We have just finished our half-term and we had a lovely time with two walks, in particular, that hit the right spot - lots of freedom for the children and dogs, and no rain.
I think, in an ideal world, I'd always choose a walk like this first one. We were actually on our way to visit friends who live in the Forest of Bowland (not far from Wray and Hornby) and needed find somewhere to break up the journey and let off some energy.
When we got to Biggar (which, incidentally, has a wonderful fish and chip shop despite being quite far from the sea) we turned off onto smaller and smaller roads until we spotted an old hill track heading off into the hills (surprisingly enough!). It was just perfect. No other people, endless walking and beautiful views. We had fun!
My kids don't really know how to have a 'civilised' walk. For them a walk is an opportunity to climb, scramble, chase, get wet and fall over. We keep older jackets for walks so that I don't then have to panic about getting them clean in time for a trip to the shops or for school days.
I do sometimes get very frustrated and wish that they'd just walk, stay clean and be a bit less wild....but then I remind myself (or, usually, John does) that it is so very good for them to get this freedom and not care what they look like. They need to be children and be able to mess around and explore....and sadly not so many kids get the opportunity these days.
We had a lovely time with our friends too. Including a walk in 'their' wood. When they got married a couple of years ago they asked for donations rather than presents. And they were able to help the Woodland Trust buy Greta Wood. It was great to visit and see what we had helped purchase and keep in good hands for the future. I was too busy talking to remember to take more than this one picture - oops!
I hope you all have a lovely week.
3 comments:
Oh it looks lovely, we have 'booked' another 2 weeks in Yorkshire this summer and I'm really looking forward to the walking, I miss the countryside there as it's just not the same walking here in Kent. I agree, it's great to let the kids be kids. Bethx
The walk near Biggar looks very nice. Where exactly is it?
Anne- I'm really sorry - I had a look at a map but couldn't find the spot we stopped at. We just kind of followed our noses and kept turning onto different roads until we found a good spot. John may be able to remember better since he was driving - I'll ask him tonight and let you know if he can work it out. Sorry to be so useless. Juliex
Post a Comment