Jane and Graham's Walks Blog

Cronkley Fell

2010-06-27T19:58:00.002+01:00

Another day on a WFS excursion. Our aim was to climb Cronkley Fell to look at the special plants that grow on its summit. With Holly secure on Graham's back we began our walk. It started over flower rich meadows before the ascent was began. We had to dodge fell runners going up and down the fell. As the day progressed it got very warm. We reached the top just in time for dinner. We then explored the plant enclosures on top and found some very interesting plants. We came back down and started out on our long journey home.

Widdybank Farm

2010-06-26T19:52:00.002+01:00

Met up with the WFS at Bowlees before heading off to Widdybank Farm. The meadows around the farm we just full of flowers. We spent the morning in these meadows before following a wet flush to the River Tees. Here we had our dinner before exploring the river bank for some more specialities of the area. We made a quick stop to look at Masterwort beside a farm. It was then back to the visitor centre at Bowlees to look at the adjoining quarry. It was then time for an ice-cream.

Low Force

2010-06-25T19:45:00.003+01:00

Drove north along the A1 to our B'n'B just outside Barnard Castle. In the evening met up with the WFS at Bowlees visitor centre. From here we walked down to the River Tees. Here we crossed the river via the Wynch Bridge. Following the river we looked at the botanical delights on its banks. We saw lots of plants we haven't seen for a long time as well as a few new news. By the end of the walk Holly had fallen asleep in her carrier so we whizzed home to put her to bed.

Foxhall Close

2010-06-20T16:07:00.001+01:00

Met up with HFFG at Foxhall Close to help survey this area of untouched land near Old Weston. It was a lovely sunny afternoon. We tried out the new baby carrier for the first time. The site was a mixture of scrub, grassland and marshland, so surprisingly diverse, although not for weevils. Graham only found one! Following the visit we went to Lynne's to help her put some data onto her computer.

Washingley

2010-06-12T15:31:00.002+01:00

After going to a NCT sale in Huntingdon we head for Washingley specifically to look for a plant. We have our dinner beside the road then head along a track. We then realise we are on a trail around the now lost village and castle of Washingley. We don't find the plant we were after but enjoy a really pleasant walk through woods, around fields and through a paddock full of horses. Graham is delighted to find one of the really large deadwood eatting weevils.

Winterton Dunes

2010-06-03T15:22:00.003+01:00

As it was another warm day we decided to introduce Holly to the sandy beach at Winterton. The beach was full of people. We found a spot near the water and tried to keep the sun off Holly by rigging up a shelter from bags, a towel and Graham's sweep net. Holly liked the sand but she didn't appreciate me dipping her toes in the very cold sea. Mid afternoon we packed up and went to have a coffee in the beach cafe, which had been done up since we were last there. In the evening we walked to the local PizzaHut for our final holiday meal as we were heading home tomorrow.

Somerleyton

2010-06-02T15:15:00.002+01:00

What a difference a day makes - lovely warm sunny weather today. We took a circular walk round the tracks and lanes from Somerleyton to Laund. Took the pram with us which made our life easier although we did have to negotiate a style. Found one set aside field with some very unusual plants in - they must have been planted. Had our dinner beside a pond in Laund and watched a grass snake patrol the water. At the end of our 7 mile walk we were certainly looking forward to an ice-cream from the local Post Office, only to find it shut early. We ended up having one on Lowestoft promenade.

Beccles Marsh Trail

2010-06-01T15:09:00.002+01:00

After consulting with the people in Beccles Tourist Office we decided to walk the Beccles Marsh Trail. I carried Holly for most of the 4 miles before Graham took over. It was very tiring! The walk took us along the River Waveney and through an area of marshes. It was very enjoyable and Graham was able to get one or two weevils.

Winks Meadow

2010-05-31T15:03:00.002+01:00

Headed inland today to visit Winks Meadow, a small orchid rich reserve. Because of the bad weather earlier in the year many of the plants weren't out yet, although there was a good display of green-winged orchids. We then took the windy back roads to Framlingham which we discovered was having a gala. We took the opportunity to get in to the castle for free to look round a craft fair that was taking place within its walls. Had a walk round the moat and into the town for a coffee.

Lowestoft

2010-05-30T14:57:00.002+01:00

It is another miserable day weatherwise. We drive into Lowestoft, walk along the prom - lose some pennies in the amusements and along the main high street. We weren't very impressed, but perhaps that was due to the weather. We had our lunch on the promenade, huddling together to keep warm out of the wind. We did however find a nice coffee shop on the way back to the car. In the evening we drove out to Geldeston to have a meal at the Wherry Inn. It was excellent and good value. It was then a very brief walk by the river Waveney before heading back. A good day for our first wedding anniversary.

Orford Ness

2010-05-29T14:51:00.002+01:00

Not a very nice start to the Bank Holiday weekend - rain. We headed to Orford Ness, taking a short ferry trip over to the Ness. We decided to take the pram with us as Holly is getting very heavy to carry on long walks now. Most of the trails on the island were shut so we followed the main trail that looked at the military history of the site. We weren't able to get to the lighthouse as the pram wouldn't go over the shingle, but we did see a nuclear bomb, some derelict bunkers and a radar tower. It was certainly a different day out. We got back just in time as it began to rain heavily. There was a coffee in a riverside cafe before we meander back to the caravan.

Pakefield

2010-05-28T14:46:00.001+01:00

Used today as a catch-up day. In the morning we wrote our postcards and walked to Morrisons to do our shopping. It was also time for us to do our laundry. After dinner we tried out the park's outdoor swimming pool. It took some effort to get in but was OK. Holly had a good splash around, but we didn't get many smiles out of her. After dinner we walked all the way along the coast path to the south pier in Lowestoft.

Landguard Point

2010-05-27T14:16:00.003+01:00

Took the relatively long trip down to Felixstowe and Landguard Point with the aim of finding Stinking Goosefoot. We parked near the fort and had a walk round the point and thought we had found the plant - but it turned out to be Dittander. We had our dinner looking out to the docks watching the container ships come in. We drove back via Woodbridge to Blaxhall Common so that Graham could have a sweeping session. We had a brief stop at Snape Maltings for an ice-cream and Iken Cliffs for more sweeping before having fish'n'chips on the seafront at Aldeburgh.

