Ilam Hall

Wednesday was forecast to be a fine day with rain later in the day so we set off for Ilam stopping first at Ilam Hall for coffee with views towards Thorpe Cloud from the garden. From the Hall we took the lane that lead to Blore, using field paths as short cuts where we could. At Blore crossroads we passed the fields used for the Sheepdog Trials and walked down the lane past the church. Further along at Martin Hill we picked up a path that headed for our lunch stop, Mapleton. The first few fields were fine but then we came across a field with some cows. Nothing new there but these ones seemed quite agitated especially when they saw the dogs. The bull wasn’t bothered but some of the cows chased after Smudge, even he was surprised as he’s used to ones that obey him. Blue had to be put on a lead but eventually we all got through the fields and the cows wandered off. We walked down through the parkland surrounding Okeover Hall before crossing the River Dove and finding a spot in the Okeover Arms garden for lunch. We were last in the village a couple of years ago and it’s under new management with dogs and walkers welcome. The church is worth looking at. After lunch we set off across the fields and picked up a path along the River Dove heading back to Ilam. At Coldwall Bridge we cross the bridge and picked up the Manifold Trail passing the confluence of the Dove and Manifold. Apart from a short stretch at the beginning this six mile walk had been relatively level. Soon we were back at Ilam. It was still warm and although there was an ice cream van there I opted for stopping at Monyash to buy one but half way there the heavens opened. The forecast said rain at 4pm and it was just after 4pm! So no ice cream in the end. In the evening we decided to go to Piedaniels for one of their set meals which we all enjoyed. I could have gone to WI but missed it.