Two Dogs and an Awning

Category: South East

  • Following Tracks from Fritham

    Following Tracks from Fritham

    After my week away in Minehead I am back home and making the short trip into the New Forest today for a walk with my walking buddies Gary and Nigel.  After a prolonged spell of wet weather we know parts of the New Forest will be waterlogged so have planned a route keeping mainly on tracks.  The starting point for our walk is the car park in Fritham which is close to the Royal Oak pub.  (Grid Ref SU231141).

    We leave the car park and head towards the minor road we drove in on, but before reaching the road we turn left and join a track which has a sign saying it is the cycle route to Frogham only.

    This track heads west through Gorley Bushes. 

    After almost half a mile the path descends and passes a more open area and at a junction of tracks we keep to the left to continue heading west on the route of the cycleway.

    There are a network of tracks in this area of woodland.  We stay on the cycleway as it sweeps to the north west and then at a junction of tracks take the path on the right going north.

    We cross the next junction of tracks and at the next track crossing turn left.  We are now walking in a section of Island Thorns Inclosure, apparently the oak trees in this inclosure were planted closely together and as a result have grown unusually tall.  In recent times woodland management has resulted in the thinning of the oaks with many now piled ??  beside the track.

    This track takes us out of the woods and at a junction of tracks on Coopers Hill we turn right.  Despite being high up the heathland around the track is very waterlogged.

    During World War II this remote area of the New Forest was used as an RAF bombing range and the heathland is still littered with bomb craters.

    Reaching a path on the left we leave the track and follow the path for a couple of hundred yards to meet another track where we turn left again and head south west towards a large clearing in the heathland.  This clearing is the site of “Walled Target 2” one of three walled targets in the area.

    On the ground there is the odd glimpse indicating wartime history, later a look at aerial maps of the area show clearly the scars left on the landscape.  We follow a path through the heathland, still heading south west towards a track on Lodge Hill.  

    At the track we turn left and soon start descending towards a clearing.

    The clearing in this area between Lodge Hill and Pitts Wood was the site of a former keepers cottage known as Ashley Lodge.  During World War II when the surrounding area became a bombing range the inhabitants were relocated.  The house soon became derelict and reduced to ruins, however eighty years later there are still indications that a house once stood on this spot.

    Continuing along the track we cross a ford in Ashley Bottom and then head uphill to Pitts Wood.

    On our left is a plaque stating that Pitts Wood was enclosed in 1775 and thrown out in 1816 and then re-enclosed in 1906.

    We carry on through the edge of Pitts Wood before traversing across the flooded heathland towards Hampton Ridge.

    Now high up we have wide ranging views across the New Forest.  

    We have joined a cycleway and follow this heading west.  After a couple of hundred yards we take a short detour from our route, following a path on the left running almost parallel to the cycleway. It passes a concrete directional arrow which formed part of the war time bombing range.

    We follow the path to rejoin the Hampton Ridge and then pass the Ordnance Survey Trig Pillar that sits on this ridge.  I have bagged this trig on a few occasions, but it is always worth making a slight diversion to look at a trig!

    Returning to the cycleway we keep on the broad gravel track towards Abbots Well and Frogham.

    The cycle way joins a minor road and we continue towards Frogham, before heading uphill we pass the Abbotts Well.  This inauspicious site is easy to miss but in medieval times it would have been a vital watering hole for travellers through this area of the forest as they headed towards Southampton.  The plaque besides the well states it was first recorded in 1215.

    After a short section on the minor road we turn left and walk through Abbots Well car park and pass a large pond before heading west onto Hyde Common.

    After passing properties the path goes towards the south west, crossing a minor road and continuing to the edge of Gorley Common.  Here we quickly take a track on the left leading towards Dorridge Hill.

    After crossing a footbridge beside a ford we go over a minor road and then continue to ascend  Dorridge Hill.  So far the weather has been kind to us and it has remained dry but the sky ahead suggests we might get wet at some point soon.

    We now follow tracks and paths towards Hasley Inclosure.

    We don’t enter the inclosure but instead take a track to the right that skirts the edge of the woodland.

    At the eastern edge of the inclosure we join a track going towards Sloden Inclosure but after a couple hundred yards at a junction of tracks turn right to head downhill towards Splash Bridge.

    Splash Bridge takes us over Dockens Water and into Broomy Inclosure.  

    In the Inclosure we turn to the left and follow a cycleway to a crossroads of tracks where we go left again.

    On leaving the woods the track goes to the right passing Holly Hatch Cottage and we cross  Dockens Water again.

    The track now heads up to Ragged Boys Hill and passes woodland beside Sloden Inclosure.

    Near a gate to the inclosure we join a track and head northeast across Hiscocks Hill on a track returning us to our starting point.

    Our walk has covered just over thirteen miles and despite the threatening sky we have avoided any serious rain.

    You can view this 13 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow this walk you will need Ordnance Survey OS Explorer Map 22 – New Forest

    13th December 2023

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2023)

    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.

  • Four Trigs on the South Downs

    Four Trigs on the South Downs

    Back in 2018 I spent six days walking the South Downs Way, it was a cracking walk with the bonus of bagging a number of Ordnance Survey trig pillars as I travelled from Winchester to Eastbourne.  Most the trigs were on the route, but occasionally I made a short diversion to bag one.  There were others which I had in mind but the diversion would have added too many miles to my walk.

    Today I plan to revisit two trigs on the South Downs way at Rackham Hill and Kithurst Hill and combine this with bagging two I have not previously visited at Barpham Hill and Blackpatch Hill.  The starting point for my walk is just off the A27 in the car park at the end of Dovers Lane (Grid Ref: TQ060063).

    From the car park I join the tarmac track and head north towards Wepham Wood. It is a bright sunny morning which makes a pleasant change from yesterday’s overcast grey sky.  

    At a junction of paths I keep heading north through the trees and pass a cottage and continue through Lower Oldfield Copse.

    I cross the route of the Monarch’s Way and continue on a path which soon leaves the woods and passes fields as I head towards Upper Barpham.  

    These days Barpham consists of farms at Upper Barpham and Lower Barpham, but in the past there was a medieval village here known as Bargham.  In 1952 an archeological survey discovered the remains of a small Anglo-Saxon church which is thought to have been demolished in the 16th century with the masonry used to build Upper Barpham Farm.  The demise of the village started around the time of the Black Death in 1348-49 and depopulation gradually followed to the extent that the village no longer exists.

    After passing a fine barn at Upper Barpham I continue along the track to a junction of routes.  Here I go through a metal gate to enter a field and head up Barpham Hill.

    Soon on my left I spot the Barpham Hill Ordnance Survey Trig Pillar and wander across the pasture to visit it.  This is the 417th trig I have bagged.

    From the trig I rejoin the footpath which follows a track across the field towards a gate.  

    Through the gate the track continues across another field and then starts to descend with fine views in front.

    After going through a gate I join a track and turn left to reach a junction of paths and soon turn right to head north on a track on Wepham Down.  

    Within a couple of hundred yards I keep straight on where the track divides and join a hedge lined path.

    Soon the path gradually ascends.  Ignoring paths to the left and right I keep going until I reach a track where I turn right and then almost immediately left to take a path which continues uphill to join the route of the South Downs Way.  Here there is a view over Amberley and the flooded fields beyond.

    I now turn right on the South Downs Way and keep going steadily uphill on a track.   Soon I see the Rackham Hill Ordnance Survey trig pillar and pop across to bag it.  I have visited this trig before, there are fine views from here.