Reydon Wood

2010-05-26T14:11:00.002+01:00

First thing we did was visit an arts and craft complex. Disappointing as there wasn't much there and most of the shops were shut. So we headed on to visit Reydon Wood. It was a lovely site, although the bluebells were just going over, we did see Bird's Nest orchid and loads of water violet. We then drove on to Southwold and had a stroll round the town and down the pier. Bought Holly a windmill for her pram, which she thoroughly enjoyed.

Kessingland

2010-05-25T14:06:00.000+01:00

The weather definitely got from the start of the week. We took a short trip south to Kessingland to walk along the shingle beach and record the associated plants that we saw there. Saw our first new native plant species - milk thistle. Holly had a good cry half way round. For lunch we headed to Covehithe, where we were warned about the over zealous traffic wardens. Had a look round the ruin church before walking down to the beach at Benacre. Had a bargain coffee in a cafe in Wrentham.

Carlton Marshes

2010-05-24T13:59:00.002+01:00

Headed for the SWT reserve of Carlton Marshes. Poor Graham was asked not to use his sweep net, so was despondent that he wouldn't see any weevils today. We took a circular walk around the marsh as far as the River Waveney. It wasn't the most exciting of walks. From here we drove on to Oulton Broad for our lunch. There was a really strong wind so we had to take shelter under the picnic rug. There was the obligatory coffee shop stop. From here we went to Herringfleet Hills where we followed a trail to one of the still working windmills in the marshes.

Sizewell

2010-05-23T13:54:00.002+01:00

Up early and headed for the reserve at Sizewell Belts. Although there were lots of cars in the car park we soon lost everyone and were able to enjoy this varied and beautiful reserve. Spent most of the morning here, but didn't actually get very far from the car. From here we drove to Sizewell beach to have our lunch. Afterwards we had our first ice-cream and introduced Holly to the sea and a pebble beach - which she thoroughly enjoyed.

Pakefield

2010-05-22T13:43:00.001+01:00

Seems like we have chosen the hottest day of the year to go on holiday. We are off to Pakefield, just south of Lowestoft for two weeks staying in a static caravan. We stop near Swaffham to have our lunch before arriving in Pakefield mid-afternoon. The caravan is ideal and just a couple of minutes walk from the sea. In the evening we go for a walk along the coastal path towards Lowestoft.

Marholm

2010-05-16T09:53:00.001+01:00

For Plantlife's common plant survey we have been allocated a 1km square near Marholm to survey. We were able to walk from ours to the square along a really nice footpath. It was amazing that we could walk into the countryside with such ease. The path across the square also ended near the pub - The Fitzwilliam Arms, so we decided to make a break half way round for a coffee. The plants we saw weren't of real note but it was such a pleasant day out that we are looking forward to repeating the trip later in the year.

Holme Fen

2010-05-09T09:51:00.002+01:00

It was an eventful trip to Holme Fen to say the least! The morning started well and we made a short walk to one side of the fen. Graham had a good time sweeping while I carried Holly in the sling. We came back to the car for lunch and to change Holly before setting for a walk on the other side. The area was looking really good, especially the birch trees in the sunshine. Our day was spoilt when we got back to see the state our poor car was in......

Arthur's Meadow

2010-05-02T09:49:00.004+01:00

Met the HFFG at Lynne's house. From here we drove to a lane on the edge of the A14. It was then a walk over the fields to Arthur's Meadow. Our mission was to survey the meadow and to count the number of Green-winged orchids. These were very behind this year and were only just coming into flower, this made it very difficult to spot them. We then did a systematic walk over the meadow recording the plants seen. It wasn't the best of days, windy and cold, so it was good to get back to Lynne's to enjoy a cuppa with her.

Harlestone Firs

2010-04-24T09:47:00.003+01:00

Met up with the a small group from the BSBI at Harlestone Firs. The aim was to survey an area of heathland that hadn't been surveyed for some time for upright chickweed. This we didn't find. It wasn't the most interesting of sites but we spent most of the day there and had our dinner in the middle of the heath. After lunch we went onto another part of the site that has been marked for housing redevelopment to look for arable weeds. From here it was on to an industrial site to see Ranunculus parviflorus on a road verge and then a track near Raunds to see Shepherd's Needle. By now we were getting very thirsty, as the weather was warm, so we stopped in Warmington for a pint of shandy.

Lady's Wood

2010-04-18T13:59:00.003+01:00

Met up with Hunts. Fauna and Flora Group at Upwood Meadow. First thing was were shown a new new growing beside a cattle trough - Mousetail. From here we walked to Lady's Wood specifically to see the commemorative bench for Terry Wells. The woodland flowers were nearly all out and we got to see loads of newts in the woodland pond. Lynne then took us on a quick tour of Upwood meadow to show us where the interesting plants grow.

Aversley Wood

2010-04-10T13:03:00.005+01:00

A gloriously warm sunny day. We head out to Sawtry and walk into Aversley Wood, a woodland trust site. Spend a couple of hours walking round the wood. Graham sweeping for weevils. We saw loads of beeflies and the first of the spring flowers (violets, wood anemone and bluebell). Had our lunch on a well positioned seat in the wood, where we also fed and changed Holly. From here we ended up in the garden centre at Elton Hall for coffee and to buy some plants.

Titchmarsh

2010-04-04T09:36:00.002+01:00

Popped very briefly into Wakerley Great Wood to see if the Gagea lutea was now in bloom - which it was. This was our first new new plant of the year. From here we went south to Titchmarsh. Had our dinner in the car and then took a circular walk around the lake. It was bright but pretty windy in places. Saw a handful of plants in flower, but today did yield our first Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff of the year. It was then to the coffee shop in the local village for some refreshment.

The Decoy

2010-03-22T09:53:00.005Z

Met up with PCV at The Decoy. This is Europe's only 6 pronged waterfowl decoy. PCV were there to help plant some hedges. While Jane looked after Holly, Graham helped fix tree guards around lots of the plants. It was a lovely sunny day. After lunch we headed off to Waterside Garden Centre to get some bits for the allotment. We ended up buying a bird bath for the garden!

