A party of 34 members spent a very enjoyable day visiting Derbyshire. Our first stop was the spa town of Buxton, the joint highest town in England. For most of us the first place to visit was the Pavilion Gardens, beautifully laid out with plants and trees, with a small lake and paths to walk around. The café with coffee and cakes was also very welcome. Next door is the Opera House which hosts a variety of theatre and music events including the Summer Festival. Venturing further afield there was a small market square with shops, cafes and several hotels in beautiful buildings which includes the Old Hall Hotel where it is reputed Mary Queen of Scots was held prisoner in the 16th Century. Most impressive is the Crescent which was built by the Duke of Devonshire and the Devonshire Dome, built as a stable block. The afternoon was then spent on board the Judith Mary II, a converted narrow boat which has been sailing for over 40 years. The crew were very friendly and welcoming and as we sailed gently up the Upper Peak Forest Canal we were served large platters of sandwiches, followed by warm scones with tea or coffee. There was a lively atmosphere and between conversation and eating perhaps not much of the scenery was noticed apart from tiny goslings (Aah!).