The weather forecast was for a cold day with the possibility of snow, and as we gathered in the car park there was indeed a flurry.
Whilst preparing to depart a phone was found on the ground, trying to find who it might belong to was initially difficult as the screen was locked. However, there was a weather forecast displayed for Yelverton and after checking pockets one of our number had to admit it was theirs it having fallen out of their pocket when getting out of Colin’s car.
It was then off through the snow on solid ground towards the Celtic Cross, formerly a standing stone that like many in Cornwall that had been repurposed.
As we continued to the first of the many relics of the local mines Amber spent her time breaking every bit of virgin ice she could find, must be an American thing!
Then following the old miners' track we descended to the outskirts of St. Cleer, via Darite, to make our way to the magnificent Trethevy Quoit where another visitor took photographs for Jon so there would be that rare photograph, the complete group of walkers.
We then descended into Crows Nest and with time to spare before visiting the hostelry we had a short stroll to the steep steps which were the route for the short cut back to the car park, but not for us. Arriving at the pub we were surprised that food was available so packed lunches stayed in rucksacks and hot food by a roaring fire were the order of the day, and it was jolly good with bowls of chips ordered for one but feeding many more. There was also the tale of the “ice” in the Ladies loo. (no names no pack drill).
Onwards then to Carardon Mines passing under the old railway/tram bridge to explore the old mine workings. After wandering through the area we then picked up the remains of the track bed to make our way to the old cottage, the only time that it was wet under foot. Since our last visit it has been taken over by builders who are renovating it and the surrounding grounds and the change is remarkable.
We then followed the track back into Minions where the pub is still surrounded by scaffolding and no sign of progress, thank goodness for The Crows Nest!
Peter