After a few days at Hall Croft CL we are on the move to Giggleswick to stay at Brigholme Farm. Over the years it has been the CL we have visited most on out travels because it is so closely located to Settle which is a favourite location for us. It only takes us an hour to get from Ilkley to Giggleswick so soon after packing up we are setting up again.
It is great to be back at Brigholme Farm, our last visit was in November 2019 and who could have imagined what was just around the corner with the Covid -19 pandemic. There have been times in the last eighteen months that I have wondered if we would ever get back to the Dales.
From Brigholme Farm CL we turn right and soon cross Penny Bridge over the Ribble. We turn right to go under the railway bridge. At the crossroads we go straight over into Ingfield Lane and at the bottom fork right around the retirement housing complex. In a few hundred yards we reach Brockhole Lane on the right. We often walk along this lane, known locally as Watery Lane. At the end of the lane we go through a gate and at a crossing of paths close to a modern barn, turn left to follow the lane steadily uphill to Lodge Farm.
It is a steady ascent up the farm track to Lodge Farm where we go through a gate and turn left. Soon after at a fork in the track we take the right option. We go through a gate and walk uphill on the track besides Hudsa plantation and then at a second gate follow a walled track.
At another gate we keep straight ahead keeping Black’s Plantation on our right. There are fine views and in the distance is Ingleborough. I have a couple of walks planned up that peak over the next couple of weeks, hopefully I will be able to persuade Lynnie to join me on one of them.
At the junction of Mitchell Lane and Lambert Lane there is a cracking view of High Hill in front of us.
We now turn left and follow Mitchell Lane downhill into the centre of Settle and from there head back to Brigholme Farm CL. Our stroll around has covered four and a half miles and has been a welcome reminder of why we come here so often.
All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it. To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access. Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk. It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.
Whilst scanning the map yesterday evening I spotted the Ordnance Survey Trig Pillar on Skipton Moor, it is one I have not bagged and it can be reached from our pitch at Hall Croft CL. I invite Lynnie to join me, but seemingly the prospect of a 16 mile walk does not hold much attraction, especially when the alternative is to wander into Ilkley for a mooch about.
I leave Hall Croft CL by crossing the entrance driveway to join the footpath running between a fence and hedge.
At a junction of paths close to the River Wharfe I turn left and follow the Dales Way beside the river through a meadow. On the opposite side of the river is Ilkley Golf Course and being a Saturday morning there are plenty of people out for a round.
On reaching Ilkley Road I turn right along the pavement, still on the Dales Way and follow the footpath sign to Addingham. The path follows along the pavement to a junction with Old Lane, I continue on the Ilkley Road to the outskirts of Addingham. I cross Church Street and continue into the village along Main Street. Soon I pass the village cricket pitch, where players and officials are arriving for the start of the afternoon’s fixture.
Cricket is big in this part of the world and Addingham CC has a long history dating back to 1870. The Club’s website lists the overseas players that have represented them. This is a strange concept to me, when I played village cricket almost the whole team were either born or currently lived in two local villages. It never crossed our minds to look much further afield and when we had a couple of players join from Salisbury, seven miles away, it was considered adventurous!
Addingham is an attractive place, I first came here in the late 1970’s and have happy memories of staying with friends in the village. My route goes up through the village along Main Street and on reaching the Craven Heifer pub I fork left onto Silsden Road soon passing the old village poorhouse. It was built in 1686 and inhabited until around 1910. It was later used as a venue for the village band to practice and after falling derelict it was fully refurbished in 2009.
I follow the Silsden Road through allotments on either side of the road. Then just after passing a bus stop I take a footpath on the right along the Dales High Way into a recreational playing field. The path heads to the north west corner of the playing field into Turner Lane where I turn right, staying with this road to reach Moor Lane where I turn left. This lane heads uphill towards the A65. To my right there are good views of Beamsley Moor.
I cross the A65 with care and then continue on the Dales High Way now on Crossbank Lane.
The lane continues as a tarmac road heading steadily uphill towards the moor, I soon pass a farm with an interesting water tower and buildings.
It is a long steady ascent along this road, as it is a dead end I encounter no traffic and the surrounding views are cracking. I pass through a gate still on the Dales High Way that is now a track heading towards the moor.
After going through another gate I enter a field of sheep and from here I get a good view of the Chelker Reservoir. It was built in 1866 to provide water to homes in Bradford. I have driven by it on the A65 but the view is better from up here.
After going through another gate the route of the Dales High Way follows a track besides a dry stone wall on the edge of Draughton Moor. Stone walls are not a feature of my walking at home in Wiltshire and I am always impressed with the craftsmanship that goes into constructing these walls that stand for so many year. The physical challenge of erecting some of the gate posts must have been immense.
Further along I see an old boundary stone inscribed ‘JC’, this provides a convenient spot to perch and take in the view. Later research proved it impossible to identify the source of the JC and I found I was not alone. In 1959 writing in the Ilkley Gazette, Alan Shackleton, who appeared to be a local historian, outlined the research he had undertaken trying to find the source of the inscription. He concludes it related to the old stage coach road running between Skipton and Otley.
Resuming my walk I continue to a metal gate to reach a road. On the right is an old milestone. The inscription is very weathered and difficult to make out. But it is said to be hundreds of years old and was there to direct the stage coaches at a junction of tracks.
I now continue on a well-made track towards Skipton Moor. Prior to being an old stage coach route this lane was once the Roman Road that connected Ilkley with Skipton. I always find it amazing to walk along routes that have been used for so many years.
After passing through a couple of gates the track continues with the edge of the moor to my left. The views from here looking over Skipton and Embsay towards Malham and the Dales are stunning.
I stay with the track to pass a plantation on the edge of the moor and then after a couple of hundred yards I reach a small gate on the left which leads onto the moor. This is access land and a clear path heads diagonally back towards the plantation.
It is a stiff ascent across the steep escarpment and reaching the edge of the trees I realise that there is still more up to do to get to the top of the moor. This area of Skipton Moor is known as Vicar’s Allotment
After one final short sharp ascent I am on the ridge at the top of the moor. The path brings me straight to the Vicar’s Allotment Ordnance Survey trig pillar. This is the 269th trig I have bagged and I have chosen a cracking day to visit it. The views are stunning in every direction.
I wander along the ridge in both directions to look at the cairns and rock outcrops. This is the first time I have been on this moor and had not expected such views.
Back at the trig pillar I head south across the moor on a path leading to a rocky outcrop, Standard Crag and then turn left to follow a path besides a drystone wall.
I stay with this clear path as it goes through a couple of boggy areas and continues through a gate and then reaches a wall stile. Over the years Crosby has mastered these stiles and despite not climbing one for a while he is over without any assistance.
I am now on High Bradley Moor and follow a path that heads south easterly towards Low Edge Farm.
There are a network of paths converging near Low Edge Farm. I take one down to cross a stream and then is clearly signed around the back of the farmhouse before going along the farm driveway. I follow this until I reach a footpath on the right which goes across a field to a gate. Through the gate I go across another field to reach Jenkin Farm.
Now I turn left and follow the farm driveway heading towards a minor road with the interestingly named Schoolmaster Place Farm in the distance.
On reaching the road I cross and follow the footpath to pass the farm and cross fields to reach another minor road where I turn left towards Cringles.
