Grace Dieu and Mount Saint Bernard Abbey
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The Grace Dieu Priory was an independent Augustinian priory founded around 1235-1241 and dissolved in 1538. Today the site is managed by the Friends of Grace Dieu Priory, a charitable group of volunteers who fundraise to care for the site, and keep it open to the public for free.
The priory is reputed to be the site of frequent paranormal phenomena, sometimes attributed to the priory's proximity to the Thringstone Fault, several ley lines and some possible Pagan significance attached to the site. The ruins are home to the mythical ghost the White Lady.
Mount St Bernard Abbey is a Roman Catholic, Cistercian, monastery founded in 1835. The abbey was the first permanent monastery to be founded in England since the Reformation, and it is the sole Trappist house in England. The monks brew the only Trappist beer in Britain which is available for sale from the gift shop.
Blackbrook Reservoir was constructed in 1796 in order to feed the Charnwood Forest Canal, which has long since vanished. The first dam constructed was an earthwork one that failed 1799. In eleven minutes, the reservoir was empty and local farmland was ruined, sheep were drowned, and much of Shepshed and nearby Loughborough were affected by flood waters.
The dam was repaired in 1801, but the canal was no longer commercially viable. The present gravity dam was constructed in 1906 and in 1957 it felt the effects of a magnitude 5.3 earthquake. The tremors caused heavy coping stones to shift, and cracks appeared in the faces of the dam.
There is an option to visit the Bull's Head pub for a drink (and food) after the walk.
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead when required and under control at all times.
Waitlist: If this event is fully booked, please add yourself to the waitlist. Places often become available closer to the date. If you will not attend, cancel your attendance as soon as possible to allow someone else to take your place.
All images taken by the event leader with permission for ODL use.
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What to bring
Given it'll be mid-winter, please keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared for cold and, especially, wet weather - layer appropriately and bring wet-weather gear.
Below is a standard kit-list you may wish to draw from:
Suitable well-fitted walking footwear is most important to keep you safe and comfortable. Sturdy trainers with cushioned soles and a good grip are often suitable but proper walking boots or shoes in wet conditions or on uneven ground are preferable. Smooth soles with no grip are not suitable. Thick, well-fitted socks cushion your feet, help to keep you dry, and prevent blisters.
Layers of clothing you can easily put on and take off according to changing temperature and weather conditions help to keep you warm and comfortable. Choose a base layer (vest or t-shirt), a mid layer (micro-fleece or long-sleeved shirt), and in cooler weather add an outer layer (windproof jacket or thick fleece). Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry more quickly. Synthetic trousers are lighter and dry quicker than denim. Large pockets are useful. Demin jeans become heavy and cold in the rain and take ages to dry out. On warm days shorts may be suitable, but consider rough foliage such as brambles or nettles on some routes. Check for ticks when walking through long grass, etc. with bare legs. A hat or cap keeps your head and eyes shaded in direct sun. Sunglasses protect your eyes from glare and make it easier to see where you are going. Sun block is advisable during prolonged exposure. In colder weather or a biting wind, a hat, scarf and gloves are essential.
Bring waterproofs to stay dry in wet weather. Water resistant fabric loses effectiveness over time. It will need to be re-proofed or replaced periodically. Bring a towel and a set of dry clothes to change into if possible. A backpack rain cover helps to keep belongings dry. Gaiters are optional and help to keep lower legs and feet dry. An umbrella is impractical while walking.
A comfortable backpack (with suitable capacity for your gear and lunch), allowing you to use your arms freely, is suitable for most day walks.
Walking sticks are optional and may assist when climbing or descending, or on uneven ground.
Bring any essential medicine you may need during the day for hay-fever, diabetes, or any on-going ailments or conditions.
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch.
Bring plenty of water and any preferred drinks, food and snacks to keep you nourished during the day.
We will eat lunch at Mount Saint Bernard Abbey, about halfway through the walk.