars, a less than salubrious area that looked as if it was best avoided on Friday and Saturday nights. Along the way we had our other surprise. We were spotted by a reporter for the Goole Times who took our photo and did a walk by interview with Pete.It seems we may be headline news in next weeks edition. Fame at last ! Thanks to Pete for leading and to Steve for backmarking and the photos. Charlie Pratt

Thursday 17th November 2022 - Sandall Beat Wood

On a very wet morning seven Ramblers plus the leader arrived at Sandall Beat Wood Nature Reserve car park.  After leaving we took a good track leading towards the children’s playground where some offices are located. A bridge over a railway line was negotiated next. Here particular care was required as wet leaves on wet wooden steps cause a slippage hazard.  Wet leaves and sizeable puddles were everywhere but did not cause any problems. Next came a long broad tree lined track looking very autumnal. This narrowed after a while and in due course we arrived at Cantley. We took a break by the shops under a long canopy which at last gave some respite from the rain.  After a short break we set off again along residential roads, before emerging on Cantley Lane. Turning left here and left at the next roundabout allowed us to proceed to Old Cantley. By now thankfully it had stopped raining.  Another footpath took us away from Old Cantley  back into Sandall Beat Wood.  A steady walk through the woods brought us to the location where we were earlier in the walk.  Rather than going back by the same route, we took a path on the right to reach the landscaped area where Markham Main Colliery used to be.  After a short distance we made a descent to where the footbridge was earlier in the walk and made our way back to the car, although the heavy rain returned for the final stretch.  DH

Tuesday 15 November 2022 Pole To Pole ( without the ice )

Rain, rain go away, come again another day. If only. The weather forecast was awful .That is probably why only 8 brave Ramblers turned up for this walk. Barwick in Elmet is an attractive village close to Leeds. You cannot miss the maypole as it stands 86 feet tall slap bang in the middle of the road. It was from here that our small and wet ( but remarkably cheerful ) group set off through the village and were soon in the surrounding countryside in the direction of Scholes. Swinging left before actually reaching Scholes we crossed Garforth golf course and then left again towards Aberford. It was still raining. A very short coffee stop before crossing Long Lane and reaching the edges of the Parlington estate where we followed the route of a now defunct railway. The once prosperous estate apparently fell largely into disrepair when its supporting mines flooded and the money ran out. We also passed ' Nellies Tree '. A testament to the love of Vic Stead for a local girl whom he wooed and wedded approx 100 years ago. Coming into Aberford our leader began looking for a replacement lunchstop. the original idea of the kiddies playground deemed too open and wet. The rain was still coming down hard at this point. We found shelter in the porch of St Ricarius church.And very grateful we were. A larger group would not have fitted in but the eight of us did.The church is apparently the only one in England bearing that name. You can choose between it being named after a French saint who visited Aberford in 630 AD or Richard the Pilgrim of Wessex who appears in one of its stained glass windows. Out of Aberford along Becca Banks; an ancient earthworks. From there on it was rolling fields and lanes until we reached the outskirts of Barwick once again. A lovely walk somewhat but not entirely spoiled by the weather. Thanks to John S for leading and Steve for the photos. CP

Thursday 10th November 2022 - Wadworth to the Amazon

Seventeen of us set off from Wadworth Church to walk along to Loversall. We refused an invitation to help some fence-builders and headed away from the housing and a very scruffy farm into the strange countryside beyond. Strange because we could hear birdsong, but also the drone of the M18, A1M and the Great Yorkshire Way. We walked beside the Wetlands centre, a dedicated amenity space for wildlife and the local community,  heading towards the huge iPort site, where Amazon is the dominant employer and hundreds of containers are delivered and taken away regularly. We stopped adjacent to the site for refreshments before heading along the recently dedicate bridlway, linking Rakes Lane, Loversall, with Carr Lane, Wadworth.  This is a surfaced track, available to walkers, cyclists and horses. Reaching Carr Lane we turned right and headed back towards Wadworth, noting the construction involved, adjacent to Carr Lane, of a pipe to to take  treated water to the River Torne. Once among the stone houses in Wadworth we walked through the churchyard back to the cars. The distance walked was 4.8 miles and the time taken was exactly two hours. David Gadd 

Tuesday 8 November 2022 A Remembrance Walk

The starting point for this walk was the motorhome / campsite adjacent to the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate. Our leader Gareth was staying on site and had invited others from his motorhome group to join us. Five of them did . They alongwith two members who were on only their second Ramblers walk helped to make up the 26 of us who set off. Down and across the farmland opposite the showground we went and then across a minor road and into the grounds of Rudding Park. We crossed the main road and after a short stretch across a field and through a churchyard found ourselves in the attractive Follifoot village. We all had a look in the local bus stop which contains an infrormation board commemorating local servicemen who lost their lives in World War 1. Leaving Follifoot via some ginnels between and behind the houses it was out into the lovely North Yorkshire countryside again towards Spofforth. A surprise for some of us was Spofforth Castle. We took our lunchbreak in the shelter of its walls. Rain was threatening ( though it never really arrived ) so we did not stay long . Out of Spofforth we reached the banks of Crimple Beck and followed it on our way back to Folliffoot. The stepping stones that we had to negotiate to cross the beck were wet and slippy from recent rain. One of our group was unlucky enough to slip into the water not just once but twice. Fortunately they suffered no more than wet feet and legs and were supplied with dry replacements to prevent hypothermia setting in. Final stop of the day was at the Stonefall Cemetery which is home to over 1000 Commonwealth War Graves. About two thirds are Canadian Airmen with Australian , New Zealand and Great Britain making up the remainder. All of them were young men when they died (there were several 17 year-olds among them ). We held a one minute silence before leaving to find the cars. Thanks to Gareth for arranging and leading . Malc for backmarking on only his second walk and Steve as ever for the photos.

 Saturday 5 November 2022. Fairburn Ings, the River Aire, Ledston and Ledsham
Thirteen members met at the car park of the RSPB reserve at Fairburn Ings on an overcast and damp day, fortunately the rain held off for most of the walk. We started the walk past the RSPB Visitors Centre, looked for Kingfishers without success at the hide, then followed the River Aire to Bulholme Lock on the Aire and Calder Navigation. Retracing our steps for a short distance we joined the footpath, Arrow Lane, which took us to the road, Newton Lane, which we followed to the Roman Road traffic lights north of Castleford. Leaving the highway, we took the footpath to the village of Ledston, stopping on the way for coffee break. From the village we followed the footpath to Newton and Newton Farm then turned north following footpaths to the outskirts of Ledsham village and after a short road walk, we reached our lunch stop in the centre of this pretty village which was followed by liquid refreshment in the Chequers. Fortified, a short walk down the road led to the footpath to Fairburn which we followed into the centre of the village then took the footpath downhill to Fairburn Ings and back into the RSPB reserve. Another mile or so brought us back to our start point just as it started to rain. Thanks to all who came along for this lovely 10 mile walk. Stephen J Tomlinson.
P.O.I.
The Aire and Calder Navigation Company made the River Aire navigable as far as Leeds in 1704 with the construction of locks and lock cuts between Knottingley and Leeds. Two years later, the company made the River Calder navigable from Castleford to Wakefield. It was soon found that the navigation was inadequate for the potential demand. Shoals, shallow lock cills and low water levels in the easterly section of the Aire meant that passage was restricted to smaller, shallow-draughted boats New locks and longer sections of cut were added between Castleford and Leeds. In 1821 a new 17 mile cut was constructed from Knottingley to the River Ouse at Goole, where docks were built. By 1835 all the locks had been rebuilt to have depth of 7 feet over the cills. In 1839, a twisting length of the Calder was bypassed by a straighter 4 mile section between Fairies Hill and Broadreach, also with a depth of 7 feet. This included building an aqueduct across the river at Stanley Ferry. William Bartholomew, the cheif engineer between 1853 and 1895, developed the "Tom Puddings" - compartment boats that were put together in trains to be pushed by a tug. They transported coal from the Yorkshire collieries to Goole and later to power stations. The navigation never went out of use and is still used for commercial traffic with such cargoes as oil and sand being carried.

 Thursday 3rd November Sprotbrough Circular

Tuesday 1 November 2022 Walkeringham Walk

30 of us ( including new member Martin ) met as instructed in the car park of the Fox and Hounds public house in Walkeringham . After the briefing from Rob it was straight across the road and down Station Road to cross over the railway line. Just after the railway we went right along a farm track towards Beckingham. The recent heavy rain had left a few puddles but the track surface was otherwise good and so not too muddy. The route then doglegged left and right until we got into Beckingham itself. The church yard of All Saints Church provided a good elevenses stop. Pleasingly the church was open and some of us were delighted to find it even had a toilet. Full marks. We then negotiated the busy A631 road and entered the fields on the other side. Our route at first ran adjacent to the road and towards Gringley On The Hill in the middle distance. But we soon realised that we were not taking the direct route as we swung left over muddy ground to make a somewhat more looping and interesting approach, passing Beckingham Wood and a farm at Clayworth Woodhouse on the way.Then sharp right up the slope to Gringley via Lover's Lane and the grandly named farm track that is Lancaster Road Over the main road again and on to the green at Gringley Beacon Hill for lunch. Downhill from Gringley to the Chesterfield canal at Shaw Bridge and then along the towpath to Smith's Bridge where we crossed the canal and then Fountain Hill into Cave's Lane back to Walkeringham. The threatened rain had not materialised; in fact it had been quite bright and warm in parts, and another good walk had been enjoyed by all. Thanks to Rob for leading a lovely 11miler , Nigel for back marking and Steve as ever for the photography. Charlie Pratt

Thursday 27 October 2022 A short walk from Rosso Park & Ride

To say it was raining when 6 of us met at the Park and Ride would be something of an understatement. But undaunted we set off to do a walk that promised to throw new light on some ( for me ) very familiar territory. Down Sheepbridge Lane we went and after cutting through the housing emerged by the 'Brick Pond' fishing pond. From there it was on into the woodland behind more housing where Kathryn showed us a series of heads carved into some of the trees by a local resident. Apparently there are over 20 of them ; but they take some finding. An under-pass took us under the Great Yorkshire Way and then we reached the bottom end of the new housing development that is Warren Park.Thankfully by this time the rain had eased and the skies were beginning to brighten. Over the main road at the top of the slope, down the path, over the railway and we were in Hatchell Wood. A refreshment break by the duck pond and then on again through the housing adjoining WarningTonque Lane and across the road to Hayfield fishing lakes. By now the sun was out and we began to think we should have started the walk 2 hours later. Back to cars via the old road to the fishing lakes; now almost overgrown and reclaimed by mother nature. Thanks to Kathryn for devising and leading the walk. Those who perhaps didn't come because of the weather missed a treat. PS  Sure there will be another chance  next year Charlie Pratt

Wednesday 26th October 2022 Carers Walk Wentworth Woodhouse.

