For various reasons I have delayed making plans for our caravan travel this year which makes me feel a bit twitchy. I like to have things in the diary and know where we are going to travel during the year. I find making last minute bookings stressful and there is invariably limited availability on the more popular CL’s. Since the growth of CL Bookings, an initiative set up by a group of CL owners booking is a bit easier and increasingly it is my first point of reference when looking for a site.
A few years ago we had an unfortunate incident on a CL in early April. There had been heavy rain and whilst trying to pitch we got stuck in soft ground. After plenty of chastisement from the CL owner we were pulled out by tractor. Ever since when booking trips at this time of the year we ensure there is hard standing available.
Goodleigh Hill CL near Pershore is, therefore, perfect for a winter trip. Easy access, fully serviced hard standing pitches and some great walking locally. So I was pleased to find Emily and Matthew, the site owners, had availability at short notice. We have been here a couple of time before so it did not take long to get set up and then lace up the boots for a quick walk.
Leaving the site by the pedestrian access Lynnie and I walk down to the road and then turn left heading uphill into Pensham Hill. As the road levels out we take a footpath on the right beside a post box. The path follows a driveway and then goes through a gate to enter a field.
This is the route of the Wychavon Way, a forty mile long distance route between Droitwich Spa and Broadway. We go through the field with the hedge to our right to reach a kissing gate. To our left there is a fine view of Bredon Hill. We walked up there on a previous visit and another jaunt up the hill is on my list of walks for this week.
We now follow a clear path across fields heading towards Home Farm in Pensham. The path leads to a minor road where we turn left and walk through the village. At a junction of roads we continue straight on.
At the end of the lane we turn left, still on the route of the Wychavon Way and follow the farm track which passes glasshouses at Sandilands.
After passing a barn which is being converted into a home we reach a junction of paths. Here we continue straight on, leaving the Wychavon Way, and head towards Pensham Fields Farm.
The agriculture in this area is mainly vegetables and besides the path there are a number of irrigation taps used with the network of pipes to water the fields.
The track leads through properties to reach barns in the farmyard. There are no way-markers but the OS map clearly shows that we turn left after the first barn and then go between barns. It always surprises me that farmers don’t erect clear signage when they have footpaths leading through farmyards.
Leaving the barns the track sweeps to the left and then to the right and continues between fields towards trees in the distance.
At the trees we turn left on a track which soon turns into a road heading towards Pensham Hill.
In Pensham Hill we turn right and follow the road through the village until we reach the path back into Goodleigh Hill CL. This little stroll has covered three miles and has given us a chance to stretch the legs after our car journey. The forecast for tomorrow shows snow so I may have to adjust my plans for walking on the Malvern Hills.
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 short trip to Minehead is almost over, I head home tomorrow so today is my last chance to get out on Exmoor for a while. It is another bright morning when I take Crosby out for his early morning walk and the forecast is set fair so ideal for a walk on the moor.
I have decided to head west along the A39 towards Lynmouth to start my walk at the County Gate car park. I have a rough idea of a route in mind, but plan to just wander where the mood takes me rather than sticking religiously to a pre-planned route. I refer to days like this as jamming about and it is my favourite way of walking.
It is the first time I have used the County Gate car park. It sits beside the A39 so is very easy to locate and it has a number of paths leading from it so is a great spot for walkers. I start my walk by going through a gate and taking the path that heads south towards Malmsmead.
Initially the path goes along the top of the hill offering fine views to the west as I look down towards Brendon.
This is open access land but the steep sides of the valley mean that access would be pretty limited. The path soon starts its sharp descent towards Malmsmead.
At a junction of paths I turn right towards Oare Water and then cross the river on a footbridge.
After crossing the river I follow the footpath up to the minor road where I turn right and wander back down into Malmsmead and the 17th century Malmsmead Bridge that crosses Badgworthy Water.
After crossing the bridge I pass the shop and cafe, which is currently closed whilst being refurbished and then turn left along the minor road signposted to Fellingscott, Slocombeslade and Tippacott. As the road sweeps to the right I follow a footpath sign through a gate to join a track signposted to Badgworthy Valley.
After crossing a ford the path goes through a series of gates and then becomes a sunken track beside pasture fields. Since I was last here a fence has been erected along the edge of the field so it is now possible to walk along the track without encountering cattle.
The track leads to a gate which I go through and continue along the side of the river.
I have walked along this path a number of times and it always surprises me how quiet it is. I expect in the holiday season it is packed, but today I appear to be the only person out.
Continuing along the path I reach a plaque to Richard Doddridge Blackmore the author of Lorna Doone. This book, first published in 1869, was one of Lynnie’s mother’s favourite books. The story was set in this valley in the 17th century and tells the tale of the love between John Ridd and Lorna Doone and culminates with the villainous Carver Doone sinking into a bog.
The path now follows the river through Badgworthy Wood.
The sun is out and in the shelter of the combe it is pleasantly warm and perfect conditions for walking.
At a junction of paths I decide to stop and appreciate the tranquility. I can hear nothing but birdsong and it is a wonderful spot to just sit and enjoy the pleasure of being out on such a cracking day.
Resuming my walk I follow a path going west towards Badgworthy Lees and walk through the site of a medieval village.
It is here that the Doone’s were said to have lived. Whilst Blackmore’s story is fiction it is based on historical characters. An exiled Scottish clan, the Doones, were known to live on this part of Exmoor in the 1600’s.
The route now heads up onto the moor. This is a clear path that crosses a ford at Badgworthy Lees.