    Back on the South Downs Way I keep heading west over Springhead Hill and then bump into a mountain biker who stops for a chat.  These random conversations with total strangers are always interesting.  Often I learn something interesting about the area, but on this occasion it is a chance for us to share stories about how recent bouts of Covid have impacted on our ability to exercise.  

    I head off again along the broad track enjoying the warmth of the sunshine.

    After passing a car park on the left I leave the South Downs Way and fork to the left to follow a path heading up Kithurst Hill.

    As the path levels I reach the Kithurst Hill Ordnance Survey trig pillar, this is another trig which I bagged whilst walking the South Downs Way.

    A few hundred years beyond the trig I reach a junction of paths and turn right to follow a path to return to the South Downs Way.  Turning left I follow the track past a Dew Pond.

    The track continues along to reach a car park where there are a selection of paths I choose one on the right which goes through a metal gate and heads diagonally across a field. At the far side of the field the map shows the path going diagonally across the next field, but it is clear that most people walk around the wide field margin so I turn left and then right around the edge of the field.

    Now heading south I pass a boundary stone with a clear ordnance survey benchmark upon it.

    I keep heading south passing further boundary stones with benchmarks on them and then reach a fork in the path, here I go to the left heading up Blackpatch Hill.  

    The route goes through a gate and continues along the fence line, I take a short diversion to the top of the hill to see the Blackpatch Hill Ordnance Survey trig pillar.  I didn’t bag this when walking the South Downs Way, so it becomes my 418th trig.

    From the trig I turn to the right and follow a fence line downhill to rejoin the footpath and then turn left through a gate and join a track  which heads steadily downhill to pass Longfurlong Farm.  The route continues along the concrete farm driveway towards a minor road.  

    At the end of the concrete driveway and the start of the minor road I turn right to join the Monarch’s Way.  This follows the tarmac driveway to Myrtle Grove Farm.

    After passing the farm buildings, which are occupied by various businesses I stay with the Monarch’s Way and head west along a bridlepath.  Repair work is being carried out but so far it appears to have resulted in a muddy mess.

    I pass an old barn and continue along the track to a tarmac lane.  Here I turn left, still on the route of the Monarch’s Way passing Michelgrove as I continue along the lane.

    At a footpath, with a Monarch’s Way way-marker, I turn right and take a track that soon ascends steadily onto Michelgrove Park.  The tranquility of the afternoon is disturbed by the constant sound of guns as game birds are slaughtered.  

    At a fork on the track I keep to the right and continue a short distance to a four way crossing of paths.  Here the Monarch’s Way goes to the right, but I go straight on following a broad path between the trees.

    At a junction of paths near the edge of the woods I turn left and then very quickly reach a point where the path divides.  Here I go to the right and head through Stonyland Copse.

    This is a pleasant path through an area of mixed woodland.

    At a junction of paths I go straight on and then turn to the right on a track heading west towards my starting point in Hammerpot Copse.

    Back at the car I have walked 13 miles.  It has been a cracking day to be out and there have been some splendid views.  It is days like today that remind me what a great area the South Downs are to walk.

    You can view this 13 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow this walk you will need Ordnance Survey OS Explorer OL10 – Arundel & Pulborough

    17th November 2023

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2023)

    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.

  • Arundel Park to South Stoke

    Arundel Park to South Stoke

    A few days ago the weather forecast for today was persistent rain from dawn to dusk, but yesterday evening it improved to show the rain moving through by early afternoon, so I spend the morning catching up with a few things in the caravan and then head out after an early lunch.

    With a only a few hours of daylight I decide to head to Arundel Park and have a bit of a jamabout.  The starting point for my walk is the roadside car park in Mill Lane near to the Wildlife and Wetland Trust entrance.  From the car park I walk downhill and go through the gate to enter Arundel Park beside Swanbourne Lake.

    This lake is thought to have originated in the 11th century as a mill pond created by damming the steam created from chalk springs.  For centuries it served as the water supply to the mill and more recently has become a recreational area.  

    I follow the path beside the lake passing a few walkers who have braved the morning rain and are looking bedraggled.  I reach a gate and go through.

    I stay in bottom of the valley and at a junction of paths turn to the left and gradually ascend a track.

    Heading uphill I am treated to fine views back over the route I have walked so far.

    I go through a gate and then take some steps on the right onto open ground where I head across to the Hiorne Tower.  This was built in 1797 by Francis Hiorne who at the time was bidding to rebuild Arundel Castle for the Duke of Norfolk.

    In front of the tower is a relic found in a museum at Sevastopol after the siege of Sevastopol in 1855.  This siege was part of the Crimean War and Russian soldiers withdrew into the port which was the home of the Tsar’s Black Sea Fleet.  Here they became besieged by the French, Ottoman and British allied forces.  The battle that ensued lasted from October 1854 to September 1855.

    I now walk across to a tarmac drive and turn right to go through a gate and head north.

    After going through a gate I continue on the tarmac driveway and pass through an area of woodland.  

    I had hoped to leave the park at Duchess Lodge but when I get there the gates are locked so I decide to keep heading north towards Whiteways Lodge.  There are extensive views onto the South Downs and the flooded fields around Amberley.

    Nearing a junction of tracks I meet a fellow walker heading in the opposite direction.  I enquire if I will be able to exit the park at Whiteways Lodge and he thinks it unlikely, but then suggests a route I could follow that would take me back to Arundel via South Stoke.

    Always willing to heed the advice of locals I turn right at the junction of tracks and head beside Lonebeech Plantation.

    After going through a gate I head across a field towards a gate in the distance and midway turn left on a footpath which is the route of the Monarch’s Way and head towards a gate.  This was the path I followed yesterday towards the River Arun.  After going through a kissing gate I follow a track downhill with views towards Houghton and Amberley.

    The way-marked route descends through the edge of South Wood to reach a metal gate in the wall of Arundel Park, I turn right beside the river.  Yesterday my path alongside the river was low lying, today’s path quickly rises a few feet away from the water.

    After going through an area of woodland I pass through a gate to continue along the edge of a field.

    The footpath skirts around cattle barns and then passes a fine old barn apparently built in the late 1800’s and now used as a wedding and events venue.

    After the barn I turn left at a junction and follow a lane passing cottages to reach St Leonard’s church.  This old church was built in the 11th century and serves the small community around South Stoke Farm.

    From the church I continue on a track heading towards the River Arun and just before reaching the river go over a stile on the right to join a footpath by the river.

    The footpath follows the embankment with the river to my left and goes over several stiles heading towards Offham Farm.

    At a track leading to Offham Farm I pass a bridge and continue along the embankment and then go through a copse to emerge into the car park of the Black Rabbit pub.  Apparently the building dates to 1894 and was built by the Duke of Norfolk.  It is an unusual name for a pub and after walking by it yesterday I did an unsuccessful search on the internet to see why it was given this name.

    The pub has a beer garden with a fine views along the river.  It must be very popular in the summer.

    I have two options here I can either walk along the road to the car park or take the route alongside the river.  The light is fading but I should have enough time to take the longer route by the river.  I follow the footpath along the embankment to a junction of footpaths where I turn right back towards Arundel.

    The path goes besides the stream flowing from Swanbourne Lake.  Across the fields I get a good view of Arundel Castle.  This castle was originally built in the 11th century, it was damaged during the English Civil War and then restored in the 18th and 19th century.