Wakerley Great Wood

2010-03-20T09:44:00.002Z

Although it was raining as we arrived at Wakerley Great Wood it did stop to allow us to go on out walk. Our mission today was to collect pleurocarp mosses and to hunt out Gagea lutea. Holly slept most of the way round and only roused as we got near the car and her dinner. We collected a lot of mosses, which we attempted to key out when we got home, and found the patch of Gagea. The flowers were just in bud, we must come back in a couple of weeks time to see them in flower. We were going to Top Lodge for a coffee, but there was obviously an event on and packed so we stopped off Sacrewell instead.

Castor Hanglands

2010-02-14T09:36:00.002Z

Join up with PCV to do some scrub clearance at Castor Hanglands. During the morning Jane walks Holly up to Willow Brook farm shop to have a look round while Graham tackles the scrub and gets a bonfire going. After dinner Rose turns up and babysits so that Jane can also help out.

Market Deeping

2010-02-13T09:27:00.006Z

Take Holly for a walk beside the river at Market Deeping. The walk is a 5 mile round route via West Deeping. We stop in West Deeping for a drink and biscuit and also to give Graham an opportunity to rest his back - Holly is getting very heavy. The way back is less pleasant as it starts to rain and turn very cold. Once back in town we stop for a hot chocolate in the French deli.

Hampton

2010-01-16T19:54:00.001Z

A thoroughly wet and cold day, but we still braved the weather and met up for a guided walk round the Hampton Stonewort Reserve with Plantlife. Holly was strapped to Graham's chest and didn't seem to mind the weather at all. It was so cold, and the ice was so thick on the ponds that we hardly saw any of the stoneworts at all. As for the mud....We were glad to get home and have a warm up. Hopefully they will re-arrange the walk for another day.

Old Sulehay

2010-01-10T12:25:00.004Z

Most of the snow that had fallen the previous day had melted so we decided to venture out and introduce Holly to PCV. Holly was strapped to Graham's chest as we walked through Old Sulehay in the snow to where PCV were working. Had our dinner with them before heading back. It was bitterly cold, but Holly didn't seem to mind. Stopped off in Sacrewell Farm for a drink before dropping Rose home.

Grafham Water

2010-01-01T11:23:00.003Z

A lovely bright, but very cold, new years day. All different this year as we have Holly with us and her pram! Decided to go to Grafham Water as there were likely to be some paths. Have our dinner in the car and feed Holly before walking into the Wildlife Trust reserve. There were lots of people about. On the way back went off road with the pram, so giving Holly a bumpy journey. After the walk went round to the main visitor centre to grab a coffee before it closed.

Brampton Wood

2009-11-28T08:45:00.002Z

Spent the morning buying nappies, before heading off to Brampton Wood on the outskirts of Huntingdon. When we arrived it was pouring with rain so it was dinner in the car. Thankfully the rain stopped as we finished eating. We then had a lovely walk round part of this large wood; Graham enjoyed his new toy - a video camera, although there wasn't that much to actually film. It was then back to Peterborough to buy a leaf rake!

Baston Fen

2009-09-26T14:44:00.003+01:00

Had a trip out Baston Fen in the afternoon. Amazing that a relatively small reserve could keep us occupied for a couple of hours. Had to negotiate some cows that were very interested in us. Graham spent most of the time sweep netting (no ground beetles) and Jane made a collection of willows. A fox was surprised to see us. From here it was onto the local garden centre for a cuppa before going home.

Old Sulehay

2009-09-19T10:01:00.001+01:00

On the Friday night we headed to Old Sulehay to set a load of pitfall traps over the reserve for the Wildlife Trust. In the morning we returned to investigate what ground beetles we had caught over the evening. Spent most of the day logging what species were caught. Then in the afternoon spent time in the lab identifying more of the beetles; which turned out to be really enjoyable. In the evening we made a special trip to locate Ulmus plotii which was our 1000th native species seen in the UK. We then came back in the next day to continue the beetle survey.

Colly Weston

2009-09-13T10:15:00.002+01:00

After meeting up in Wakerley, we headed for Colly Weston quarries. What a difference in the weather - freezing compared to yesterday. Didn't see anything which we hadn't seen before. From here it was to a roadside near Castor Hanglands to see Falcaria vulgaris. It was then all the way back to Wakerley Great Wood. We were amazed that we were so close to the Yellow Star of Bethlehem site earlier in the year.

Wakerley

2009-09-12T09:51:00.002+01:00

Met the WFS in the centre of Wakerley. From here we walked to a disused airfield to look for Rough Poppy and French Bartisia. Had our dinner in the shade of a large straw bale stack as it was a very warm day. From here the convoy went on to Kings Cliffe where we saw Large Dodder. Then on the way home we stopped beside the A47 to look at Lepidium latifolium which was growing at the very edge of the road. Tired, we headed home for fish'n'chips.

Kings Dyke

2009-09-06T12:20:00.004+01:00

Visited the Kings Dyke Nature Reserve in Wittlesey. This was once a big brick pit that has been converted to a nature reserve. It was a lovely spot. Had a look for fossils, mainly ammonites, in a special area where they dump fossil rich spoil. Spent some time in the bird hide, Graham was eager to try his key, and made a good plant list for the site.

Stibbington Weekend

2009-08-30T11:18:00.003+01:00

Arrived on Saturday afternoon to spend the Bank Holiday weekend with PCV on their annual camping and work trip at Stibbington Nature Reserve. Graham was soon set to task helping to repair a pair of bridges, while Jane enjoyed the sunshine. In the evening Graham went on a bat walk and then on Sunday evening everyone had a BBQ - which was dodged between the showers. Very basic camping, but very enjoyable even though Jane's bump made sleeping a little difficult.

Woodwalton Fen

2009-08-23T10:22:00.004+01:00

In the afternoon had a trip out to Woodwalton Fen. The aim had been for a quick trip to see some new plants that Jane had seen earlier in the week. Turned out to be a three hour walk although we did get to see some new plants and plenty of dragonflies as it was a very sunny and hot afternoon. Our main finds being marsh and golden dock. We would have stayed longer but Jane's itch(!) couldn't continue, so we went home - with an ice-cream on the way.

