Woodland walk at Walton Hall

We'd spotted Walton Hall on the map, and decided to pay a visit. It was well worth the mile's walk up the towpath from we'd moored in Moore.

20 acres of grounds surround the hall, which is undergoing some significant restoration work.

There were walks among the trees…

and several areas laid out as formal gardens.

This made for a series of relatively secluded spaces, with delightful spots for a bit of thinking or a quiet picnic.

But, for those looking for some more active amusement, there was also a putting green, a bowling green, pitch and putt, and a crazy golf section. And down in one corner is the children's zoo…

filled with all sorts of delightful creatures, including this cheerful chappie.

The grounds and the zoo are free to enter, and there was masses of space. The whole estate is owned by the local council, and to say that we were impressed by the way they have developed this as a local resource is a major understatement. It's a wonderful place for old and young.