    At a footbridge I turn right joining the road to walk back to my starting point.  The route was not what I planned when I set off but nevertheless has been a cracking walk covering 7.5 miles.

    You can view this 7.5 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow this walk you will need Ordnance Survey OS Explorer OL10 – Arundel & Pulborough

    16th November 2023

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2023)

    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.

  • A Trig, Seal and Fleeing King

    A Trig, Seal and Fleeing King

    With the weather looking set fair for the day I have decided to head out for a bit of a jamabout from Arundel.  It is an area I have not previously walked, part of my route will be through Arundel Park where I gather there is permitted walking in some areas whilst others have no access, so I may have to adapt my walk as I go.

    I start from the roadside parking area in Mill Road close to the entrance to Arundel Park and the Wildlife and Wetland Trust nature reserve.  I head north up Mill Road and soon go by the entrance to the nature reserve and then pass the Black Rabbit Pub.  Apparently this building dates to 1894 and was built by the Duke of Norfolk.  It is an unusual name for a pub.  Searching later I can’t find anything about the origins of the name.

    The road passes through a cut in the chalk to reach a junction.  Here I turn left towards South Stoke and continue up to the grand gates to Arundel Park.

    Going through the gates I join a footpath following a track steadily uphill.  It is a cracking day and after yesterday’s inclement weather it is refreshing to see clear blue sky.

    As I head uphill there are fine views out to my right over the River Arun with some flooding in the fields.  It is an ominous sign, I intend to follow a path close to the river later and hope it won’t be submerged.

    Nearing the top of the hill I fork to the left and wander over the open access land to bag the Drylodge Plantation Ordnance Survey trig pillar, my number 416 bagged.

    Near the trig I meet a local couple out for a walk in Arundel Park, they share their ideas for some local walks and also helpfully advise me where I can walk in the Park.  Following their advice I continue across the access land and go through a gate onto more access land with Drylodge Plantation to my left.

    The path goes along the top of the hill with views across the South Downs to flooded fields around Houghton and Amberley.

    After going through another gate I continue on the track towards Lonebeech Plantation and mid-way across the field turn right to join a footpath on the route of the Monarch’s Way.  This leads to a gate.

    The way-marked route goes downhill through the edge of South Wood to a metal gate in the wall of Arundel Park.

    On the path besides the River Arun I turn left and head towards Houghton.

    To my surprise I spot a seal in the river.  Apparently they are a common sight in this river, but it was not what I was expecting.

    Initially the path is dry, but as I near a disused chalk quarry it becomes flooded in parts and it takes careful navigation to avoid getting wet feet.  To make matters worse there are a couple of fallen trees across the path which have not been cleared. 

    It is with some relief that I reach the edge of Houghton and go through a gate ascending from the river into Houghton.  At a junction with the B2139 I turn left, still on the route of the Monarch’s Way and walk beside the busy road to pass the George and Dragon pub.

    A notice above the pub door states Charles II stopped for refreshments on Tuesday 14th October 1651 whilst fleeing from his defeat at the Battle of Worcester. 

    Just after the pub the Monarch’s Way follows a bridleway that initially runs parallel to the road and then goes up onto downland with fine views.  During the course of this year I have walked a number of sections of the 625-mile Monarch’s Way which roughly follows the route that Charles II took to get a boat at Shoreham after his defeat by Oliver Cromwell at Worcester.  

    The route goes along the edge of fields and then through a sunken track before heading across another field to reach the A29.  After crossing the road I keep following the Monarch’s Way way-markers into Houghton Forest.

    This is a pleasant area of woodland.  The only  thing disturbing the tranquility is the distant sound of game birds being slaughtered.

    Towards the western edge of the woods I reach a junction of paths and turn left heading south through the trees.

    The path leads to a minor road which I cross and pass through a small parking area to enter another area of woodland.  Staying with the clear path I head towards the A 29.  Approaching the road the path forks, I go left soon emerging beside the main road.  I cross with caution and on the far side ignore a footpath on my left instead taking a path going uphill through the open access woodland heading towards Yewtree Gate.

    On reaching Yewtree Gate I turn left and enter Rewell Wood.

    The track heads in a southeasterly direction passing areas of recently cleared and replanted trees and then goes alongside fields heading towards the A284.

    At a junction of paths just before reaching the main road I turn right and follow a path downhill into woodland.

    At Park Bottom Barn there is a junction of paths.  I follow the one along a track leading to Cricket Hill Farm.  There are no obvious signs of farming as I pass converted barns which are being used as offices and workshops.

    The route is now straightforward, I pass a trout fishery and follow the farm driveway back towards Arundel.  On reaching the A27 I turn left and then cross the A284 and walk into Arundel along Maltravers Street.  At the junction with Parson’s Hill I turn left and walk up towards Arundel Cathedral. 

    At a junction with London Road I turn left and pass the catholic cathedral which was commissioned by the 15th Duke of Norfolk in 1868 and completed in 1873.  

    Walking besides the wall of Arundel Park I reach a driveway into the park on my right and follow it.  

    I keep with the tarmac driveway through the park and then before reaching a gate I take a footpath on the right which leads me to Hiorne Tower.  This was built in 1797 by Francis Hiorne who at the time was bidding to rebuild Arundel Castle for the Duke of Norfolk.

    In front of the tower is a relic found in a museum at Sevastopol after the siege of Sevastopol in 1855.  This siege was part of the Crimean War and Russian soldiers withdrew into the port which was the home of the Tsar’s Black Sea Fleet and were then besieged by the French, Ottoman and British allied forces.  The battle that ensued lasted from October 1854 to September 1855.

    I am now back on the Monarch’s Way and follow this as it goes downhill with fine views across the park.

    At the bottom of the hill I leave the Monarch’s Way at a junction of footpaths and turn right and walk through the valley towards Swanbourne Lake.

    The path goes through a gate and continues on with the lake on my right hand side.  This lake is thought to have originated in the 11th century as a mill pond created by damming the stream created from chalk springs.  For centuries it served as the water supply to the mill and more recently has become a recreational area.   

    My wander about has covered twelve miles and it has been a cracking day.  The forecast does not look great for tomorrow so I will have to hope for a break in the rain to head out for some fresh air.

    You can view this 11 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow this walk you will need Ordnance Survey OS Explorer OL10 – Arundel & Pulborough

    15th November 2023

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2023)

    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.

  • Bow Hill and Devil’s Humps

    Bow Hill and Devil’s Humps

    After yesterday’s blustery walk along the coast and navigating my way around flooded fields I am heading inland to walk on the South Downs.  I am meeting up with my regular walking buddy Nigel from New Forest Navigation who is scoping out routes for his new guided walking venture; Wessex Adventures.

    The starting point for our walk is a roadside parking area just south of Walderton (Grid Ref: SU 787104).  From the car park we turn right to walk on the pavement besides the B2146 towards West Marden and Petersfield.

    We soon reach a junction where we turn left into Woodlands Lane and follow this quiet country lane as it heads steadily uphill.

    The lane levels out and turns to the west.  This road is a dead end for vehicles and it is clear there is very little traffic using it.  After passing Woodlands Cottage the lane becomes a track and reaches a gate which we walk beside to reach a junction of public rights of way.  Here we take the path on the right following a track heading north along the edge of woodland.

    At a junction of tracks we turn right and follow the driveway to Broadreed Farm and then near the farm at a fork in the track go left to walk on a footpath through the farm buildings.

