Woodland and Red Deer….

Dawn brought out a bright sun and blue sky, so not a day to be wasted. Not going to get many more days like this as winter approaches, so a long walk was planned.  Calke woods, parkland and surrounds was the destination. One objective was to checkout the autumn woodland colours… well that failed as most trees still have full heads of leaf and very green.  But not complaining still wandering through sunny woodlands is no hardship.

The second objective was to checkout the Red Deer to see how near Rutting they were.  Maybe not far off now.  The Hinds were mainly grouped together and grazing quietly in the surprisingly warm sun.  Two mature Red Stags were idly watching, both each other and the herd.  On the fringes some younger stags were watching both their elders and the hinds.

The Walled Gardens near to the Hall beckoned, as I wondered how productive this years Pumpkin Crop had been.  The best were out on display in the Auricula Theatre.  Talking to the gardener it has been a poor year for the squashes….still look good, as did the rest of the garden.

Sad to see that Bob the Scarecrow and Matilda, who have spent all year gazing at each other haven’t managed to get together… may be the privacy of the Potting Shed awaits over the winter. 🙂

After a warm 8 mile plod, I thought lunch was a just reward to headed back to the Hall, its Stable Yard and Cafe….

 

As for lunch… well it was welcome, but at £13.50 it seemed a bit over priced….  

Best not to complain after a very enjoyable walk in a surprisingly warm and sunny October day….

I hope your day and weather was as good… and as always can I ask you to…

Please Remember ….
Stay Safe …. Be Kind…. Look After Each Other

11th October

(C) David Oakes 2024