"Aren't we a happy bunch - walking in the rain".
Are the Clwydians on fire?
Bluebells in Coed Nant.
A closer look at some of the Bluebells.
The Clwydian Hills as we approached Rhewl.
Lunchtime in a sheltered by the trees of Coed Orllwyn just before reaching Rhewl.
Another view of the Clwydians, from the bank of the Afon Clwyd.
One of the Dippers seen on along the Afon Clwyd North of Ruthin
Walk stats: Distance: 12.1 miles. Climb: 595'.
Time: 6 hours 12 minutes. On the move walking average: 2.4m.p.h. Overall walk avergae: 1.9 m.p.h.
Group: Martyn, Sue and Michel, Roger, Celia, Annie, David S and Tim.
Disappointingly within a a few minutes of setting off. we all had our full waterproofs on. Thankfully it didn't last by the time we arrived at Lady Bagot's Drive, it was possible for those that wished to remove waterproofs and fleeces, not all did!
It was very noticeable today that Summer really had arrived, at least you would believe it as Barn swallows were everywhere!
It was lovely to see so many Bluebells, Ransoms, Wood anemone and Primroses in Coed Nant, but our surprise of the day was to see a group trying to start fires in Coed Nant. We were a little concerned, but it was all legitimate and was part of an event organise below by Original Outdoors.
The organise came across to us, and put our minds at ease and was quite informative about the nature of the woodland.
By this time a few of the group had started to complain of food deprivation, so as soon as a sheltered spot could be found, suitable or not had had lunch on the side of the track, shelteres by Coed Orllwyn. We were in warm sunshine, but alas we had no views of the Clwydians - no-one complained!
All the climbing had been done before lunch, except for a few stiles (less that in the past as many ha been replaced by new kissing gates!) as we went through the fields along the banks of the Afon Clywedog and Afon Clwyd.
Not that many birds seen or heard today, but we did see at least five different Dippers along the Afon Clwyd between Ruthin Weir and Ruthin.
Some of the views across to the Clwydian Hills were superb, some of the best that I have ever seen on this particular walk.
Birds seen or heard today included: Rook, Blue tit, Great tit, Jackdaw, Woodpigeon, Mallard, Pied wagtail, Great cormorant, Grey heron, Greenfinch, Great spotted woodpecker, Winter wren, Common blackbird, Common pheasant, House sparrow, Dipper and Barn swallow.
At over 12 miles, this walk was a little longer they liked and the sight of the car was a welcome relief!
After walk drinks were enjoyed at the Ruthin Castle (Wetherspoons) where Ruddles Best, Abbott and an American style brew were all sampled (not by the same person!).
Overall an enjoyable six hour walk, ending in glorious sunshine.
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