This is a quiet country lane and I am passed by a car and tractor before reaching the A6034. Here I turn left and follow the pavement besides the road. On my left is a tower standing beside a covered reservoir. Initially I think this must be related to mining because there is a nearby shaft marked on the map. However, later I discover an archive article in the Keighley News about the tower, it was built in 1853 to survey the proposed conduit and aqueduct for supplying water to Bradford. Apparently the norm was to build such platforms out of wood and remove them when they had served their purpose, but this stone one survives .
After a few hundred yards along the road I turn right onto a track, Lippersley Lane. This lane heads uphill and then levels. In front of me I can see Addingham High Moor.
When the lane reaches a junction of roads I go straight across and follow Lightbank Lane as it rises gradually to reach a footpath on the left leading towards the moor. This is a steep ascent towards a rocky outcrop. I pause to take in the view behind me.
I now follow a path with a stone wall on my right to pass a plantation. I cross a wall stile on the right and continue uphill heading south east to Windgate Nick. As I reach the top of the ridge I stop to look at the memorial to the two man crew of de Haviland Mosquito Mk 11 Aircraft DD750. This plane from RAF Church Fenton (now known as Leeds East Airport) crashed into the side of the hill close to this spot at 21.00 hours on 23rd March 1943. The pilot, Sergeant John Hudson Staples, and navigator, Sergeant Ralph Ernest Andrews were both killed in the crash. The plane had been returning from RAF Cotishall in Norfolk when it crashed.
The clear path now heads east along the top of the escarpment. It is a cracking place to be walking on a sunny afternoon. The cairns I pass are a reminder that in the depth of winter this is a bleak spot and navigation is far more difficult.
The path continues and passes through stone walls to reach the Noon Stone. Apparently mention of this stone dates back to 1579, it was then recorded as the None Stone, it is assumed that it derives its name as the stone over which the noon sun appears. But I suppose that depends on where you are stood at the time.
This part of Addingham High Moor is scattered with stones with ancient cup and ring markings, the most famous being the Swastika Stone, which my route passes. An ancient carving on it is thought to date from the Bronze or Neolithic age, although the one visible today is a Victorian replica placed close to the original which was severely eroded.
From the stone I continue along the path and then take a footpath on the left leading down into Heber’s Ghyll. This is an amazing path that winds its way steeply downhill frequently crossing Black Beck on footbridges.
On reaching a minor road, Heber’s Ghyll Drive, I turn right and then almost immediately take a footpath that heads up steps to continue behind gardens to reach another minor road, Hollin Hall Drive. Now it is time for me to wind my way back downhill towards the A65 so I take a left into Hollingwood Drive and then on reaching Victoria Avenue I head downhill towards the A65.
At the A65 I turn left and follow the road the short distance back to Hall Croft CL. I have had a cracking walk covering just over sixteen and a half miles. Tomorrow is a moving day and we are heading a few miles further north into the Dales to spend a couple of weeks at Brigholme Farm CL in Giggleswick a regular favourite of ours.
All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it. To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access. Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk. It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.
My interest in walking was really ignited in my teens when we used to visit family friends who lived in Eldwick. On occasions I would take myself off for a walk just exploring the local countryside. I did not venture too far, most of the walks were around Shipley Glen and there was the occasional excursion onto the edge of Baildon Moor. I have a faint recollection of walking to a trig point from Eldwick, but up until now have not really thought about where it was.
Whilst studying the map last night I realised the nearest trig to Eldwick is on top of Baildon Hill, so that was probably the one I visited the best part of fifty years ago. Of course in those days I was not bothered about logging trigs or “bagging” them. As we are staying so close to Baildon Moor it makes sense to venture there today.
Our starting point is the car park off Hawksworth Road just to the north of Baildon. Google maps shows this car park as Baildon Trig Point car park, which sounds very promising to me. Starting our walk we follow a path from the car park which heads north and very quickly we reach the trig pillar, this is the 267th I have bagged. Lynnie would like all trigs to be this easy to access.
From the trig we follow a bracken lined path that descends across the hill towards Hawksworth Road. There are fine views with part of Baildon Golf Course on Baildon Hill in front of us.
On reaching Hawksworth Road we cross and follow a footpath sign on the opposite side. This heads in a north westerly direction besides the aptly called Bracken Hill. We ignore other paths to the right and left until we reach the northern edge of the access land, here we take a footpath straight ahead through a narrow gap besides a wall.
The path passes through what appears to be the grounds of an activity centre, although at the moment there is no obvious sign of activity, it joins Sconce Lane where we turn left and follow the lane past Ash House Farm.
The lane continues past smart holiday chalets and then the entrance to Faweather Grange. At a junction of tracks we turn left along Birch Close Lane and head towards Birch Close Farm. Just before we reach the farm we turn right up a tarmac lane to join the route of the Dales High Way, this is a ninety-mile long distance walk from Saltaire to Appleby in Cumbria. I am always on the lookout for new trails to walk and will have to look at this one in more detail.
The path gradually ascends to pass close by Weecher reservoir, this stands behind a high embankment so is not visible, in any case I am more interested in looking for any Ordnance Survey benchmarks on the gate posts we pass. Last year I got into “bagging” benchmarks and used to spend time researching their locations before going out for a walk. Lynnie is pleased that I have now moved onto wild benchmark bagging, this involves no prior research but just the odd glance at a likely location. Wild bagging is far more rewarding and I am soon smiling from ear to ear when I spot the tell-tale chisel marking high on a former gate post.
On reaching a junction with the Otley Road we turn right and walk besides this busy road. Fortunately the verge has been laid with gravel to create a pavement. After a couple of hundred yards we take a way-marked footpath on the left going onto the moor still following the route of the Dales High Way.
As we ascend we look back and get a view over Weecher reservoir. This reservoir was built around the 1880’s by the Baildon Water Board, it was reported that in 1910 it recorded having just over 30,000,000 gallons of water in it.
The Dales High Way leads up across a section of moor shown on the map as Low Two Stoops. We pass through a gate and continue on the well-worn path to a junction of paths besides a wall close to the Horncliffe Well. There is a boundary stone in the wall at this point marked “Thos Pulleyn, Horncliffe”.
Now we leave the Dales High Way through a gap in the wall to take a footpath that follows the boundary fence. On the other side of the fence is a stone marking the Horncliffe Well. Apparently this well is shown on land records dating back to 1273 and it had the tradition of never drying up. It stands at the meeting point of three moors, Burley, Hawksworth and Bingley. There are records of a house being on the moor in the early 1800’s but little evidence remains now. The once free flowing water from the well was diverted into pipes by Yorkshire Water in the 1990’s so there is now little evidence of water but the stone marks the historic spot.
We follow the well-defined path with the fence line to our right, this route heads steadily uphill occasionally crossing streams running off the moor. After a dry spell the ground conditions are firm under foot, but I imagine that in the depth of winter it would be very boggy up here. There are further boundary stones on the fence line.
This path is the route of the Bradford Millennium Way which is a 45-mile circuit around Bradford created in 2000 to celebrate the millennium. I can’t recall walking any sections of it before, it appears to visit some interesting locations including the Bronte Falls, White Wells and Shipley Glen. The section we are on heads towards a hut on the horizon.
After passing the hut and an outcrop of rocks we continue on to a junction of paths where we turn left to follow a track with views of High Lanshaw Dam. This is the highest of three small reservoirs, apparently they were originally built for Urban District Council, later operated by the Rombalds Water Board and eventually Yorkshire Water.
As we start on the track the beaters for a driven grouse shoot start heading across the moor. I am not a supporter of grouse shooting and watching it take place at close quarters reinforces my view.