Coopers Hill

2009-08-08T16:09:00.004+01:00

Drove further afield than normal to south of Bedford to visit some reserves. Stopped in Ampthill to get some food which we ate in the local country park. Had a stroll round Coopers Hill an area of heathland. Graham was in full weevil mode. We then drove a few miles south to Flitwick Moor, which turned out to be a very nice spot with a mixture of habitats: from fen to meadow. Saw Scirpus sylvatica, which we hadn't seen for 5 years. It was then a cross country dash to Saffron Walden for our tea.

Holme Dunes

2009-07-05T09:32:00.005+01:00

After spending the previous evening at the windmill with Quentin we decided to have a walk somewhere on the north Norfolk coast. Although the morning started off wet it soon became very warm. Our destination was the NWT reserve of Holme Dunes. Did a plant list and it was soon quite large even though we didn't actually travel very far. Had our dinner looking out to sea, before checking out the bird hides. Not much about. It was then an ice cream in Hunstanton before heading home.

Old Sulehay

2009-06-28T09:48:00.005+01:00

Met up at the Field Station at the Old Sulehay reserve to do some specific recording. We were assigned one of the newly restored plots to carry out our quadrat/transect monitoring. It was a lovely day and we managed to complete 5 in the morning and 4 in the afternoon. All very rewarding work but a good job Jane remembered to take a seat with her. By mid afternoon it had become too hot to continue so we said our good-byes. Took a long detour home as a road was closed and ended up in Helpston garden centre for another icecream!

Ancaster

2009-06-27T09:43:00.003+01:00

Met up with the BSBI for a field excursion around Anacaster. Our first stop was a cemetery that held the largest of just two British populations of Tall Thrift. Although recently mowed there were a couple of plants in flower. It was then a walk to the adjacent LWT reserve. It was a lovely spot, mainly wet meadows. Spent most of the morning there recording the plants. From there it was on to Raunceby Warren, a small strip of land between a busy road and railway, but home to Hernaria glabra and many other interesting plants. Didn't spend too long here. It was then back home, with a quick stop off for ice-cream as it had been another very hot day.

Brandon - WFS

2009-06-21T10:07:00.003+01:00

Met up again with the WFS in Brandon. Our first stop was Santon Downham. This time saw perennial knallweed, as well as my patch of Epipactis phyllanthes and Woodlarks. Spent most of the morning there, as well as our lunch break. The convoy then moved back to Brandon and the Artemisia Reserve in a Brandon industrial site. From here it was onto Icklingham Triangle - again lots of new news to see, although they were mainly alien plant species. Jane's hayfever was having a field day! Our final stop was Ramparts Field to see Deptford Pink (?). Flagging by now we thoroughly deserved the ice-cream we bought at West Stow.

Brandon - WFS

2009-06-20T09:59:00.003+01:00

It was an early start for us to be in Brandon for 10o/c to meet up with the WFS for a 2 day meeting. After re-arranging cars it was off to our first sites - Cranwich Camp to see a rare Pink and Cranwich Heath to see Annual Knallweed. It was then off to Weeting Heath reserve, mainly to have our lunch but also be see tunic-flower which had escaped off of the reserve's green roof! From there it was onto Lakenheath Fen to see the special grasses that occur next to the carpark. The the final stop was Maid's Cross Hill next to Lakenheath aerodrome where there was sand catchfly and many other specialities of the area. We then dove south to an excellent campsite just outside Bury St Edmunds. After our BBQ in the rain (typical) we walked to Beyton for a drink.

Dublin

2009-06-12T10:08:00.004+01:00

Woke to the sound of heavy rain - the first of the whole holiday. The rain thankfully abated and we made our way to the bus stop outside the campsite that would take us into the centre of Dublin. We then walked around the streets, bought gifts for people and had a look round the archaeological museum. Had our dinner in a cafe. Didn't quite get a look round the Guinness factory - too expensive - but did use their toilets. We then walked back along the Lithey. Worn out we headed for an Italien restauran for a meal - which was equally very expensive.

Lough Derravaragh

2009-06-11T10:04:00.004+01:00

De-camped and started our fairly long journey back across Ireland to Dublin. The roads were fairly empty and the weather good. Stopped for lunch beside Lough Derravaragh where we had a good view of a kingfisher fishing. Then it was out mission to find the campsite on the outskirts of Dublin. This turned out to be quite a task, after numerous turn arounds we did eventually find it. In the evening we had a walk round the local country park and then to bed. Thankfully we were so tired the busy road next to the campsite failed to keep us awake.

Silver Strand

2009-06-10T09:59:00.003+01:00

Decamped and headed further north. The route was very picturesque through the high mountains. We then took a small winding road that led to an isolated bay called Silver Strand, where a recommended walk started. The sea was blue and the sands stunningly white. There was an interesting area of coastal heath and a long beach for us to walk along. Our shoes soon came off. The weather was perfect and the circular walk was soon completed. We drove on through Westport and Castlebar to a nice campsite beside a river. In the evening had a basic meal in the clubhouse, a game of wild table-tennis and a relax on some comfy seats.

Connemara National Park

2009-06-09T09:54:00.003+01:00

Escaped from the tent and headed for Connemara National Park. The place was well set up for tourists and there were plenty of people about following a number of marked trails. We took the bog road and broke off optimistically thinking we could could get to the top of Diamond Mountain. We got quite high but the final bit of height was just too much for Graham so we had our lunch and came back down. On our descent we had our usual coffee before continuing our drive, past Kylemore Abbey and through the mountains. Stopped in Clifdon to do our shopping and thankfully there was enough breeze to keep the midges at bay so we were able to cook outside.

Erisbeg Mountain

2009-06-08T09:49:00.003+01:00

Midges still bad in the morning so did all our preparations in the covered area. We then followed the coast road south to Erisbeg Mountain. Although not that high we had a staedy climb up to the top. Stopped by a lovely pool where we saw pipewort. There was a final scramble to the top, but were rewarded with fantastic views over the area and Roundstone Bog. A steady plod back, but a really enjoyable walk. We continued around the coast road to the village of Roundstone where we had a coffee. It was then a trip through Roundstone Bog and back to the campsite with the midges.

