Sunday was a cold and sunny day and one of the first opportunities for a while to go for a walk.  As usual we had a debate on where to go and I fancied Chatsworth as I thought with most holiday makers gone (one more cottage departed) it would not be too busy.  Wrong!  Carlton Lees car park was quite full by the time we got there just after 10.30.  Kitted up we set off long the road to Beeley, crossing the river then taking the minor road up to Beeley Hilltop.  In the sun we spotted a copse of very old trees that we don’t recall seeing before.  Further up the lane we took a path that headed up to Stand Wood where the reservoirs that feed Chatsworth are situated.  On the climb up we had some lovely views of the area and stopped and chatted with another local couple who were enjoying the views.  We could make out Stanton Church and even the Bolehill plantation but not our peak district cottages.  Into the woods the track was wide enough to be in the sun and we were able to see the lakes and also the Swiss Cottage, which we cannot remember seeing before.  Soon enough we were at the Hunting Tower where we had planned to have lunch but I think half of Derbyshire were already having lunch there so we walked down to the parkland.  The closer we got to the house the busier it became, although the house isn’t open again for a few weeks the restaurants and shops have been open and the farmyard was also open for half term (although we noticed none of the toilets were open despite the £2 car park charge).  As we headed to walk along the river we noticed most of the scaffolding had come down and a we caught our first glimpse of the restored facade.  Have never seen it so bright, the sun really picked out the features.  Stopped by the river to have lunch before the final stretch through the parkland back to the car.  As we were close to the Garden Centre I thought it would be nice to have a quick peek as I must start thinking about my hanging baskets!  On the way home we called into our neighbours at Green Cowden Farm to see how the early lambing has gone.  They had about three dozens lambs in the pens making a lot of noise!  The main lambing starts in a few weeks time so we shall call in again then.  After an early tea we picked up Andrew and Joanna and went to the Village Hall at Over Haddon for this months film which was The Adjustment Bureau.  An interesting film which we all enjoyed and as it was not a long film we were home in time to watch the new series of Upstairs Downstairs, except I found a number of emails waiting for me so I didnt get to see it after all!