At a junction of paths close to the Twelve Apostles we turn left rejoining the Dales High Way this time heading south. The grouse shoot is going on to our right, they are in the final throws of driving the birds to the guns. Frankly how anyone could describe this as sport is beyond me. If individuals feel the need demonstrate their ability with a firearm surely they could shoot at clays.
On our right is an old milestone. At this point the Dales High Way veers off to the left but we continue on a path marked on the map as the Dales Way Link.
After going through a gate we follow a clear track heading south across Bingley Moor. We go over Hog Hill and through Hog Hill Flat where we pass another milestone. This route was part of the pack horse trail between Ilkley and Bingley and would have been a main communication link for hundreds of years
We continue over moorland and then follow the path as it goes between walls descending gradually to the Otley Road and the Dick Hudson pub.
We cross the busy Otley Road and wander around to the front of the pub. It is years since we have been here. It was a pub we used to visit as a family when I was child and over forty years ago, when I took Lynnie on her first trip to Yorkshire, we popped in for a pint. It is tempting to have a sharp’ner for old times’ sake, however it is still too early in the day for a drink.
Apparently there has been a pub in this area since the 17th century. The original watering hole known as the Plough Boy was located a bit further along the Otley Road. But when a new road was constructed the license moved to Highgate farmhouse which is the site of the current pub. The pub became known as the Fleece Inn and it 1809 was purchased by Thomas Hudson. After his death in 1850 his son Richard aka ‘Dick’ took over as landlord and the pub which was popular with workers from the textile mills in Airedale gained the name Dick Hudson’s. Dick remained landlord until his death in 1878 but hopefully his name will remain synonymous with this spot for many generations to come.
We have a choice of routes here, both involving walking beside a road, we opt for the Otley Road heading south because it looks a bit quieter, but it is still too busy for comfort. However, there is no other option to link the sections of the Dales Way Link. Therefore, we are relieved to reach the footpath on our left leading up the driveway of Toils Farm. After passing behind the farmhouse we continue on the way-marked path across fields to reach a tarmac lane. After going over a wall stile we turn right on the lane following the Dales Way Link towards Shipley.
On reaching the end of the tarmac driveway we go through a gate and follow the path across fields towards Golcar Farm. After passing the farm the route joins a track leading to the Bingley Road which we cross to take the footpath marked Dales Way Link and Millennium Way. This path leads around barns and continues besides Glovershaw Beck.
The path takes us onto bracken covered moorland where we continue to head south on the Dales Way Link to reach a car park besides Glen Road. We cross the road and follow a pathway uphill towards the caravan site at Dobrudden Farm. It Is clear that this area of access land is well walked and we are chatting away so at a junction of paths I assume the worn route in front of us is the way to go. It does take us up to the caravan site but it is a steep ascent that becomes less clear as we rise.
Reaching the boundary wall of the caravan site we turn right on a clearer path. We stop here to catch our breath and look back over Eldwick.
There are a wide range of paths crossing Baildon Hill, we are aiming for the trig point on the summit so we continue a gradual ascent towards the top. There is a long history of quarrying and coal mining on areas of the hill. These where not the massive mechanised quarries, but small ones used to extract stone for building. We arrive at the summit by a large fenced depression. Later I check the Coal Authorities website and discover that this has only emerged in the last couple of years and has been fenced off because it is the site of old mine workings. The Coal Authorities article records it as some subsidence and movement, I would call it a big hole!
After looking at the subsidence, without getting too close to the edge, we wander over to bag the trig point, this is my 268th. It has been painted white, but there are splashes of red paint around which is a pity. It stands at 925 feet above sea level, this would be a pretty exposed spot on a winter’s day. I try to recall if I have been here before, but nothing about this spot sparks a memory.
Close to the trig is a toposcope. We stop to look at points on the horizon, picking out places we have visited, or plan to in the future.
Our route continues along the top of the hill heading east. This path soon descends steeply towards Baildon Golf Course and then goes alongside a couple of holes and the club house. This course was established in 1893 initially as the Bradford Golf Club, but when they moved in 1899 it became known as the Baildon Golf Club. Over the years the original seven hole course was developed into a full eighteen and the clubhouse was moved and then further developed. During the First World War what is the 17th fairway was used as a practice firing range. Then during World War II the course was considered an area of risk as a landing site for enemy gliders so tree trunks were sunk into the ground as a deterrent.
Our route takes us to the Hawksworth Road where we turn left to follow a path besides the road heading back up to the car park on Baildon Common where we started our walk. We have covered just over ten miles, littered with local history. It has been a very enjoyable stroll apart from witnessing the grouse shoot and a short section besides a busy road.
All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it. To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access. Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk. It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.
The last time we stayed at Hall Croft CL we had our old Labrador Dexter travelling with us and because he was unable to walk long distances I spent most of the trip heading out with Crosby whilst Lynnie and Dexter mooched around in Ilkley. So on this trip I am keen to ensure that Lynnie joins me for a walk on Ilkley Moor including a trip to the Cow and Calf rocks. Forty years ago, on our first trip to Yorkshire together, I took Lynnie to the Cow and Calf rocks, it was a spot I had visited frequently as a child.
Leaving the site we turn left and follow the pavement besides the A65 towards Ilkley. As we enter the town we turn right, just after a set of traffic lights, to head up Victoria Avenue. Continuing steadily uphill we stay on this road, which becomes Hollingwood Rise. As the road sweeps to the right by the junction with Parish Ghyll Lane we take a footpath directly in front of us that continues uphill.
The path emerges onto Queens Drive, here we cross the lane and continue on the footpath as it ascends on steps through the edge of Panorama Wood. Emerging from the woods we join a lane and turn right, after passing a couple of properties we take a footpath on the left to reach the edge of the moor at an old metal kissing gate.
On the moor we turn right and follow the directions towards the Swastika Stone and Addingham Moorside. The route is now a clearly defined path as it rises steadily across the moor passing above Panorama Reservoir.
The path continues to rise to reach the fenced Swastika Stone. This ancient carving is thought to date from the Bronze or Neolithic age, although the one visible today is a Victorian replica placed close to the original which was severely eroded.
We continue along the path, which is part of the Dales High Way until we reach a drystone wall, we don’t cross through the wall, but instead take a clear path on the left heading steadily uphill with the wall on our right.
We go through a gap in the wall and continue uphill to reach a boundary stone carved “N ILB 1893” apparently this relates to the Ilkley Local Board acquiring the moor in 1893 and opening it for public access, prior to this it had been in the ownership of William Middleton who in 1842 had sought to enclose the moor. Thanks to the foresight of the Council all those years ago this remains as open access land.
From the boundary stone our route is to the east along the ridge, but first we decide to head west for a few hundred yards to look at another stone we can see. This turns out to be a memorial stone to the crew of a Halifax Bomber DK185 which on 31st January 1944 whilst on a training exercise crashed into the moor. The crew were all young men with all bar one coming from Canada. There were no survivors.
The memory of these brave men should always be kept alive and an inscription on the memorial records them: Pilot Officer Donald G McLeod RCAF, Pilot, aged 21, of Waterford, Ontario, Canada; Sgt Felix Byrne RAFVR, Flight Engineer, aged 20, of Plains, Lanarkshire, Scotland; Warrant Officer Lewis Riggs RCAF, Navigator, aged 20, of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sgt Robert H Rahn RCAF, Bomb Aimer, aged 22, of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada; Warrant Officer William G King RCAF, Wireless Op / Air Gunner, aged 27, of Teepers Creek, Alberta, Canada; Sgt George Martin RCAF, Air Gunner, aged 20, of Spanish, Ontario, Canada; and Sgt Albert Lorne Mullen RCAF, Air Gunner, aged 19, of Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada.