On the horizon I see sheep running about and a figure walking along the fence line. The path takes me towards a gate and as I get closer I recognise the dog running to me as Jack, known on social media as Exmoor Jack. His owner Sarah spotted me coming over the moor and has stopped to greet me.
Sarah and I have followed each other on social media for a number of years and back in October 2020 met over a cup of tea at Periwinkle Cottage Tea Rooms in Selworthy.
Today’s meeting is a chance encounter, it is just by luck we both happened to be walking in this part of Exmoor at the same time. Seeing me in the distance Sarah zoomed in with her camera and recognised Crosby so decided to wait for us.
We now walk together on the track heading west over Brendon Common.
Although Sarah and I have only met face to face once before we know a lot about each other’s activities through social media. Walking along it is like chatting to an old friend.
Just before we start to descend to Lankcombe Ford our ways part. But first we stop and chat in the sunshine in the middle of the moor. Sarah’s knowledge of the moor is extensive and when I tell her where I am heading she suggests a slight change which will take me on a path I have not previously walked.
We agree that the next time I am in these parts we should arrange to get out for a few hours walking together. Social media gets a lot of bad press, but I have to say the handful of people I have met through it have all been really nice.
Heading off again I descend to cross a steam a Lankcombe Ford and then take a track to the left heading uphill to join a broad track leading across the moor.
At a fork in the track I go to the right and follow a narrower path through the heather to reach Dry Bridge where I take an uphill path in a northerly direction.
This path leads me to Shilstone Hill Ordnance Survey trig pillar. I have bagged this trig a number of times, but Crosby still grabs the opportunity to have his picture taken.
At this point I had intended to go left towards Farley Water Farm. However Sarah has suggested I take the path to the north which leads to Shilstone and then down to Rockford. It is not a route I have walked so I follow Sarah’s advice and follow the path descending towards Shilstone.
The final section is a steep descent into Shilstone.
At the bottom of the valley I ford a stream and then follow the way-markers through the collection of homes in this small hamlet. After the cottage on the left I leave the farm driveway and take a footpath on the left into a field.
After passing a fence line the path descends to a stile. It is relatively low on the field side but it is a big drop down the far side. I encourage Crosby to wait but he jumps over and is surprised by how far he has leapt down.
I have now joined a road, Gratton Lane, I go left and descend to cross a stream and then take a path on the right to Rockford. This path soon descends steeply besides a stream.
It has been a pretty dry week so there is not a lot of water flowing down through the rocks. I imagine after a prolonged period of rain it would be spectacular walking down this path with waterfalls to the side.
I pass a water mill, searching on the internet later I could find no history of this mill which is surprising because things like this are usually recorded.
On reaching a road I turn left to follow it towards Rockford. Just as I enter the village I take a footpath on the right which crosses the East Lyn River at Rockford Bridge.
On the opposite bank I turn right on a footpath forming part of the Coleridge Way. This fifty-one mile trail goes from Nether Stowey to Lynmouth.
After climbing above the river the route descends to join an ancient track.
The track leads down to a cobbled path beside the river. When the water level is low this is not an issue, but after a period of heavy rain I imagine it might be a bit tricky keeping your feet dry.
The footpath soon goes by Countisbury Mill; this old watermill has been restored for bed and breakfast accommodation. The driveway leads to a minor road soon passing an old packhorse bridge and continuing on the road bridge over the river. I don’t cross the bridge but instead keep with the Coleridge Way on the road towards Porlock.
The road climbs gradually passing Hall Farm and then I take a footpath on the right leading steeply uphill.
I have walked along this path a few times and on each occasion it has been a cracking day.
As I stroll along admiring the view I realise I have now walked close to nine miles and I haven’t seen another person apart from Sarah in the middle of the moor.
Nearing Ashton Farm I go through gates and over a footbridge and then at a fork in the path I leave the Coleridge Way to follow a path going uphill by the fence line.
This path leads me close to the A39, but just before reaching the road I turn right on a bridleway heading back towards County Gate. From here there are great views across to South Wales and also back over much of the route I have walked. The bridleway takes me back to my starting point in the County Gate car park.
This has been a wonderful walk to round off a cracking few days. Now it’s time to head back and start my preparations for my return home tomorrow.
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 couple of days walking from the caravan site I have decided it is time to get in the car to venture to a slightly different area. Today I plan to walk up to Dunkery Beacon, a hill I have walked many times. However, today I am going to ascend it on a path I have never walked.
The starting place for my walk is the National Trust car park in Horner (Grid Ref SS898455). I leave the car park by the path besides the pay and display machine and then join a minor road where I turn left soon passing Horner Mill, built around 1839. After passing the mill I take a footpath on the right which goes through tall deer gates.
This path follows a wide track uphill through Horner Plantation. I am on the route of the Coleridge Way, this long distance trail covers the fifty miles from Nether Stowey, on the east side of the Quantocks, to Lynmouth linking locations associated with the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge.
At a junction of paths I turn right in the direction of Webber’s Post following the Coleridge Way markers, annotated with a writing quill.
Ignoring paths to the right and left I gradually ascend Horner Hill keeping with the route of the Coleridge Way. It is a cracking day and I soon get good views of Ley Hill on the opposite side of the combe.
This area is part of the Holnicote Estate, the Acland family seat for the best part of 300 years before Sir Richard Dyke Acland, 15th Baronet, donated both this and the Killerton Estate to the National Trust. The land covered 16,000 acres and was the largest donation received by the National Trust.
