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Manfield Thursday Walk 3rd October 2013
(Subtitled - Old ruins visit
even older ruins!)
By Bob Howe
In fairly grotty weather seven of us set off
from Manfield in the care of two dogs & Ray..or should that be Raymond
(more later).
The foggy conditions rapidly became worse and we donned our waterproofs
to avoid a soaking as we wandered through the undulating arable
countryside towards Piercebridge.
The rain didn't last long an it had cleared by the time we inspected the
substantial remains of the Roman Bridge which carried Deer Street across
the Tees and the associated settlement.
It's really amazing how these have survived getting on for 2000 years.
Turning south we set off for our next target of Aldbrough, where we were
promised a brewery visit, with the threat of free beer. There had been a
rumour that the area was flat, Len's watch proved this to be untrue as
the ascent ascended.
Outside
Mythril Brewery, Aldbrough
St John.
We were not disappointed however and after an
interesting description of the brewing process we sampled Mythril "Deer
Street" which is to be our drink of choice in the lakes and was very
good.
The plan now was to take lunch in the Bus Shelter - it was dry and had
seats.
By this time John had joined us and it was en-route through the village
we met one of the landed gentry, a very well spoken lady on horse back
who was on first name terms with RAYMOND.
I understand she's the lady of the manor. Unfortunately, Ian was not
with us otherwise we would have possibly had more info!
It's shows how times change when Ray, who spent his running career
avoiding contact with farmers and landowners now mixes chummily in these
circles. He's even joining them for a White Tie dinner dance shortly -
shades of D H Lawrence here!
After lunch we set off for Stanwick which is the site of the still
visible remains of the largest Brigantes hill fort in England, more
roman ruins and the remnants of Ray's pal the Duke of Northumberland's
country seat.
Seriously the walk was proving really interesting despite the ongoing
Clag.
Continuing on with the distance and ascent continuing to rise we
revisited Aldbrough for tea & very good cakes at the village hall and
returned via a loop across farmland to Manfield.
Unfortunately around 4 the forecast rain caught up with us and it was 8
pretty weary soles and two tired canines who made it back into the
village just before 5 just in time for a pint at Ray's local.
17.7 miles and a surprising amount of ascent ensured we'd all sleep well
that night.
I think I can speak for everyone in thanking Ray for a really good walk
through some very interesting and posh villages.
There's a strong rumour that the November walk will be the Durham
coastal trail so bring your bus passes !
Bob
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