Rudyard Lake is a beautiful place and was the perfect destination for a wintry walk to bring in the New Year! It has always been a popular place to visit - in the Victorian era thousands flocked there to enjoy themselves. Rudyard Kipling’s parents loved the lake so much that they named their son after it. We walked the whole circuit around the lake via various public footpaths (about 5 and a half miles in all) and were amply rewarded by some unexpected delights, such as a miniature steam train and an abandoned gothic hall) in addition to the expected natural beauty. After a long walk a mug of tea and a scone from the lakeside cafe was just the ticket. A perfect way to begin 2020.