On top of Horner Hill there is a weather hut, thought to have been originally built by the Acland’s to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, it became known as the Jubilee Hut. During World War II it was used as a look out post, but then fell into disrepair and collapsed in the winter of 1946. The National Trust have rebuilt it following the original design, facing four directions it always provides shelter from wind and rain.
I now continue along the Coleridge Way to reach Webber’s Post car park. Here the route goes in a south easterly direction to cross a minor road and then after going through a thicket reaches another minor road which I cross and go into another parking area. This is a bit of a sun trap and the Exmoor ponies appear to have chosen the spot for some winter warmth.
From the car park I follow the Coleridge Way as it goes uphill still heading south east.
At a junction of paths I turn left on the Coleridge Way heading towards Wooton Courtney. I have passed a couple of warning signs indicating there is gorse clearing work going on in the area. In front of me I can see smoke rising from the controlled fires.
The path goes close to the area being burnt, but the chaps supervising the fires make sure I can pass safely. One of them has a chat with me about the methods by which gorse is controlled in this area of the moor. It needs to be kept back otherwise it would smother everything and apparently an added bonus of fires is it regenerates the growth of heather.
The challenge for these chaps is knowing which way the wind will take the fire, apparently it has changed direction three times in the last forty minutes. Currently it is blowing from the east so as I continue along the path I know the smoke is blowing in the opposite direction.
Nearing woodland I take a path on the right and follow the contour line heading south. I soon reach the route of the Macmillan Way West. A right turn here would take me up towards Dunkery Beacon, but instead I turn left and descend a few yards to reach a path on the right. I have now rejoined the Coleridge Way and head steadily uphill.
There are a couple of paths leading off the route but I stay with the Coleridge Way and skirt round a field and then start going downhill.
I know if Lynnie was walking with me she would now be questioning the route and demanding why if we are walking up Dunkery Hill we are going downhill. Of course the answer to the question is to see where the path leads.
This path leads into Hanny Combe and it is a stunning spot.
I cross a stream and then it is a short steep ascent to reach a junction of paths. I go to the right to follow the Coleridge Way towards Spangate.
It is now a steady ascent towards Spangate with some stunning views behind me.
At a junction of paths at Spangate I leave the Coleridge Way and turn right to head uphill on a broad track which has intermittent boulders along it.
This is the first time I have approached Dunkery Beacon on this path. It is a long steady ascent to reach a minor road. After crossing I join a narrow path which heads west through the heather. In the distance on the horizon I can see Dunkery Beacon.
At a junction with a broader path I turn left and follow this route to reach the hill summit. This is the highest point on Exmoor and also the highest spot in Somerset. It stands at 1,705 feet and there is no protection from the elements so the wind is always blowing up here. Today there is a slight breeze but I have been up here when it is difficult to stay on your feet.
As I stand admiring the view I am approached by a lady who is interested in to know where I have walked from. She is bewildered by the distance I have walked so far and how much further I am going to travel. She has walked up from the road and says that was plenty enough for her. We then spend ten minutes talking about the spots we can see. She lives relatively nearby in Tiverton, but has never been up here before.
I have a choice of routes here, but decide to extend my walk by following a clear track heading west towards Little Rowbarrow.
The track passes by the ancient burial mound of Little Rowbarrow, On top of the barrow is a cairn which in poor weather would be a welcome site on this section of moor.
Soon I reach a junction of tracks where I turn right and pass Great Rowbarrow, this burial mound in more prominent and distinctive by the number of stones covering it.
The track now goes north west and soon starts to descend with Wilmersham Common in the distance.
At the road I turn right and follow this single track lane through Stoke Pero Common.
On reaching a small parking area I turn right on a track which follows the fence and tree line downhill into Bagley Combe.
The track leads down to a ford in Bagley Combe and then rises again and heads east towards Sweetworthy Combe.
At a fork in the track I go left and continue straight on at a junction of paths following a route which is shown on the map as Dicky’s Path. This soon heads through the attractive Aller Combe.
Now there is an open stretch of moorland before reaching trees to go through Hollow Combe after which the path heads north towards Easter Hill.
I ignore routes leading off this path and keep going north until I reach the car park at Webber’s Post. I now retrace my steps along the Coleridge Way until I reach the Memorial Hut where I take a path on the left descending steeply through Horner Side.
The route zig-zags its way down the hill, I ignore paths from it to reach a footbridge over Horner Water.
After crossing the footbridge I turn right and follow a wide track with the attractive Horner Water flowing to my right.
I stay with this path heading towards Horner. After crossing a stone bridge I turn left along the road and walk through the hamlet to reach the entrance to the car park.
My walk has covered almost 13 miles. The sun shone for most of the day and it has felt more like a spring day than early February. I have been very lucky with the weather this week. Let’s hope it lasts into tomorrow because that will be my last chance to be out on the moor for a while.
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 cracking day’s walking yesterday I sat down with the map to plan my route for today. On recent visits to this site I have squeezed in a walk to include a stop at Dunster for a Cornish Pasty. I don’t usually buy pasties or pies whilst out walking, but the Lunchbox cafe close to the Dunster Exmoor National Park Centre serves great pasties.
There are numerous ways to walk to Dunster from the site and I have done many but I tried to find a new route. Eventually I spotted a couple of paths I couldn’t recall walking and I now have the route roughly sorted. I say roughly sorted because I rarely keep to a set route. If I see something interesting, or if the mood takes me, I deviate from a plotted circuit.
