TUNNELS IN THE RAIN

Thwarted by the weather again! We had a walk planned, but the weather forecast was so dire that we opted for a quick change of plan that might - hopefully - keep us a little drier.

We meet up on the road at Monsal Head. It's a familiar enough spot for us, and today it isn't too busy. Hardly surprising. There is a river running down the edge of the road with more rain to come.

Because of the weather we have decided to do the Monsal Trail (yes, again) with the expectation that we will at least be sheltered in the tunnels and can seek refuge there if it gets particularly bad.

We drop down from Monsal Head, pause to admire the crinoid fossils in the limestone 'steps', then reach the level trail and set off, plenty to talk about means that we are well and truly occupied, and the easy going underfoot means we aren't having to be on our guard.

There aren't many others out today. A few random cyclists, joggers and dog walkers. The tunnels are, as expected, cold, dank and dark. Quite eerie in an echoing, hollow way, with the far end rarely in sight as we enter.

At the Litton Mill railway cutting we notice an information board on our left. To our great interest it explains the formation of the Pillow Lava in the face in front. Pillow Lava isn't that common in the UK and this is a good place to see it. For anyone interested in the geology, below is more information with the Litton details are on page 11 of the pdf and a good photo on page 12. http://geology.malvernu3a.org.uk/walks/2016/Cecs%20geological%20excursions/PILLOW%20LAVAS.pdf

The rain starts to come down heavier now, and we are getting ready for something to eat, but we aren't to far away from the Millers Dale Station, so decide to press on in the hope of somewhere dry to sit.

As we reach the bridge over the road we notice, on our left, large lime kilns. However, lunch is a more tantalising prospect than exploration, so we cross the bridge and approach the station where there are toilets, benches to sit on but, alas, no shelter.

However, the rain seems to be coming in fits and starts, so we find a bench next to the station wall and settle down to eat. Coffee is essential, and we are soon warmed through. Sandwiches/salad are quickly eaten but the buns are worth savouring and are magnificent. PC has done us proud. Tarts filled with tangy lemon 'custard' and topped with fresh raspberries. They lift the gloomy day into something special.

Once the buns are devoured, and the coffee finished, it is time to head back. Alternative routes are awash with rain and mud so it is just a case of retracing our steps. And as is so often the case, the journey back seems to be shorter and take less time than the journey out. Even the steep climb from the trail to the head doesn't take us long. 

The rain hasn't been quite as bad as we had been led to believe (so much for hour  by hour forecasts!) so we have been able to enjoy the walk, and make new discoveries along the way.