The latest carers walk was held at Wentworth Woodhouse on a generally sunny and warm autumnal day. Three members of Doncaster Ramblers attended, Angela, Neil and Steve. The majority opted to walk around the house and gardens with 7 brave souls, five carers and two Doncaster Ramblers, opting to do a longer walk of 3.5 miles. Starting in front of the house we walked up the main driveway, past the stable block, crossed the B6090 onto Clayfield Lane. Just after the Wentworth Estate office we left the roadway and walked on muddy footpaths and open fields to Kings Wood from where we followed the track to Barrowfield Lane. After crossing the road, we were back on public footpaths crossing fields to the Almshouses on Barrow Hill taking a short detour to admire this unique building. Walking up Barrow Hill Road for a short distance brought us to another footpath which after a short distance brought us to Wentworth village school, the old church and the magnificent replacement built by the Earl Fitzwilliam’s owners of the Wentworth Estate, which are either side of the Doncaster Ramblers favourite the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT). Following the TPT along the carriageway which the Earls used to attend church we crossed Hague Lane near the garden centre, then it was back onto the B6090 (part of the TPT) and reentering the hall deer park where we had left about an hour and half earlier. Walking across the parkland and the TPT, with views of Hoober Stand, Rockingham Monument and Keppels Column, we reached the end of our walk-in front of “The Big House” where we were all fed and watered. Many thanks to Neil and Angel for the help with this last carers outing of 2023. Stephen J Tomlinson

Tuesday 25 October 2022 Harewood House Etc

This was the walk that we should have done in July but was wisely postponed when temperatures reached 42 centigrade. It didn't get quite that warm today but it was surprisingly sunny for late October and some of us did get 'a dab on' during the uphill bits.
East Keswick is an attractive village just to the south of the A659 as you approach Harewood from the A1. It was here, outside the church on Moor Lane that 29 Ramblers met for a10 o'clock start. After a thorough briefing from leader Phil that included a promised 'surprise' at the end of the walk we set off. Minor roads and farm tracks took us through the pleasant North Yorkshire countryside until we reached and crossed the main A61. Through the gates and into the grounds of Harewood House. We had our elevenses here, with an excellent view of the house in the distance. Before setting off again Phil gave us a potted history of the estate and house from its inception up to the present ownership by the Lascelles family. Harewood's grounds were looking at their best. The recent rain had greened the grass, the trees were resplendent in their autumn colours and the famous Red Kites circled overhead. Down one slope and then up another we looped clockwise behind the house to find the estate road that would take us to Harewood village for lunch. Along the way we came across a small herd of deer. Unconcerned by us they obligingly posed for photos. Lunch ( depending on your taste ) was either taken at the Muddy Boots cafe or The Harewood Arms public house. After lunch we crossed back over the A61 and dropped down to follow the River Wharfe as it flowed towards York. Then it was a steady uphill climb, in a sort of gulley between fields, to reach and cross the A659 back to East Keswick. Oh! And the surprise was that right at the end the path went over a wall and straight through the front garden of one of the village houses. Not what most of us would want. Thanks to Phil for a great walk, Steve for the photos and Jeremy and Peter for backmarking . Charley Pratt

Saturday  22nd October 2022 Is it a Pudding or a Tart?

Twelve of us, including Sue from Mansfield, Val from Manchester and Elaine from Bamford met at the Carlton Lees car park on the Chatsworth Estate on what was a beautiful autumnal day ideal for great views of the spectacular landscape, and a showing of the spectacular colours of the season. From the car park a steady climb up a track took us to Calton Houses, then more uphill to Manners Wood. Walking through the wood, leaving the Chatsworth Estate for the Haddon Hall Estate, we commenced the steep descent to the River Wye, stopping for coffee as we exited the wood. On reaching the river we followed the muddy footpath then to the Bakewell show ground and Bakewell village where we stopped by the river for lunch and found a suitable place for liquid refreshment. Refreshed we crossed over the Monsal Dale Trail, then faced the uphill walk-through Manner Wood, the last bit which was especially challenging, then onto Calton Pastures and back into the Chatsworth Estate. Passing through New Piece Wood we got great views of Chatsworth House and the deer, in the parkland, as we walked downhill to Edensor village and the bridge crossing the River Derwent by the house. Following the river downstream we got back to our starting point. A total of 10 miles was walked. A special mention to Catherine who completed the walk with a broken arm in a sling, a tough bunch us Ramblers. Stephen J Tomlinson

Tuesday 18th October 2022 - Clipstone Copses

22 of us met at Vicar Water, the site of the former Clipstone colliery, on another gloriously sunny day for a walk with royal connections. Clipstone Park was one of the oldest parks in England, being visited by all the Plantagenet kings from Henry II to Richard II for hunting. Our walk around the outer edge of this park took us past Spa Ponds (used to stock fish for Edward II) and two ancient oaks, one of which (Parliament Oak) is thought to be over 1,000 years old and to have been the site of parliaments held by King John and Edward I. Continuing through woodland, we passed by a cross erected in 1912 to mark the spot of a royal chapel and hermitage dedicated to St Edwin, King of Northumbria. Emerging from the woods, we passed through Kings Clipstone (the royal title having been bestowed on the area by Edward I) and back along a disused railway track to the car park. Jeremy maintained his customary calm as our back marker. PG

 Saturday 23rd July 2022 – Wetherby to Spofforth Walk Report

Twelve participants arrived at Wetherby Wilderness Car Park for the walk. Two visitors from Dearne Valley Group and one from Scunthorpe were part of the group. The car park was spacious but was getting busy by the time we left for our walk. Everyone was able to park without any issues though. Following a leader's briefing we set off just after 10.00 walking by the riverside path and towards the site of Wetherby Station, now a car park. Some railway memorabilia was noted with signage. The former railway line from here to Spofforth was closed many years ago but now has been converted to a leisure trail entitled the “Harland Way”. This formed the basis for today’s walk. We made our way through Kirk Deighton and had “elevenses” alongside a field footpath between Kirk Deighton and Spofforth. After suitable refreshment we made our way into Spofforth for lunch, making use of the Harland Way. Some of us settled down in the grounds of Spofforth castle for our lunch and others had a brief look at the remains of Spofforth castle. A pub was available nearby and after a drink or two we assembled outside the pub at 1.15 for our return to Wetherby. We made our way through Stockeld Park and back onto the Harland Way for an afternoon break. It was then a straightforward route to Wetherby, passing the point where we had deviated earlier to reach Kirk Deighton. After retracing our outward route along the riverside path and a stop for a group photograph, we were back at the car park about 3.20. There were a number of general visitors to Wetherby by then as it is a popular spot by the river with picnic tables and benches. An Ice Cream vehicle was present which was used by most participants before driving home.
David Horne 

Our leader Gareth lives in Norton and was therefore able to walk to join the other 12 of us at the start point of The Coronation Club. The club had kindly allowed us to use their car park and had also opened early so we could visit their toilets before setting off. Much appreciated. Gareth did the cutomary briefing and reminded us that the walk had originally been planned differently. We should have been taking a bus and then returning to Norton on an 11 mile linear route. But the bus company had cancelled the buses. So today's walk would be an 11 mile circular taking in the two Smeatons, Womersley and Walden Stubbs. Across the road we went and were soon alongside the River Went heading towards Kirk Smeaton where we paused briefly to look at the tree sculpture in the garden at the Shoulder of Mutton pub. From there it was on to Brockadales Nature Reserve where we took our elevenses high up overlooking a bucolic scene of pastureland and cattle below us. Then Little Smeaton and on into Womersley. Here we had our lunch break ; some at the tables on the edge of the playing field and others behind the fence in the adjacent children's playground. Leaving Womersley we crossed over the railway and then across open farmland until we reached Walden Stubbs.  (The home of Friendship Estates, manufacturers of horse and pet food products ). Further field crossings got us back to Norton and the welcome opportunity to enjoy a drink in the Coronation Club. Gareth informed us that along the way we had crossed and recrossed into both North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire but were now back safe and sound in South Yorkshire. Thanks to him for rearranging such a good walk at short notice and to Steve who once again looked after the photos. CP

Saturday, 8th Oct '22 - A Wentbridge Wander Walk Report. 
On a beautiful autumn day 18 members met at the car park of the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust Brockadale Nature Reserve for a 12 mile walk along the valley of the River Went. It was really nice and to have 6 members who have not walked with us for some time, possibly since Covid lockdown. Leaving the car park, we walked through the deciduous woodland of Brockadale Plantation then continued along a puddled track to the A1, Great North Road. Getting past the A1 required a step descent, walking a short distance under the A1 viaduct, then climbing the steep slope up to the track to Wentbridge village. A short section of road walking took us onto footpaths in green fields by the River Went and coffee break. Following the Went Valley we crossed the A639, negotiating the high crash barrier which has been erected where the footpath meets the road, then continuing down the valley for some distance, we passed the treatment work, under the railway viaduct to Low Farm at Ackworth Moor Top. Across fields and under the railway line again took us to Badsworth and lunch. Refreshed we walked along the tracks of Firthfield Lane and Burnhill Lane back to the River Went, then retraced our route of the morning back to Wentbridge Village. Taking the footpath on the south side of the Went valley we slowly climbed uphill, under the A1 viaduct, through the Brockadale Nature Reserve to a welcome pub stop at the Shoulder of Mutton at Kirk Smeaton. After liquid refreshment a mile walking took us back to our start point, along the way stopping of to stroke the donkeys and admire the views down the limestone gorge of the Went valley. Thanks to all who came on the walk, especially those we have not seen for some time, it was appreciated, and to Gareth for back marking. Stephen J Tomlinson

 Thursday 6 October 2022 Chesterfield Canal and Gringley On The Hill

Friends old and new were amongst the 16 Ramblers who met at Drakeholes Canal Basin for this walk. After parking we mingled with some anglers and paddleboarders who were also there. It was one of the anglers who informed us that there was a large fallen tree across the canal and towpath on part of our intended route. He didn't think we would be able to get past it. He underestimated Doncaster Ramblers who ( when we encountered it ) took it literally in our stride.

