Brampton to Peak District

 Cold grey day in Brampton as we say farewell to H and A. The greater spotted woodpeckers still feeding at the bird table by their kitchen window. We drive south a couple of hours on the M6 passing the Western Lakes on our right and then reach RHS Bridgewater. It’s now 20 degrees C and sunny.

Lovely lunch on the terrace overlooking the pond and then we stroll around the magnificent gardens. The walled areas are a particular highlight. Surprisingly well developed seeing as they have only recently been planted. We love the salvias (Balkan Clary) and aliums. The geraniums in all those guises are also magnificent. Worsley Hall that once stood above the lake has long gone, not even a ruin remains. This once grand building was finally demolished by a scrap merchant in 1943.

Then onwards towards the Peaks and Hayfield campsite which is in a beautiful location by a river. A relaxing few hours in the sun with some white wine and twiglets before the sun slowly sinks behind the trees and our thoughts turn to supper.