Normally for our birthdays, Sarah and I organise an away-day somewhere (last year we stayed in Bakewell). However, with the ongoing coronavirus lockdown, it seemed more appropriate to stay at home. There weren’t too many rooms available and none seemed to grab our imagination. So … stay at home we did. Sarah wanted a relaxing day anyway, and a gentle walk around Carr Wood seemed ideal.

We began by working our way around Bramhall. We did so by heading along Kingsway and Brampton Road.

We then turned into Broadway.

We crossed over Bramhall Lane and into Bramhall Park Road.

After joining Carrwood Road, we spotted a footpath off to our right. We had seen this path before but never explored it.

It soon brought us out onto Bramhall Park golf course.

When we had set off the weather had been overcast but thankfully warm. It had, however, started to drizzle a little as we began the walk. Then, as we walked through the golf course, the rain suddenly started to pour. We took cover!

Thankfully, the rain didn’t last too long, so we continued on our way.

At the far end of the golf course, there is an alley which takes you under the railway line.

And at the end of the alleyway we joined Thornway.

Of course, there were some lovely flowers in peoples gardens that we just had to photograph.

Next, we turned into Ack Lane West, followed by Robins Lane.

Along Robins Lane, immediately after crossing back under the railway line, we turned into a path on the left.

This took us into Carr Wood Local Nature Reserve.

We spotted a hole in one of the trees which was becoming home to other plants.

All that walking worked up an appetite for some lunch! So, we found a bench and took a short break.

After lunch, we set off walking again and soon reached the end of Carr Wood.

We crossed over the road and into Bramhall Park.

Of course, there is a rather splendid Hall in the grounds of Bramhall Park.

After a quick look at the hall, we moved on to the ponds. The weather, however, was now more suitable for the geese and ducks.

So, we headed for home as quick as we could.

Sarah had been seeking a relaxing day, and this had been a lovely walk that helped to provide a part of that.

Later on, we enjoyed a fantastic meal at the Topkapi Palace Restaurant.

You can view our Carr Wood and Bramhall Hall route below: