Section of the Gritstone Way (from Disley) - Training Run

I had decided that I would like to visit the 'running' sale at Go Outdoors in Stockport today so while I was out I'd also planned a run.  The sale turned out to be very disappointing (I bought a Buff) but I continued with my plan & drove on to Disley railway station, the northern end of the Gritstone Way (a 36 mile long distance footpath running from Disley to Kidsgrove).  After a quick change in the car I was off & very soon out into the countryside with plenty of typical peak district scenery ahead of me.

The route passes through Lyme Park and as this was the first time I had visited the estate I was amazed to see the large number of deer in clear view from the path - I must have counted over 50 before I gave up.  In the photo you can see the deer & the Cage (a former hunting lodge amongst other things) & whilst the photo was neither taken by me or taken today I can assure you that both the view & presence of the deer were remarkably similar. (Must buy myself a camera!)

After passing the Mansion house the path winds up through some woodland before reaching the open higher ground of Sponds Hill (the highest point on the trail).  From this point I continued on until my Garmin informed me I had been out for an hour so I turned round (just before point 6) & retraced my steps.  A great 1st 'proper' run of the year!

Distance covered: 14 miles (22.5km)
Total Ascent: 1900 feet (580m)