We have now almost reached the end of Robinettes Lane and are on the very edge of Cossall Village. The lane that winds its way through the village turns here to become Dead Lane (on the left) and heads towards Trowell. On the right however is the entrance to Manor Farm which is the next point of interest on the Monk's Way.

When these pictures were taken the farmhouse was being extensively renovated but despite its updated appearance, this is the site of a mediaeval manor house. Other buildings on the farm including this one to the right look much older. Originally the manor house and the associated buildings were laid out in a walled rectangular enclosure. They were then associated buildings were laid out in a walled rectangular enclosure. They were then surrounded by a moat.

A remnant of that original moat still exists but can only be seen if you know where to look. Seen here from the farm gate it is directly in front and partially filled with straw and stagnant water.

This view looking back towards the gate probably gives a better impression of the moat. The extract from the old map to the right indicates the position of the moat which must have been quite a feature in its heyday.

The image of the map is reproduced from the www.old-maps.co.uk service with permission of Landmark Information Group Ltd. and Ordnance Survey.

Returning to Robinettes Lane we turn right to continue our trek along the Monk's Way. Robinettes Lane changes to Mill Lane just beyond the "Cossall" sign on the left and at the next bend in the road becomes Church Lane. Mill Lane at the junction in the distance continues straight on but becomes a bridle path.

Our route continues towards Ilkeston via the bridle path but Cossall is an historic village and it is worthwhile making a short detour along Church Lane to delve into some of this history. Click here to do just that and see a page I prepared some time ago for my original web site, the forerunner to Ilkeston Cam, but which I have now revised and amended for inclusion here.