Today’s route is not the most direct to Dunster, but adding a couple of miles is no problem especially if it means exploring a new path in Dunster Woods. So on leaving the site I turn left and walk uphill along the pavement besides the A39, Hopcott Road. At the Hopcott I turn left to follow the narrow tarmac lane as it heads steadily uphill passing Higher Hopcott and reaching woodland.
I ignore footpaths leading off from the road until I reach an information board for Dunster Woods. Now I take the path to the left of the information board and keep straight on to pass another parking area. The path sweeps to the left and starts to descend into Long Combe.
I have walked around the top of Long Combe but never followed the path leading steadily down into the combe. It is a cracking spot to walk. Early in the descent I ignore two paths to the left. It is another cracking day and the sun is shining through the trees as I head towards a junction of paths.
At the junction I turn right to descend steeply towards the stream running through the combe. The path joins another running through the bottom of the combe and I turn left and then after a couple of hundred yards take a footpath on the right going uphill and passing the entrance to the Youth Hostel. Very quickly I reach a way-marker showing the route of a bridleway to Alcombe Common. I take this path into woodland.
The path leads through the trees and shrub to pass the grounds of the Youth Hostel and then reaches a junction of paths where I follow the way-marked route towards Dunster.
This clear path was apparently the medieval route between Dunster and Alcombe, it goes in a south easterly direction and crosses a couple of other paths to reach a third crossing of paths. Here I go left on a path through a gate heading towards Dunster. I like walking tracks that have been used for centuries, it is amazing to imagine the people that have trodden this path in earlier times and the lives they led.
The path follows the fence line of a field. As I look back towards Minehead I can see mist rolling in from the sea.
After going through another gate the path descends through woodland to join a track which soon passes St Leonard’s Well. This medieval Holy Well is now housed in a 16th century well house. It is thought to have supplied water to a Benedictine priory that was located a bit further down this lane and was dissolved in 1539.
I now follow this lane downhill towards Dunster with views of the Quantock Hills in the distance.
On reaching a junction with a minor road I turn left and then within a few yards turn right at the Butter Cross. This trading post dates from the late 14th century and once stood in the High Street in Dunster. It was the centre for a market that traded local produce. It was originally taller and although the exact date of moving to this site is not known it is thought to have been in the late 1700’s or early 1800’s.
I follow the path, passing a community orchard. These local community initiatives are great ideas, not only growing produce, but also providing a community hub, thereby, tackling the issues related to social isolation.
At a minor road I continue straight on and follow this lane into Dunster arriving in the centre of the village close to the Yarn Market. My route is to the right, but I turn left and walk the short distance to pick up a pasty at the Lunchbox Cafe by the Exmoor Visitors Centre. In recent years this has been a regular stop on our walks through Dunster and Crosby makes it abundantly clear that he fully intends sharing my pasty!
We now head through the village to pass the octagonal Yarn Market Cross. This was originally built around 1609 by the Lutterall family, who were major landowners in the area, including Dunster Castle. As the name suggests the Yarn Market was predominantly used for trading cloth and wool. At the time Dunster was a major centre in the wool trade.
Keeping by the road I continue through the village to pass St George’s Church and reach The Foresters Arms where I turn left into Park Street and follow this lane to reach the Gallox Bridge. This grade 1 listed medieval packhorse bridge crosses the River Avill, at one time this was the main route into Dunster from the south. Its name derived from its proximity to the village gallows, which stood on nearby Gallox Hill.
After crossing the bridge I follow a path which heads steadily uphill in a south westerly direction. At a fork in the path I keep left, the path keeps going uphill now in a more southerly direction to reach a gate which I go through and follow a track up to Gallox Hill.
After going over the hill the path descends to a junction of tracks, here I go straight on to ascend the hill to the Iron Age Hillfort of Bat’s Castle. The ramparts of this hill fort are well preserved.
I am now on the route of the Macmillan Way West and I follow this over the hill towards Withycombe Hill Gate.
On reaching the tall deer proof gate I turn left to join a track, Park Lane, lined with beech trees.
As I descend towards Carhampton along Park Lane I am walking into the mist and the temperature drops significantly.
I stay with the lane as it bends to the right to head into the village of Carhampton where I turn left down the High Street to reach the A39. Here I turn right and cross the road at the traffic lights and then opposite the Butchers Arms I take a track on the left which passes the church.
Continuing down the lane I turn right at a footpath sign to walk along a field edge path.
I stay on the footpath across a stream. On the far side of the stream I cross fields towards the West Somerset Railway line.
I ago over a stile and then cross the railway line heeding the sign to “Stop, Look and Listen”.
On the far side of railway I join the coast path and turn left. This path soon becomes tarmac as it heads towards Dunster Beach.
After going through a large car parking area at Dunster Beach I keep on the coast path passing chalets.
This route is part of the West Somerset Coast Path, a twenty-five mile route from Steart to Minehead.
After passing the chalets the path continues with Minehead Golf Course to the left and the beach to the right. Once again the tide is out and there is a huge expanse of sand.
The path is easy to follow going beside the golf course to reach the car park next to the club house.
I now join the promenade and walk into Minehead. The earlier mist has cleared and there are stunning cloud formations.
From here I wander through the residential streets of Minehead to return to 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.
A regular walk of mine when in Minehead is a circuit visiting Selworthy and North Hill. The beauty of walking around here is there are so many routes to choose from. So today’s jaunt is another variation of this cracking walk.
On leaving the site I turn left and walk uphill along the pavement besides the A39, Hopcott Road. At the Hopcott I turn left to follow the narrow tarmac lane as it heads steadily uphill passing Higher Hopcott and reaching woodland.
