Text contributed by Julia, pics by Christina
The early bird misses the rain! An early start on a Sunday morning for most people usually means a few grumbles; however, thanks to some careful planning from our Chairman and walk leader Glen, an earlier than usual start meant we missed a heavy downpour, for which we were all grateful.
Eighteen keen walkers set off early on Sunday morning from Chamberlin Hall car park in Bildeston (the discovery of this convenient car park with sufficient spaces has opened up the possibilities of walks in the area). Although there was a bracing wind and it was a bit muddy we soon got warm as we strode along country lanes and paths, across fields and through woods. Within a mile or two of setting off we descended some steps and suddenly came across the most stunning display of snowdrops which many of us commented was the best we had ever seen!
Later we found a nice spot for lunch at a beautiful if isolated church. As we sheltered from the wind, the vicar came out and greeted us – not at all fazed about our tramping through his church yard and sheltering from the weather in his church porch.
The circular route of just short of nine miles around Kettlebaston and Brent Eleigh included much undulating verdant scenery, which meant a very pleasant walk, and the slightly steeper gradients than usual meant a good workout. After hiking through the mud we were rewarded at nearby cosy Bridge Farm Barns at Monks Eleigh with welcoming cake and coffee, arriving just as the rain started – it couldn’t have been timed any better!
