It dawned rather grey and breezy. We hadn't expected another warm day. But before we left for our walk the blue sky was appearing. Four nights and three households. We had all provided a meal, so today we decided to have a pub lunch and we're all attracted
to Druid's Inn at Birchover where we had enjoyed a drink on day one. So we found a circular walk that would lead us there for lunch time from a village called Winster.
It was a good walk up hill, through fields and woodland. A lovely
section was through Clough Woods, which is apparently carpeted with bluebells in late May. Sun shone through the reddish trunks which stretched up to the sky. Finally we reached open views and walked down through a camp site, past some amusing and rather pretty
Alpacas and into the village of Birchover. We were early, but that didn't phase the staff, and we found a delightful table outside with basket chairs, and settled down for a cool drink. By now the sky was a cloudless blue, and the sunshine really warm. We
all enjoyed our lunch. I was pleased with my choice of sea bream on puréed aubergine, with garlic and chilli oil, and fresh veg. The fish was perfectly cooked...crispy on one side. And the aubergine a surprisingly delicious accompaniment, with a touch
of heat and slight curry flavouring. It was a long and lingering lunch in the sun, and just so enjoyable. We did the last part of the walk more slowly, up and down through fields past Odoes, where there was a fine house with wonderful grounds, tennis court
etc. Back in Winster we walked through the village, impressed by the way the little cottages were so well kept, all with circular name plaques and brass door knockers. A very attractive place.
Home by four for a cuppa and a crossword, a drink and a
cheese and biscuits supper, with an attempt to finish off our puddings! Quizzes from the Guardian brought the evening to a close. A great break, with these lovely people. Will be sad to pack up and leave.
Ellie tells me this evening that Ida has covid
now. Poor things.