Clifdon

2009-06-07T09:44:00.003+01:00

Another slow start to the day as we were decamping and heading north into Connemara. The landscape here was more like Scotland with mountains and boglands. Our campsite was just outside Clifdon, with noone on the desk we headed back down into the town's harbour to have our lunch and a snooze. We then headed back to the campsite and got settled in. This is when the nightmare began - midgies. We have never known them so bad. Great clouds of them prevented us getting in the tent and we had to resort to a covered area to prepare our meal. We thought the town would be a safe sanctuary away from them but it was equally bad there - so the pub was the only option. In the evening we has a strategic plan for getting into the tent.

Inishmore - Aran Islands

2009-06-06T09:36:00.003+01:00

Up fairly early this morning to take the short journey to the ferry port at Roseveel take a ferry over to the Aran Islands. The ferry was like nothing we had been on before - like a giant speed-boat. The trip took about 40mins and on our arrival we were bombarded with competing companies trying to win our companies to hire bikes / buses etc from them. We chose our bikes and set off on our journey around the island. We made frequent stops to look at the views and the plants. Spent even more money to visit a spectacular hill fort but we were more interested in the Astragalus danicus that grew there right next to the cliff edge. It was quite a scary business getting the data we needed to survey the population. We continued our cycle ride which now appeared to be all uphill. Once back to the harbour we had enough time to have a coffee before our trip back - which was definitely more bumpy. Too tired to cook we headed to a local fish restaurant for fish'n'chips, which was basically all we could afford.

Spittal

2009-06-05T12:22:00.003+01:00

Took the tent down this morning and started our journey north to Galway. Galway was also very busy as it was holding a boat race. We stopped in Saltfleet for our dinner overlooking the bay. It was here we bought our tickets for the Aran islands. Found our next campsite in Spittal but couldn't raise anyone at reception so returned to the village for a coffee and a chat before returning to the campsite. It was quite an odd place. After dinner we headed inland so that Graham could do some sweep netting. He also found some St Daobec's Heath - a new new for us. On our return found a dog had been in the tent and eaten our frankfurters. This is the second time this has happened!

The Burren National Park

2009-06-03T12:17:00.003+01:00

Had a much slower start to the day. Took the small back roads cross-country to an area where there were several Neolithic sites. Stopped at a fort but decided it was too expensive to go in so continued on to a Neolithic Tomb which was free. it was here we bumped into Richard Bateman - so had a quick botanical chat with him. We then went onto Caron Turlough where we sat by the lake to have our lunch. We decided that Ireland doesn't have very good signposts and how we made it to the national park was a bit lucky. Mullagh Mor was very dramatic and we had a good time looking at the plants at its foot. Another very hot day and Jane returned with som very burnt ears.

Cliffs of Moher

2009-06-03T12:11:00.003+01:00

Gave a couple a lift up to the Cliffs of Moher as we were heading up that way. We were shocked by how much it cost to park the car at this tourist trap. The cliffs were certainly very spectacular and we had a short walk along the cliff-top which made us both abit concerned. From there we drove on to Lisnich for an ice-cream. The beach was packed and the water beautifully warm. We completed our circular tour going through Kilvarna where we stopped in the visitor centre for a coffee. On getting back we headed down to the shore at Doolin so that Graham could have a swim - the water was alot colder here. In the evening had a stroll over some nearby limestone pavement and logged some more plants.

Fanore

2009-06-02T12:06:00.003+01:00

We woke to another very hot morning. Even by 9o/c it was too warm. We took the cost road from Doolin to Fanore. Our main destination was the church from where our walk was to commence. The guided walk led us along a green road up onto the limestone pavement. It was a very beautiful spot with views over the Aran islands and Galway Bay - shame about the bull in the field to worry Jane. The flowers were fantastics and we logged Spring Gentian. The day got hotter and hotter as we headed back to the car. From there we followed the coast road to Ballyveggan where we stopped for coffee, cake and a cool down. In the evening we walked to the local pub where Graham had a Guinness and we listened to some traditional music.

Doolin

2009-06-01T12:02:00.003+01:00

After doing our food shopping we headed further west towards the coast. Stopped briefly at Loughrea beside the lake for a break and a short walk. We then continued on to an ancient tower once the home WB Yeats. It was a very scenic spot for our lunch and the sun blazed down. We hit the Burren near Lough Bunny, where we couldn't resist a quick foray. At last we reached Doolin and our campsite close by the shore. An ice-cream was desperately needed as was a paddle in the sea.

Athlone - Ireland

2009-05-31T11:57:00.001+01:00

Following a night in a Premier Inn in Stafford we headed for the ferry port at Holyhead. We then made the three hour crossing to Dublin. We hit Dublin in the middle of a maritime festival so it was very busy. We then headed west on a long journey to Athlone right in the centre of Ireland. The campsite we had chosen to stay at was absolutely packed as it turned out to be an Irish holiday. They did however find us a pitch next to a stream, which was actually rather nice. Shattered we headed into Athlone for something to eat - ending up in a converted church for a pizza.

Eigg

2009-05-04T10:07:00.003+01:00

Stayed in a B'n'B just outside Arisaig. Had a lovely room and an excellent breakfast to set us on our way for the day. We arrived at Arisaig harbour in plenty of time to take the ferry over to the Isle of Eigg. It was quite a blustery day with some rain, so it turned out to be a very choppy crossing, which meant it was alot of fun. We were met at the quay by Jane's contact and we were driven to his croft for some lunch. It was then of to do our bluebell fieldwork, which went well. It was then a rapid walk back to the harbour as time was against us. Thankfully my contact realised we were going to be late so came and found us in his car, otherwise we would have missed the boat. Worn out we headed for the local restaurant for someting to eat.

Thorpe Wood

2009-04-27T13:26:00.003+01:00

After our evening meal we took the short trip to Thorpe Wood, a tiny reserve in the middle of Peterborough. Although a bit showery it was a lovely evening. The floor of the wood was a carpet of bluebells and wild garlic, so both a riot of colour and smells. Graham was quite taken with the weevil he found. Only took us half an hour to walk round, but very enjoyable.

Barnack Hills and Hollows

2009-04-13T17:44:00.004+01:00

Drove out to The Fitzwilliam Arms in Castor for a pub meal only to find it was actually a posh Italian restaurant so we ended up having a platter of meats, cheese and squid - very nice but different. It was then on to Barnack. The place was packed with visitors to the site. Saw the Pasque Flowers, but otherwise not much was out. Walked through the reserve and across the fields to make a nice circular walk. It was positively tropical by the time we got back. It was then a dash back for tea before Jane caught the train back to Edinburgh.

