Shipley Country Park and Denby Pottery
24 people attending
6 places left
The Shipley estate is an ancient manor that was mentioned in the Domesday Book. From the 14th century the land was covered in extensive forest used for hunting, with a lodge on Shipley Hill. From the 16th century, coal mining began to provide income for the owners.
Shipley Hall, built in 1700, was demolished in 1948, and the pits were closed in the 1960s, ending over 250 years of deep mining at Shipley. Shipley Country Park opened to the public in 1976. In the 1980s part of the park and a lake was used to form a theme park that became The American Adventure, closed in 2007.
En route to Denby Pottery we walk through the John Flamsteed Memorial Park. Born in Denby, John Flamsteed (1646-1719) was the first Astronomer Royal. He produced a 3,000-star catalogue, and a star atlas. He made the first recorded observations of Uranus, and he laid the foundation stone for the Royal Greenwich Observatory.
Denby Pottery Company Ltd sells hand-crafted stoneware tableware, kitchenware and serveware products including dinner sets, mugs and serving dishes, as well as a variety of glassware products and cast-iron cookware. Denby Pottery Village includes a factory shop and farm shop, ideal for Christmas gift ideas or retail therapy. There is also a very nice deli and café/restaurant where we will take refreshments.
Dogs
Well behaved dogs are welcome but owners must ensure dogs are kept under control at all times.
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All images taken by the event leader with permission for ODL use.
What to bring
Anyone new to walking may wish to draw from the following as required:
Suitable well-fitted walking footwear is most important to keep you safe and comfortable. Sturdy trainers with cushioned soles and a good grip are often suitable but proper walking boots or shoes in wet conditions or on uneven ground are preferable. Smooth soles with no grip are not suitable. Thick, well-fitted socks cushion your feet, help to keep you dry, and prevent blisters.
Layers of clothing you can easily put on and take off according to changing temperature and weather conditions help to keep you warm and comfortable. Choose a base layer (vest or t-shirt), a mid layer (micro-fleece or long-sleeved shirt), and in cooler weather add an outer layer (windproof jacket or thick fleece). Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry more quickly. Synthetic trousers are lighter and dry quicker than denim. Large pockets are useful.
Avoid jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, and take ages to dry out. On warm days shorts may be suitable, but consider rough foliage such as brambles or nettles on some routes. Check for ticks when walking through long grass, etc. with bare legs.
A hat or cap keeps your head and eyes shaded in direct sun. Sunglasses protect your eyes from glare and make it easier to see where you are going. Sun block is advisable during prolonged exposure. In colder weather or a biting wind, a hat, scarf and gloves are essential.
Bring waterproofs to stay dry in wet weather. Water resistant fabric loses effectiveness over time. It will need to be re-proofed or replaced periodically. Bring a towel and a set of dry clothes to change into if possible. A backpack rain cover helps to keep belongings dry. Gaiters are optional and help to keep lower legs and feet dry. An umbrella is impractical while walking.
A comfortable backpack of 20 to 30-litre capacity, allowing you to use your arms freely, is suitable for most day walks.
Walking sticks are optional and may assist when climbing or descending, or on uneven ground.
Bring any essential medicine you may need during the day for any on-going ailments or conditions.
Food & drink
Bring plenty of water and any preferred drinks, food and snacks to keep you going during the day.
Bring a packed lunch to eat about half way through the walk or choose to eat at Denby Village cafe/restaurant.