    Leaving the farm we go along a grassy track beside fields.  After passing a copse on our right I spot the Broadreed Ordnance Survey trig pillar in the field on the right.  Fortunately the way the tractor tracks run mean I can walk to the trig without causing any damage to crops.  This is the 414th trig I have bagged.

    Rejoining Nigel on the footpath we continue between fields to reach an area of woodland, Wythy Piece.

    After a couple of hundred yards at a junction of paths we turn right to go along a grassy track between fields.  The rain that has been with us since we set off has become more persistent.  I am not a fan of walking in full waterproofs, but on days like this it is essential.

    The track leads us to Lodge Farm.  We pass the farmhouse with its array of old barns including a granary that has been converted into a chicken coop.

    Continuing in a northerly direction we go through a gate and follow a track towards another gate.  After going through we turn right on Oldhouse Lane and follow this to a junction with the B2146.  

    We cross the B road and head steadily uphill to a copse and find a suitable fallen tree to perch on for our elevenses.  Refreshed we follow the footpath to a minor road where we turn right and then within a hundred yards go left on a track towards Lyecommon.  At a junction of tracks we turn left, soon passing a cottage before entering woodland.

    At a junction of tracks in Grevitts Copse we go right and soon turn right onto a minor road and within a couple of hundred yards just after a cottage we turn left onto a bridleway.  We stay on this track to pass a large cottage and then keep going towards Inholmes Wood.

    At the edge of Inholmes Wood we turn left to follow a path along the edge of a field with the woodland to our right and then in the woods take a track on the right which heads downhill towards a minor road.

    We cross the road and enter Wildhams Wood and immediately turn right on a track in the woods.  On reaching a junction of tracks on the edge of the woodland we turn left and follow a path around  the edge of a field.  We ignore a path in front of us to stay beside the field and then re-enter trees and turn left along a forestry track.

    We soon reach a fork in the track and go left.  The track passes properties and then becomes more of a path and goes alongside a row of fine beech trees.

    The beech trees then give way to an avenue of yew trees.  At a crossing of tracks we turn right and head south on a path leading towards Bow Hill.  When we reach a clearing with a dew pond we stop to take in the extensive views across the South Downs.

    Still heading south up Bow Hill we soon reach the Bow Hill Ordnance Survey trig pillar.  Nigel has been here on a number of occasions, but it is my first visit so I bag my 415th trig pillar.

    From the trig we keep on the track as it sweeps to the right and then go through a gate to carry on besides the Devil’s Humps.  These are four Bronze Age barrows creating an impressive sight on top of the hill.

    Re-entering woodland we head in a south westerly direction along a road path.

    At a junction of tracks by a clearing we turn left and follow a track with the trees to our left for a couple of hundred yards before turning right at the next junction of paths.  This takes us along the edge of woodland.

    Leaving the trees the path starts to descend between fields.  The rain has now cleared and there are fine views as we head downhill.

    At a junction of paths by a derelict barn we turn right, the path leads into woodland where we continue downhill towards Walderton.

    On reaching a road we walk through the village passing the Barley Mow pub and continue on to reach our starting point.

    Despite the wet weather it has been another cracking walk with Nigel.  Hopefully it won’t be too long before we are out together again.

    You can view this 13 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow this walk you will need Ordnance Survey OS Explorer 120 – Chichester, South Harting & Selsey

    14th November 2023

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2023)

    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.

  • A Circuit from Atherington to Flansham

    A Circuit from Atherington to Flansham

    When this blog was first conceived I needed to give it a name.  For a number of days various options were considered and discarded.  At the time we were sorting out the letting of our house in preparation for our travels and I was contacting CL owners to book our stays.  As part of these conversations I described our requirement as “Two adults, a caravan with two dogs and an awning”.  The name for the blog suddenly became obvious.

    I am away for a week staying at the Caravan and Motorhome Club site in Littlehampton.  It is ideally situated for walking on the South Downs.  Crosby is now eleven and whilst still very active he is not up to consecutive days of long walks so he is staying at home with Lynnie.  I was unable to get a pitch with space for an awning.  So for the first time I am one adult, no dogs, no awning!

    In plotting my walks for the week I have identified a few ordnance survey trig pillars that I haven’t bagged in this part of West Sussex.  Some of these trigs are on the downs and others like the ones I am aiming for today are nearer the coast.  My starting point is a parking area near the sea at Atherington.  There is restricted parking here during the summer, but during winter months these do not apply.  

    There is usually more parking here, but a lot of work has been done to create a shingle bank as a sea defence, I am unclear if the reduction in parking is a temporary measure or permanent.  News reports suggest the car park and cafe might be moved further inland.

    As I lace up my boots the spray from waves is crashing over the shingle bank and a local dog walker returning to his car comments on how wild the weather is and unnecessarily warns me to keep away from the waves.  I intend to head west along the coastal path towards Bognor Regis and start by walking up on to the shingle bank that protects the parking and picnic area and local housing.  

    The footpath leaves the far end of the car park along the sea defences, but a combination of erosion and the high tide make this route too dangerous.  A local tells me to take a footpath behind the cafe building that goes through a section of woodland before returning me to the coast path.

    Emerging onto farm land I follow the path with the waves crashing away to my left.

    I last walked along this stretch of coastline in 2017 and the extent of erosion is striking.  Apparently nine acres of farm land have been lost to the sea over the last year and I later see some amazing footage of the changes to the landscape.

    As I near housing at Elmer the sea defences become far more substantial and for the first time I am able to walk on the path I followed six years ago.

    It is a cracking day but I am walking into a strong headwind which makes it challenging to build up any pace.

    The path briefly leaves the sea front and joins a road and then I take the second footpath on the left back to the seafront.

    It is not too long before the path heads inland again because the high tide makes it impossible to stay beside the sea.  I walk through a residential area and then turn left along Elmer Road and soon join the B2132 which goes through Middleton-on-Sea.  After passing shops on the opposite side of the road I turn left into Sea Lane.  On my right is Middleton-on-Sea village pond.

    I continue along Sea Lane, ignoring all roads to left and right, this eventually brings me to the shingle beach where I turn right and I’m soon on a wide grassy area with numerous benches.  To the right I pass a collection of well-maintained wooden beach huts.

    This spot is relatively sheltered from the wind so I decide to avail myself  of one of the benches and stop for elevenses.

    Around the corner I continue along a path and it is not too long before this becomes a tarmac promenade with Bognor Regis in the distance.

    The last time I walked along this seafront was with Lynnie and we went all the way into Bognor Regis and then turned around and retraced our steps back to the car.  Today I am going to do a loop inland so with a view of Butlins in front of me I turn right to leave the promenade and join First Avenue.

    At a junction with Limmer Road I turn left and then very quickly turn right into Summerley Lane.  After passing a Post Office I follow the path into a waterlogged playing field and follow the path around the edge to reach the B2132.

    I cross the B2132 and turn to the right and then immediately at a junction go left into Flansham Lane and follow this to the A259 which I cross and then join Hoe Lane and walk into Flansham.

    In the village at a fork in the road I go to the left and continue along the road which soon becomes a track.  

    The track passes Hoe Farm then the footpath goes beside a gate and continues along to reach a junction of three tracks.  Directly in front of me is Westfield Ordnance Survey Trig Pillar.  This is the 413th trig I have bagged.

