This was my second time leading a walk on my home turf around the beautiful countryside on the Shropshire/Welsh border and I was greeted with an impressive turnout of 22 fellow enthusiasts including visitors from New Zealand and the USA.

Walking along the outskirts of the village we then made our way through the woods and meadows of Llynclys Nature Reserve, filled with impressive displays of bluebells, wood anemone and wild garlic.  We even discovered a shimmering, bronze slow worm taking advantage of the warm Spring sunshine.  Crossing over into Wales and dodging the early morning golfers, we then stopped at the Roman copper mine.  Over the centuries many human remains have been discovered here, as well as a hoard of silver coins.  A few intrepid souls ventured inside but fortunately all made it out again safely.  We then passed into the neighbouring nature reserve of Llanymynech Rocks where Early Purple orchids were in flower, albeit in reduced numbers compared to previous years.  Stopping for lunch at the top of the quarry gave us fantastic views over the Berwyn mountains, Rodney's Pillar and the Shropshire Plain.  Making our way carefully down the quarry edge, we then passed several industrial features left over from the disused limeworks until we reached the impressive Hoffman kiln with its beautiful archways and vaulted ceilings.  We all agreed it would make a brilliant nightclub!

From there we took a leisurely stroll along the side of the now defunct Montgomery canal, past a herd of alpacas and up a few short, steep steps back to the start of the walk, conveniently situated next to the village pub complete with beer garden.

A thoroughly enjoyable day with glorious weather, beautiful views and a great group of guys.