From the memorial we turn and back and walk along the path passing the boundary stone and continuing west to reach a gate in a stone wall. Immediately after the gate we cross Black Beck and quickly fork right to follow a clear path heading steadily uphill towards Nob Stone.
After passing the stone we continue on the path to reach a gate in the wall with a very impressive gate post.
Through the gate we continue on the path until we reach a broad track. This is the Keighley Road which runs as a track across the moor between Ilkley and Keighley. We turn right and follow the track as it gradually ascends to the top of the moor. To our right is Cowper’s Cross, thought to date from the 12th century, although the current cross is believed to be a replacement erected in the 18th century. Over the years further renovations have been required when the cross was struck by lightning and then in 2007 vandalised by some idiots. The purpose of the cross is unknown, it may have been a marker post on the drove across the moor that followed the route of the Roman Road or used as a meeting place.
From the cross we continue along the Keighley Road towards Whetsone Gate. Just before reaching the gate we turn left on a path that heads up besides the Whetstone wireless station. The route now follows flagstones across the moor to reach the Thimble Stones, I have passed these stones before but not stopped to look at them.
The map shows there is a boundary stone amongst the rocks. It is not unusual for me to spend ages looking for a small boundary stone in dense undergrowth. But this is one of the biggest boundary stones I have ever seen.
Amongst the stones is also a cracking Ordnance Survey cut benchmark. Over the last two years I have started “bagging” these old survey markings whilst out walking. They proliferate the countryside and there are thought to be well over 500,000 still remaining. They are far less obvious than OS Trig Pillars and because they were often cut into buildings many have been destroyed or are inaccessible. To “bag” one like this on the moor is a real bonus.
Back on the flagstone path we continue across the moor but soon spot carved stones besides the path. These are flagstones inscribed with a poem “Puddle” by Simon Armitage, the current Poet Laureate, and placed on the moor in 2012 as part of a literary project. This is one of six poems that adorn the moors between Marsden and Ilkley linked by a 47 mile route known as the Stanza Trail.
We continue along the flagstone path, prior to its installation walking across this section of moorland must have been very challenging, because despite the dry weather there are still areas of bog either side of the stones. In the distance we can see the top of Rombalds Moor Trig Pillar and Lynnie strides out to get there first. I bagged this trig in 2019, it was my 146th, I have managed to bag a further 120 since then!
We continue heading across the moor on the flagstone path. On 1 December 1987, Phillip Spencer, a retired policeman was walking across the moor prior to sunrise in foggy conditions. He is said to have seen a creature approach him, which he photographed, it signaled to him not to come any further, he then saw a dome topped craft on the hill that soon shot away at speed. I am sceptical of stories about alien sightings but have no doubt that Spencer was convinced about what he saw. The bit that really troubles me in this tale is how the alien knew how to signal stay away, presumably beings from other planets would have developed their own version of sign language which in all probability would be very different from the common signals we use.
Our route now arrives at another boundary stone, this one is known as the Lanshaw Lad and it is marked with the now familiar WM and ILB carvings.
At a junction of paths near to the boundary stone we turn right along a path that soon reaches the Twelve Apostles, this is an ancient stone circle thought to date from at least the bronze age. Despite its name archaeologists believe there were probably at least twenty stones in the circle and about 100 years ago there are records of it being surrounded by a rubble bank. The stones were reset in the mid 20th century and the circle has a diameter close to 16 metres.
Soon after passing the stone ring we reach a junction of tracks, here we turn left to follow the broad track across Burley Moor heading towards stones on the horizon.
The route takes us past Grouse Butts and then on our left is High Lanshaw Dam. On reaching a junction of tracks we intend going left to cross the dam but first decide to walk the short distance to the stones on our right and stop for lunch. Refreshed we return to follow the path across the dam. This is the highest of three small reservoirs, apparently they were originally built for Urban District Council, later operated by the Rombalds Water Board and eventually Yorkshire Water.
We follow the track in a northerly direction towards rocks at Green Crag, once again there is a boundary marking on the stones with WM (William Middleton) 1785 and ILB (Ilkley Local Board) 1893 carved on it.
We now head in a north westerly direction and continue on this route across a faint path to reach a clear stony path where we turn left heading towards the Pancake Stone. This path follows the contour of the hill with the Cow and Calf Hotel below us to the right.
This is a popular area for people to walk and there is a network of paths created through the bracken. We wait until we are nearly above the Cow and Calf rocks before turning right and heading steadily downhill to reach this iconic spot. Before heading down to walk between the Cow and Calf we wander around on top of the stones and pass over the top of a disused quarry.
The stone was quarried here in the 19th century when Ilkley boomed as a spa town. It is interesting wandering around the top looking at all the engravings on the stones. Some are recent whilst others go back a long time. I have never felt the urge to carve my name into a rock or tree, but it does make you wonder about the story behind some of the folk that spent time here leaving their mark.
As we head back along the top of the old quarry we see a chap scaling the side and then as we go down and around the front on the path between the Cow and Calf there is a woman in a Hi-Viz jacket, I enquire what is going on. Apparently they are preparing to film a major Netflix series and the chap is removing the graffiti from the rock face. She is very coy about the production and who the stars are. But given that I watch so little TV I doubt that I would have heard of either.
The path leads between the Cow and Calf. It is well over fifty years since I first visited this spot. We frequently came and played here when we were visiting family friends in the area. Just being here brings back many happy memories, so it was hardly surprising that when I first brought Lynnie to Yorkshire, forty years ago, we came here.
These stones are also known as the Hangingstone Rocks and legend has it that the Cow and Calf were formed when the giant Rombald was fleeing an enemy and stamped on the rocks and the calf split from the cow.
We follow the path and to Lynnie’s dismay it leads us back to the point we were previously at at the top of the stones. Here we turn left and take an attractive route through woodland.
Emerging from the trees the path descends steeply towards Backstone Beck. As we head downhill there are some cracking views.
After crossing a footbridge over the beck we continue along a path to reach The Tarn. An information board provides a history to this attractive spot. Originally known as Craig Dam it was a marshy area feeding working mills towards the centre of Ilkley. In 1873 a group of local gentlemen met and derived a plan to turn the area into a pleasant place to visit. Soon brass bands were playing at the weekend for the entertainment of visitors. Then in 1903 a religious group known as the Pleasant Sunday Afternoon started holding meetings here.
In 1904 a chap called Cooper presented his ‘Pierrot’ performers here, but they were deemed more suitable to seaside entertainment and too vulgar for Ilkley. So I am not sure what the local gentlemen would have made of Mrs. Pankhurst and her ‘Women’s Social and Political Union’ meeting here on 8th June 1908.
Lighting was installed around the Tarn in 1931 and a fountain was installed on the island which was fed by gravity from the moor. Sadly that feature has long gone. However, this remains a peaceful spot and the tarn is surrounded by benches for folk to sit and relax.
We continue on the path heading down towards Ilkley and pass the longest bench I can recall seeing. This was placed here before social distancing became the norm and is in memory of Professor Delia Davin who was a Sinologist. Not sure what a Sinologist is I later look it up to discover she studied Chinese language, literature and history.