    I now turn to the right to follow the track to a junction of tracks, here I go right again.  This path along the field edge is very soggy and flooded in places but fortunately I manage to get through without getting wet feet.  I cross a footbridge into another waterlogged field.

    I dare to hope that I have passed the worst of the flooding and then reach a junction of tracks.  Here it was my intention to turn left and follow paths to Bilsham and on to bag another trig, however, there is no way I can get through this flood without getting wet feet.  There is not much that deters me from bagging a trig, but there is no joy in walking with soaking wet feet.  So I check the map and decide to re-route and turn right to walk back into Flansham.

    Back in the village I retrace my steps along Hoe Lane to the A259.  I cross and take a path that heads east towards Worms Wood.

    I follow the track until it almost reaches the A259 and then go through a gate into Worms Wood.  This is an open access area leased from the local council by the Woodland Trust around 2000 and they have created some cracking woodland.

    I head through the trees with soggy ground beneath my feet.  At the edge of the woodland I go through a gate and after crossing a ditch turn left along the north edge of a recreation area.

    The footpath leaves the recreation area through a kissing gate and then follows a path to reach the B2132.  After crossing the road I follow Ancton Lane to reach Ancton and then continue through a residential area to Elmer where I rejoin the coast path and turn left.  The tide has now gone out and there is a different perspective to the coastline.

    When we walked this bit of coastline six years ago the groynes came all the way up to the shingle bank.  The erosion means they are now separated and presumably no longer serve as a useful defence.  

    With the tide out I am able to walk on the coast path and do not need to go through the woodland to reach the newly created shingle bank and my car.

    You can view this 10.5 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow this walk you will need Ordnance Survey OS Explorer 121 – Arundel & Pulborough

    13th November 2023

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2023)

    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.

  • Three Trigs from Brighton CAMC

    Three Trigs from Brighton CAMC

    Yesterday we spent a leisurely day and left it until midafternoon to take a wander along the promenade into Brighton.  Strolling along we encountered the Brighton Naked Bike Ride, apparently this is an annual event where cyclists discard their clothing and ride through the town to the seafront.  Why they should feel the need to do so is beyond me.  The naturist beach is fine, call me prudish but I think hundreds of people riding through a town starkers is inappropriate, and I imagine uncomfortable!

    Hopefully today appropriate clothing will be worn by everyone we meet.  The recent hot spell has resulted in a sea mist providing some respite from the sun.  We are walking from the caravan, departing the site it’s still very warm.

    We walk through East Brighton Park to reach the road and then turn left and continue on pavements, we cross the main A259 and follow the signpost down to join the Undercliff heading towards Saltdean.

    Soon we pass the edge of Brighton Marina.  Work began on building the marina in 1971 and still appears to be underway with construction going on at the western end.  Apparently there are 1,600 berths provided in the marina with some linked to waterfront houses.

    This part of our route is very straightforward, we will be staying with the under cliff walk all the way to Saltdean.  The path is shared with bikes, scooters and skateboards, many electric, so we need to be mindful of folk coming up behind us at pace.  Of course pedestrians have priority over folk on two wheels, but the speed that some pass us makes it hard to believe they have a duty of care toward walkers.

    It is not too long before we reach Rottingdean and the White Horse Inn.  We spent a very enjoyable evening there on Friday evening having a pre-wedding get together with friends.  The pub was very busy but for some reason there only ever seemed to be one person serving drinks at a time whilst the staff’s main preoccupation was chatting to each other and restocking the shelves with glasses.  

    We keep heading east along the under cliff walk.  The tide is out and the sea mist has kept people away from the seafront so it is very quiet as we walk along.

    On reaching Saltdean we pop into the White Cliff Cafe, this was the venue for Saturday’s wedding reception.  It was a memorable evening with much laughter and merriment.  The only damper on the evening was on our return when I realised I had left my new cap behind.  I pop in to see if it is in the cafe’s lost property box.  Sadly no sign of the cap, but fortunately a message a few hours later from a friend confirmed they picked up my hat whilst clearing up on Sunday.  

    Resuming our walk we leave the under cliff walk and follow the path up to reach the A259 and turn right to continue heading east until we reach a memorial which was unveiled in 1995 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II.

    Turning away from the sea we cross the main road with care and join a footpath going through a gate onto Telscombe Tye, this is an area of common land owned by Telscombe Town Council.  We follow a path that heads in a northerly direction across the grassland.  

    The sea mist is still reducing visibility but as we walk away from the coast it starts to clear and immediately the temperature rises.  Just after passing a fenced dew pond we turn left and follow a path besides a track heading towards a house on the horizon.

    On reaching a gate we go through and then stop to admire the far reaching view behind us.

    Resuming our walk we go right and pass through another gate and then follow a track besides a field heading in a northerly direction again.

    After going through another gate we take a slight diversion from our route and walk up a track towards a covered reservoir and then follow the fence around the reservoir to spot the High Dole Ordnance Survey Trig Pillar within the fenced enclosure.  

    Returning to the track we pass a footpath on our left.  Within another 100 yards we reach another path on the left and take this to descend from Highdole Hill towards Pickers Hill Farm.

    Reaching the farmyard it is a bit confusing where the route goes.  The footpath is between farm buildings and then through a gate but the route is overgrown.  We spot someone walking down a wide track in the field next to the path and assume this is one of those places with an unofficial diversion so we follow the well-worn path up High Hill.

    It has become very hot so nearing the top of the hill we stop for a drink and admire the view behind us.

    Halfway up the hill the official footpath route joins the field we are in and as we reach the top the way markers direct us through a gateway and then along a track.

    At a junction of paths near a horse paddock we turn right and go across a field towards a gate.  From here there are stunning views across the South Downs.  

    At the gateway we turn left and join a tarmac track heading south to pass Balsdean Farm, the track becomes a minor road which leads into Rottingdean.  At a road junction in the village we turn right and follow the pavement until we reach a footpath sign on the left.  This path is along the driveway to a playing field.

    We cross the field and take a footpath uphill onto access land on Beacon Hill.  We are back near the coast and have entered the sea mist so the temperature has dropped again.

    On the access land we keep heading in a northwesterly direction on a clear path to reach a gate onto a road in Ovingdean.  Now we keep going in the same direction and head through the village on Longhill Road.  At the end of this road we turn right into Ovingdean Road and head uphill, soon reaching a track on the left which takes us towards Mount Pleasant.

    At a gate on the left we enter an area of open access land and wander across to visit the Ordnance Survey Mount Pleasant Trig Pillar, my 387th trig bagged.

    Returning to the track we soon take a path on the left which heads steeply downhill to a junction of tracks where we turn left.  We follow the track to reach another junction where we once again turn left and then soon take a track on the right.  This track almost immediately forks, we go to the right and follow the path as it gradually ascends Red Hill with a golf course to our right.

    At the top of the hill the path goes across East Brighton Golf Course and we take a short diversion to visit our third Ordnance Survey Trig Pillar of the day.

    Returning to the footpath we continue across the golf course to reach a gate which leads onto open access land in East Brighton Park.  There are a network of paths and tracks on this area of downland.  We steadily descend the hill with views across the park in front of us.

    After going through a gate we go down steps and soon reach a car park besides the Pavilion Cafe.  

    In 1913 Brighton Corporation purchased 1000 acres of land in the parish of Ovingdean.  Sixty acres were set aside to create this park area which has football and cricket pitches.  An area is occupied by Whitehawk Football Club and Brighton College also rent an area for playing fields.

