Sontley, Wat's Dyke and More 30th October 2014

The river looking towards Felin Puleston.

Face off at the "Cup and Saucer".

Erddig Hall from a path on the West side of the hall.

Not really on the path where we wanted to be!

On part of Wat's Dyke Way.

The hills of Cheshire from the highest point on our walk, soon after lunch.

All times are B.S.T.

Walk stats: Distance: 10.7 miles. Climb: 490'.

Time: 5 hours 52 minutes. On the move walking average: 2.2 m.p.h. Overall walk average: 1.8 m.p.h.

Group: Martyn, Sue and Michel, Roger, Phil, Nigel and Wendy.

The weather today was rather warm and humid (at least 17 Celsius on the car thermometer when we arrived back at the car). In fact at lunch time the Sun seemed much warmer than that!

 This low level walk on what seemed good paths on the OS map, and the route description, looked like being a stroll in the park! it didn't turn out that way and route finding was quite challenging at times, especially around fields and farms.

 We did see more sections where Wat's Dyke was quite obvious and we did get some unexpected views, particularly towards Beeston Castle that was bathed in bright sunshine.

 The extension along Wat's Dyke will probably not be repeated, as it involved some very smelly muddy sections and the partially eaten remains of a dead calf!

 Phil was very glad that he had his gaiters on as we approached one farm, and thankfully showed us which way not to go.  I think in future we will have to send Wendy in front whenever we approach muddy sections as she does her best to make sure her boots stay clean!

 That wasn't the only dead animal seen, we also saw a dead Badger, lying a few feet away from what was obviously a  recently Badger latrine spot.

 Whilst this may not be everyone's cup of tea as a walk, I did find it quite enjoyable, despite the fact that much of it was across muddy agricultural land, but I'm sure has much potential for being much muddier if done later in the year!

 Birds seen or heard today included: Carrion crow, Jackdaw, Common buzzard, European robin, Common snipe, Canada goose, Meadow pipit, Black-billed magpie, Eurasian jay, Woodpigeon and Common blackbird.

 We also saw one some live mammals and included:  Grey squirrel, European rabbit anda Brown hare.

 After walk drinks were enjoyed at the Pant-yr-Ochain at Gresford, where Purple Moose, Snowdonia Ale went down well once it had warmed up a little!

 A good walk that perhaps needs to be tweaked a little to avoid certain spots and perhaps should be done after a dry spell in September or even earlier!