After the briefing we set off out of the top corner of the small picnic area , crossed the road that runs over the canal tunnel ( you can't walk through it ) and after passing some farm buildings dropped back down to the canal towpath heading north. We followed the towpath all the way to Shaw Bridge before swinging right up Shaw Lane toward Gringley. A short coffee break at the playground and then on through the centre of Gringley On The Hill ( a lovely village tucked away off the main A631) . Leaving Gringley we had to walk alongside the main road for a short distance before crossing and then entering fields downhill towards Wiseton. Here we rejoind the canal towpath and soon came across the aforementioned tree. A chainsaw or machete would have been useful but with only our bare hands and good humour at our disposal we prevailed. Backmarker Rob counted us all in and counted us all out again to ensure we had not lost anyone in the tangle of branches. And then back to Drakeholes. And then for some of us to The Brewers Arms in Clayworth. Thanks to Rob for backmarking and to Dan for the photos. CP

Tuesday 4 October 2022 Upper Poppleton and the River Ouse
Upper Poppleton is a pretty, conservation area village just off the main A59 on the western side of York. There is a large village green with a maypole surrounded by attractive buildings including two public houses. It was outside one of these ( The White Horse ) that 20 Ramblers ( including Anne, a welcome guest from York ) met to do this walk. During his briefing, Gareth our leader, reminded us that the walk had first appeared in the Weekend Walk section of The Yorkshire Post on 2 Jan 2021. It was to be 10 miles over easy ground with, he promised only 2 stiles.
We set off out of the village and were soon in farmland. In contrast to the farmland of South Yorkshire which tends to be mostly arable and full of wheat barley or sweetcorn this was grassland full of cattle and sheep.The hedgerows between the fields were heavy with hawthorn berries, sloes and some wild apples. The ground under the oak trees was thick with fallen acorns. Are we in for a hard winter we wondered. The sight of Red Kites circling overhead seemed to add to the pensive mood. The path took us past New Farm, Woodhouse Farm and Thickpenny Farm before we got to our coffee stop. Then on towards Moor Monkton and our first sight of The River Nidd on our left. Eventually we came to the confluence where the Nidd meets the larger Ouse. Here we took our lunch break on the steep sheltered bankside. On the opposite banks we could see the grounds of Benningborough Hall (NT ) and and Nun Monkton Priory ( see Wikipedia for stuff on Nun Monkton including the annual practice of ' digging up ' and British History Online for the history of the priory ). By now the wind had got up and rain threatened so we did not stay long. The homeward leg was to follow the Ouse south towards York passing a pumping station and through a series of gates until we got back to Upper Poppleton. Fortunately the rain held off and we had enjoyed another dry and mild day in lovely surroundings and in good company. Thanks to Gareth for leading ,Stuart for backmarking and Steve for the photos.

Friday 30th Sept 2022 – Carers Walk Mam Tor
This linear walk started at the car park near Mam Tor where 4 Doncaster Ramblers (Steve, Neil, Ian and Mel) met the coach which had transported 14 carers from Doncaster. After a briefing all 18 of us set off on the step climb to the trig point summit of Mam Tor. Fortunately, though a little misty the weather was dry but very windy, giving good views across the Hope and Edale Valleys and along the Great Ridge. After a stop for photos and to catch our breath, we followed the footpath along the Great Ridge to Hollins Cross. A short break was taken at Hollins Cross to don waterproofs as the forecast rain started to fall. A climb up Barker Bank took us to Back Tor Nook by which time the rain was more persistent, then it was downhill over rough slippery ground before following the footpath along the hillside, through high bracken, to Woodseats Farm. By now the rain was heavy and stayed that way for the rest of the walk, which was through gently sloping grassy fields, crossing several stiles, to the A6187 just outside Castleton village. A short walk down the road, past the Devils Arse (Peak Cavern) brought us to the Visitors Centre, where the coach was parked, and the welcome site of toilets and lunch. Thanks to all 18 who took part for keeping their spirits up on a wet day during the second half of the walk. Thanks to Neil for blackmarking and to Mel and Ian for helping those that took part over the more difficult sections. A total of 3.6 miles was walked in 2.75 hours. Stephen J Tomlinson.

P.O.I
Ordnance Survey (OS) is the national mapping agency for Great Britain. The agency's name indicates its original military purpose which was to map Scotland in the wake of the Jacobite rising of 1745. There was also a more general and nationwide need in light of the potential threat of invasion during the Napoleonic Wars. The Ordnance Survey's original maps were made by triangulation. For the second survey, in 1934, this process was used again and resulted in the building of many triangulation pillars (trig points): short (c. 4 feet/1.2 m high), usually square, concrete or stone pillars at prominent locations such as hill tops. Their precise locations were determined by triangulation, and the details in between were then filled in with less precise methods. There are over 6500 throughout the country,

Tuesday 27th September 2022 Worts 'n all!
23 ramblers and two dogs met at the car park for the TPT track off Finkle Street, the sun was shining with a crisp autumnal feel. A short brief was given by the leader of the route and then we set off walking towards the old village of Wortley over old curved paving. From Wortley we took the path heading through fields with some very interested calves, who were frisky to say the least. Passed wharncliffe reservoir a private fishing lake and heading towards Wharncliffe woods with stunning views of the valley as we walked. We had one steep climb to join the TPT cycle route then down to join the woods. According to forestry England Wharncliffe woods have a rich post industrial history with many quarry workings hidden within the woods, needless to say we didn’t spot any! Lunch was taken in an unusual spot, an area of felled trees with their stumps used for seating. The afternoon’s walk was following the TPT back to the car park, with continuous sun shine and one or two elevations (hills) to enjoy. Led and developed by Leader Pete Smith back marked by Bob Carlisle
P.O.I
Trans Pennine Trail
The Trail from coast-to-coast between Southport and Hornsea is 215 miles (346km) long. A north-south route connecting Leeds and Chesterfield, a spur to York and a spur to Kirkburton means there are approximately 370 miles (595km) of Trans Pennine Trail available to explore.
Wortley Top Forge
This is an historic former finery forge and ironworks originally dating back to the seventeenth century, although evidence suggests iron working took place in the vicinity as early as the fourteenth century. And is situated on a loop of the River Don near the village of Wortley. One of the buildings at Top Forge includes a date stone for 1713. However, the current layout of the building dates from the 1850s when the forge was turned over to the production of shafts and axles mainly for use on railway wagons. Some of the earliest metallurgical experiments in the world were conducted at the site by the engineer and metallurgist Thomas Andrews. Railway axles of the highest quality were manufactured at the site in the nineteenth century and exported all over the world. (Wiki)

Saturday 24th Sept 2022 Hoping to see a tropical sea
Fifteen of us gathered outside the Tourist Information Centre in Castleton. Three of our number coming from other parts of the country, the furthest from Cambridge. As we entered Cave Dale we passed through the seaward edge of a former coral reef formed when Britain occupied a position nearer the equator. Frequent stops up Cave Dale made the going easier. Elevenses was taken at Mam Nik picnic site where cake was shared. Exiting via the top of the picnic site meant that we were already a third of the way up Mam Tor, making our climb to the triangulation pillar a little easier. Here we stopped to admire the location of the former tropical sea, now occupied by the villages of Castleton and Hope. Our walk along the ridge, which separates the Dark Peak to the north and the White Peak to the south, gave us spectacular views over both the Edale and Hope valleys. It also gave us a view of the face of Mam Tor (the largest landslide in the UK) and the former road to Manchester whose repair has been abandoned due to the land beneath slowly moving downslope. Walking along the ridge we passed Hollins Cross before climbing Back Tor and then Lose Hill, where lunch was taken. We then descended down grassy slopes into Hope before taking a leisurely walk back along the river to Castleton. We were blessed with cool, dry weather, spectacular scenery and good company. Thanks go to Trevor, Brian and Glyn who took it in turns to back mark.
Angela M Gibson

P.O.I.
Hollins Cross lies between Mam Tor and Lose Hill on the Great Ridge that separates Castleton and Edale in Derbyshire. It is the lowest point on the ridge and is therefore a popular route taken by walkers wishing either to cross from one side to the other, or to start a walk along the ridge. Hollins Cross is named for an actual cross that was raised here, but which had disappeared by 1905. A memorial to Tom Hyett (formerly surmounted by a topograph) was erected by the Long Eaton and District Group of the Ramblers Association in 1964.