In Ilkely we wander into the centre of the town and then turn left to walk along the pavement besides the A65 to lead us back to Hall Croft CL.
All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it. To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access. Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk. It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.
Over the last couple of years my walking buddy Mandy and I have been brushing up our navigation skills by attending the National Navigation Award Scheme courses run by Nigel from New Forest Navigation. So far we have achieved the Bronze and Silver awards and will soon be heading off to the Brecon Beacons for the Gold course.
I quickly realised that the skills learnt on the courses needed to be frequently used to ensure they embedded. So today Mandy and I are heading out into the New Forest with map and compass whilst leaving our electronic navigation devices in our rucksacks.
The starting point for our walk is the Bolton’s Bench car park, this is just off the A35 near the centre of Lyndhurst (Grid Ref: SU 303081). From the car park we head across the grazing land gradually ascending to Bolton’s Bench. This circular bench around Yew Trees on top of a natural hillock dates back to the 18th century and commemorates the Duke Of Bolton, whose family were apparently Master Keepers of the Burley Bailiwick.
To our left is the Lyndhurst and Ashurst Cricket Ground, in the past I played cricket on a number of Forest pitches but this is one I never visited. It is a cracking location and has a stunning old thatched pavilion.
After passing the pavilion we soon reach a sandy area and head uphill to reach a fine water trough with and inscription indicating it was installed in 1902.
Close to the water trough is the Lyndhurst Trig Pillar, this was my 236th trig when I bagged it last December.
We are now heading in an easterly direction along a broad ridge, marked on the map as Park Pale. Apparently this bank was the edge of a medieval deer park which is recorded as far back as 1291, on top of the ridge stood a paling fence which enclosed deer in the Lyndhurst Old Park. This is one of the benefits of following a map, you spot references that could easily be missed if just following a line on an electronic device.
As the path nears a minor road we keep to the left of it and then follow a path around Matley Wood.
After passing around the side of the woods we cross a footbridge on King’s Passage and soon turn left to cross open land towards the railway line at Fulliford Passage.
We don’t go through the railway bridge but instead turn to the right and walk parallel to the line and then on reaching another bridge go under the railway line.
We now head east towards Decoy Pond Farm and then at a junction of paths fork to the right and follow a broad path towards the OS trig pillar on Yew Tree Heath.
The trig is close to the track so easily located.
Soon after passing the trig we reach a driveway to a parking area and turn right to reach a road which we cross and then continue heading south to go through a copse at the edge of Ferny Crofts.
At a boundary we turn left and follow a path through trees and out onto open heathland which is marked on the map as Gurnetfields Furzebrake. Along this ridge the map shows the location of a monument so we divert from our route to explore. “This stone is erected to mark the spot where S Carter was killed whilst hunting with the N F hounds 16 Jan 1883” This is historically interesting, but I have never been a supporter of hunting with hounds and welcome the fact it is no longer legal.
Returning to the main path we continue along the ridge and follow the path as it veers south and then heads east again to cross North Lane. Our route continues heading east along an attractive forest path.
We stay with this track as it heads onto Beaulieu Heath going towards Beaulieu Road, just before reaching the road we head south to bag the Ordnance Survey Trig point at Hill Top. This is a slightly odd name because it sits on a large plateau and is only 40 metres above sea level. A more accurate name would be “Little Hill Top” trig pillar. When I first bagged this trig last December it was my 238th.
From the trig we retrace our steps rejoining the main track and following it for a couple of hundred metres before turning to the right and heading north towards Dibden Inclosure.
The track heads down to cross a footbridge beside a pond and then at a junction of paths we turn right and head north.
We are now following a broad track with expansive views away to the west.
The route skirts the edge of woodland and then drops to cross a minor road before heading into Marchwood Inclosure through Sleepy Hollow. We now follow a path along a wide avenue of trees as we head to the northern edge of the inclosure.
We stay along the edge of the inclosure to reach a minor road which we cross and continue along the edge of the woods towards Foxhill Farm. Today the ground is firm underfoot but when I walked this route in the winter it was very boggy.
After passing Foxhiil Farm we stay close to the fence line until we reach a minor road near the edge of Longdown Inclosure. Turning left and then very quickly right we follow a path around the northern edge of the inclosure, this leads to a car park where we turn left on a broad track besides the woods.
At a junction of tracks, close to the railway line we turn right and head in a northwestern direction through Deerleap Inclosure.
At a fork in the track we go left and soon turn left again to cross the railway line and continue towards Ashurst Lodge. On reaching the tarmac driveway to the Lodge we turn right and walk beside the single track driveway towards the A35. Shortly before reaching the road we turn left to follow a grassy path beside trees to head south towards Beaulieu River on Longwater Lawn.
We cross the river on a footbridge and then turn right and follow a clear path through Foxhill Moor. This path enters trees and then turns to the left to head south towards Lyndhurst cemetery.
We skirt around the cemetery and follow the driveway back to the car park. Our nineteen mile route has been interesting and we have only used the map and compass. Like many walks in the New Forest this one is difficult to describe because there are multiple options of paths which appear on the ground but are not shown on the map. I therefore suggest that if you plan to follow this route you download the GPX file or make sure you mark up your paper map before setting off.
To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL22 – New Forest
All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it. To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access. Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk. It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.
Today I am walking in the Dorset countryside with my walking buddy Nigel from New Forest Navigation. Just over a year ago, whilst still avoiding contact with others, I did a cracking twenty mile walk from Martin Down that followed a section of the Ackling Dyke Roman Road and visited the Gussages. Today we are doing a similar, but shorter version of the route and along the way we will visit the location of a long lost Dorset village.
We start from the large Martin Down Nature Reserve car park besides the A354. Heading out from the southern end of the car park we pass a metal barrier beside information boards. Initially the path heads through shrub, but then opens out on to the vast expanse of the nature reserve, over 850 acres of protected land providing a haven for flora and fauna.
We follow the track towards the dominant rifle range butt in front of us. This area was used as a military rifle range up until the 1950’s and evidence is still strewn across this area of the downs. Before reaching the butt we take a path on the right heading across the Bokerley Dyke. This ditch is thought to have been built during the iron age and fortified in the 5th century. It runs for around 3.5 miles and is an impressive structure.
We pass through the dyke to reach the fence-line and enter a field taking a footpath on the right that continues along the edge of the field with the fence to our right. The path follows around the edge of the field and we are soon heading south with a hedge line to our right.
At a junction of paths we continue straight on to reach a gate besides a crossing of paths. Here we continue along a tree lined path still heading south towards Pentridge.
As the path reaches farm buildings it becomes a tarmac lane and we stay with this to walk into the village. Our route continues south through the village and passes Manor Farm to join a farm track.
At a junction of paths we turn right and follow a track that soon heads uphill along the edge of a field. The map shows the area we are walking through is the location of a Cursus, despite having walked here previously I had not paid much attention to this reference which is surprising because I am usually looking out for odd things on the map.
Like me Nigel spends time just looking at maps, there is a clue to this in his chosen line of work; teaching people to navigate. He explains a cursus is an elongated rectilinear Neolithic (c.3000-2400 BC) earthwork usually with a bank and external ditch, but occasionally by a line of closely-set pits. Their purpose is not known, which also tells us the Neolithic’s were too busy digging ditches and banks to record their purpose and they had little regard for future generations.
The path shows clearly through the crops as it crosses the next field. At a fork in the path we keep left to head towards the edge of Salisbury Plantation.
