Hello and welcome back to my blog 😊.

The Three Amigos met up today and enjoyed a 6.5-mile circular walk in the Vale of Belvoir, along the Grantham Canal (under restoration), along quiet country lanes, across fields and through the quiet villages of Colston Bassett and Kinoulton.

It was a sunny blue sky day and we were looking forward to a great walk. We parked in a lay-by close to the canal and began our walk walking along the towpath. We passed a very dodgy looking wooden footbridge across the canal – I wouldn’t fancy my chances on that!

After about a mile we left the canal and walked along quiet country lanes rising gently to to bring us to the ruins of St Marys church, close to Colston Bassett.

We took a look inside and learnt that every period of medieval architecture is on show -Norman, Early English, Decorated and Perpendicular.

Colston means homestead (or ‘ton’) of someone called ‘Col’, possibly a Danish leader long before the Norman Conquest. ‘Bassett’ is a family name – a wealthy Norman family possessed large estates including the manor of Colston.

After looking around the ruins we set off again, heading towards the village of Colston Bassett. On the way we glimpsed the fine Colston Hall through the trees.

Arriving into the small village we walked past the church and village cross to find our path lying on the far end of the village.

We headed across muddy fields towards the village of Kinoulton- there were some murmurings within the ranks about the mud, but no mutiny! 😊

After a struggle with the mud we were delighted to arrive into Kinoulton and see the most wonderful display of crocuses on the village green. Spring is definitely in the air! Taking advantage of a couple of seats by the green, it was a perfect spot for a break.

I do enjoy looking at the village signs which usually depict things of importance to the village. In this case the Grantham canal and a row of poplar trees (the significance of which will be revealed shortly)

Walking on through the village we picked up the Grantham canal once again and set off along the towpath.

As we reached Irish Jack’s bridge we read the board that explained the row of Lombardy poplar trees leading up the hillside at Vimy Ridge Farm. Previously named Pasture Hill Farm, it was renamed by Sir Jesse Hinde in memory of his son Francis who was killed at the Somme in 1916. The avenue is comprised of 184 trees to commemorate Francis and 183 other members of his regiment – the Sherwood Foresters-who died between July and November during that dreadful battle.

Continuing onwards, enjoying the sunshine and the swans gliding along the canal, the miles slipped past effortlessly and we were soon arriving back at our cars.

We had loved the walk and especially the sunny weather. For me it illustrated the joy of the unexpected -in this case, the ruined church and the beautiful spring crocuses. You never know what you will come across on a new walk. Till the next one.

Happy Walking! 😊🚶