Thursday 22nd Sept 2022 A local walk from Askern Lake
A casual look though our photo album (see below) and it’s easy to spot the regular local walking enthusiasts. What do we all get out of it? Somewhere different to walk each week, lively conversation, and a couple of hours of friendship, fresh air and exercise. so why not join us on our next outing? Today nine of us gathered by Askern Lake for a six mile jaunt around the farms and field edges surrounding the hamlet of Haywood. A central feature of todays outing is the number of level crossings passed, the first one, not ten minutes after setting off. Having passed the lake and continuing to the upper left corner of the playing field we cross with care the first track. For me one of the joys of countryside rambling is the shifting terrain, one moment you’re walking through a tunnel of tree branches, ducking and diving and the next you emerge into the grandeur of an open field. Carrying on a couple of nosy alpaca’s greeted us with their friendly faces, as they watched us continue to our second level crossing near Mill Dike. Turning right and heading south towards Wrancarr Mill home of the pedigree British Blonde cattle we parked ourselves at the farm gate for elevenses. After crossing Wrancarr Lane we continued along a wide track southwest which slowly got narrower, and more uneven under foot till eventually we were forced to stop at our third level crossing. This one, one of about 1500 is manned and needs to be opened by hand, and can only be opened if a train is more than five miles away! Luckily for us nothing was coming so after ringing the bell, the signalman came and let us pass. Curious too on one side of the track it was mud and ruts on the other tarmac. As often on a ramblers walk, a little road walking is necessary, and today’s county lanes where quiet and calm. Foraging has been known and blackberries are often picked, but today we struck lucky as a pale of cooking apples had been left at the roadside. Jade wasted no time in taking a few explaining she would use them in an oriental delicacy. The tarmac did not last and we were soon back among the trees, with solid mud under feet. The route was now north passing Rushy Moor House where once a rust old Escort was buried amongst the weeds. Carrying on along the field edge to a T junction we turned left towards our final level crossing, up and over and along to an iron bridge. Crossing it then up some iron steps we’re on the last leg, crossing this derelict waste land, wondering what industry once stood here we’re back at the playing fields the lake and home, well the cars anyway.
Peter A Rowsell
https://www.flickr.com/photos/133853966@N02/albums

Tuesday 20th September 2022 Alkborough Flats

24 walkers gathered in wintering ham on a balmy day for this 9.5 mile walkout the confluence of 3 rivers , the Trent Ouse and Humber. After the usual briefing 2 walkers were introduced these being Karen from Beverley Ramblers and Denise who was trying a Tuesday walk for the first time. Moving off the group went down a residential street to get into open fields and this was the pattern for the next 3 miles until elevenses break in which lemon drizzle cake was produced for everyone. After a short break we continued past an old windmill albeit without sails which has been there since 1853 but ceased working in the 1920s, moving on to an escarpment that gives fine views of the rivers and also julians bower which is a small restored maze thought to have been cut around1200 by monks the local church dates from the 11th century. The route then passed out of Alkborough along the escarpment again giving fine views of the three rivers, continuing along the path brought us to a lunch stop in  Whitton.  After lunch the route carried on along the flood bank towards Wintering Haven, upon reaching  the haven there were notice boards relating to its passed history which included shipbuilding and a regular ferry service to Hull. From here it was a short walk back to the centre of Winteringham and the finish

Distance 9.5 miles Time taken 4.5 hrs

Wildlife seen en route include Roe Deer on several occasions ,Curlew Brent Geese and a Kingfisher

Stuart Twell

P.O.I.

Julian's Bower or Julian Bower is a name which was given to turf mazes in several different parts of England. Only one of this name still exists, at Alkborough in North Lincolnshire.

In a superb natural setting, where the rivers Trent and Ouse join to form the Humber, Alkborough Flats is an exciting project, which helps prevent thousands of homes from flooding. The site is perfect for lovers of wildlife. By breaching the river defences new habitats have been created which are a haven for wading birds and wildfowl, making the site an ideal area for bird watching and leisurely walks. Limited accessibility on some footpaths.

Saturday 17th Sept 2022 One Trail Too Many
If you’ve never been, it’s well worth a visit to this magnificent forest area just north of Oughtibridge. With a myriad of footpaths and bridleways to follow, Wharncliffe and Greno Woods provide ideal walking for beginners and enthusiast alike. Most tracks are tarmacked or hard surfaced, but be aware the terrain is not flat. (My error when plotting a route for today Rambler outing) Even a casual glance at an OS map will show three “Long Distance Trails” passing through these woods, Barnsley Boundary Walk, Trans Pennine Trail, and Sheffield Country Walk, and we step on each in turn. Six of us dared to undertake this adventure into the unknown, well unknown for five of them, I’d recce’d the walk a few days before, so had the route plotted on my trusty smart phone. The first 1.4 miles saw us take a broad sweep north then curve south all down hill along the Barnsley Boundary Walk. To the left of us were mostly pine, which we thought might have been growing here for over a hundred years, while to the right grew deciduous trees whose age we could only guess. Heading north now on the TPT we begin a steady 3 ¾ mile climb to Finkle Street Lane, stopping off on route for “eleven’s” and our first piece of road walking. The climb didn’t get any easier as we made our way south through Finkle Street picking up the Barnsley Boundary Walk and peaking at 900ft. Somewhere we’d left the forest behind, and totally forgot the lovely pub in Wortley so instead we found a nice patch of meadow grass to sit for lunch. The rest of the walk was a bit up and down, but mainly up, but first we needed to tackle the A61, a fast section of road 130meters of which we had to walk with no pavement, and only the crash barrier to cling to. Cars and HGV’s skimmed passed only feet away. Soon enough we were moving away from the road and back in the calm of the forest, heading south east for ¾ mile before turning right along the Sheffield County Walk for another half mile to the start.
Total distance 11 miles 5hrs 30min
P.O.I
Greno Woods is an ancient woodland, rich in wildlife and full of historic interest. Covering 169 hectares, it is one of our largest reserves and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife watching, exploration and recreation. The woods contain some of the county’s most vulnerable habitats, including mature oak woodland and heathland. Walk along the Trans-Pennine Trail in spring and revel in woodland wildflowers including bluebells, honeysuckle and common cow-wheat. Take a similar walk in summer and enjoy the ripe blackberries and bilberries, whilst autumn reveals a profusion of fungi. Birdwatchers will be kept busy through all seasons. (courtesy Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust )

Thursday 15th Sept 2022  A local walk from Campsall

Starting at Campsall Country Park car park, this five and half mile circular walk has everything, except a hill. If you can find the concealed entrance a couple of hundred yards from the start just up on the right passed the bus stop you enter woods, admittedly not a huge forest but none the less trees. Once through you’re sandwiched between wood and field, along which runs a four foot deep trench, for what who knows. The field itself where once grew spuds was empty and bear. At the first available opportunity turn right and follow the path beside Norton Ings (Ings is an old Norse word referring to water meadows and marshes) then at an industrial unit turn left along a wide track to reach the heart of suburbia, a very pleasant suburbia at that. Turn right and follow the road to Stubbs Lane on the left and follow this out of the village passing a water treatment plant, a not yet dried up River Went, and the remains of a cross (which refuses to be photographed!) Surrounded by meadows, and walking on tarmac it feels like the countryside even the roads pose no danger. After two left hand turns its more field walking and the occasional electric fence (to scare the horses) to keep waalkers on the right track towards Norton Priory (Which was developed on the banks of the River Went but never grew to be particularly significant and was subsequently demolished following the dissolution of the monasteries in 1588) Today the weather was set fair, with the occasional sharp breeze but along Norton Mill Lane high hedges and wild hops provide shelter. Turning left along Spittlerush Lane then at a cross roads turn right to head back out of town. Pavements appear and disappear as quickly so relief comes in the shape of a gate and open field with open sky before you know another left another field this time with boundary hedge, the question is which side to go the right or left, who knows? Ahead a windmill sail-less naked but a dwelling never-the-less to ponder and admire. Almost home along the tarmac to the south of Norton then left right along the familiar Ings either left back through the woods or carry on towards the road, them left and home
Peter Rowsell

Wednesday 14th Sept 2022 Carers Walk Cannon Hall
The latest Carers walk was held at Cannon Hall and Cannon Hall Farm on a cool cloudy day with a touch of autumn in the air. The majority opted to walk around the Farm to view the animals, the grounds of the Hall, and the museum housed in the Hall which is under the stewardship of Barnsley MBC. Neil, Brian and Tony of Doncaster Ramblers accompanied those who stayed around the Farm and Hall.  Six carers, accompanied by three Doncaster Ramblers (Steve, Ian and Catherine), opted for a 3.5 mile walk which started at the entrance to the Hall. Walking downhill through the pleasure gardens we crossed the lake using the old estate bridge and followed the footpath to Cawthorne cricket ground. After crossing the stream on a stone bridge by the ford we walked on footpaths through fields taking us past Cannon Hall Farm with the donkeys in the field and across the minor road before entering Deffer Wood. Having reached the highest point on the walk we stopped in the wood for a welcome breather and fluid intake as it had been uphill for some distance. Continuing downhill, making sure we did not trip over the brambles, we final exited Deffer Wood at Jowett House Beck and walked through fields to Jowett House. Our walk then followed the access road to Jowett House turning onto the road which we followed for a short distance to Cannon Hall car park, then it was back up hill to the front of the Hall, passing the Deer Shed, before a welcome lunch at the Hall café.
Well done to the 6 carers who completed this walk in 2 hours and successfully negotiated all the stiles on the route, some of which were not easy to get over.
Stephen J Tomlinson.

Tuesday 13th September 2022 Lord’s Seat and Eldon Hill
Twelve of us gathered outside Castleton Visitors Centre for the start of what was to be a splendid walk. We were joined by Sandra from Derby and Anne from Notts. ramblers. Our walk ascended past several of the show caverns that Castleton is famous for before arriving at Mam Nick for elevenses, where a choice of three different cakes were provided. Exiting via the top of the picnic site we traversed along Rushup Edge, a high moorland ridge. Lord’s Seat, the highest point along this ridge provided spectacular views of the Edale valley. After descending we followed quiet bridleways for a lunch stop near the end of Perry Dale.
The next climb was up through the rocky outcrops and grassy fields flanking Eldon Hill before connecting with the tracks and field paths across the high pasture south of Castleton. Our steep descent back to Castleton was via Cave Dale offering views of the keep of Peveril Castle. We were joined by Steve in Cave Dale, a late arrival having done a recce for the following days Carers walk. We were blessed with warm sunny weather, blue skies, spectacular scenery and good company. Thanks to Kerensa for providing cake and to Neil, Tony and Eric who took it in turns to back mark.
AMG

Saturday 10th September 2022 A Scout for a View.
Eleven members, including Stephen from Huddersfield Ramblers, met at Scout Dike Reservoir just to the north of Penistone, on a dry but cloudy day. Walking across the dam brought home to us all the effects of the recent dry spring and summer as the water level was very low. Walking downhill, mainly on footpaths, we reached the A628 Woodhead Road at Thurlstone then it was uphill to join the TPT where the Penistone annual show was being held in an adjacent field. After a short stop to view the old cars and tractors we continued on the TPT for a short distance before turning uphill to Hillside where we stopped for coffee and to admire the spectacular views across the Upper Don Valley. It was then onwards and upwards to Hartcliff Hill, then downhill on roads and footpaths before crossing the A628 again. After crossing the road, we continued downhill through fields, crossing the TPT on an over bridge at the hamlet of Bullhouse where we were fortunate to gain access to the chapel constructed in 1692. This independent chapel holds the record in England for the independent chapel with the longest period of continuous worship, 1692 to the present day. The church had just been decorated for Harvest Festival. Spiritually refreshed we continued downhill to the bridge which crosses the River Don at Bullhouse Mill, where we stopped for lunch. After lunch it was uphill past Catshaw hamlet, through Flash House Farm to the view point at Royd Moor Hill. A short stop at the drystone wall circular viewpoint allowed us to take in the fantastic 360-degree views with Drax power station visible on the horizon. From the viewpoint it was downhill past Royd Moor and Scout Dike Reservoirs and back across the dam. to the start point. A total of 8.75 miles was walked in 4.5 hours. Stephen J Tomlinson.