We ignore paths to the left and right as we follow the path along the edge of the woods to reach the course of the old Roman Road, the Ackling Dyke. Here we turn left to follow its route.
After crossing a stile there is an impressive array of tumuli in the next field.
Now we stay with the Roman Road as it gradually ascends to reach the B3081. After crossing the road we go through a gate and follow a path running besides the overgrown Roman Road.
The route descends steadily with fine views in front of us.
After crossing a farm track the route enters trees that form the edge of the Drive Plantation and continues on to reach a minor road. We cross the road and continue uphill through the edge of woodland. The Ackling Dyke covers 22 miles and connected the Roman settlements at Old Sarum on the edge of Salisbury and the Hillfort at Badbury Ring.
At a crossing of paths at Harley Gap we turn left and follow the Jubilee Trail along Harley Down.
This is the first time I have walked along this track. We soon get expansive views towards Penbury Knoll on Pentridge Hill. This prominent landmark will form part of our route but we still have a fair few miles walking before we get there.
At a junction of paths we turn right to leave the Jubilee Trail and within a few metres turn left to join a track (Coach Road) which heads towards All Hallows Farm.
After passing the farm we join a tarmac lane and continue straight on, soon reaching the neglected graveyard of All Hallows Church.
In the past this area was a thriving village known as All Hallows or Wimborne All Hallows and was far larger than nearby Wimborne St Giles. However, in 1672 Lord Shaftesbury whose seat was in Wimborne St Giles requested that the two parishes be combined by closing the living at All Hallows. He offered King Charles II a living of his choice in exchange for his agreement. Charles II agreed to this request and seventy years later the church was demolished and the stone used to build St Giles Church in Wimborne St Giles.
I don’t usually link to other people’s work in my blogs, but the Dorset Rambler has done some fascinating research into the village and some of the long deceased residents that now rest in this graveyard. It is well worth reading and can be accessed here.
From the graveyard we continue along the road heading towards Wimborne St Giles and soon pass the Bull Hotel. Sadly this pub is currently closed, apparently the owner is seeking tenants to run it, let’s hope they find someone and it is soon returned to its former glory.
A little further on we reach a road junction at Bull Bridge. This junction has one of those fingerposts which is unique to Dorset in that it displays its OS Grid Reference.
We now turn left and cross Bull Bridge and enter the heart of Wimborne St Giles. It is not a huge village and as well as being the seat of the Earl of Shaftesbury has a row of impressive Almshouses and the fine St Giles Church.
St Giles Church was constructed in 1732 on the site of an earlier medieval church and it incorporated masonry from the demolished All Hallows Church. Designed by the Bastard Brothers, who were architects from Blandford it stood until the early 1900’s when fire caused major damage. It was then rebuilt to the design of Sir Ninian Comper.
On my previous visits the church has been locked, but today it is open so I take a look. It is a very bright church with an elaborate font and fine carved screen.
Outside the church there are some old carvings in the stone work which appear to date back to 1764.
From the church we head back through the village passing the school and turning right at the village sign.
We now follow this lane running through the village past attractive cottages. At a road junction we turn right passing the Manor House and head north along a minor road. We have now joined the Hardy Way. This 220 mile route links parts of Wessex connected with Thomas Hardy.
At a track on the right we leave the minor road for a footpath along Ringwood Lane, still on the Hardy Way we keep with the trail way markers as it turns left to head north and then right going beside a field heading towards the B3081. Nearing Creech Hill House the path goes through a gap in the hedge and after crossing the road we continue heading east along a minor road towards Cranborne.
As the road bends to the right we stay with the Hardy Way and take a path on the left. This heads across fields to reach a common. In the field to our right is a large chair. This oak chair, created in 2006 was originally sited on Dartmoor, but apparently Dartmoor Park Authority issued an enforcement notice for it to be removed and it was relocated to the grounds of Cranborne Manor.
We follow the footpath across the common into the village. In the days of King Henry VIII Cranborne Chase was a Royal hunting ground and this was a major centre. Henry built a hunting lodge here.
We leave the village along Salisbury Street, at a fork in the road we take a tarmac lane signed posted “Bridleway to Pentridge”. This lane heads steadily uphill, passing houses to reach a gate across the track.
We pass besides the gate and continue along the bridleway. At a junction of paths at Jack’s Hedge Corner we stay with the bridleway.
Four hundred metres after Jack’s Hedge Corner we take a footpath on the right. This initially runs parallel to the track, but separated by a hedge.
We now follow this path as it steadily ascends Pentridge Hill. After passing through a band of trees we enter a pasture field with Shepherd’s Huts dotted about.
We cross a stile to join a footpath on Pentridge Hill and turn right towards Penbury Knoll. The views from here are stunning.
After going through a gate we pass Penbury Knoll and continue on a footpath along the top of Pentridge Down. Below us on the left is a medieval field system and further extensive views.
At a fork in the track we leave the Jubilee Trail and follow a grassy path that heads steadily downhill towards Whitey Top Farm. After crossing a stile we join a footpath heading north besides the edge of an arable field. We have once again joined the Jubilee Trail, this is an 88 mile path crossing Dorset from Forde Abbey near the Somerset border to the Bokerley Dyke.
We go through a gate and then continue along the edge of a copse to reach Martin Down at Bokerley Ditch. On the downs we turn left and walk besides the stunning Bokerley Ditch.
The path is easy to follow and we stay by the ditch until we reach the rifle range butt where we retrace our steps to the car park. Our walk has covered just over sixteen miles and has, as always in Nigel’s company, been a thoroughly enjoyable walk.
To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map 118 – Shaftesbury & Cranborne
All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it. To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access. Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk. It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.
When staying at Cholsey Grange CL I don’t do many short walks, the exception being my regular couple of miles through the woods in the morning with Crosby. However, I have a few things to do today and don’t have a lot of time for walking so have decided rather than rush a long walk I will take a steady stroll from the site.
Leaving the caravan I go through the metal gate at the far end of the site and turn left and walk downhill into the woods and then in the valley in the woods I turn left and follow the clear path.
My route from here is very straightforward, I stay on the path at the bottom of the valley for just over two kilometres until I reach a stile besides a gate leading to a track besides an arable field.
Turning right I stay on the track as it skirts the field and passes fields with horses in. On reaching a stile beside a gate I cross and then almost immediately go through a gate on the left to join the Chiltern Way. This fenced path goes uphill and then through another gate to follow the hedge line around the edge of an arable field.
I follow the path through a belt of trees and then through a gate to enter another field and continue besides the hedge.
At a junction of paths besides a gate I follow the way-marker pointing left on the Chiltern Way and head diagonally across a field towards a clump of trees encircling a pond.
After going through a gate I cross the driveway to Studdridge Farm and enter a field, within a few metres the Chiltern Way goes to the left through a gate and I follow it across a couple of fields towards Commonhill Wood.
At a fork in the path I go to the right to stay with the Chiltern Way as it heads down through trees to the edge of a field.
The footpath now runs along the edge of the field as it descends to a corner where the path divides. I go left leaving the Chiltern Way to follow a footpath steadily ascending through Hartmoor Wood.
This path brings me back up to the farm buildings of Cholsey Grange where I return to the site via a gate into the caravan and motorhome storage area and head back down the driveway to the caravan where I get a good view of most of the four mile route I have just walked.
All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it. To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access. Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk. It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.