    In 1968 areas of the park were transformed to replicate the trenches in the Battle of the Somme for scenes in the film “Oh! What a Lovely War”.

    Leaving the car park we turn right and follow the driveway to reach the caravan site and complete our fourteen mile walk.

    You can view this 14 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File here.

    To follow this walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map – OL11 – Brighton and Hove

    12th June 2023

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2023)

    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.

  • Hollingbury Castle from Brighton CAMC

    Hollingbury Castle from Brighton CAMC

    It is unusual for us to stay on a Caravan Club main site during the summer.  The majority of our stays when travelling are on the Club’s network of CL sites.  Occasionally during the winter we use a main site because of the hard standing and their location.  This stay in Brighton is to enable us attend a friend’s wedding party in nearby Saltdean and when booking we decided to stay a few extra days to  explore in and around Brighton. 

    The wedding party is late on Saturday afternoon giving me time to head out for a walk before catching a bus to the party venue.  As usual it is my preference to walk from the caravan so I head off from the site and follow the entrance driveway until I reach a car park for the East Brighton Park Pavilion and Cafe.

    In 1913 Brighton Corporation purchased 1000 acres of land in the parish of Ovingdean.  Sixty acres were set aside to create this park area which has football and cricket pitches.  An area is occupied by Whitehawk Football Club and Brighton College also rent an area for playing fields.

    I follow a route through the park passing the pavilion cafe and then at a junction of paths turn left and follow a route that gradually ascends the downs.  I have views across the cricket pitches and further on towards the sea.  

    Staying with the path northwards I can soon see the Brighton Racecourse grandstand on the horizon.  Racing has been taking place on this course since 1783 when the Duke of Cumberland held the first public race day.

    My route continues steadily uphill with houses and the railings of the racecourse in front of me.

    At a gate I cross the racecourse, it is all quiet today but when we arrived yesterday there was a race meeting going on and it was a busy scene as we crossed the racetrack on the road leading to the caravan site.

    On the far side of the course I turn left and follow a wide grassy margin besides Warren Road and then after a couple of hundred yards cross the road and walk along to Drove Road where I turn right and pass a livery yard.  This lane soon becomes a footpath and passes along the back of houses heading towards the B2123.

    After crossing the road there is a junction of paths besides a parking area and  information board for Woodingdean.  I take the path which runs beside the road and soon pass a South Downs National Park sign

    This well-made path is shared with cyclists and horse riders.  Today I only encounter a couple of cyclists as I wander along.

    At a crossing of footpaths I cross the road and join a footpath heading westward along Falmer Hill.

    The path follows the field margin and then goes to the right to meet a crossing of routes.  Here I go left and follow a track heading west to reach a gate.  Here at a fork in the path I go right to follow the fence line heading steadily downhill towards East Moulescoomb.

    After going through a kissing gate I follow paths down steps through a housing estate in East Moulescoomb to reach Hodsgrove Lane heading towards the A270.

    After crossing the main road at traffic lights I turn right to walk away from Brighton and soon reach an area of grassland in North Moulescoomb.  Walking across the grass I reach a small parking area and then take a footpath on the left which goes up steps overlooking a sports ground.

    It is a hot day and this is a long series of steps as I head uphill to reach houses on the edge of Coldean.  I turn left and follow a housing estate road for a couple of hundred yards to reach a footpath on the left which I take and continue uphill across downland towards Hollingbury Hillfort.

    Behind me is the Amex Stadium home of Brighton and Hove Football club since 2011.  The story of their departure from the Goldstone Ground, their home since 1901, started when the board sold the freehold of the stadium to a property developer in effect making them homeless.  The club then played in various locations including at Gillingham and at the Withdean Athletics Stadium.  

    For those into their football trivia it was at the Goldstone Ground that David Beckham made his first team debut for Manchester United in 1992 when he came on as a substitute in a League Cup second round tie.

    I keep going uphill until I reach a junction of paths besides an information board.  Here I turn left and follow a footpath running parallel to the hillfort and then at a junction of paths turn right to head up through the ramparts of the fort and head towards the Bronze Age barrows.

    Hollingbury Fort also known as Hollingbury Castle is an Iron Age hillfort with far reaching views across the South Downs and out to sea.  It is easy to see why it would her been chosen as a location, unwanted visitors could be spotted from miles away.

    I head across to reach the Hollingbury Castle Ordnance Survey trig pillar which sits on the ramparts on the west side of the castle.  This is the 385th trig I have bagged.

    The hillfort is surrounded by Hollingbury Golf Course which leases the land from Brighton and Hove Council.  It looks a pleasant spot to play golf on a summer’s day, but I expect it can be pretty bleak up here in the winter.

    From the trig I follow the ramparts to the south and then take a permissive path across a fairway to join a waymarked permissive route heading south downhill through the golf course.

    At the bottom of the golf course the path goes to the left and then through trees to reach a footpath.  Here I turn right and follow a path leading to a housing estate in Hollingdean.

    My route through the housing estate keeps heading south towards a ‘B’ road  where I turn left and pass under the railway line.  I continue to a junction with the main A270, turning right to walk through the outskirts of Brighton towards the seafront.

    It is rare for my walks to take me through towns but it makes an interesting change to be walking in an urban area.  There are plenty of interesting buildings to look at, many of which appear to be owned by the University and of course there is the famous Royal Pavilion.  

    This is a former Royal Residence and was built in three stages commencing in 1787 for George, Prince of Wales, later to become King George IV.  It is a very unusual design and was used by royalty until Queen Victoria, who disliked Brighton, and instead had a seaside residency at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight.

    On reaching the seafront at the Pavilion Pier I turn left and follow the promenade.  Brighton seafront on a sunny day is too busy for me.  Fortunately as I head along it gets less crowded but it is still not my type of walking.  

    At steps I head up to the main Marine Parade and follow this to Marine Way where I turn left and head north following the road to the entrance to East Brighton Park.  From here I walk through the park to return to the caravan site.  My walk has covered twelve and a half miles and my timing is spot on to prepare for the party.

    You can view this 12.5 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File here.

    To follow this walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map – OL11 – Brighton and Hove

    10th June 2023

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2023)

    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.

  • Walking on Watership Down

    Walking on Watership Down

    A new walking year starts and once again I am undertaking a “walk the year” challenge.  This is the sixth year I have undertaken this quest, so this year I will be aiming to walk at least 2,023 “boots on” miles.  Since starting this challenge in 2018 I have walked over 12,500 miles which is equivalent to half way around the world.  On today’s walk I am joined by my walking buddies Mandy, Gary and Nigel.  We are going to explore a part of Hampshire I have not previously walked and hopefully bag a couple of new trig pillars.

    The starting point for our walk is the car park at the top of White Hill on the B3051 south of Kingsclere (Grid Ref. SU 516565).  It is a chilly morning so we don’t hang around and are soon heading off to leave the car park to the north and after going through a gate follow a track along the top of access land on Stubbington Down.

    This area is home to horse racing stables and it is clear the track has been laid for the benefit of horses rather than walkers.  At a junction of footpaths we turn right and head south to another path junction where we turn left and continue along the edge of a field heading towards the Hannington wireless tower on Cottington’s Hill.

    This tower broadcasts television signals.  Apparently for a six minute period on 26th November 1977 the broadcasts from the tower were hijacked and instead of Southern TV news a broadcast purporting to be from Vrillon an alien from the Ashtar Galactic Command.  Extensive investigations failed to identify the individuals responsible for this prank.

