Saturday St Ives.

We had a walk through the St Ives estate this morning. We went to the lower end of the woods above Low Park which is the usual route when I walk with Chris as opposed to the Ladies. ( Chris is not keen on the pull up past Lady Blantyre’s rocks.) Interestingly this may have to be the way we enter the estate when the felling restrictions start next month. Our walk today was exactly the same length so it would fit the bill but we’d have to miss out finishing by the pond which should not be difficult. Presumably they’ll allow access to the cafe.

The sun came out and the light through the trees was lovely, just how I like a woodland walk. Further along the path there was much evidence of Rhododendron clearing - though it has to be said there was plenty of evidence of them remaining. (The Rhododendrons are responsible for the Phytophthora disease which is damaging the trees) 

We continued to Betty’s Wood, cleared and replanted a few years ago. The trees are growing whether they are the re planted ones or self seeded but the wood still looks pretty bleak - centre right. A view of what’s to come.

We climbed up past the horses near Altar Lane, who were being fed, with good views across the Aire Valley and then dropped down to the Golf Club and on to the Ivy Kitchen where we treated ourselves to a bacon butty with our coffee. It was very tasty!  I liked the row of loaves that were waiting on the shelf to be used.  

We returned via the cricket field and called into the garden centre for a birthday card.

No lunch needed and were now settled to watch the rugby. The Ireland - France game is so far very engrossing, the Six Nations has so far been pretty entertaining even if the results aren’t always what you want!