On our travels I am always keen to find something interesting in an area which might not be a major tourist attraction but provides an insight into local history. Around Ibstone many local villages have featured in films and TV programmes and I am sure keen followers flock to identify where scenes were shot. Not being into TV or modern films I have little interest in these, but I do enjoy passing Cobstone Mill which features in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
My interest lies in the slightly more obscure, and often the place or building I am interested in is identified by chatting to a local or looking at websites developed by local people. The other evening I was looking at the Hambledon Parish Council website and discovered that a few buildings in Skirmett contain Roman bricks. I have previously walked through Skirmett but haven’t noticed the bricks, so today we are off to explore.
We leave Cholsey Grange by heading along the farm driveway to reach Ibstone Common, we cross the road and continue along the lane (Gray’s Lane) until we reach a footpath on the left just before a white cottage. This path leads steeply downhill into Parsonage Wood. It is a cracking afternoon and this is a stunning bit of Beech woodland to be walking through.
We stay with the path until we reach the edge of the churchyard of St Nicholas’ Church. According to the church’s website there has been a church here for over a thousand years, the current building dates from about 1125. Unfortunately the church is locked so we can’t look inside.
The church feels separated from the village, but apparently, until the time of the Black Death, the village of Ibstone was mainly located at the top of the lane. Following the plague the main centre of the village moved a mile or so up the road towards the Common.
From the church car park we turn left and then almost immediately right to head steeply downhill on a lane. Within a few hundred metres we take a footpath on the left leading along the edge of Park Wood. Sections of this woodland have been cleared recently opening up views into the valley.
At a fork in the path we keep right and the path now follows the edge of the woods with a fence to our right.
After passing through a kissing gate we head downhill on a clear footpath through trees and bushes. This brings us to a gate onto access land where we go right to reach a gate into an arable field and cross this heading towards Turville.
Following the footpath we reach a road in the village and turn left to pass the church and then take a right at the green to join School Lane.
Turville is one of those villages popular with film crews, amongst the programmes filmed here was the Vicar of Dibley. Not something I watched but its popularity still draws people to this attractive village.
After passing the old school, which is now a nursery, we reach the end of School Lane and join a footpath. After going through a gate we go straight on ignoring a path on the left and then soon pass another footpath on the right. We then cross the field to our left on a path that leads diagonally across towards a minor road and woodland.
After going through a gate we cross the road and enter Poynatts Wood. We soon reach a field where we ignore a path to the right but keep straight on to re-enter the trees. The footpath goes to the left and follows the contour line through another cracking bit of woodland.
On leaving the woods the path descends towards Poynatts Farm. To our left there are extensive views up the valley.
On reaching a minor road in Skirmett we turn right and walk through the village passing the Frog pub and a number of attractive cottages. We pass Stud Farm House and the road bends sharp to the right, but we turn left into Shogmoor Lane. The barn to our left is one pf the properties in the village where roman bricks were re-used.
Apparently the Romans had a number of villas along this valley as it was an important link between the River Thames and the Icknield Way and Ridgeway long distance routes. When these villas fell into disrepair the bricks were incorporated into new buildings. They can be identified by their thin irregular shapes.
We now follow this lane for 250 metres to reach a bridleway on the right which we take to head uphill towards Hatchet Wood. As we enter the woods there is a fork in the path and we keep to the right to head towards St Katherine’s Parmoor.
This estate was once owned by the Knights Templar. In the 16th century it was the home of the Saunders family and in 1603 Mary Saunders and her husband Timothy Doyle extended the property. In 1860 Henry William Cripps QC purchased the property, this later passed to his son Charles Alfred Cripps QC who in 1914 became Lord Parmoor of Frieth. His youngest son was Stafford Cripps the post war Chancellor of the Exchequer.
When Lord Parmoor died in 1941 the house was let to King Zog of Albania, he had been forced into exile when Mussolini invaded his Country. In 1946 King Zog left for Egypt and the house lay empty for a while before the second Lord Parmoor sold it to the Community of St Katharine of Alexandria who had been bombed out of their home in Fulham. In 1995 the last remaining member of the Community, Mother Christine, gave the house to Lady Ryder of The Sue Ryder Foundation, it has remained a separate charity providing a spiritual retreat.
After passing the edge of the retreat we reach a minor road which we cross and turn left to join a path on the other side of the trees which runs besides the edge of a field.
We stay with the path to go through gates and pass farm buildings and then at a junction of paths keep heading in a northerly direction towards Frieth. In the village we turn left along a road and then very quickly take a right to follow a lane (Innings Road) towards Little Frieth. At a junction with Spurgrove Lane we continue straight on along Innings Lane which soon becomes a track.
We ignore a path on the left leading to Adam’s Wood and continue along the track to reach Mousells Wood. Here we stay with the track, not entering the woods, to reach a gateway into a field, joining the Chiltern Way to head across the field.
On the far side of the field we enter Fingest Wood.
The clear path leads us through the trees to a stile beside a gate. From here there are fine views down the valley and in the distance we can see the caravans at Cholsey Grange.
We now follow the Chiltern Way as it heads downhill into Fingest.
At a minor road we turn left and walk through the village to pass the Chequers pub and church and then take a footpath on the right. This goes through a gate and continues besides a wall to reach a junction of paths where go right to walk through Mill Hanging Wood.
On reaching a junction of paths at Gravesend we turn left and follow the path through the bottom of the valley towards Twigside Bottom.
After a mile and a half on this path we reach a junction of paths at a clearing and turn left to head uphill towards Cholsey Grange.
It has been a cracking ten mile walk through some stunning woodland and we achieved our aim of finding some of the Roman bricks in Skirmett.
All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it. To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access. Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk. It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.
Having spent over a week walking from Cholsey Grange CL today the car is moving for the first time since we arrived. The starting point for our walk is the attractive Oxfordshire village of Ewelme which is about ten miles from Ibstone.
We park in the car park besides the village playing field and then start our walk by heading into the village, soon reaching the fine building that is the primary school. The school was originally founded in 1437 by the Duchess of Suffolk, Alice Chaucer (the granddaughter of Geoffrey Chaucer). The medieval buildings are still used today as classrooms.
We continue into the village and pass the village pond and turn right to pass the Village Shop, which is also a tea room.
Walking up the road we reach the village pound, this is where stray animals would have been penned until their owners could be identified. These days you rarely see stock wandering freely, but when I was a nipper it was a frequent occurrence in my home village. I recall waking in the middle of the night to find a herd of heifers in the back garden and on another occasion it was a flock of sheep.
Opposite the pound is a building which was once the stable of Nancy the Warhorse. A notice board explains the story of how Nancy was Sergeant Thomas Champion Orpwood’s mount with the Queen’s Own Oxfordshire Hussars in France during World War I. After the war Orpwood and Nancy returned to England and unloaded at Culham Railway Station, near Abingdon. As they reached the edge of the village Orpwood stopped at the Shepherd’s Hut for a pint and the horse continued on her own back to her stable.
At a junction we turn left into Chaucer Court and then follow the footpath as it goes left again to pass converted barns and then right past more converted barns. We are now on a bridleway heading north towards the B4009 besides fields.
We stay with this path to reach the B4009, ignoring paths to the left and right. At the road we cross and take a minor road opposite signposted to Brightwell Baldwin and Cuxham. In just over a hundred yards we take a track on the left, Rumbolds Lane, going north towards Rumbolds Farm. This is a clear track, but because of the time of year it is slightly overgrown in parts.
After passing the barns of Rumbolds Farm we continue on the track to reach a crossing of paths. Here we turn right on a broad track between fields.