Rutland Water

2009-03-29T18:09:00.004+01:00

Started the day by going to Bedford Purliues looking for Yellow Star of Bethlehem, Gagea lutea from some old records. Didn't have any success but we did see Helleborus foetidus in flower. It was then on to Great Wakerley Wood with similar failure so we gave up. Stopped in a pub for some lunch, which turned out to be a bigger meal than we had planned. Not really knowing what we were going to do in the afternoon headed for Rutland Water along with the masses. Walked along the shore to Normanton Church before having our first ice-cream of the year!

Roslin Glen

2009-03-15T08:55:00.003Z

Took the bus from Edinburgh to Roslin and took the anti-clockwise route into the Glen. Stopped in the Country Park beside the river to have our lunch. Watched a fox foraging on the opposite bank and dippers flying over the water. Continued along the glen; saw a handful of plants in flower. Since our last walk in the glen a new stretch of cycle path had been built, so we investigated that. We then ended up in the pub for some refreshment and a natter, before heading home.

Morkery Wood

2009-03-01T17:14:00.003Z

In the morning popped into Peterborough to get Graham's wedding ring changed. After dinner we headed north through Market Deeping to a large garden centre complex near Barston to look at some tents - unfortunately we were too early and none were up. So we stopped very briefly at Thurlby Fen before continuing north to Morkery Wood near Castle Bytham for a walk. It was a lovely sunny evening and we saw our first plant species of the year. Couldn't face going food shopping afterwards, so ended up in Pizza Express in Peterborough.

Woodwalton Fen

2009-02-15T17:12:00.003Z

As we were running late we had to whizz along the bumpy fen roads to get to Woodwalton Fen in time to meet up with PCV. We did arrive late but could see them in the distance. Had a good walk to the work site, via some very wet and icy tracks. The aim of the day was to clear over-hanging branches from a trackway. We had a good time chopping things down and had made a difference by the end of the day. Finished about 4 so it was home for some more Divine chocolate.

Sandringham

2009-02-01T17:24:00.003Z

Drove to Sandringham Country Park. As soon as we arrived it started snowing and soon everywhere was covered in a white layer, making it very pretty. First stop was the cliff over-looking Wolferton. It was then onto the boardwalks in Dersingham bog - it was extremely cold. The walk then took us up to the Sandringham Estate and visitor centre. Had a very long coffee break in the warm. Had our dinner under a tree before walking back via Wolferton. In the evening went out for a meal with Andy and Katrina at East on the boat.

Dalkeith

2009-01-17T17:21:00.003Z

Took the bus from the end of the road to Dalkeith. Stopped briefly for a cup of coffee and cake before heading off on the walk. Followed the River Esk along the wooded banks via Newbattle Abbey to Eskbank. Had some steep climbs looking for a bridge - we decided the route had changed since the book was published. We completed our circuit by following the Innocent Railway path. Had our dinner leaning against the wall of a factory unit.

Gedney Drove End

2009-01-03T12:59:00.002Z

Compared to last year's walk by The Wash we could actually see where we were going as it was a bright clear day. Stopped in the Rising Sun pub for something to eat at Gedney Drove End. It had to have been one of the most rough and ready pubs we have visited and were rather suspect of the food we got - but it was all OK in the end. Took a 6 mile walk along the sea banks past the bombing range watch towers. Watched a couple of barn owls flying up and down the dykes. Then it was back to Peterborough to do the shopping.

Norwood End, Fyfield

2009-01-01T12:55:00.003Z

Took Jane's Dad on a walk round the lanes and fields of Fyfield where he was born. Stopped off at the church and had a look at family graves before driving up Norwood End. Took some extremely muddy paths across the fields reminiscing as we went.

On the way back stopped at The Bull for a coffee and a warm up before returning back to Saffron Walden.

Barston

2008-12-29T17:38:00.004Z

Started off in the pub at Barston for soup and a drink. Then we followed the lanes and paths to Temple Balsall for a circular walk. It was a lovely sunny day; cold with lots of mud around. We then ended back in the pub for a coffee and seemed to spend most of the afternoon there. In the evening we went out for a meal with Graham's parents at the Little Owl before going round to Nigel and Emma's to have a game of Seafarers of Catan, which Jane won.

Archer's Wood

2008-12-21T17:33:00.002Z

Met up with Peterborough Conservation Volunteers at Archer's Wood near Huntingdon. The aim of the day was to do some hedge laying. We were initially put to task collecting poles and binders for the hedge, but after dinner we managed to progress onto the actual hedge. We banged some poles in and started to bind it altogether. Looked quite good in the end even if we only managed about 10m of hedge all day.

Carlops

2008-12-06T13:29:00.001Z

Took the bus to Silverburn and then began the very slippery route into the Pentlands. The track up was a skating ring. Although very cold, the sky was beautifully clear and sunny so we had some great views. Walked through quite a bit of snow and had our dinner on the top before heading down to Ninemileburn. It was then a walk along the roads to Carlops where we stopped for a well deserved beer and a warm by the fire. I don't think we remembered the bus journey home as we both fell asleep!

Bedford Purlieus

2008-11-08T13:45:00.003Z

Took an off road route to the car-park at Bedford Purlieus NNR. We were mainly on the look out for fungi. Took many of the criss-crossing paths across the wood and ended up in places we weren't expecting! Lovely and sunny which made the autumn beech trees look stunningly golden. Stopped in the pub in Marholm for a soup and a drink. Then it was off to see Quantum of Solace in the evening.

Dunkeld

2008-10-25T17:35:00.005+01:00

Caught the train to Dunkeld. As soon as we got off the train it started to rain. Walked through Dunkeld to Atholl Woods and then up to Craig a Barns. We saw the Rocking Stone and came back down via Cave Pass. It was then we noticed the time and had to almost run back to catch the train. Disappointed that we didn't find that many fungi but still a nice day out, although we got absolutely drenched in Edinburgh as we walked along Leith Walk.