Thursday 8th Sept 2022 A local walk from Cadeby
Light showers were forecast for today’s 5.3 mile circular walk from Cadeby, plus there was a good chance we’d be walking through dense wet vegetation at some point so it was advisable to wear waterproofs. Before setting off, ten in all, the group were reminded of our traditional Christmas Dinner details of which were on our website. Starting at the crossroads of Garden Lane and Main Street we had a short stretch of precarious road walking down Hollow Gate for about third mile before hitting the safety of a wide if uneven footpath. After another third mile we reached the reassuringly familiar metalized Trans-Pennine-Trail, trouble is there are two parallel footpaths to choose as you turn left so on this occasion, we chose the wide upper route. Continuing for just over half a mile, during which the keen eyed among us could just about make out Conisbrough Castle in the distance. By now those with waterproofs were feeling distinctly overdressed, and cooking, although we still had the risk of vegetation ahead. A couple of yards after passing under a disused railway, we turned right up a well concealed path which opened out onto a metalised track where another right, led to steps down through a concrete tunnel opening out to a jungle of neck high reeds. Luckely the Public Right of Way had been cleared and we were able to follow the sweep of the River Don right round to the magnificent Conisbrough Viaduct. Back on the TPT we continued leisurely onwards stopping only once for a coffee break at the quarry jetty where once sand and gravel were loaded onto barges. Continuing on for about half a mile, at a wooden gate we veered off left climbing steps towards woods and Sprotborough Flash remembering to turn right just after entering the wood. After about half a mile we exit onto Nursery Lane by the Boat Inn. Once again, we had to endure road walking for quarter mile before ducking left into woods and open meadows location of some rare wild orchids. After a bit of a zigzag route we were on the final one mile stretch, back to the start. Great walk, great company great times
Peter Rowsell
A special thanks to all for caring after my welfare and especially Dougy

Tuesday 6th Sept 2021 Marvellous Millington
21 eager ramblers gathered in Pocklington market place including new face Sandra on a miserable morning , Angela started by thanking everybody for contributing to her 3 peaks charity walk done with other Doncaster ramblers members and then Steve enlightened everybody about this years xmas dinner, after that the usual pre walk brief was given , walking out of Pocklington and leaving houses behind we hit the first of 5 hills which soon opened up everybody lungs, passing through Pocklington woodland out into open country the sky looking ever threatening. Elevenses was taken in Grimthorpe wood into shelter of trees from the first of the days rain, the splendid apple cake provided welcome diversion, leaving the woods and now on the Chalkland way the rain returned causing everybody to find their coats, however not deterred the walk then visited Great Givendale church as the rain abated.
the group pushed on from here to Millington for lunch but not before visiting the local church which has a modern spectacular stain glass window. Lunch was taken outside the Gait Inn.
The afternoon set off well but was soon marred by a thunder storm of biblical proportions, must have been the two church we visited, as the group climbed the stiffest hill of the day, however the sun soon stared shining to dry soaked trousers and coats ,pity about wet feet ,the walk then continued along Minster way towards Kiln wick Percy crossing the local golf club before retracing our steps back into Pocklington
Many thanks to Steve for Photos in trying weather conditions and Norman for back marker in trying weather conditions
Distance walk 10.25 miles
Time taken 5hrs 10 mins
POI
the dales that are located in the wolds are believed to be sink holes from the last ice age 10,000 years ago
Stuart Twell

Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge in aid of Dementia UK

On Friday the 2nd September 2022, 4 ramblers…myself (Kerensa), Kim, Carmen & Angela plus one rambler’s daughter-Tilly arrived at Horton in Ribblesdale to meet our guide ready to take on the Yorkshire 3 Peak challenge.
I started hiking in October 2021 after finishing work due to a car accident & subsequent surgeries. Walking was a big part of my rehab & I quickly realised that despite the pain at times, I loved it! I wanted a personal challenge & broached the idea of the 3 peaks to Kim & it escalated from there with Carmen & Angela quickly agreeing to join us, all of us members of Doncaster Ramblers.
We decided, as a group, to raise money for Dementia UK & specifically for the Admiral nurses who provide a valuable service for people with dementia & their families. Kim & Tilly sadly lost their Mum/Grandma earlier this year to Dementia, both my Mum & Grandma had Alzheimer’s & Carmen & Angela have also experienced this within their own family networks.
The day of our hike promised perfect weather conditions & did not disappoint- sunshine & light breeze all the way round… some early morning mist at our first summit… Pen Y Ghent which we reached at 8.17am quickly dispersed which gave us spectacular views.
As we began our descent from here, we saw we had reached our £500 donation target which gave us all massive motivation to keep going as did all the messages of support from fellow ramblers.
From Pen Y Ghent we had a long walk across the Drumlin Fields to Ribblehead Viaduct which sat at the base of our second Peak-Whernside. This one wasn’t as steep but seemed never ending. By the time we reached the summit, we had completed 15 miles & all felt pretty good. We had a brief stop for photos & snacks then began the descent which was very rocky & pretty daunting in places. Our knees didn’t like us at this stage!
It was a shorter walk from the base of Whernside to our final peak-Ingleborough. At this point, we had separated temporarily as we each needed to deal with the ascent at our own pace in order to keep going. Tilly-with youth on her side, had a second wind & steamed upwards closely followed by Carmen. For me, ingleborough was the most challenging… a steady climb followed by a very steep scramble which led to a false summit with more of the same until we reached the top. I had to dig deep to get up there but none of us had any intentions of not doing it!
There was a nice surprise at the summit for Kim as her husband & son were waiting at the top… a magical moment for us & other hikers who were doing the route alongside us.
Our joyous celebrations were slightly premature as we quickly realised that wasn’t the end… there was a further 5-6 miles of descent & route back to Horton in Ribblesdale!
We could see we were in time to complete the challenge in the 12 hours given , so despite aches & pains & in my case missing toenails, we dug deep & got to the finishing point… a very welcome sight! Tilly & Carmen got there first, myself & Kim a short time later & Angela with the guide & the rest of the group, shortly after… we all did it in under 12 hours which was an amazing result. We celebrated in the carpark with a bottle of Prosecco which was kindly provided by Kim’s husband Simon.
We all agreed it was a difficult but amazing challenge & also said never again, but watch this space!!
Kerenza Barker
Donations continue to come in via our Just Giving page below which currently stands at £750
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/kim-poskitt
Thank you everyone for your support

 Saturday 3 September 2022. Redmires and Wyming Brook.
Six of us met at the car park at the head of Redmires Reservoirs on a slightly misty, warm but humid Saturday morning. Leaving the car park, we followed the footpath north over Hallam Moor and Brown Edge. After crossing the water conduit, we followed the footpath to the east walking through moorland of heather and bracken before dropping down Reddicar Hollow to Wyming Brook Drive. After following the drive for a short distance, we turned onto a footpath climbing through woodland until we again reached open moorland where we stopped for coffee. After coffee we followed the moor/wood boundary to the car park at Wyming Brook, crossed the brook on stepping stones, then downhill following the spectacular footpath which follows the watercourse to Rivelin Reservoir. It was then onwards and upwards through Fox Hagg woodland to Redmires Road and the welcome relief of the Sportsman, lunch, and liquid refreshment. After lunch following the Redmires Conduit, past Redmires Camp Plantation (site of a POW camp) to the lower of the Redmires Reservoir where we turned uphill, walking along roads and steep grassy slopes to Rud Hill. A couple of miles across moorland, with views of Stanage Pole in the distance, past White Stones, brought us back to our start point. Thanks to Charlie who I pinched the route off having done it on a Tuesday some 15 months ago. A total of 8.5 miles was covered in 4.75 hours. Stephen J Tomlinson.
POI
Redmires Camp was first used in World War I. Originally it was set up as a First World War training camp for the Sheffield City Battalion, then the Sheffield City Battalion went overseas, it subsequently became a prisoner of war camp. Its most famous inmate was the future Admiral Karl Dönit. At the beginning of World War II, the name of Redmires Camp was changed to Lodge Moor Camp, becoming Prisoner of War Camp 17. The camp housed Italian POWs who established a friendly rapport with the locals. As the war progressed they were replaced by German prisoners who endured overcrowding; the International Committee of the Red Cross, which, described the conditions as "insufficient/uninhabitable". A witness suggested there were more than 70 prisoners in huts designed for 30. (wiki)

  Thursday 1st September 2022 A local walk from Pickburn

During the pandemic this was one of the go-to walks which Doncaster Ramblers organised once group walks were permitted, and included local routes in Cadeby, Campsall, Askern Lake and Owston to name a few (which we will also repeat in the coming weeks, details on our website.) Today we attracted nine happy wonderers out for a gentle stroll. It began with a one and a bit mile march along field edges crossing wide open spaces decked in sunshine. It’s always a joy to eaves drop conversations taking place, during our walks ranging from the latest TV drama to Rover’s demise in the league, proving again and again the wellbeing benefit of group walks. Passing Lound Hill the route continued down Narrow Balk for ¾ mile, and being narrow we were back to single file, with high hedges either side. At the end of Narrow Balk we made a slighy detour into Hooton Pagnell where we stopped for a short break at the Butter Cross (built in 1256 when the village received a Royal Charter, but only the base now survives) Retracing our steps we made our way north along Back Lane before turning sharp right along Broad Balk where the gossip continued for another ¾ mile Turning left at the western edge of Hampole wood we walked north for just under ½ mile to a five point crossing of paths. Luckily the trusty smart phone satnav guided us the right way diagonally across open fields, in a north easterly direction. Suddenly a quick right left took us “Running down that hill” before marching up the other side, at which point it was pointed out we were not actually on a Public Right of Way! Another right turn and we were heading south with views of three wind turbines in the distance. During my initial recce I could not find access through Hampole Wood which would have added interest to this walk, so sadly we had to remain on the eastern edge before turning left and heading east, at which point it occurred to me, we were walking clockwise where previously it had always been anti-clockwise. So it was a slight shock that heading south back to the start, I failed to recognise landmarks ahead, which were normally behind. Not to worry no-one missed the crucial crossing where a left turn would bring us safely back to the start
Peter Rowsell

