Strutting into Stapleford Park but it's closed!

The best laid plans can sometimes go awry. We'd done some research to find out that Stapleford park had been fashioned by Capability Brown so planned a walk with this highlight in mind. We parked up in a narrow lane outside a church. Poor Gatsby was trembling in his crate as the world's loudest bird scarer fired off 3 blasts one after the other. Now is it me, or are bird scarers getting louder and where are the actual crops? It's nearly impossible to do a countryside walk without this intrusive sound, sound I applied some #PetRemedy calming spray onto Gatsby's muzzle and then we were away with a wagging tail, great stuff!

We then encountered some off lead dogs who were either put onto lead or under control of their owner. First a spaniel, then a beagle, followed by 2 labradors. It then became apparent why there was a keen interest between the Labrador and Gatsby, she was on the lead because she was in season as some #doggywinetasting and lots of sniffing and foaming at the mouth by Gatsby further on showed!

We then entered a field where we were followed by a herd of sheep who clearly thought we were going to feed them. Finally we arrive at Stapleford to see locked gates and an online search revealed the country house had gone into administration and closed in October 2024. Still on the plus side no other dog walkers just a few cars.

We then joined a field after a busy road section where poor hubby had to lift Gatsby over the electric fence, good job I wasn't on my own!

We then found some water where Gatsby could have a swim and then had a picnic in the church graveyard where Gatsby laid down and looked nice and relaxed. This was short lived as we returned to the start of the walk and the bird scarers. However, Gatsby kept moving and coped well. He is now emptying his bucket. He's had a chew and now relaxing on the patio seats. Never underestimate the benefits that allowing your dog to rest brings. Having started the walk early we were also able to finish before the peak of the heat.