Wolves Wood

2008-10-11T13:10:00.003+01:00

After a good breakfast we were driven to an RSPB woodland reserve outside Hadleigh called Wolves wood. We spent the morning searching for fungi and surprisingly found quite a lot as it was very dry. It was then back to the lab to try and identify what we had found. Everyone was very enthusiastic but identifying the specimens proved very difficult. We did some microscopy, which was quite fun, and this added to the identification characters. In the evening it was another interesting talk before going to bed shattered.

Flatford Mill

2008-10-10T13:02:00.003+01:00

In the morning drove to East Bergholt. Stopped for a nice meal in the Red Lion pub - Graham was impressed with his huffer! Then we had a short stroll around the village and had a look at the bell pit. It was then off to the FSC centre at Flatford Mill. We had a 10 bed dormitory to ourselves! We then went for a walk along the River Stour to Debden and back. It was a beautiful sunny, special day. After dinner went started our fungal identification course with a short talk and got to know everyone.

Morston Salt Marsh

2008-09-27T10:50:00.004+01:00

We had a very foggy journey to North Norfolk for a WFS meet at Morston Key. The day was specifically to look at Glassworts. It turn out to be very successful as we saw all the British species plus a hybrid, as well as other interesting plants. After an ice-cream, we had a wonder round the church and adjoining fields which also revealed more new plants, such as night-flowering catchfly. We then came back along the coast stopping at Snettisham RSPB reserve. The sun-set and the masses of birds on the sea made it very magically. Stopped on the outskirts of Kings Lynn for a meal before coming home very tired.

Old River Bed, Shrewsbury

2008-09-14T16:15:00.003+01:00

Following two days of talks at the BSBI recorders' meeting it was good to get out and look at some plants! We were taken to a site, which had been part of the river Severn, within the Shrewsbury's town boundary, somewhere we hadn't been before. We were glad to have borrowed some wellies from the FSC as the fen area was extremely wet. We were shown Lemna minuta, which we would have definately missed if we hadn't been shown it, and several different ferns from the wooded area. After lunch, at Preston Montford, we drove back to Marston Green to pick up the computer and then it was back to Peterborough to un-pack.

Patmore Heath

2008-09-08T16:12:00.004+01:00

After spending the morning in Saffron Walden we took Jane's parents for a short walk aroung a nature reserve at Patmore Heath. It was only a small site in the middle of the village. The dried out ponds yielded some interesting finds and the oak trees were heavily laden with knopper galls.

In the evening we played Seafarers of Catan, with Ann and Jack. Ann was Queen of Catan with her blue cities and shipping route.

Titchmarsh

2008-09-06T16:06:00.001+01:00

Met up with the local biological recording group at Titchmarsh nature reserve, just outside Thrapston. The aim for the day was collect waterbeetles from the ponds on the reserve. We pond dipped for most of the morning and did actually find a few - good job it was someone else's job to identify them. Wandered back and ended up at the Sacrewell Farm for a coffee and cake. In the evening Graham took Jane for a special Thai meal on the Boat in the centre of Peterborough.

Devil's Dyke

2008-08-23T13:19:00.003+01:00

After days of rain it actually brightens up for our walk along the Devil's Dyke. First stop was the section near Newmarket Racecourse. Had our lunch on a sunny bank watching the horses go by. Some people showed us the Chalk Hill Blue butterfly, while a new plant species was Bastard Toadflax. From here it was on to another section. Walked towards Reach where we had a drink in the Dyke's End pub. Were impressed by the large Privet Hawkmoth caterpillar we saw on some privet!

Ben Lawers

2008-08-10T13:19:00.007+01:00

Arrived at the Ben Lawers visitor centre in a heavy downpour. The rain soon subsided to allow us to start our ascent. Saw several of the plants we hadn't seen since our last trip to the area. Had our lunch before the steepest part of the climb. Didn't quite make it to where we had hoped but did manage to go above 1000m. Decided to look at the cliffs at Creag an Lochan which are much more accessible, although it was extremely midgy. Had a coffee in a caravan park before driving home - where the bottle of beer was a refreshing end to the day.

Felmersham & Shambrook

2008-07-26T13:22:00.003+01:00

Our first stop was in Felmersham, where we sat, beside the river, for our dinner. It was then on to the adjoining gravel pits for a short walk. Plenty of dragonflies about as it was very hot. It was then on to Shambrook Summit a reserve beside the main railway line. Great spot with lots of new plants for us. It was however too hot and Jane soon faded with the start of one of her headaches! Stopped for a deserved pint before a brief visit to Monk's Wood to see crested cow-wheat.

Strumpshaw Fen

2008-07-13T09:56:00.005+01:00

Took the tent down and raced to Strumpshaw Fen for the next day of the WFS excursion. Went with the group that went round the fen rather than the meadow, which was the better choice. Plenty of mosquitos as it was warm and humid. Saw several new plants including Marsh Sow Thistle and Green Figwort. After dinner went on the hunt for a rare Carex hybrid. Didn't have time to visit Cantly Marshes, so drove home. On the way back went to Collyweston Quarries so that we could see Clustered Bellflower and Knapweed Broomrape.

North Denes - Gt Yarmouth

2008-07-12T09:50:00.004+01:00

After a wet night in the tent, arrived just on time to meet the WFS at North Denes for an excursioned led by Bob Ellis. In the morning investigated the dune system, favourite finds included Bastard Cabbage and Grey Wavy Hair Grass, while in the afternoon the search was on for aliens near Caistor Life Boat Station. In the evening had a meal at the local pub - not very good, before a walk to Roman fort at Burgh Castle, which was quite impressive.

Lakenheath Fen

2008-07-07T13:12:00.008+01:00

Up early to take part on a BSBI excursion at Lakenheath Fen RSPB reserve. Lots of people turned up. First we were shown several new grass species in a sandy field beside the car-park and then, dodging the rain showers, we explored the ditches and ponds that had been dug. In the afternoon we had a look around the meadow used by the cranes before leaving to drive back home and put Jane on her train

River Nene, Peterborough

2008-07-07T13:06:00.007+01:00

Walked down to the River Nene from Graham's. Had a snack in the Boat House pub, with our own vibrating beer mat, before working our way along the river towards town.

