Todays walk in detail

9 of us set off from Bretton with heavy laden skies but it was dry. The forecast was for rain in the morning and sun in the afternoon, which is pretty much how it turned out. We had a gentle descent down into Bretton Clough and then to Stoke Ford. At Highlow Beck I regaled the group with the story of the nearby, Highlow Hall, reputed to be the most haunted house in Derbyshire - they were not impressed! Moving on, by the side of the path in Highlow Wood we encountered a series of Ant Hills, 2 1/2 to 3 ft tall, these definitely raised more interest than my ghost story! Coffee stop, in the dry, was taken just before Hazelford. Down again past Hog Hall but once we crossed Highlow Beck the gentle downhill came to an end. From now on there were a few serious uphills: Callow Farm, Offerton Hall and then up the track to the tower above Shatton where we sheltered in the buildings for our lunch break. The sun came out and we enjoyed superb views over the Derbyshire Dales on our way down to Abney village. Across the fields and down once again, through an overgrown path, into Bretton Clough. Then came the hard slog back up to our starting point in Bretton! Replenishment fluid was taken at The Barrel Inn - we could only afford one drink!! Thanks to the brave souls who turned out at short notice and with the poor weather forecast.