Outing To Raydale Preserves 2005

Raydale Preserves Friday 5th August

Earlier in the week I had been up to Stalling Busk and called in at Raydale Preserves.

I had a cup of coffee and some cake and was delighted to see a photographic display of life in the dales from an earlier era.

I checked out the toilet facilities to make sure they were wheelchair friendly, and that there was a ramp to access the schoolroom.

Everything checked out so on the Friday after lunch we all set off for Raydaleside.

It was a lovely sunny afternoon. On the way up to Semerwater we were able to get a good look at the new National Park building and also got a good look at the new Sycamore Hall building from the top of the hill. We carried on up the hill to Countersett and then on to lake Semerwater which was twinkling in the sunlight. Stopped for a few minutes to absorb the view and then we went on to Stalling Busk and Raydale Preserves.

There was a photo graphics display and folders for us to look at which provided a lot of interest as did the preserve tasting.

Jim Bought six jars of assorted jams and pickles and several other people bought some preserves. Just one mention ‘in my opinion’ “I don’t think lavender and blackcurrant go together.”

After the preserve tasting, tea or coffee and homemade cakes were the order of the day, smashing. It was a very enjoyable afternoon made more special by the fact that Basil and Sygny Allen were there helping out the family and our day centre members had a good crack with them as they were familiar faces to all.

We were made to feel very welcome even though Derek was quite busy. Verdict! We shall go again. We are also going to tell Sue as she might like to take some people from High Hall to have a look round.
AK

• The Coppice Outing July 2005