Programme of events

12 spaces only available as a very small craft.  BOOKING REQUIRED ASAP as per email sent out.

Where? Campbell Wharf to Linford Wharf - Return

When? Third Thursday in May, 10.00 –

How long? 3 hours including a 45-minute walking tour

How much? Adult £18

The Grand Union Canal, winding quietly through Milton Keynes is one of its ‘hidden gems’. It abounds with wildlife, links many areas of parkland, gives ready access to pubs and shops … and has over 200 historic sites within 10 minutes’ walk. Perfect for leisure activities of all kinds.

But what was it like back in the early 1800s, when the Grand Junction, as it was known then, first barged its way across the landscape? The canal was the HS2 of its day, hotly contested in some places, welcomed in others for the increase in trade it would bring.

On board you’ll find a Guide to the Grand Union Canal. And when we arrive at Great Linford Wharf, you’ll be met by a member of The Parks Trust team, who will take you on a tour to explore the impact of the canal on life at Great Linford.

You’ll find out about canal bridges, winding holes, wharves, embankments, and stop planks. You’ll see how the canal cut right across the Great Linford Manor estate, which was laid out in the 18^th century, and find out how this was allowed. You’ll get to see the newly-restored fourth pond and Grand Cascade that have lain hidden for decades and recently been revived thanks to a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant. And you’ll learn about how trade changed life in Great Linford and Newport Pagnell.

The walk takes 45 minutes in total (about ¾ mile walking plus standing to listen). It uses the towpath, gravel paths and a muddy track, so it’s not a smooth wheelchair ride. Make sure you have weather appropriate clothes for the day and suitable footwear.

On the cruise from or back to Campbell Wharf there’ll be plenty of time to relax and order something from our card-only Galley Bar, which serves hot, cold and alcoholic drinks, along with a few snacks in case you’re feeling peckish.

Meet at 09.30 at Luton Interchange for 09.40 610 bus to Wheathampstead - St Helen's Church.
Walk back to Luton via Ayot St Lawrence, Kimpton, Peters Green, Someries Castle.
About 12 miles.

The first half of this walk explores the the edges of Westbury Woods, goes to Kingswell End and Stopley Hole farm, stopping off for some retail therapy and cafe near the end of the short walk (around 4 .5 miles) at Offley Hoo.

The second half of the walk follows the Chiltern Way  and beyond to Charlton, the onto Wellhead (Source of the River Hiz and back to Great Offley
https://explore.osmaps.com/route/12396521/may-21
Meet at lay-by on Salusby  Lane, Great Offley. If need transport there give me a call.

Just turn up at 09.00 at the Gary Cooper, Dunstable.  Have a coffee/tea while you have a chat and decide where you're going to walk.  Be prepared for about 12 miles.
Could involve bus or two.

Starting in Wheathampstead going to Devils Dyke, Colemans Green, Titnol and Symondshyde Woods and by Alban House. Returning to Wheathampstead.  In the afternoon going to Nomansland and Amwell  and hopefully to the Elephant and Castle pub owned by Farr Brew micro brewery before returning.

Bhagvati has proposed that we arrange a trip to Devon in June.  We aim to have exclusive use of Grangehurst House in the grounds of Buckfast Abbey which is a working Benedictine Monastery.            The cost will be £20 per person per night.  We will be self-catering / eating out.

We will be located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park. Buckfastleigh, Ashburton, Dartington and Totnes are all nearby.

Accommodation will be mostly en suite rooms.  Details of Grangehust House can be found here ... https://www.buckfast.org.uk/accommodation

 

Just turn up at 09.00 at the Gary Cooper, Dunstable.  Have a coffee/tea while you have a chat and decide where you're going to walk.  Be prepared for about 12 miles.
Could involve bus or two.

Meet at 08.50 at High St North bus stop near Santander for 09.00 F70 to Stoke Hammond.
Linear walk to Leighton Buzzard station via Drayton Parslow and Stewkley.
11-12 miles.
F70/77 bus back to Dunstable.

We are organising a trip to Chepstow, the Greenmans backpackers hostel. We have stayed at this hostel before and had a very successful visit. We are planning 3 days of walking and Bob and Gwen, former members, who live nearby have offered to organise walks. They have kindly also invited us to a BBQ in their garden.
There is various accommodation. Please look at Greenmans website.Greenman website
All members have had an email regarding this trip. If you would like to go and have not contacted me please phone 07443016095