I ignore footpaths leading off from the road until I reach an information board for Dunster Woods. Now I take the path to the right of the information board on the route of the Macmillan Way West heading uphill.
I ignore a path on the right soon after leaving the car park and then where the Macmillan Way meets a crossing of tracks I continue straight on, staying on the route of the long distance path. The path now goes around the head of Long Combe, this is a cracking spot with stunning Beech trees lining the path.
Leaving the trees the path continues through a section of open land with dead bracken and gorse. On reaching a junction of tracks I turn right still on the route of the Macmillan Way West heading towards Tivington across the top of Hopcott Common. At a fork in the track I go left to keep with the Macmillan Way West.
I continue to head west to reach another crossing of paths. Here the Macmillan Way turns left towards Wootton Courtney, however, I keep going straight ahead soon passing the Ordnance Survey trig point tucked to the left of the track on a high bank. At the next crossing of footpaths I continue straight on.
At the next junction of paths I follow the way-marker towards Headon Cross and soon pass a National Trust plaque and enter Holnicote Estate. Within a short distance the track forks and I go right continuing towards Headon Cross with the path leading through the attractive woodland of Tivington Common.
The last time I walked through these woods was on a cracking day in December. I must be extremely lucky because once again the sun is shining and it is one of those days when it great to be outside.
The path I am on initially descends gradually, but as I near Headon Cross there is a short steep descent to reach a minor road. Turning right on the road I reach Headon Cross and go straight over to take another minor road opposite. This climbs steadily, as the road sweeps to the right I continue straight on along a track towards East Lynch.
Approaching East Lynch farm I take a footpath on the right that runs behind a fine old barn. I stay on the wide grassy track as it passes farm cottages, ignoring a footpath on the left and continuing uphill.
I reach a minor road at Dean’s Cross and turn left following the road downhill towards Selworthy.
In Selworthy I stop on one of the many benches in the churchyard and admire the view whilst I have my lunch. Resuming my walk I turn right beside the Way Memorial. The path heads uphill through a gate to enter the woodland of Selworthy Combe.
Soon I reach a junction of paths where I turn left and take a path waymarked to Holnicote Combe and Hurlestone.
This is the first time I have walked along this path following the counter line around the hill. I am not sure if it is because of the blue skies and sunshine, but it is a grand path to walk along.
At a junction of paths in Holnicote Combe I continue straight on to still follow the way-markers towards Hurlestone. This path passes Allerford Combe and a wooden shelter.
At the next junction of paths I veer to the right on a route heading steadily uphill through Allerford Plantation.
This long steady ascent is one of those where it is easy to stop and take a breather, but I am conscious I have had a few weeks without any strenuous hill walking so I push on without stopping to reach a gate leading to open access land. Here I go through and continue uphill on the path towards Selworthy Beacon.
This broad grassy path leads to a car park and viewpoint. As I skirt the car park a walker lacing her boots enquires about my route. We spend the next ten minutes sharing tales of walking routes in the local area. Chance encounters like this add pleasure to a day’s walking.
My route now follows a broad path heading away from the car park in a northerly direction.
I soon have a cracking view across Bossington Beach towards Porlock. My list of walks this week includes a route around there, but currently I have more walks planned than days available.
On reaching a junction of paths I turn right to join the route of the South West Coast Path . This is the inland section of this route, the more rugged path goes closer to the coast line.
At a junction of paths I veer left to stay with the South west Coast Path, leaving the path towards Selworthy Beacon.
I now stay with this path going easterly towards Minehead. It is a few years since I walked this route and on a day like today it is a real pleasure. The gorse is starting to bloom and there are some cracking views across the Bristol Channel towards South Wales.
After passing through a gate I continue on the path through an area of pasture.
Through another gate I stay with the South West Coast Path heading towards Minehead,
Near a car park the South West Coast Path goes left down Burgundy Chapel Combe. Here I keep straight on in an easterly direction staying on North Hill heading towards woodland in the distance. On reaching the trees I continue straight on and pass concrete bases that housed Nissen huts during World War II. Apparently the American Forces had a NAAFI in one of the huts on this hill.
I continue on this path until it forks, here I go to the left and descend to a gate and then continue on the path going steadily downhill. There are multiple paths in the trees descending towards the seafront.
It is difficult to describe a route due to the multiple options. However, if you keep heading downhill and turn towards the east at every opportunity you will eventually end up in Minehead.
The route I take brings me onto a seafront road, Quay Street and I head towards Minehead harbour. I have visited Minehead on numerous occasions, but whenever I pass the harbour the tide is out. Obviously it must come in, but I wonder why it always disappears when I am around.
From here it is a wander through the streets of Minehead to get back to 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.
The start of my 2023 walking year has been slightly hampered due to illness. Last October I went down with Covid and it laid me low for a couple of days. Then a few weeks later I caught a heavy cold which took a while to shake off. Given I avoided any colds or flu like bugs for a couple of years I had thought a couple of infections would build up my immunity.
However, in early January I picked up a flu like virus that knocked me out for the best part of three weeks. It was not Covid, but affected me far worse than when I did have it. Any plans of getting away for a few days walking were put on hold. Fortunately I am back to full health and consequently have booked a short trip to Minehead CAMC to do some walking on Exmoor.
Minehead is one of my favourite winter locations for a trip on my own, Lynnie is not so keen on winter caravanning and is happy for Crosby and I to disappear for a few days together.
