On Sunday 14 April 2013 Robert Slater led a group of ramblers on an 11 mile walk from Arlesey to Hitchin passing along parts pf the Hicca and the Icknield Ways. Our prolific photographer kindly provided 65 photographs, most of which with captions which are reproduced below.
Leaving Kings Cross by train for Arlesey
Gathering at the meeting point with Robert.
Before walking important business - hands up for food orders at the pub.
That is the river Hiz, not His!!
Beautiful meadows and open countryside to cross
Time to pause and admire the view
Well maintained paths and gates in one of the most walker friendly counties in England
The unfamiliar sun begins to warm the ramblers up
John draws camera's attention to torrents
Our intrepid photographer risks a ducking for a good picture
The river meandres along with the ramblers
A host of wildlife
Bridges and fields to cross
Gates to negotiate
Beautiful vista to the left
Spring finally breaking through
Some chat and some contemplation
Where is the frog?!
Aha - frog - all alone!!
Railway line crossing in safety
Another frog
And of course the mandatory muddy paths!!
Stunning
Scene of a tragic incident which has become a sanctuary for wildlife.
The Icknield Way well signposted in parts
Sadly no time to visit today but logged for a visit another time
No tea stop at this pub as the group presses on to Hitchin
Via Pirton
Our future vegetables cover fields in luscious green
Butterflies sighted can be identified here, as well as English longhorn cattle
Faster walkers pause to allow for catching up
A chat about the historic area
About halfway through afternoon walk
Mating season for frogs?
Frogs, frogs, frogs
Marvelling at frogs' pond
While some take the opportunity of a rest
Sunshine and warmth
Look carefully to see English longhorn cattle sitting in field
No pics of the lunch stop I'm afraid but it was at the
Gardeners Arms,Letchworth( western boundary of town).Reasonably priced carvery plus selection of vegetarian dishes.
Our photographer enjoyed this specimen!!