A Burton to Parkgate Round 12th December 2013

Approaching Neston Old Quay.

Approaching the Harp.

Denhall Quay and Burton Marshes.

A few birds that took to the air after being disturbed by a birdwatcher on the marshes.

Looking across the Dee estuary towards Wales.

Walk stats: Distance: 9.9 miles. Climb: 219'.

 Time: 4 hours 38 minutes. On the move walking average: Overall walking average: 2.1 m.p.h.

Group: Martyn, Sue and Michel, Annie, Roger, Phil, Wendy David and Celia.

An overcast day with the prospect of showers after lunch, was the best we could expect. At the start on Station Road/Denhall road, Burton there was a cool breeze and we all set off well wrapped up.and some admitting to wearing thermals! However by the time we arrive at Burton Woods, it became warm enough to walk in short sleeves, and remained so for the rest of the day. In fact when we arrived back at the car, the temperature on Wendy's car thermometer registered 13 Celsius, not what you expect for mid- December.

  Once again we didn't find it easy to follow the walk directions, but at least this time we eventually managed to walk the right way down Wood Lane on to Neston Road.

  Once on the Wirral Way, progress was unhindered and we soon arrived at Stanney Fields Park, where were able to perch undercover near the roller skates park - some just sat on the grass.

 After lunch we arrived at Parkgate Promenade, eagerly anticipating using the local PC, alas they were closed!

 On the coastal route back, we encountered a fair bit of claggy mud, possibly made worse by the recent high tide. In fact on Denhall Lane we saw one home owner still clearing up after last Thursday's flood, and he informed us that the water had reached about a foot inside even though it had been three feet up the wall on the outside. He seemed quite cheerful and said very little damage had been done!

 We arrived back at the car, quite surprised that we had done  nearly 10 miles in such a short time! It is quite surprising how quick the group walks when the leader only takes five photos on the walk and doesn't stop every five minutes to look at flowers and birds!

 Birds seen or heard today included: House sparrow, Common teal, Mallard, Wigeon, Canada goose, Great white egret, Blue tit, Great tit, Pied wagtail, Goldfinch, Chaffinch, Bullfinch, Collared dove, Woodpigeon, Jackdaw, Carrion crow, Rook, Black-headed gull, Lesser black-backed gull, Eurasian curlew and Common buzzard.

 After walk drinks were enjoyed at the Boathouse Inn at Parkgate, where the several real ales were sampled, but Brimstage Trappers Hat seemed to go down well.

  Advanced notice for those that need to plan ahead.

 The Boathouse Inn, Parkgate will be the venue for our annual  walk and meal. This will take place on the last Thursday, 30th January 2014.  Anyone that has ever walked with us, or just knows any of us and wants to join us on the walk and meal or just for the meal are welcome.
 More details will appear once I have sorted out the January 2014 walks list.
 You can get an idea of their menu by going on their web sit at http://www.theboathouseparkgate.co.uk

  Apparently they change their menu in January, but it probably only be minor changes.