It doesn’t take long to set up on site and then I am lacing the boots up and heading out. My stock walk when arriving on this site is a loop around the town to the harbour. But today the light is good enough for me to do a loop up around Hopcott and Alcombe Commons.
Leaving the site I turn left and walk uphill along the pavement beside the A39, Hopcott Road. On reaching The Hopcott I turn left to follow the narrow tarmac lane as it heads steadily uphill passing Higher Hopcott and then reaching woodland.
I ignore footpaths leading off from the road until I reach an information board for Dunster Woods.
I take the uphill path to the right of the information board on the route of the Macmillan Way West. I ignore a path on the right soon after leaving the car park and then where the Macmillan Way meets a crossing of tracks I continue straight on, staying on the route of the long distance path. The path now goes around the head of Long Combe, this is a cracking spot with stunning Beech trees lining the path.
Leaving the trees the path continues through a section of open land with dead bracken and gorse. On reaching a junction of tracks I turn left heading towards Dunster.
I now stay with this track heading east to reach Holes Corner. Out to my left are views of Minehead and over the Bristol Channel to the South Wales coast.
At Holes Corner there is a convergence of tracks and paths. I take the broad track heading east towards trees in the distance. This route is signposted towards Dunster.
I ignore a couple of footpaths leading off to the left and stay with the track I am on until I reach trees, here I turn left to reach a crossing of paths where I turn left again to take a path heading towards Alcombe.
The path steadily descends through an area of gorse and at every junction I follow the way-markers to Alcombe.
At a junction of paths close to the Youth Hostel I turn right on the path which is signed to Alcombe. This descends steadily to reach a tarmac lane where I turn right and follow it into Alcombe.
At the junction by the Britannia Inn I turn left into Church Street and then on reaching the main A39 turn left and walk on the pavement back to the caravan site.
This little circuit has covered just over four and a half miles and has been a good stretch of the legs after my earlier journey. It is now time to plan my walking for the next couple of days.
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 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.
To follow my walk, you will need Ordnance Survey Explorer Map – 144 – Basingstoke, Alton & Whitchurch, Odiham, Overton & Hook; and OS Explorer – 158 Newbury & Hungerford
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.
No sooner than we arrived home from our Settle trip I am off again. This time I am heading back to Minehead for a few days walking on Exmoor with Crosby. Lynnie has declined joining me, I am not sure if it is the prospect of walking on the moor in December or the fact I have started a cold and she thinks it a good idea to keep well away from me.
I have become a frequent winter visitor to the Caravan and Motorhome Club site in Minehead. It is perfectly placed for easy access to walking routes and being just on the edge of the town makes it easy to get supplies. The layout of the site means it never feels busy and with easy access it ticks all the boxes for a solo trip. By the time I set up yesterday it was well into the afternoon but there was sufficient light for Crosby and I to stretch our legs by wandering down to the harbour.
Today’s walk is from the site and will be a variation of a walk I have done a few times. On leaving the site I turn left and walk uphill along the pavement besides the A39, Hopcott Road. On reaching the Hopcott I turn left to follow the narrow tarmac lane as it heads steadily uphill passing Higher Hopcott and reaching woodland.
I ignore footpaths leading off from the road until I reach an information board for Dunster Woods.
Now I take the path to the right of the information board on the route of the Macmillan Way West heading uphill. I ignore a path on the right soon after leaving the car park and then where the Macmillan Way meets a crossing of tracks I continue straight on, staying on the route of the long distance path. The path now goes around the head of Long Combe, this is a cracking spot with stunning Beech trees lining the path.
Leaving the trees the path continues through a section of open land with dead bracken and gorse.
On reaching a junction of tracks I turn right still on the route of the Macmillan Way West heading towards Tivington across the top of Hopcott Common. At a fork in the track I go left to keep with the Macmillan Way West. There are good views from here back along the coastline towards Blue Anchor.
I continue to head west to reach another crossing of paths. Here the Macmillan Way turns left towards Wootton Courtney, however, I keep going straight ahead soon reaching an Ordnance Survey trig point tucked to the left of the track on a high bank. This trig on Periton Hill is one I have bagged a number of times.
At the next crossing of footpaths I continue straight on.
At the next junction of paths I follow the way-marker towards Headon Cross and soon pass a National Trust plaque and enter Holnicote Estate. Within a short distance the track forks and I go right continuing towards Headon Cross with the path leading through the attractive woodland of Tivington Common.
The sun is out and there is a clear sky. Ideal conditions for a walk in December. The path I am on initially descends gradually, but as I near Headon Cross there is a short steep descent to reach a minor road. Turning right on the road I reach Headon Cross and go straight over to take another minor road opposite. This climbs steadily, as the road sweeps to the right I continue straight on along a track towards East Lynch.
Approaching East Lynch farm I take a footpath on the right that runs behind a fine old barn. I stay on the wide grassy track as it passes farm cottages, ignoring a footpath on the left and continuing uphill.
I reach a minor road at Deans Cross and turn left following the road downhill into Selworthy where I stop on one of the many benches in the churchyard and admire the view whilst I have my lunch.
Resuming my walk I continue through the village and pass the Tithe Barn which has a plaque commemorating the wanderings of Walter Wilkinson with his peep show. Many years ago Lynnie gave me a copy of Walter’s “Peep Show” book. It is a great insight into a way of life long passed.
I continue through the village and then fork right on a footpath that leads through Selworthy Farm with its range of old barns and then continue along a track. When I was here in February the hedge besides this path had recently been laid and looked a bit of an eyesore. Now ten months later nature has taken its course and the casual observer would not even know of the work to the hedgerow.
