St Paul's Rambling Group Heaton Moor

May's walk was south west of Chester in the hilly bit, north of Cholmondeley Castle. Five of us set off for the Sandstone Pub at Fullers Moor on the A534 certain we would get wet and be denied the amazing distance views. We need not have worried as, apart from a few spits and spots, we stayed dry while enjoying clear and bright conditions. It was a bit windy though! Essentially we completed our own mini 'Three Peaks' circuit. We first went North of the A534 through the village of Harthill and then climbed steadily up to the trig point (740 ft) on the top of Raw Head. It made a wonderful and well earned coffee stop. We thought we had lost one party member as she disappeared into Bloody Bones Cave to explore! The rest of the walk  followed the Sandstone Trail. We went down to the main road crossing it at Gallantry Bank, passing the lovely Bickerton Church before climbing up again for our second 'Peak ' and more distant views at the Kitty Wheeldon Memorial on the top...

Saltram House The West Country branch of the group went to Saltram House to walk the Boundary of the estate, a distant of about 3 miles. Saltram house overlooks the River Plym and for much of the walk there are fine views across Plymouth Sound and plenty of wild flowers, trees and birds to keep you interested as you cover the route. Eventually the path leads down to a dell, where the bluebells were in full bloom, and then turns inland to return to the car park. If you have time the house is well worth a visit but you should always stop for a delicious cream tea in the National Trust café. Boundary Walk - Saltram House Wild garlic Bluebells in 'The Dell' at Saltram House