Tuesday 30 August 2022 Staveley Brimington Common and some Chesterfield Canal
23 of us met at The Hollingwood Hub on The Chesterfield Canal on the outskirts of Staveley. The Hub is operated by the excellent Chesterfield Canal Trust. A cafe and toilets were available for those who arrived early. During the briefing we noted that the car park would be closed and padlocked at 4.00pm. The walk was going to be just short of 11miles and would include a coffee stop a pub stop and an afternoon ice cream stop so I suggested we walk at a good pace to ensure we got back in time. It is fair to say everyone fully embraced this idea. As leader I sometimes struggled to keep up and we in fact returned to Hollingwood to rescue our cars just after 3pm!
The walk began by crossing the road and setting off down the canal towpath on The Cuckoo Way towards Staveley Town Basin. Here the canal is blocked off and unrestored. ( The Canal Trust hopes to have this 9 mile section open by 2027 ). We swung right on The Trans Pennine Way behind Staveley ( stopping for coffee en route ) and then onto Brimington Common. Here we called in for our lunch stop at The Miners Arms where the landlord Richard had opened up specially for us. Then it was further across the common towards Tapton before dropping down the slope to cross the railway and main road to once again pick up The Cuckoo Way and The Chesterfield Canal towpath. A scruffy section behind local housing and opposite a building site brought us to The Tapton Visitor Centre where a short stop was enjoyed by all and ice creams were enjoyed by some. From there it was the final stretch back along the canal side where the Cuckoo Way and Trans Pennine Way ( and therefore quite a few cyclists ) share the paths to Hollingwood. My thanks to all who kept pace and especially to Steve for the photos and Neil and Angela for backmarking before and after lunch.
CP
NB. Chesterfield Canal Trust are running their annual Walking Festival from 10 - 18 September. Details available on www.chesterfield-canal-trusr.org.uk or telephone 01246 477569

Saturday 27th Aug 2022 Cottam Power Station Close Up
It was less than ten days since Doncaster Ramblers ventured into this area (Trent Side Story) so it came as some relief to find nine turning up for this eleven mile hike half of which along the winding Trent. Among our company today we welcomed Sandra, who was joining us for the first time (thank you) and a couple of others who were making a welcome return. Since there was only ten of us, we agreed no “back marker” was needed, although at times the walk leader was more often found at the back than the front. From Cottam it took just over a mile to reach the river where we joined the Trent Valley Way (The Trent Valley Way (TVW) is a partially signposted source-to-sea walking route following the Trent and already established for 84 miles through Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire) which we’d follow for a mere five miles to reach Dunham on Trent. The route there, wholly on a dike exposed us to the full glare of today’s sun. Better that we argued, than being pounded by rain and wind. Passing under the viaduct at Torksey we continued on reaching the second bent of the river where we had our first close encounter with the power station, whose massive cooling towers would be a constant backdrop to our walk. Shortly after eleven an oasis of trees became a welcome shelter for our mid-morning coffee break. Suitably refreshed we continued south passing Church Laneham (location of a ferry crossing now the site of the Ferry Boat Inn) The map showed a number of options going forward but eventually we were back on the dike heading south towards Dunham on Trent. Brian’s quick thinking secured us a place for lunch at the White Swan’s beer garden, which just happened to be hosting a music festival. Not quite in full swing, it was still entertaining and added to our already high spirits. There are times when following a route through an open field leads you completely astray then it becomes a scramble to find the exit stile/gate. Recce or no, memory often fails and it’s the helping hand of fellow walks that prevails an gets us back on track. The last of the 2,5 miles back was relatively straight forward with the last stretch following the western perimeter fence of Cottam Power Station. A final right turn along the main road passing the entrance gates, brought us full circle back to the start
Peter A Rowsell

Thursday 25th Aug 2022 Fairburn Ings Circular Route 2.
Six of us met at the car park of the RSPB reserve at Fairburn Ings on an overcast and sometimes rainy day. Using experience gained during our last visit, 3 weeks ago, we successfully negotiated the fiendishly difficult parking pay station. After a short briefing we headed north from the car park, crossing Newton Lane, and followed the footpath through Newfield Plantation to Ledsham where we stopped for a few minutes to admire the pretty village, the church and a well-cut hedge (see photos). Leaving the village, we followed Holly Rood Lane for a short distance to the east, before turning south, taking the footpath to Wormstall Wood and Lambkip Hill then on the village of Fairburn. At Fairburn the walk leader decided to add a section to the route which had not been previously walked but having failed to locate the rights of way shown on the OS maps we decided to stop for a short break at the pretty Fairburn cricket ground. The break was cut short by what we think was rain, we have all forgotten what it looks like, and found a footpath to take us downhill to the lakes of Fairburn Ings which allowed us to rejoin the planned route. Following the footpath on the embankment (old railway?) high above above the River Aire and the lakes of the Ings we returned to the RSPB Visitors center, stopping off on the way to look for Kingfishers at the viewing point, none were seen. A total of 6.5 miles was walked in just over 3 hours.
Stephen J Tomlinson
P.O.I.
Ledsham is first mentioned in a charter of around 1030 in the form Ledesham. Like nearby Ledston, the name seems to refer to Leeds (or the Old English precursor of this name, Loidis, which denoted a region rather than a town); the second element is the Old English word hām ('homestead, farm'). The name thus meant 'the farm belonging to the region of Loidis'. Ledsham parish once also included the township of Fairburn, whose name is likewise first attested around 1030, as Faren-burne. This name comes from the Old English words fearn ('fern') and burna ('spring, stream'), and thus meant 'spring characterised by ferns'.

Saturday 20th August 2022  Sir William Hill from Eyam

Sixteen of us gathered in the Hawkhill Road car park in Eyam for the start of a splendid walk. We were joined by Simon from Chesterfield Ramblers and Jane who was tackling her second-long walk with Doncaster Ramblers having previously completed several of our shorter walks. Eyam is one of the largest villages in the White Peak and is best known for its connection to the bubonic plague which arrived in the village in late August 1665 in a parcel of cloth sent to the village tailor. The villagers decided to isolate themselves from surrounding communities so saving the lives of thousands in the surrounding area. Over the 14 months of the plague 260 Eyam villagers died out of a total population of 800. Our walk through the village passed the victims cottages and the churchyard where many of them are buried. On leaving the village we passed the boundary stone where villagers left money in coin slots in exchange for food brought up the hill from Stoney Middleton. We descended the hill into Stoney Middleton and continued downhill across fields to the banks of the river Derwent. Following the river up steam our walk passed through stretches of indigenous woodland alternating with riverside pasture. Elevenses were taken on boulders next to a tributary of the Derwent. We crossed the river using the beautiful stone bridge at Froggatt before crossing the river once more at Leadmill Bridge. Our route then followed the secluded valley formed by Highlow Brook. Lunch was taken overlooking this valley which offered splendid views of Hathersage and the Edges beyond. Leaving the brook our walk saw us undertaking a stiff climb up Eyam Moor, stopping several times to admire the view, before reaching Sir William Hill. There followed a gentle descent which offered views across the White Peak before a steep descent back down to Eyam. We were blessed with warm sunny weather, blue skies, spectacular scenery and good company. Thanks go to Trevor, Brian and Dave for taking it in turns to back mark. AMG

Thursday 18th August 2022 A local walk from New Rossington
I thought I’d read on the DMBC website that the footpath across the spoil heap was now fully open and named “Rossington 14” well I hoped it was because that is the way we are going! The walk begins at the junction of Allenby Crescent and Grange Lane, as it has done many times before, mostly in sunshine, today there was a fine drizzle in the air, as if it couldn’t quite make up its mind to throw it down or just stay miserable. Walking down Grange Lane all nine of us could see the footpath ahead as it snaked up the hill. An unofficial alternative route was offered around the base of the spoil heap but we chose the more challenging path ahead. The rain was not making the climb easy nor the sight of huge earth moving equipment in whose path we appeared to be going. Luckily there was no real danger and once over we could see below the footbridge over the River Thorne where we were heading next. Walking along Carr Bank, we were at the southern edge of the IPort complex, where giant monolithic warehouses were beginning to erupt whose windowless forms melt into the skyline. In contrast a few hundred yards later after a left and right turn a footpath overgrown and a field of sunflowers staring our way. Continuing though a field of stubble we reached the tiny hamlet of Wellingley and an opportunity to stop at a boundary wall for elevenses. Occasionally the sun would show and the temperature rose, adding additional cheer to an already happy outing. Turning left at a cross roads we now had a long stretch of tarmac to follow towards Stancil a farmstead in the middle of nowhere. On route dodging massive tractors and trailers but still having time to spot a walnut tree with a few low hanging fruit. Turning right at the farm then left a few yards further on, the most arduous task of the walk, two rickety stiles to cross, made easier by the steady hands of fellow walkers. We now follower the river Thorne north which appears to have been buried as there were no visible signs except several huge concrete slabs with manhole covers. Crossing a foot bridge we could already see in the distance the outskirts of New Rossington ahead and once inside tuning right at Radburn Road then left on Central Drive brought us nicely back to Grange Lane  Peter Rowsell

