Hayton Ramble No 3
[Revised July 2016]
Well, it seems as though my first two rambles have seen encouraging results.
During my own excursions, I have met several smiling villagers with maps in hand travelling happily along the Hayton paths.
I do hope that everyone, dogs included, have enjoyed their expeditions and that even more will take up the challenge to brave the great outdoors.
There really is a lot to see.
This month, with the weather into the full summer mode [raining at the time of this revision] a slightly shorter walk is described. Again, we keep mainly within the parish but stray into both Wheatley and Clarborough territiories.
The walk follows Public Rights of Way, is approx 7 km long which can be covered quite comfortably in about 2-3 hours.
It is a circular journey which rises from the heart of the village, reaches to the furthest point of the parish, has fine views and returns down gentle tracks.
It is suitable for all age groups, but itcould be muddy in places so don’t forget suitable clothing. Boots are best but stout walking shoes would be suitable.
Take along a drink of water and a granary bar or similar. Even on a short walk, taking in fluids every 45 mins is important to avoid dehydration.
In really hot weather go well prepared including something for your best friend, the dog. Have frequent rests to refresh your aching limbs and take these opportunities to enjoy the views.
Start from Main St and follow Byway No6 along the side of Canning Header Farm.
After 150metres go straight ahead over the crossroads and follow the rising wide track for a further 0.5km as it gradually levels off. This part of the track is called Hangingside Lane.
Ahead, you will see the steaming cooling towers of West Burton and the new power station beyond.Slightly to your right, Cottam power station hides shyly behind the rolling hills.
Looking back, in the far distance you will see the wind turbine tower in Worksop, lazily turning [but only if the wind is blowing]. [HM Govt says we need 10,000 of these towers in the next 20 years to meet our green energy requirements]
You might also spot the solar farm just off Smeath Lane, glinting in the sunshine.
At the top of the hill, you will come across a signpost directing you to the right off the main trackdown a crossfield path. By now, behind, you will have lost sight of Hayton but ahead in the distance the church tower ofNorth Wheatley beckons. To your right you will see Hill Top farm by the A620 and to your left on the hill, Ash Holt watches over you.
Continue along the path until it makes a left turn over a stile into an orchard. Follow the grassy path, passed 2 waymarker posts for 400metres until you reach the metal kissing gate by the rroad at Prospect House. You have now reached the eastern extremity of Hayton Parish and will have covered 1.75km from the start of your journey.
Cross over the busy A620 [populated by fast cars, lorries and kamikaze motor cyclists] and join Blue Stocking Lane. A signpost directs you towardsClarborough Grange Farm.
Continue up the metalled road for 1/2km taking a hairpin bend in your stride.
On the horizon you will see a row of silver birch trees gently bending even on windless days.
Ignore the temptation to turn right down Howbeck Lane but continue slightly left uphill onto a grassy track, soon passing a sign post on your left.
The path narrows a little where the hedges meet overhead, closing out the light,with a gurgling stream on your right. Your feet will brush wild garlic expelling a rich aroma urging you on.
After a further 1km, on your left, you will come across a sign post beckoning you down the Trent Valley Way
This is another of Britain’s long distance paths and runs from Long Eaton to West Stockwith. You may be encouraged by your recent walking successes to try this 84 km walk [another day perhaps].
After only a few more steps turn right at a junction along Red Flat Lane. Follow this track, and ahead to your right, you will soon see Clarborough Grange. Almost immediately, the grassy path becomes hard surfaced making progress a little easier. Up ahead a fire beacon signals the final 2km stretch of your walk.
At the T-junction with Howbeck Lane a left hand turn is required. From this point there are fine views across to the south and west and many significant land marks in the distance are clearly visible. Use your map and ask the children to identify them.
Rest awhile on the conveniently sited wooden seat, take in the views and maybe a little refreshment also.
You may be relieved by now to see that your way ahead is down hill into Clarborough, so follow the road past the houses until you reach the main road.
Your journey is almost over but you may wish to call in at the Spar shop for your daily paper or spend a little time in The Kings Arms to rest your aching feet.
Have a natter with your companions before ending your walk back in Hayton at Canning Header Farm.
Howard 869617