Well what a phenomenal start to September; pitched up in the beautiful Peak District village of Great Longstone. Nestling beneath Longstone Edge, just over a mile from the famous viewpoint of Monsal Head and a stones throw from the Monsal Trail, Great Longstone is a 'proper' Peak village enjoying a couple of great pubs juxtaposed with a wonderful village church - what better setting for a DA meet.
Saturday saw an intrepid group set off for what has become a traditional 'walk' from the Village, following the Monsal Trail through the Headstone Tunnel before ascending to Monsal Head and the first stop for liquid refreshment at the Monsal Head Hotel. After a brief stroll to Little Longstone and a stopover at the characterful Packhorse Inn for further hydration and 'starter' menu selection. Onward, a further mile or so left the Group back in Great Longstone and in need of further sustenance, so a liquid stop at The Crispin was in-order with an advance party scouting ahead to book dinner tables at the excellent White Lion. In fact it became a bit of a takover at the White Lion and after a very agreeable meal and yet more liquid sustenance, the Group meandered back to site having covered the 3 miles in a mere 7 hours!
Others took time out to visit nearby Eyam Carnival or took a cycling adventure along the Monsal Trail.
Waking to a wonderful sunny Sunday, a group set-off along one of the public footpaths adjoining the site on a family walk to Hassop, enjoying a superb Peak District setting followed by a reluctant departure after a relaxing Sunday afternoon.
Great Longstone certainly lived up to it's billing!