Ideally Ilkley

 Wednesday 9th October 2024.            Ideally Ilkley 

It would be a plan B outcome for the Lads today, has they headed to the West Yorkshire town of Ilkley instead of their intended destination of Fairburn Ings. The reason behind this decision was brought about because of the heavy rainfall over the last few days and the possibility of poor underfoot conditions in that particular location. Although heavy rain was also forecast for Ilkley today it didn’t appear during the few hours that the Lads spent exploring a short walk along the banks of the river Wharfe.

As per usual some of the group met up in Leeds and traveled by train to Ilkley whilst others took different paths to the town, with all assembled in the vicinity of the railway station it was best foot forward for Derek, Dave, Colin, Malcolm, Brian, Mark and John has they headed down towards the river bridge and join the pathway that would take them downstream for about a mile or so before reaching the suspension bridge enabling them to cross over the river at this point.

This particular bridge was constructed by an Engineering Company based in London and erected 90 years ago, a perfect setting for a photo shoot etc.

Once over the bridge the Lads now made the return journey back towards the town leaving the riverside pathway at the road bridge and then follow the road up into the town, this time in search of the Manor House Museum, only to find that it only opened at the weekends, disappointing outcome. From here the Lads now decided which venue to choose for lunch , after a short discussion it was decided to visit the nearby J D Wetherspoon establishment and partake in one of their lunchtime offers. 

A suitable place was found for us all and with our various meals order the conversation turned to our future plans etc. The upcoming visit to Wetherby Races and how we would get there taking centre stage along with timing of planned walks near Ossett and Dewsbury and the visit to see Tim Kearney. Other topics were also discussed ie Christmas Meal venues.

Overall today’s adventure was just about right, a pleasant riverside walk that wasn’t too lengthy, good conversation over our lunchtime meal and fortunately no serious rain to spoil our enjoyment.

Cheers Everyone.