Tuesday 16th August 2022  Ladybower Walk
The drive to Fairholmes was a bit problematic to start due to accidents and road closures on the M1 and M18 but thanks to Charlie’s careful planning and driving we arrived at the car park at 9.45 with plenty of time to put boots on and meet Dave at Fairholmes Visitor centre to start the walk at 10.
18 Ramblers which included 2 ladies from Rotherham Metro and Nellie from Sheffield Ramblers met at Fairholmes Visitor centre to start the walk..
After a weather warning the previous week of thunder and lightning then the day before of rain we had a very pleasant days walking.
This is a delightful walk going past the Derwent Dam and the commemorative sign to the Dambusters with a lovely view of the reservoir. We begin by walking along the road ,or the parallel access path by the Resevoir,to the turn leading to Ridges Coppice where we ascended through the woods until we reached the top of Hagg side.At the top is a viewpoint of the reservoir. The 360 degree views are spectacular with a good view of Kinder Scout and we were fortunate to have a clear day .
After elevenses which included coffee and walnut cake and flapjack provided by Karensa who joined us today after a brief absence we continued walking over to Crookhill,At the top we go in a southerly direction and head on a track along Bridge End pasture to Crookhill farm-before descending to the A57.
From Crookhill we went down to the road and over the bridge to The Lady Bower Inn which unfortunately was closed but we were still able to sit outside and eat our packed lunch
After lunch we continued along the path alongside the east side of Lady Bower until we reached the Dam wall of the Derwent Resevoir From here it was only a short distance to where we started the walk at Fairholmes visitor centre.
Ladybower is the largest of 3 resevoirs and the most recently constructed,which entailed the flooding of the villages of Ashopton and Derwent and the rehousing of the inhabitants.There are a number of hill farms scattered about the area,most are involved in hill farming.
Ashopton viaduct was built to carry snake road to Glossop and the Ladybower viaduct to carry the road from the Yorkshire Bridge to the A57.The Resevoir was finally opened by King George V1 in 1945 and to mark the occasion a commemorative monument has been built in the dam wall.The village could be sighted in the hot summer of 2018 when water levels were low,but no sightings today.
Thanks to Neil back market , Stephen photographer ,Catherine for doing the recce with me
Wendy Satchwell

Thursday 11th August 2022  A local walk from Rossington
For a walk of under two hours, and less than five miles, you would not expect a pub stop, and as a rule we only plan a short coffee break at eleven. That was the plan anyway as nine of us set off along the footpath next to Lindholme Drive heading in the direction of Mount Pleasant Hotel, on this figure of eight walk. It was a real pleasure to welcome back John (minus Rascal the greyhound, it was to hot for him) and Tanisha with Harry, plus everyone else who came along on what was forecast to be another sweltering day. It was definitely baking as we zigzagged around fields head high with maize / corn which seemed to be the dominant crop in these parts. Luckily the planned route was dotted with areas of shelter giving a short rest bite from the bright sunshine. Moving on across Whinny Lane Plantation an area of open scub with an easy to follow footpath. Distinctive in the near distance a single-story concrete building which none of us knew why it was there. Turning left over a stile we had another sheltered stretch of forest before exiting onto the A636 where we made our way onto the Hotel car park. Here we were joined by Tracey, whose duties delayed her making the start, but still wanted to catch us up so now we were ten. Exiting the back of the car park and turning left at a crossing of paths, we now had a longer stretch of sheltered walking before making a right and seeing ahead the familiar clump of trees, and a single bench which is our eleven’s refreshment break. Harry too was breaking out of his shell, as he kept us entertained collecting pebbles, counting each and sharing with his fellow Ramblers. All too soon it was time to move on (pebbles and all) as we followed the path north through mostly scub, but also a bit of woodland, and playing fields. Reaching the intersection of our walk, sadly John had to bow out, and after a short debate we agreed to visit the nearby Stirrup for refreshments before completing the second loop. I have to admit in this weather, a cold beer was most welcome, but eventually we had to move on. Turning right at the level crossing we moved through a suburban housing estate to reach a bridle way heading north. A few metres in our route turned right along a field edge then left to form one side of a triangle, at the apex of which a footbridge across the River Torne. Instead we turned right down the second side of the triangle to reach Rossington Brick Pond a favourite place for anglers, and festooned with white and pink water lilies. Exiting onto Sheep Bridge Road, the group scattered suddenly some having parked nearby. The rest made their way back to the start.
Peter Rowsell

Tuesday 9 August 2022 A Trent Side Story
It was already hot and sunny when we met outside The Ferry Boat Inn at the picturesque village of Church Laneham.Fortunately the walk was Easy and would be over flat terrain; so the fact that it was anticipated to get even hotter as the day wore on did nothing to deter us. Also it was a 'Figure of Eight' which meant we had the happy prospect of returning to the Ferry Boat for lunchtime refreshment and could leave some of our lunches etc in the cars rather than carry them around all morning.So it was that after a briefing from Nigel 30 ramblers and one dog set off northwards on the flood banks alongside the Trent towards Torksey. It was river on our right and open farmland to our left all the way. As we meandered towards Torksey Viaduct we we were invited to observe Torksey Casle on the opposite bank. This Elizabethan manor house is now ruined . Nigel gave us a fascinating rundown of its history.(Readers of this report can get it from Wikipedia ! ) After dodging a herd of cows,calves and a bull we were at the viaduct . Again we were treated to information about its 'box- girder 'construction and its two 130 ft spans. The description of how the riveters had to climb inside the sections made one wonder what Health and Safety would have made of the practise. Over the viaduct and into Torksey church yard for elevenses. Never before had I seen a Post Office and shop operating inside a church. Back over the viaduct we took straighter paths than before back to Church Laneham . By this time we had completed 7 of the scheduled 10 miles. The break at the Ferry Boat Inn was a welcome relief from the sun and a good opportunty get 'hydrated'. The afternoon was a southerly 3 mile loop towards ( but not reaching ) Dunham On Trent and back. Both in the morning and again in the afternoon Cottam Power Station was a constant landmark in the distance. Hot, dry and tired but in good spirits after a well planned and interesting walk we got back to the cars. Thanks to Nigel for leading, Rob for backmarking ( and additional info ) and Steve for the photos. Charlie Pratt

Saturday 6 August 2022 Vicar Water and Royal Sherwood

Warm sunny weather greeted 11 of Doncaster's finest ramblers when we met in the Vicar Water Nature reserve car park. There were friends both old and new in the group who gathered for the pre-walk briefing. It was to be a walk of 'variable length' ( somewhere between 10 and 11.5 miles depending upon the stamina and enthusiasm of the walkers ). It was also to have two fairly different halves ( first in the trees of Sherwood Forest and secondly through the village of Kings Clipstone and farmland behind Clipstone itself ) and would have 3 refreshment breaks ( coffee , lunch and a pub / ice cream stop ). These arrangements seemed to suit all concerned and so we set off. Passing the top end of the lake and the local anglers we were quickly into the forest. Here we followed paths and cycle tracks bathed in dappled sunshine until our coffee break stop where some handy fencing provided seating. From there we pressed on round behind the Centre Parcs holiday village and finding some picnic tables at the interchange of yet more cycle tracks decided to stop for an early lunch. The promise of an imminent pub stop and the annoyance of wasps meant we didn't stay long. After exiting the woods we had a short stretch of roadside before coming to The Dog and Duck in Kings Clipstone. (See the photos for who chose beer and who chose an ice cream ! ) Making our way carefully through the village we could see the ruins of the kings palace in the adjacent fields. Leaving the village we turned left at Cavendish Lodge and followed Clipstone Drive; a farm track that runs the full length behind the built up areas of Clipstone. We had now done 10+ miles and so decided to turn left again over the fields and across the main road back to the western end of the country park. and then the car park. Thanks to all who came along and especially to Deet for the additional photos.
Charlie Pratt

Thursday 4th Aug 2022 Fairburn Ings Pt 1

Fairburn Ings was designated a local nature reserve in 1957 under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act (1949). Since the late 1970s it has been managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds on behalf of the local naturalists who set it up. The word ings (singular ing) is of Old Norse origin and means "damp or marshy land that floods", but it certainly wasn’t damp today as thirteen eager ramblers gathered in the car park ready for a morning’s six mile stroll. Steve our walk leader gave a brief outline of todays walk, including the caution needed while walking on the open road. So off we set briefly on the open road before turning right along a wide farm track which led us into an almost magical green valley exiting onto Claypit Lane. Another left a little further on took us across open farmland, then a stretch of grass fenced off on either side with Ledston Hall visible in the distance. It was the home of Lady Elizabeth Hastings, daughter of the 7th Earl of Huntingdon, known as "Lady Betty". The hall was originally a grange and chapel built by the monks of Pontefract Priory. It is a grade I listed building, and several associated buildings and garden features are also listed. Passing unnoticed though Ledston, we were now back in open country, again mainly grass, but also rape waiting to be harvested. A sharp left on the outskirts of Allerton Bywater took us into the heart of the wetlands visible through the trees. On reaching the River Aire Steve took us on a slight detour down to Bulholme Lock where we enjoyed a twenty minute refreshment break. Sadly there was no activity on the lock today, which would have been a great spectacle to watch the large basic empty and fill with water. The final mile and half, saw us following an undulating gravel path though Newton Ings then entering Fairburn along a raised wooden walkway ending at the visitor centre.
Thanks Steve for a great walk, looking forward to part two later in August
P Rowsell

Tuesday 2nd August 2022 Sutton Scarsdale Circular – The Mystery Ruin

Not for the first time we’ll arrived at the rendezvous to begin a Ramblers walk, in inclement weather, and everyone’s struggling to get their waterproofs on before becoming totally soaked through. Yet within a couple of hours the downpour had become a mere drizzle and before long, the sun was blazing, and we were stripping off the wet weather layers. Blessed or what? Anyway to the walk, billed as an eleven mile leisurely stroll through scenery with great views taking in woodland, meadows, quiet lanes, lakes and an iconic ruin. Its fair to say it did not disappoint. Equally iconic among walk leaders Bob Carlisle (partnered by Dave Binnington as back marker) led twenty four of us the way south through Pools Brook Country Park for about a mile before reaching the district of Duckmanton, an estate of housed bordering fields. Following the pavement south we soon left suburbia behind entering open country on a well defines public footpath. A steady straight line 1 ½ miles followed by a right, then left 1/3 mile later brought us to the ruins of Sutton Scarsdale Hall. We’d travelled about five miles, climber 450ft, been going two hours and only now stopped for eleven’s. Our tummies were about as empty as the building before us. Suitably refreshed yet gutted we could not explore more the ruined Sutton Scar, Bob led us on a heading west then north west again across open farmland and though the occasional areas of woodland, leaving some of us blind in the darkness till our eyes got accustomed. All to soon we were back on tarmac heading north towards the Blacksmiths Arms about a mile away. A long standing tradition with Donny Ramblers long walks, largely abandoned in the aftermath of Covid, so this pub stop was very welcome. Shame they only served Lager! Continuing in more or less the same direction along field edges, and through woods we hit almost inevitably the Trans-Pennine-Trail, on which we remained for the final 2 ¼ miles, back to base. Great walk, thanks Bob.
P Rowsell
P.O.I
Sutton Scarsdale Hall was built in the Baroque style on the site of an existing house between 1724 and 1729 for the 4th Earl of Scarsdale. The architect for the new hall was Francis Smith of Warwick, who skilfully incorporated the earlier building of about 1469 within his design. John Arkwright, a descendant of the industrialist Richard Arkwright, bought the hall, but in 1919 the family sold it to a company of asset strippers. Many of its finely decorated rooms were sold off as architectural salvage and the house was reduced to a shell. The ruins of the hall were saved from demolition by the writer Sir Osbert Sitwell, who bought it in 1946 In 1970 descendants of the Sitwells persuaded the Department of the Environment to take the building into guardianship and preserve it for the nation. © English Heritage

Saturday 30th July 2022  Redmires Reservoirs Stanage Edge, Burbage Edge via Fox House Inn.

Nine of us, including Nikki from Sheffield Ramblers, met in the car park at the far end of Redmires Reservoir for an eleven mile walk. The rain held off for the majority of the walk, the occasional shower requiring waterproofs which were soon removed due to overheating. From the car park we walked uphill to Stanage Edge, via Stanage Pole where we stopped for a group photo. On the edge we stopped to admire the spectacular views and the skill of the rock climbers before walking along the edge to the trig point where coffee was taken in shelter provided by the rocks. Refreshed we continued to the car park at the top of Burbage Brook, resisted the temptation of the ice cream van, then followed the footpath on the top of Burbage Edge to the Fox House Inn where lunch and various forms of liquid refreshment were imbibed. After lunch we followed the A6187, Hathersage Road for a short distance before turning onto the wide gravel track of Houndkirk Road which was followed for some distance before turning north, walking past Lady Cannings Plantation to Ringinglow Road. After crossing the road, we walked on moorland to Brown Edge Quarries (disused), then onto Brown Edge Farm, then a short distance on Fulwood lane before once again entering moorland at Rud Hill from the top of which excellent views were had of Redmires and our finish point. Crossing the peat moorland past White Stones we reached the road by the reservoir and a short walk down the road took us back to our start point.
Stephen J Tomlinson.
P.O.I
Stanage Edge, or simply Stanage (from "stone edge") is a gritstone escarpment in the Peak District, England, famous as a location for climbing. It lies a couple of miles to the north of Hathersage, and the northern part of the edge forms the border between the High Peak of Derbyshire and Sheffield in South Yorkshire. Its highest point is High Neb at 458 metres (1,503 ft) above sea level. Areas of Stanage were quarried in the past to produce grindstones, and some can still be seen on the hillside—carved, but never removed. Wiki

Thursday 28th July 2022 A local walk from Epworth
This by now familiar six mile circular route around Epworth was never-the-less joined by eleven and me the walk leader. A hand full of those today, had done this walk several times before, but such is the draw of a rambler’s walk that they are willing to come again. Heading east from Holmes & Garden and passing St Andrew’s Church, we began a clockwork circumnavigation of the village moving south on Greengate picking up the Peatland Way into open country. Rather than follow this our route took us westward across the busy A161 and out into the country side proper. Harvesting had begun, leaving fields full of long strands of stubble. Debate rages as to what it was, Rape, Father beans, Broad beans, who knew? Pea like pods definitely suggested legumes of some kind, but why had those at the field edge turned black, while the rest remained mostly green? Moving on we reached Epworth Turbary Nature Reserve and a fifteen-minute refreshment break with the sound of woodpeckers pecking away in the distance. Moving on it came as something of a surprise to see ahead acres and acres of wheat growing, were previously there were several hundred porkers wallowing in mud. Keeping to the well defined footpath and in a broadly clockwise direction we once again picked up the Peatland Way at the top off an embankment as it made its way towards the A161. Newcomers will have noticed three decommissioned wing mills, possibly used to drain the area by the Dutch engineer Sir Cornelius Vermuyden in 1627–1629, this being an inland island, surrounded by rivers, streams, bogs and meres. Finally completing the circle, we retraced our steps back to the start.
Peter Rowsell

Tuesday 26th July 2022 A View From Nettleton Top

Today's walk was in the Lincolnshire Wolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and some of the best views of the Lincolnshire countryside can be seen from Nettleton Top and the surrounding area. For those with an Ordnance Survey app the walk can be found under – Country Walking, Nettleton, Lincolnshire. A total of 25 people plus one dog met at 10.00am in Nettleton village opposite the church and after the normal greetings and welcoming Tina, a visiting rambler from Surrey who was on holiday in the region, the group set off. Unfortunately the walk leader, who shall remain nameless, had difficulty in telling his left from his right, and started the circular walk in a clockwise direction rather than the pre planned anti clockwise direction. The problem with this was that the planned lunch break at the Blacksmith Arms, Rothwell, became the break for elevenses instead. The first part of the walk was a steady uphill walk towards Badger Hills and at the top there were wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. We then veered west and walked downhill into Rothwell and elevenses were taken in the playground next to the Blacksmith Arms (which wasn't open). After a quick coffee break the walk continued up to Rothwell Top and it was noted that during the walk we had passed fields of peas and cereal crops. Lunch was taken at Mount Pleasant again with lovely views after which we walked up hill and joined the Viking Way (VW). We then followed the VW down Nettleton Beck and after about a mile or so by the pond we left the VW and walked up a concrete path to Nettleton Top. We walked along Nettleton Top towards Nettleton Hill with views down towards Lincoln. It was here the walk leader partly redeemed himself by clearing a pathway through an area of prickly hawthorn bushes with a pair of shears he conveniently found in his rucksack. From Nettleton Hill the group made its way down to Nettleton, walking through the village back to their cars. Rumour has it that some walkers then made it down to a local hostelry to have an ice cream. Point of Interest – In the 40 years from 1926 there was Ironstone mining in the area, employing up to 180 people, and there are still the remains of these workings and tunnels which have been bricked up. Ponies were used to haul out the ore from the mines. This accounts for the workings that we passed and wondered what they were for. NT

 Saturday 23rd July 2022 Wetherby to Spofforth

Twelve participants arrived at Wetherby Wilderness Car Park for the walk. Two visitors from Dearne Valley Group and one from Scunthorpe were part of the group. Following a leader's briefing we set off just after 10.00 walking by the riverside path and towards the site of Wetherby Station, now a car park. Some railway memorabilia was noted with signage. The former railway line from here to Spofforth was closed many years ago but now has been converted to a leisure trail entitled the “Harland Way”. This formed the basis for today’s walk. We made our way through Kirk Deighton and had “elevenses” alongside a field footpath between Kirk Deighton and Spofforth. After suitable refreshment we made our way into Spofforth for lunch making use of the Harland Way. Some of us settled down in the grounds of Spofforth castle for our lunch and others had a brief look at the remains of Spofforth castle. A pub was available nearby and after a drink or two we assembled outside the pub at 1.15 for our return to Wetherby. We made our way through Stockeld Park and back onto the Harland Way for an afternoon break. It was then a straightforward route to Wetherby, passing the point where we had deviated earlier to reach Kirk Deighton. After retracing our outward route along the riverside path and a stop for a group photograph, we were back at the car park about 3.20. There were a number of general visitors to Wetherby by then as it is a popular spot by the river with picnic tables and benches. An Ice Cream vehicle was present which was used by most participants before driving home.  David Horne

Thursday 21st July 2022 Wentworth Woodhouse Follies

There is nothing worse than meticulously plotting and recceing a route then being struck down with Covid, and unable to lead, believe me I know. But thanks to OSmaps and GPS we were able to complete Steve T’s walk as planned. And what a walk, starting at Elsecar Heritage Centre, thirteen of us set off south-east first through woods, (always takes a minute for eyes to adjust) then open farm land reaching Needle’s Eye, in just over a mile. I’m thrilled and surprised in equal measure at the numbers who join our walks, and the number of repeat offenders! Having examined the Needle in some detail, including what looked like bullet holes, we moved on towards the next folly about half a mile away. Hoober Stand seemed an excellent spot for refreshments with ample seating and interesting features high up. Refreshed and necks cricked we continued on towards Upper Haugh where after turning right we had a half mile of road walking, luckily on a pavement. A number of today’s gang were familiar with the area, which was reassuring, as I could have easily led us up the wrong path, as it was we kept more-or-less on track all the way round. As we made a right just outside Nether Haugh we saw the devastation of recent wild fires, with acres of charred fields. The foot path now began to ziz zag along field edges, with tall grasses to negotiate one step at a time. Unfortunately we missed completely the Mausoleum, as we headed southwest towards Roman Ridge. A final right turn and we were heading northwest, back to the start still two and three quarter mile away. The going was easy and open as we approached the commanding frontage of Westwood Woodhouse missing another folly, Doric Temple which could be seen in the distance. The area is criss-crossed with long distant footpaths, many metalised, of which we have made some use today, but not much. Passing through the hamlet of Wentworth and following the path north, our final obstacle was getting though King’s Wood unscathed, which we did, arriving at the start after three hours and 45 minutes. 7.35 miles  Thanks Steve for a great walk.  Peter R

P.O.I.
Wentworth Woodhouse is a Grade I listed stately home, with the longest façade of any country house in England. The building has more than 300 rooms, although the precise number is unclear, with 250,000 square feet of floorspace.
Hoober Stand. A tapering pyramid with a hexagonal lantern, named for the ancient wood in which it was erected. It is 98 feet (30 m) high and was built to commemorate the defeat of the Jacobite rebellion of 1745.
Needle's Eye. A 46-foot high, sandstone block pyramid with an ornamental urn on the top. It was built in the 18th century allegedly to win a bet after the second Marquess claimed he could drive a coach and horses through the eye of a needle.