The boardwalks produced several new plant species for the year and we also tried out our new Salix key. Took us 3 hours to walk into town, for a cup of hot chocolate and shopping in ASDA

Monk’s Wood

2008-06-22T14:11:00.005+01:00

A very blustery but warm day. We headed for Monk’s Wood to specifically look for crested cow-wheat. Saw several grasses and at the pond adders tongue but no sign of the cow-wheat. For lunch we ended up at the Elephant and Castle pub in Wood Walton, which turned out to be a chinese restaurant. We came out feeling very full. Then visited Five Arches Pit and Woodwalton Fen two very small nature reserves. Nothing very special about them. It was then a dash back to put Jane on the train to Edinburgh.

Saffron Walden

2008-06-20T14:10:00.007+01:00

After Graham visited the nurse in the morning to get his leg dressed we packed up the tent and headed home.

We stopped off at Jane’s parents to get the car cleaned and the laundry done, which would have proved difficult at home. After a nice meal we had to head back to un-pack and redress Graham's poorly leg.

Old Lodge

2008-06-19T14:09:00.003+01:00

Graham was a complete noodle managing to tip boiling water over his leg. We spent a couple of hours cooling the scald with water before he was able to get to the local doctors for some treatment. We stayed in the campsite for lunch before heading into Ashdown Forest. Drove to the reserve at Old Lodge to look at the heathland. Didn’t get very far due to showers and Graham’s leg. On the way back stopped in Duddleswell for tea and cake before having our final BBQ of the holiday.

Alfriston

2008-06-18T14:09:00.003+01:00

Started late as we had to move the tent due to antics of our caravan neighbours. Headed for Alfriston and the obligatory tea and cake to set us up for our day’s walk. Took the path along the Cuckmere river to the sea. Had our dinner at the foot of the white horse. Saw several dragonflies as well as new plants. The ditches made a good habitat change from the chalk grasslands. Were very weary on our return as it was quite a way.

Brighton

2008-06-17T14:08:00.003+01:00

Drove to a very sunny Brighton. Walked along the promenade enjoying the atmosphere of the shops and the sea. Then headed into the Lanes and the main shopping area where we grabbed some lunch. Spent some time in Borders looking at the books before heading down the pier. Bought some stone pebbles. Decided not to go on any of the rides as they were too expensive. We did get a game of air hockey. Strolled back and sat on the beach for an hour before going to Worthing to get some fish’n’chips to eat on the sea-front.

Long Man, Wilmington

2008-06-16T14:07:00.003+01:00

Decamped and had hoped to have a walk in the Pevensey Levels, but found that access was restricted. Drove on through Hastings and Eastbourne to Beachy Head, where we had a look at the cliff’s edge. Stopped in Burling Gap for our lunch – had a dreadful cup of coffee. Spent some time on the beach, reading and snoozing, before it started to rain. We then climbed up the Long Man of Wilmington and a path over the South Downs. We reached the campsite we had planned to stay in, but it wasn’t very nice so we carried onto one in Horam. Arriving late we decided to have a pub meal in the local pub.

Rye

2008-06-15T14:07:00.003+01:00

First stop today was St Mary’s Bay which had been recommended to us as a place to look for some new plants, which we did indeed find in the fields adjoining the promenade. We then drove to Rye hoping to do our laundry but found the lauderette closed. Had a nice panini for lunch and enjoyed the cobbled streets of Rye. Stopped in the Ypers Castle Inn for a beer and read of the newspapers. We then drove to Camber sands and took our seats onto the windy beach to read our books for an hour or so. Then it was back to the campsite where it was actually sunny for awhile.

Dungeness

2008-06-14T14:06:00.003+01:00

Had a more leisurely start to the morning having to meet up for a Wild Flower Society excursion at Dungeness at 10:30. Met up outside the power station and then spent several hours looking for plants on the shingle banks – crested dog’s tail being the highlight. After dinner we gather at the RSPB reserve to look for a few more specialist plants. The weather turned very chilly so we didn’t complete the reserve’s nature trail. We had an excellent friendly and knowledgable leader – Doug.

Rye Harbour

2008-06-13T14:05:00.003+01:00

After all the rain yesterday the tent was actually dry in the morning ready to be packed up. We drove over the Romney Marshes to the visitor centre, which wasn’t very much, just a small reserve. We did however see a new plant – Malva neglecta. From here we went on to Rye Harbour. Had a coffee in a caravan park’s tea shop before going on the walk around the reserve. It was extremely windy. Stopped at several of the hides, Graham was pleased to see Mediterranean Gulls. We also saw marsh frogs and several new plants. We drove back via Camber Sands to our new campsite outside Lydd at Romney Marsh Farm.

White Cliffs, Dover

2008-06-12T14:04:00.003+01:00

We woke to the sound of rain – the weather had changed. Visited the White Cliffs visitor centre where we watched the rain come down as well as the ferries leaving for

France

. Braved the rain and headed out on our walk along the cliffs to the lighthouse and back. Top plant had to be nottingham catchfly. On the way back stopped briefly at Lydden Temple Ewell to look for, unsuccessfully, Polygala calceola.

Sandwich Bay

2008-06-11T14:04:00.004+01:00

Took the winding country roads across

Kent

to Sandwich Bay. Paid the £6 toll to drive to the coast. A much cooler and windier day. Spent the morning looking at coastal plants and the spectacular lizard orchids. Had our dinner on a shingle bank before returning to the car and keying out several of the plants we had collected. As we were leaving we noticed a large orobanche on the road verge – which turned out to be the rare bedstraw broomrape. Stopped briefly at Rochester Roman fort, but didn’t go in. On the way back stopped in Littlebourne for tea and cake and Yockletts Bank to search for lady orchid. We found them, gone over, just before we got to the car. In the evening walked to the Hop Pocket, Bossingham, for an excellent meal.

Queendown Warren

2008-06-10T14:03:00.003+01:00

Decamped and headed for the RSPB reserve, Elmley Marshes, on the Isle of Sheppy only to find it is closed on Tuesdays. So change of plan. We went instead to Queendown Warren another chalk grassland where we were shown meadow clary. In the afternoon we went to Leeds Castle, but the entrance fee of £15 each put us off going in – we had an ice-cream instead. From here we headed to the next campsite at Penham, south of Canterbury. A very quite site. In the evening drove to Park Gate Down to see monkey orchid and columbine.