Clumber Park, Yorkshire Dales, Market Harborough
Day 56 – 57 June 6 – 7th 2018
Following the advice of a local we met at the YHA we set off in a zig zag across the country avoiding the M1 and plotting a path through the Yorkshire Dales National Park. A drive through small villages, winding roads, expansive rolling hills covered in green farmlands. We frequently congragulated ourselves on choosing such a beautiful route.
Arriving in Robin Hood country – so the roadside signs told us. We stumbled upon Clumber Park . While our plan was to find accommodation – I had seen Hardwicke village noted on the map and pictured a lovely little B&B. The young woman on the gate was so helpful and enthusiastic about the park (even though there was a village but no accommodation) we decided to pay a visit.
First stop was the Garden Tea House beside the walled garden for a late lunch – Chris could not resist the Welsh Rarebit served on a cheese scone! Over lunch we researched and booked accommodation nearby for the night and set off to explore – once the country estate of the Duke of Newcastel – later lost through gambling. While the original house had been destroyed the large chapel – The Chapel of St Mary the Virgin and stables with out buildings were still in use. The park is set on an incredible 3,800 acres which included a lake, a “Pleasure ground”, woodlands, heathlands, gardens, and large expanses of paths and green pastures.
While the park was close to closing, we managed to squeeze in a brisk and beautiful walk around a small part of the expansive grounds. With all the Clumber Park walking paths we were envious of the locals having such a magnificent area to walk dogs, and take their daily exercise.
Our nights accommodation was a superb surprise – ‘Barns Guesthouse” Morton Farm near Retford. The result of our lunchtime quick booking was so much more than expected. One of those very well appointed and well managed Bed and Breakfasts that included a large 4 poster bed – sublimely comfortable bed, great shower, good WiFi, and tasty breakfast. And a bonus – the owner had made a tentative dinner booking for us at the local pub – that is service.
After a full English for him and Continental breakfast for me we set off for Oxford – me with great excitement as I was catching up with friends not seen for many years.
Again we plotted our road trip to avoid major roads and major cities where we could. The road took us through many small villages, past travellers and local farmers on the roads, through green patchwork farmland.
A speck turn to follow the Canal signpost in Market Harborough brought another surprise. A delightful spot on the canal for a cuppa and “lobster roll” followed by a drive through the pleasant looking town of Market Harborough.