The track leads through gates into fields and then joins a track heading downhill towards Brightwell Baldwin. On reaching a junction with a track we turn right and then at a minor road turn left to pass a gate house and continue into the village to reach St Bartholomew’s church. Parts of this church, including the stair turret, date to the 13th century.
Opposite the church is the attractive Lord Nelson Inn, we rarely stop at a pub on our walk as I am not keen on drinking in the daytime. So we decide to pass and pop back another time to take a look.
We continue through this pretty village, apparently its name derives from the old English for bright spring and the Baldwin part relates to the name of the family who once owned the manor.
We stay with the road through the village and pass the Old Rectory on the right and soon after reach a crossing of tracks. Here we turn right onto Turner’s Green Lane waymarked to Britwell Salome. We have now joined the route of the Shakespeare’s Way and follow this to reach Britwell Salome.
Just before reaching the road we take a path on the left which goes through a gate besides a cattle grid, still on the route of the Shakespeare’s Way. The way-markers lead us around the field to reach a gate onto a lane where we turn left and follow this to reach St Nicholas Church. Originally built in the 12th and 13th century it underwent major renovations between 1865-67.
The church is open so we pop inside. It has a fine 13th century font with a 17th century cover and behind it a very grand organ for the size of the church.
From the churchyard we turn left and follow the track to cross a cattle grid and continue along a path and then through a paddock to reach the B4009.
We cross with care and turn right for about twenty yards and then turn left to join a track. This is still the Shakespeare’s Way; this long distance path stretches 146 miles from Stratford-on-Avon to the Globe theatre in London. This section leads us to the Ridgeway path where we turn right.
The route now follows the Ridgeway soon crossing a minor road and continuing to North Farm where the Ridgeway veers to the left. Here we stay on the track and soon go by the edge of Icknieldbank Plantation.
Reaching a minor road we continue straight along it for a few hundred yards and then turn right on the Chiltern Way heading uphill. We pass an area of outdoor reared pigs and then an arable field.
We continue with the Cotswold Way to reach a minor road where we turn left and walk the short distance back to our starting place.
All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it. To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access. Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk. It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.
After a week on my own in the caravan I have been joined by Lynnie. She has decided to join me on a walk today as part of my planned route is through Bottom Wood. I walked there a week ago and told Lynnie how stunning it was and she is keen to see for herself.
We set off from Cholsey Grange by the farm track, heading downhill to reach the footpath leading into Penley Wood. At the junction of paths we turn right and head towards the woods and then in the trees take a path on the left.
We stay on the path at the bottom of the valley until we reach a stile beside a gate leading to a track alongside an arable field.
Turning right on the track we stay with it skirting the field and passing fields with horses in. At a stile besides a gate we cross and continue on the track to go through the tunnel under the M40 and walk into Stokenchurch. We continue across the green to pass the Kings Hotel and then join Church Street following this to the junction with Park Street where we turn right besides the Royal Oak pub.
We have now joined the Chiltern Way and at a fork in the path we go right through a gate and stay with this long distance path as it heads across fields.
Through another kissing gate we soon join a track where we go right and follow the way-markers with the footpath running beside a hedge.
At a junction of paths we stay with the Chiltern Way heading diagonally across a field towards farm buildings in the distance.
At a junction of paths we turn right and within a very short distance go left to cross a stile and continue towards the farm. After crossing a farm track the path ascends steeply towards Andridge Farm. Stopping for a breather we get a fine view back across the valley.
After going through gates the path joins a track. Here we leave the Chiltern Way and follow the driveway to reach Sprigs Holly Lane where we turn right and head steadily downhill into Radnage. It was our intention to visit the church in the village, but there is a funeral service going on so we’ll return another day.
At a junction we turn left and follow the road towards the church and then after a couple of hundred metres we go right on the Chiltern Way heading towards Bledlow Ridge.
This path leads into Yoesden Nature reserve, this is a thirty-two acre site managed by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust and is a combination of chalk downland and Beech woodland. Before becoming a nature reserve the trees in the woodland would have been managed to produce timber for the furniture industry.
This a cracking spot and there are some great views as we ascend the ridge.
Keeping with the Chiltern Way we follow the path to reach the village of Bledlow Ridge where we turn right and walk along the pavement until we reach St Paul’s Church.
In 1801 a church was built to the north of the village but this was replaced in 1834 on a site more central to the village. However, that church was then replaced in 1868 by the current building.
This church has the feeling of one that is being regularly used for community activities. So many churches we visit feel like they are used for a service once a week and in between hardly anyone ventures in.
Leaving the church we continue through the village to pass Haw Lane on our left and then 50 metres further on take a track on the right. We stay with this track as it descends steeply to reach Bottom Road where we turn left and then after 50 metres right to follow a path besides fields.
We reach a minor road in an area of Radnage known as The City. Although sparsely populated Radnage village spreads across a wide area. Apparently this part of the village once formed part of the village known as Radnage Manor, this was owned by the Crown. King Charles I mortgaged the land to the City of London.
On reaching Radnage Common Road we turn right and soon pass a playing field before continuing down the lane to reach Ashridge Farm. At a junction of paths we keep left to follow a wide path towards Bottom Wood.
The track leads through a gate into the woods. Now we turn left and follow a broad track through this attractive area of woodland. An information board explains the 36 acre Bottom Wood is owned by the Chiltern Society and was given to the charity in 1984 by nearby resident Cynthia Ercolani. Later research suggests that Cynthia was the wife of Lucian Ercolani whose family ran the Ercol furniture business based in High Wycombe.
Staying with the track we go through the bottom of the woods and pass a concrete slab covering a well. Apparently this well is 100 feet deep and was once used to provide water to the nearby hamlets of Beacon’s Bottom and Radnage Common.
The route through the bottom of these woods is an old packhorse trail. After leaving the trees the route continues along a track to reach Ham Farm.
After passing the farm we reach the A40 and cross to join a minor road opposite which is the Dashwood Roadhouse pub. After 50 metres we leave the road and turn right onto a farm track heading towards Hillingdon Farm.
Past the farm we continue to reach a crossing of paths, we go straight on through a belt of trees towards Barn Wood.
After 300 metres we reach the edge of Barn Wood, at a junction of paths, we continue straight on through the woodland following a path towards Leygrove’s Wood. On entering Leygrove’s Wood we carry straight on now on a broad track.
On leaving the woods we go through a small clearing and then enter Pound Wood and stay with the track through the wood until we fork left onto a footpath that heads steadily uphill to reach a tunnel under the M40.
On the far side of the tunnel we follow the track up to the B482 and turn right to join a pavement and pass a school. We now cross the road and then a village green and follow the lane into Cadmore End. After passing the church we turn right on a footpath along a track heading out of the village.
At a junction of paths we turn left to stay on the track as it heads downhill to reach the edge of Hanger Wood. As we enter the trees the path divides, we take the right fork.
About two hundred metres further on we take a footpath on the right which heads through the trees to pass a dew pond on our left.
The path now descends steeply to reach a gate into a field of pasture where we pass a redundant stile.
As the path heads downhill there are fine views towards Fingest.
After passing through two gates we reach a minor road, Chequers Lane, where we turn right and then very soon after turn left along a track with footpath way-markers. We now follow this track through the bottom of the valley towards Twigside Bottom.
After a mile and a half on this path we reach a junction of paths at a clearing and turn left to head uphill towards Cholsey Grange.
This path brings us to the metal gate at the south side of the caravan site.
All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it. To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access. Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk. It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.
