THE YEW TREE, CAULDON

This walk was planned because of repeated requests (mainly from Nick) for a walk to this eccentric pub in Staffordshire.

We caught the two-section 108 bus to Waterhouses (we had to change at Leek even though the bus continues with the same route number) alighting opposite one of the two cycle hire places at the beginning of the Manifold Valley Cycle Trail.

We then headed across buttercup-laden fields towards the quaintly-named village Waterfalls - there is no waterfall but the River Hamps disappears into the ground here, to re-emerge at the village of Ilam.

Waterfall has a small church that was rebuilt in 1792 that from outside is not remarkable; but entering the church reveals a wonderful chancel arch that dates back to the church's foundation in the 12th century.

We dropped deep into the Hamps valley crossing the river on a pleasant wooden footbridge and climbing the other side with beautiful views of the valley and its abundant greenery. There was a short stop to eat cakes thoughtfully brought by Mavis and Mary, and we continued to a tea-shop on the cycle trail and followed the trail back into Waterhouses where there was a more formal stop for sandwiches before following the footpath to the village of Cauldon and its eccentric pub.

A great surprise here was to find three steam engines parked outside! Inside the pub was equally surprising, with the walls decorated with ancient instruments (a crumphorn or serpent?), old hunting rifles and various obsolete country implements. It was good to see a good mild on the handpumps alongside draught Bass and Burton Bridge.

After a refreshing drink the walk continued arond the area until the bus returning to Leek and Macclesfield came along.

The walk was planned and led by Stuart - a great job!