Phil wrote:
The walk chosen was a
distance of about four miles across mainly undulating farm tracks and paths.
Starting from the Edwardian Mansion house at Hill of Tarvit, passing by
Whitehill Farm, then picking up the old Moor road into Ceres. From there, the
old track to Pettycur (Waterless Road) by Denhead Farm then down to and across
the Craigrothie Burn and returning to the House.
Although the weather
forecast was not favourable, the fresh wind kept the rain away and we enjoyed
some warm bright spells. The ground underfoot was surprisingly dry with only
one or two small areas showing sign of recent downpours. As it was, the rain
held off until the last few minutes by which time we were able to take refuge
in the attractive Mansion cafe for tea, coffee and fruited scones (irresistably
smothered in jam and clotted cream). Wall panels in the cafe described the
history and ownership of the house which was substantially remodelled by Sir
Robert Lorimer in 1906 for the Sharp family.
Under present day NTS ownership, a 9 hole 'hickory club' golf course,
putting green and Croquet lawn are available to visitors (maybe next
time). A short visit to browse through the
NTS gift shop rounded off the day.
