29/10/2023
We seemed to have done really well with the weather on our hikes recently. We had such a beautiful day. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm glow over the landscape. It was one of those days when the promise of adventure beckoned, The weather was sunny and cold as it should be for autumn but there were still flowers blooming and green trees everywhere, where as normally they are starting to turn. The weather has been very different this year, very confusing but we are making the most of it!
This was a short 7 mile hike as we were going to be walking around Biddulph Grange gardens afterwards too.
Armed with our enthusiasm and a sense of curiosity, we set off on what would turn out to be a very muddy escapade. Our hike started on a up hill field, it was a slow incline for the first half of the hike, it only went up by 825ft so nothing really too noticeable.
The fields stretched out before us, a patchwork quilt of green. We trudged through long grass, the dew soaking our shoes. The air smelled earthy and fresh, and the distant hills called to us. Our destination? Mow Cop, a mysterious hilltop village with a history shrouded in legend.
As we walked, we encountered wooden bridges that spanned bubbling brooks. They looked innocent enough, but their slippery surfaces proved treacherous. Our brand-new trainers caked in mud. We laughed at our misfortune, wondering if we’d ever regain our footing.
Finally, we reached the other side, panting and mud-splattered. And then, as if mocking us, we discovered an alternative route—a dry path that would have spared our poor trainers. Lesson learned: always check Kerry’s route before taking Tom’s route.
Despite the challenges, our hike had its rewards. Mow Cop loomed ahead, We found Mow Cop which made Tom looked tiny, We climbed to the top, catching our breath and taking in the panoramic view and finding a trig point that was not expected that day. It felt like discovering a hidden treasure, a secret known only to those who ventured off the beaten path. The countryside spread out below us, a patchwork of fields, woodlands, and winding rivers. It was a sight worth every muddy step. And just when we thought our day couldn’t get any better, we glimpsed a castle in the distance—a fairy-tale structure framed by ancient trees. We headed over to the castle to take a look. Tom climbing to the window and nearly getting himself stuck was the highlight of the day.
Our trainers may have been casualties of the mud, but our spirits soared. We returned to the car dirty, and utterly content before heading to Biddulph Grange Garden.
Biddulph Grange Garden is 100% worth a visit but go during the summer time when the flowers are blooming. As you explore Biddulph Grange Garden, you’ll encounter various themed sections inspired by different parts of the world. Here are some highlights: Ancient Egypt, Italy, Himalayan Glen and China. You could spend hours here looking around the gardens and hugging trees. They have a lovely little cafe you can get coffee and cake at and relax while you enjoy your day. Keep in mind that the garden is built on the side of a valley, so there are many gradients, narrow gravel paths, and over 400 steps. Dark tunnels and ledges add to the adventure. If you’re up for the challenge, it’s a unique experience! Biddulph Grange Garden has been described as a “horticultural Disneyland.” It’s like entire continents have been condensed into its various compartments
The sun had set, leaving behind a sky painted in hues of orange and pink. And as we cleaned our trainers, we vowed to return—to explore more, laugh more, and embrace the messiness of adventure.
So here’s to muddy days, ruined shoes, and the thrill of discovery. May they always lead us to unexpected places and unforgettable memories. 🌿🌞🏰
You will find many more of our interesting hikes on here, on our socials and on our YouTube! You can find everything on this link: https://linktr.ee/Acasualhikersguide Come and join us and see where we head off to next!
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