St Paul's Rambling Group Heaton Moor

Bamford & Crimble - Rochdale, Lancashire Carr Wood The walk started at the Grapes Inn, Bamford and the first leg took us across open fields at the rear of the pub and down to School Lane. From here we entered Carr Wood at the old tea rooms. Plenty of interest to see with the weir and abandoned mill by Naden Brook. The path continues through this river valley which even in winter has a unique beauty.  We continued downstream crossing the waterfall and the landslide, now made easy by the metal walkway, and eventually arrived at Simpson Clough. From here we followed Ashworth Road and then across Bury Road to join the foot path along the river Roch, After crossing Bamford Rd by the old Hooley Bridge Spinning Mill we again joined the path along the Roch until we reached the footbridge to take us into Queens Park in Heywood. At this time of year the herons take up residence in their nesting site on the island in the centre of the boating lake and we stopped for a coffee

In January we do not have an organised walk because of the unpredictable weather and the absence of members on holiday. However, this year we decided to meet for a pub lunch which was extended to coffee at the National Trust Visitor Centre, a walk in the park and a long lunch at the Axe & Cleaver in Dunham Massey. Eleven members turned up in the coffee shop and after a refreshing cup of coffee we sorted ourselves out into two groups. Those who felt like a longer trek around the grounds set off on a brisk 5km walk. The remainder opted for a leisurely stroll around the gardens which even in winter time are full of interest. Photographs showing the garden can be found below.  Everyone enjoyed their selected walk and we all met up again at the pub for an excellent lunch. It was agreed that we should repeat this type of event next year. National Trust Dunham Massey Axe & Cleaver Dunham Massey The 'Garden' group. Hellebores and Snowdrops More Hellebores