As I go downhill I pause to take in the view. There was a time when I constantly glanced at my watch to ensure I was maintaining a decent pace. These days I like to pause and look occasionally. I still walk pretty fast but I have learnt to stop from time to time and take it all in.
The track leads to the outskirts of Higher Allerford where I go straight on along a narrow lane leading to Allerford via a packhorse bridge besides a ford. The bridge is thought to be medieval, though work to enlarge the bridge was undertaken in 1886.
After crossing the bridge I turn right to walk through this attractive village passing the old Post Office with its King George VI postbox.
Soon I reach a footpath along a track which passes Stoates Farm and goes through a gate to reach a footbridge over the river. On the far side of the bridge I turn left and take a footpath towards West Lynch this initially follows the river.
The path soon starts to ascend into the woods.
At a crossing of paths I take the route signposted towards Hurlstone Point, the path continues to steadily ascend through trees. The path leads to a wooden gate and a crossing of paths at Lynch Combe. There is an information board explaining the work that has been done by National Trust volunteers to restore the stone walls in the Selworthy and Cockerhill section of the Holnicote Estate. The walls are at least 200 years old and there are some fine examples in this Combe.
On previous visits I have turned right here and walked up the hill, but today I go straight over to follow the path towards Hurlstone Point. This path leads through stunning section of trees.
The path follows the contour line around Bossington Hill and opens out to provide cracking views over Bossington and Porlock Beaches.
The path now opens out as it heads toward Hurlstone Point.
At a fingerpost I turn right on a path to Minehead.
This path goes uphill, when I say uphill I mean seriously uphill. Bossington Hill is a stiff ascent.
The first time I walked up here I thought I would do it in one go and today I try to repeat the challenge. But my cold is taking a toll on my lungs and I decide it is sensible to take a breather and admire the view back towards the coast.
I am now on the route of the South West Coastal Path and I follow this uphill. There are a number of options but I choose a broad path heading towards Selwothy Beacon. Close to the path are cattle and I meet a lady walking her dog who is anxious going through the cows. I offer to walk with her and we spend the next fifteen minutes chatting. I really enjoy such encounters I always learn something about others’ lives; this person, like me, feels the need to get out every day for a walk to get away from the pressures of modern life.
We walk together to Selworthy Beacon where we wish each other well and part company.
From the Beacon I follow a track heading east across North Hill. There are a number of paths up here but I know as long as I head east and keep the minor road somewhere to my right I will be fine.
The track leads towards a parking area and soon after passing through it I take a path on the left. This heads north and rejoins the South West Coast path where I turn right and soon go through a gate into an area of pasture.
The path continues close to the road to reach another gate, now I keep going east to reach another parking area and then keep going to pass some Exmoor ponies.
On reaching another car park close to woodland I have a choice of routes to take to get to Minehead. I go to the left and then take a path that goes east through the trees and passes concrete bases that housed Nissen huts during World War II. Apparently the American Forces had a NAAFI in one of the huts on this hill.
I continue on this path until I reach a fork in the path, here I go to the left and descend towards a gate and then continue on the path going steadily downhill.
There are multiple paths in the trees that descend towards the seafront. I stay with one that goes straight on to reach a tarmac lane where I turn left, soon joining the Zig Zag path going steadily downward.
At the bottom of the path I turn left and pass cottages to reach the seafront by the sculpture marking the start, or end, of the south west coast path.
It is a cracking evening and I stop on the seawall to watch the moonrise.
From here it is a wander through the streets of Minehead to get back to the caravan site for a well-deserved cup of tea and a sit down to plan were I will walk tomorrow.
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.
Last year my walking buddy Mandy and I did a walk through Arten Gill and up to the Ordnance Survey Trig Pillar at Great Knoutberry Hill it was a great walk but the weather was miserable and we didn’t get any views at all. So today I am going to repeat the walk but this time Lynnie is joining me and I’m not sure if this is because she wants to see the Arten Gill railway viaduct or is out to bag another Ordnance Survey trig pillar.
The starting point for our walk is a parking area beside the Dent Head Viaduct (Grid Ref: SD777844). We set off down the road towards Cowgill and Dent. We soon pass Bridge End Cottage and continue down the lane besides the River Dee.
Last year whilst walking along this road I saw a Red Squirrel, so we keep our eyes peeled. Although walking along a road there its very little traffic and what there is is going very steady because a lot of sections are single track with passing places.
Nearing Store House Bridge we stop to look across the river at a limekiln. This listed building is thought to date back to the early 1800’s.
Where the road bends over Stone House Bridge we take a lane on the right to pass cottages.
We are now on Arten Gill Lane and follow this as it goes through a gate and joins an ancient track heading towards the Arten Gill Viaduct.
As we walk up the lane, the viaduct dominates the view. It is a stunning bit of engineering and is listed as bridge number 84 on the Settle to Carlisle Railway. Work on its construction started in May 1870 and was completed in July 1875. The unstable nature of the ground in the gill meant that some of the piers are rooted to a depth of 55 feet into the ground.
The viaduct is 660 feet long and 117 feet high and stands 1,100 feet above sea level. Parts of the structure are constructed with Dent Marble quarried from Arten Gill beneath it.
We continue gradually ascending, it is a good long drag up this hill, but the scenery is worth it.
When Lynnie and I are walking together we tend to walk at different paces, Lynnie is quicker than me on the flat but on ascents and descents I am faster. So going uphill I pause occasionally to allow Lynnie to catch up. It does mean I get a chance to admire the far reaching views.