    On reaching a gate in the corner of the field our route goes to the left, but first we make a short diversion so I can bag a trig.  To do this we go through the gate and follow the path for 100 metres and the trig is at the edge of woodland to the right.  This trig has been moved from its original location which was further into the field.  

    It’s never good to find a trig has been moved, but at least it has not been destroyed.  This is my 357th trig.

    From the trig we return to the gate and now turn right to head downhill to woodland on Freemantle Park Down.  Entering the trees we turn right and follow a footpath that heads east.

    It is a cracking morning and as we emerge from the trees we get wide ranging views.

    We stay with the path until we reach a track where we turn left to head north downhill.

    The path soon levels out and continues between arable fields.

    At a junction of paths we take the second path on the left and head towards Kingsclere.

    On reaching a fork in the track we go left and follow this track until we reach a playing field where we follow the footpath as it goes diagonally downhill to the north west corner of the playing field.  On reaching a road we cross and follow a residential lane to the centre of Kingsclere where we stop for our elevenses on a bench in the churchyard of St Mary’s.

    Parts of this church date to the 12th century but most of the current church dates from a rebuild in the 19th century.  I take a tour around the churchyard to see if there are any interesting gravestones.  

    One grave in particular stands out, this is the resting place of John Porter (1838-1922), he was considered the greatest racehorse trainer of the Victorian era.  Porter also lobbied the Jockey Club for a racecourse at Newbury.  Apparently they declined until Porter gained the support of King Edward VII after which there was a swift change of mind and the now famous Newbury racecourse was approved.

    From the church we head south west through the village along Swan Street.  At a junction we turn right into Bear Hill and soon cross a stream.  

    At the top of Bear Lane we turn briefly right into Fox Lane, clearly there is an animal theme to the naming of streets in this village. We are only in Fox Lane for a few yards before taking a footpath on the left.  This path is part of the Brenda Parker Way, a 78-mile route across Hampshire from Aldershot to Andover.

    This path goes along the edge of a field and skirts Bishop’s Hill.

    At a junction of paths by a barn we turn right and head north to a minor road where we turn right and then almost immediately take a path on the left. 

    We stay with the Brenda Parker Way heading north and keep with it around Frobury Farm passing fishing lakes.

    The path skirts the edge of Frobury Park Copse and then goes through Southwood Copse to a crossing of paths.  We turn right keeping with the Brenda Parker Way in a northerly direction towards Kisby’s Farm.

    We are keeping to the Brenda Parker Way all the way to Burghclere. Near Kisby’s Farm we turn left and continue along a track towards a road which we cross and continue on a track towards Birch Copse and Waterleas Copse.  On reaching a minor road we turn right and after a couple of hundred yards turn left along a track.

    The track heads between fields towards Pembroke House.

    We pass the house going through the grounds, then the path continues along the driveway of the property to reach a minor road which we cross and continue through woodland with a school to our left.  At the next road we turn left into Well Lane and walk into Burghclere.

    Soon we reach a fork in the road where we go to the right to join Harts Lane and follow this to reach the Church of Ascension where we turn left and pass the village hall and then take a left to enter a park with picnic benches. An ideal lunch spot.

    Refreshed we retrace our footsteps towards the church but take a footpath on the left just before reaching it.  We are now heading south across fields.

    On reaching a minor road we turn right and then very quickly take a footpath on the left and rejoin the Brenda Parker Way.

    In the field to our left is an old signal box which was part of the former Didcot, Newbury and Southampton railway.

    We now turn left to walk along the route of the old railway line which fully opened in 1885.  During World War II it was a significant route in moving troops and supplies to Southampton.  However after the war the number of trains on the line declined and by 1964 all trains had ceased.

    After going under a railway bridge the path goes to the right to rise up to a track which uses the bridge to cross the old railway.  Here the Brenda Parker Way goes left, but our route is to the right along a broad track leading towards a minor road.

    At the road we turn right and head south passing Wergs Farm to reach a road junction.  Here we cross the road and continue along a track which soon starts to ascend Ladle Hill.

    As the path levels out it goes between fields to reach a junction of paths at a flint cairn.  Here we turn left to join the Wayfarer’s Way.  This is a seventy-one mile long distance path from Walbury Hill near Inkpen in Berkshire to Emsworth on the Hampshire coast.

    Our route now follows along the Wayfarer’s Way back to the car park.  This soon takes us besides the open access land on Ladle Hill where we take a slight diversion through a gate towards the site of the Iron Age Hill Fort.  Apparently despite being occupied for hundreds of years this is considered an unfinished fort.

    To the north of the ramparts is an interesting disc barrow.  On my walks I have visited numerous barrows and tumuli but I can’t recall seeing a burial mound like this one.

    We head back to the gate and pass a dew pond, these ponds are regular features on chalk downs.  They are man-made being excavated and then lined with clay so rain water is captured to provide drinking water for livestock.

    Heading east we reach a junction of paths and turn left and then right through a gate with a collection of way-markers showing that along with the Wayfarer’s Way we are now also on the Three Shires Link and the Watership Down Trail.

    Watership Down Trail is a twenty-four mile circular walk from Whitchurch, so something to do later in the year when the days are longer.

    We now head through a field and descend to join a track where we turn left and then reach a minor road.  Crossing the road we join a footpath on the opposite side heading steadily uphill to Watership Down.

    After going through a gate we follow the fence line and then I hop over and walk across the stubble to bag the Watership Down trig pillar that sits just inside the field.

    Back on the footpath we pass jumps on the gallops and then join a track heading east.

    Watership Down was of course made famous by Richard Adams’ book of the same name.  It was Adams’ first book and apparently was rejected by all the major publishers before being accepted by Rex Collings who  published it in 1972. 

    In 1978 it was adapted into a feature film and the story of the rabbits on the Down became very well known.  Strangely despite rabbits being the focus of the book we have not seen a single one today.

    The track we are on goes between gallops and continues all the way back to our starting point in the White Hill car park.

    Back at the car we have completed a sixteen mile circuit.  It has been a cracking walk in unfamiliar countryside, I am sure we will revisit this area before too long.

    You can view this 16.3 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map – 144 – Basingstoke, Alton & Whitchurch, Odiham, Overton & Hook;  and OS Explorer – 158 Newbury & Hungerford

    6th January 2023

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2023)

    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.

  • Reaching 2,022 Miles in 2022

    Reaching 2,022 Miles in 2022

    This is my fifth year of walking the year, I started in 2018 with a challenge to walk 2,018 miles in the year and in doing so sought to raise over £2,018 for the Trussell Trust.  It was supposed to be a one off but it has become an annual event partly because the need to raise funds for this excellent charity, supporting those living in poverty, is even greater than it was five years ago.  In itself a terrible indictment of the political leaders who have become obsessed in extricating the Country from our European neighbours and ignored the most vulnerable in society.  As the Billy Bragg song goes there will be a day of reckoning, hopefully sooner rather than later!

    Walking soothes my soul.  It helps me manage the challenges of life and keeps my head on the right way around.  So I don’t need a mileage target to motivate me to lace up my boots and head out.  However, having the target means on days when I have walked a couple of miles and could turn for home I keep going.  

