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RAVENSTOR YOUTH HOSTEL MILLERSDALE, DERBYSHIRE OUR SUPER ACCOMMODATION FROM FRIDAY 4 MARCH 2016 TO SUNDAY 6TH |
So what did we find on opening the curtains the morning of our trip to Derbyshire that we had all eagerly awaited and looked forward to?
IT HAD SNOWED - OMG !!!!! A good old fashioned 5 inches in Ossett.......... don't panic captain Mannering..........we can do this. Ravenstor Youth hostel near Monsal Dale is in notoriously hilly country - well it would be - it's why it's called The PEAK district. The forecast was snow and ice and we were starting the first walk at 11 am from Matlock. However the motorways were clear and it soon became obvious that around sheffield the snow fall was much lighter so that's allright then.
IT HAD SNOWED - OMG !!!!! A good old fashioned 5 inches in Ossett.......... don't panic captain Mannering..........we can do this. Ravenstor Youth hostel near Monsal Dale is in notoriously hilly country - well it would be - it's why it's called The PEAK district. The forecast was snow and ice and we were starting the first walk at 11 am from Matlock. However the motorways were clear and it soon became obvious that around sheffield the snow fall was much lighter so that's allright then.
It was all down to this lovely lady on the left - Chrissy Swift - who has spent months planning and organising our trip. Planning it booking it, paying for it, organising games, prizes for said games, planning menus, gluten free, meat free, fat free you name it free., she even found time to reccy a walk for one of the days which she led on Friday an 8 miler with three 'sheepish' hills whatever that means.. All with a smile on her face and all with the patience of a saint, however does she do it?
The hostel was warm and cosy with log fires, amazing views and smashing young men who catered for all our needs, (well the culinary ones anyway). Apart from a few issues with the showers I think the value for money was exceptional. BIG BIG thank you's to Chrissy and all the walk leaders and anyone else who put time and effort into making this a very successful Wakefield Walking Womens Network weekend .
The hostel was warm and cosy with log fires, amazing views and smashing young men who catered for all our needs, (well the culinary ones anyway). Apart from a few issues with the showers I think the value for money was exceptional. BIG BIG thank you's to Chrissy and all the walk leaders and anyone else who put time and effort into making this a very successful Wakefield Walking Womens Network weekend .
What are they like?
The first game was to make an outfit from the materials provided. Much hilarity followed - the winner being Enid - (who else?) Dressed as a Belly dancer she shook everything available about her person!
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No better from the rear!
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The photo below is from the walk from Matlock led by Faith who did a sterling job in deteriorating conditions. The views would have been stunning if the cloud and mist hadn't been there.. It was nice to look forward to the Youth Hostel and getting rid of the muddy boots and wet gear.
The cosy dining room with stunning views. Three courses, free juice or a bottle of wine purchased from the bar. Cooked or continental breakfasts and unlimited tea and coffe with homebaking provided by lots of our members.
Saturday's walk was led by the intrepid pairing of Chris and Chrissy......the other one's (I know it's confusing but do keep up). It was The 5 dales walk and started from the Hostel. 11 up and down miles but the views were stunning with a backdrop of snow covered hills and peaks. Photo's below.
Water cum Jolly Dale
Millersdale? I'm forgetting already.....
Sunday morning was pack up and go home time but not before we picked up another packed lunch and headed up the dale to Ashford in the Water for a choice of two walks heading in similar directions - Monsal Head - and for similar miles 7 and 6 led by either Judith or Chris and Chrissie again - yes the other ones. |
Cressbrook
Down the snicket to Tideswell
Super snow scene
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Spooky Monksdale. Very hard going underfoot
Grey skies looming...more snow?
Lunch at Monsal Head overlooking the viaduct
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Happy faces, muddy boots etc but a great time was had by all.
The view had better be worth this steep climb Caroline!
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And breathe..............
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Caroline led this walk up from the Youth Hostel onto the Monsal Trail.
Plenty of snow about as the group catch their breath after a very steep climb to start.
Plenty of snow about as the group catch their breath after a very steep climb to start.