At a junction of paths we turn left continuing on the Pennine Bridleway as it heads north through a metal gate.
The path soon levels and heads east along Dent Fell through a series of gates.
In contrast to the last time I was up here it is a clear day and the views are stunning.
The Pennine Bridleway sweeps towards the north and as we pass Green Bank we take a path on the right which follows a fence line and ascends Pikes Edge on Great Knoutberry Hill.
Last year heading up this hill I encountered a couple of boggy sections, nothing to worry about but it needed care to avoid getting wet feet. Now after such a prolonged dry spell the ground is firm under foot. However, when we reach the trig pillar on Great Knoutberry Hill it is surrounded by water. This does not prevent Lynnie climbing on top. Personally I think this is bad trig etiquette.
From the trig we keep with the line of a dry stone wall as it descends from the hill in a south easterly direction. It is clear from the worn path that there are frequent visitors here. The path leads downhill past the disused Cross Pits Colliery and then we cross a wall stile to join a track.
Here we turn right and follow the track to the junction of paths we were at earlier at the top of Arten Gill. This time we turn left on the Pennine Bridleway towards Newby Head Road.
This route takes us south through Swineley Cowm descending towards a minor road, we can see for miles in front of us.
At the minor road we turn right leaving the Pennine Bridleway to head back along the road towards Dent Head Viaduct. Construction started on this viaduct in 1869 and was competed in 1875. Work was hampered by the constant rain and snow, in 1872 it is said that 92 inches of rain fell on Dent Head instead of the usual 68 inches.
We stay with the road which descends to go under the railway line and then we are back at our starting point.
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 such a prolonged dry spell we were bound to get rain at some point. Following our walk on Fylingdale Moor yesterday we popped into Whitby for a fish and chip supper by the harbour. Afterwards whilst wandering around the harbour we got caught in a torrential downpour.
Although today started bright the forecast thunderstorms arrived at lunchtime. I don’t mind walking in the rain, but I always avoid heading out when there is thunder and lightning about. Going out onto a moor when lightning is forecast is too risky for me.
In the last couple of years I have switched to using the Met Office weather app. I find it a lot more accurate than others I have tried and the short range forecast is usually spot on. I have also become more adept at judging if clouds heading our way are going to deposit their contents on us.
After today’s lunchtime storm the forecast is for a clear afternoon with further risks of thunder this evening. So I decide on another walk in nearby Cropton Forest, but this time I will drive from the site the couple of miles to the car park at the Cawthorn Roman Settlement.
From the car park I pass the information board about the Roman Camps and follow a well-made path to reach the ramparts of the camp.
This is a well preserved extensive camp built by the Romans between AD90 and AD130 and consists of two main camps and an annex.
I follow the path towards a viewing platform. I had thought this might provide a more expansive view over the site, however, it is not much higher than the ramparts so does not give a perspective of the scale of the camps.
There are a range of paths around the Roman Camps, but I have plans for a longer walk. I had hoped there might be a path from here into Cropton Forest, but it soon becomes obvious that I need to return to the car park and walk along the entrance driveway and then turn right along the lane for 500 metres to reach a minor road leading to Keldy Cabins and the Forest.
This is a quiet lane and pleasant walking, I soon arrive at a gateway providing an extensive view, but clearly indicating there is no access to the field. I would like to see greater access to the countryside, preferably through the adoption of a right to roam. However, I hold out very little hope given the policies of the current government.
Proceeding along the road in front of me there is an abundance of pheasants. It is now clear why the landowner is so keen to keep folk out of the field. I have lived all my life in a rural community but I am not a supporter of shooting.
I pass a farm cottage at Keldy Banks and ignore a footpath on the right and continue along the tarmac track.
My route is now straight forward, keeping to the driveway for just over two kilometres to reach the entrance to Keldy Cabins.
These cabins are part of a wider network of holiday accommodation run by Forest Holidays in partnership with Forestry England. The land for the cabins is on a 125 year lease and provides an opportunity for people to holiday amongst the trees. I had imagined basic log cabins, but these offer luxury accommodation.
I continue heading north through the cabins and then walk along a forestry track heading towards High Muffles.
After two kilometres I reach a barrier at High Muffles.
At a crossing of forestry tracks I turn right and follow the fingerpost direction towards Stape.
I am now heading east and pass the entrance to Life House and then ignore a track on the left. I then pass a couple of small ponds.
In April 2019 two beavers from Scotland were rehomed in an enclosure in Cropton Forest as part of an initiative to slow the flow of water from the forest into surrounding communities which had been suffering from flooding.
Since their introduction the pair have bred and produced kits so they should soon be starting to make a positive impact on the environment. I am not sure where in the forest the beavers were released, but I can’t see any obvious sign of them being active in this section of woodland.
I continue on to reach a junction of tracks at the edge of the forest and turn right soon reaching a minor road, Middle Head Road, I turn right again and head south along this lane passing farms.
When the tarmac ends I continue along a track heading south.
The track passes through an attractive area of deciduous woodland.
On reaching a gate I cross a field.
To the left is Elleron Lodge, this is a small country estate with 225 acres of land. The property was on the market a couple of years ago for £3.5m and it looks like it is undergoing major renovation.
After crossing the field I go through a gate and continue on the path through trees.
After crossing a stream on a footbridge I keep with the clear path leading towards the entrance driveway for Keldy Cabins.
On reaching the tarmac lane I turn left and retrace my route back towards the car park.
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.