    Despite being on the cusp of reaching this year’s target with well over two months to spare I have found 2022 the most challenging year.  This is mainly due to picking up an ankle injury in the spring, it required rest, but I don’t do rest well and tried to punch on.  Of course it soon reached the stage where I could not walk more than a quarter of a mile without being in agony.  Thanks to excellent treatment and a recuperation period involving rest and exercises I gradually got back to full walking fitness.  However, it took almost three months before I was back to doing long distances. 

    It had never occurred to me that an injury could curtail my walking.  I am not an elite athlete but considered myself able to comfortably walk twenty miles a day for a prolonged period without any problem.  So an injury made me appreciate how athletes and sports players must feel when they pick up injuries which put them out of action for weeks or months.

    Knowing I am only seven miles from reaching 2,022 miles I have decided to venture somewhere different for today’s walk.  I don’t often go into the New Forest despite it being fairly close to home.  But doing the National Navigation Award Bronze and Silver courses with Nigel from New Forest Navigation introduced me to parts of the Forest I had not previously visited.  Today’s walk starts in Anderwood, a few miles south of Lyndhurst just off the A35.

    The starting point for my walk is the Forestry England car park at Anderwood, (OS Grid Reference SU248058).  From the car park I head south through a clearing and cross a minor road to enter Dames Slough Inclosure.

    The track I’m following heads south through the trees and crosses a footbridge over Black Water.

    150 metres from the bridge I ignore a track on the right, instead I continue south and then stay on the track as it sweeps to the right.  The track leads to a gate which I go through before continuing  west towards Cockroad Hill.

    About 700 metres past the gate I reach a junction of tracks and turn left and stay on this path for 200 metres before turning left along a ride which heads south to a gate at the edge of the inclosure.

    Turning left I follow the inclosure fence line to cross two footbridges and then follow a path in a south easterly direction over Redrise Hill.

    After crossing the hill I descend to reach another footbridge.

    Now I continue heading south, initially crossing a stream and then heading uphill on a clear track leading to the top of Rock Hills.

    As the track levels out I turn left at a junction of paths and after 250?? metres turn right on a grassy track. To my left near the A35 is the Parkway Hill OS trig pillar, I have previously bagged this trig so don’t make the diversion today.

    The path leads to a junction of paths near the A35 at Wilverley Post.  I initially continue south but after 25 metres turn to the right to follow a path down a valley into Scrape Bottom.

    I had initially planned to turn left at a junction of paths, however, decide to follow a faint path that follows the contour line around the hill and heads south towards a minor road.

    I cross the road beside a cattle grid and then turn left to take a pathway besides the road which leads to a path along a disused railway track.  I turn right and walk beside the remains of the platform of the former Holmsley Railway station.  Apparently when the station was opened in 1847 it was known as Christchurch Road but was changed to Holmsley in 1862.

    I now follow the track bed of the old Southampton to Dorchester railway line.  This was opened in 1847 and was part of a greater scheme to create a coastal route from Southampton to Exeter.  The railway operated for passengers until the 1960’s. Apparently there has been a campaign to re-open this section between Brockenhust and Ringwood, but it is currently viewed as a low priority.

    My route is very straightforward following the railway line for 2.5 kilometres heading west towards a car park at Burbush.

    It is now a cracking day and it is clear this section of path is a popular venue for weekend walkers and cyclists, so I am grateful when I reach the car park at Burbush.  After walking through the car park I cross a minor road (Pound Lane) and then take a path that heads north westerly towards Long Pond.

    The path goes to the north of the pond, which following an exceptionally dry year looks more like a large puddle.  Even the rainfall of the last few days has had little impact.

    I now take a clear path heading north through Church Moor towards Black Bush.  At a fork in the track I keep to the left following the wider of the two paths.

    At the next junction of paths I go to the left heading towards a minor road.  At the road I cross and continue, soon reaching a fork in the path where I keep left to head through Broad Bottom.  There are a network of paths but I have the clear landmark of Vereley Hill Mast in front of me.

    The path goes up the hill and then passes a copse heading towards Vereley car park.

    After passing the car park I continue straight on along a clear path through the gorse and bracken.

    At a junction of paths I go straight on through a gap in the gorse to reach Smugglers Road.  This is a broad track and I turn right.  During the 1700’s and early 1800’s the New Forest was rife with smugglers, the proximity to coastal inlets and close knit communities provided an ideal environment to avoid the attentions of excise men.  Burley is thought to have been a smugglers haunt.  Apparently when renovations were undertaken at the Queens Head Inn in the late 1900’s a secret cellar which still contained firearms and contraband was discovered.  Smugglers Road linked the hamlet of Knave’s Ash with the trading post at Ridley Wood.

    After 300 metres I reach a road, where I turn right and walk the short distance to reach a Milestone which dates back to the early 1800’s, it shows that I am currently 3 miles from Ringwood and 11 miles from Lymington.  It also signifies that the road here was once a turnpike road because Milestones did not come into general use until the Turnpike Act of 1766 made them compulsory on turnpike roads.  This was an early form of PFI construction because  these roads were built by private enterprise under licence from the Government and maintained by tolls on those who used them. 

    I now cross the road and turn right and follow a track for 100 metres and then turn left on a track that heads east towards Vereley Woods.  In the woods the track continues towards the entrance to Vereley Farm.

    On the track I turn left and follow a clear path towards Ridley Wood, this path initially goes downhill to cross Mill Lawn Brook.

    After crossing the brook I continue on the clear path heading north to reach Ridley Wood.  In the past these woods were the location of a popular trading post where forest folk and those from further afield, including Salisbury and Winchester, would gather.  Therefore, it was also popular with smugglers seeking to sell their contraband.

    At a junction of tracks I go right and head east on a clear path through the trees and on reaching a junction of tracks continue straight on along a path known as Sir Dudley’s Ride.  The route is so called because it was named after Sir Dudley Forewood in recognition for services rendered to the New Forest as Official Verderer from 1974 to 1982.  In his early life he was also the sole equerry to the Duke of Windsor after his abdication in 1937 until the outbreak of war in 1939.

    When I come across commemorative paths or plaques to the “great and good” I am often left wondering how many other more ordinary people have given time and effort to a community without any recognition for their dedication. 

    This track crosses a brook and then ascends steadily to go through the edge of Berry Wood to reach a tarmac drive where I go left passing the entrance to the Old House which was once the home of Sir Dudley Forewood.  I soon reach a junction of paths where I turn right through an area marked on the map as Soarley Bottom.  

    I am now heading east and keep going in this direction at a junction of paths to head towards a gate leading into Beech Bed Inclosure.

    In the woods I follow a broad grassy track, still heading east.  As I stroll along I can hear the distinctive sounds of stags bellowing, it is currently the rutting season and I am wary of getting too close to any stags.  The calls seem nearby, I can’t see the stags but proceed with caution.

    At a junction of paths I cross a cycleway and continue straight on. I have joined a cycleway to skirt around Burley Rails Cottage.

    I now head south for 200 metres to reach a crossing of tracks where I turn left and follow the track across Blackensford Brook. 

    Staying with the main track I continue straight on for a further 600 metres to reach a cycleway on the right beside a clearing.  

    I take this right turn and head south for a further 600 metres to reach a footpath on the left which leads me back to a track in Anderwood Inclosure where I turn right and walk the short distance back to the car park where I started my walk.

    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.

    You can view this 15 mile walk on OS Maps and download the GPX File Here

    To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL22 – New Forest

    22nd October 2022

    © Two Dogs and an Awning (2022)

    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.