Stroll Reports 2018
Strolls January to March
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Alton to Farnham linear - 7 January
Conductor: Jill Goddard
Route description (from strolling news no.65): This linear route takes us through the rolling Hampshire countryside from Alton to Farnham. We head south west from Alton towards East Worldham and on to Froyle before going up to Well for lunch. The afternoon route takes us down to Dogmersfield and the Basingstoke Canal before tea near Church Crookham and then up to the heathland north of Farnham.
Distance approx. 18 miles.
Alton to Farnham linear - 7 January
Conductor: Jill Goddard
Route description (from strolling news no.65): This linear route takes us through the rolling Hampshire countryside from Alton to Farnham. We head south west from Alton towards East Worldham and on to Froyle before going up to Well for lunch. The afternoon route takes us down to Dogmersfield and the Basingstoke Canal before tea near Church Crookham and then up to the heathland north of Farnham.
Distance approx. 18 miles.
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Henley Circular - 20 January
Conductor: Kate Copeland
Participants: Gillian, Nick and Scott
Route Description from Kate:
The Met Office had promised us double raindrops and a 'feels like' temperature of 0 degrees. A few walkers sent their apologies the night before so the leader was fully expecting no one to turn up and to be back home by 11am!
In fact Gillian and Nick decided to brave it and we were all very glad that they did as it turned out to be a really good day. With the exception of a mini hail storm as we arrived in Marlow the weather was never as bad as we'd feared.
We left Henley along the quiet west side of the Thames, this involves crossing a series of small wooden bridges over the streams that feed the river and passing the grand Fawley Court and Temple Island. Then we climbed into the beech woods above Hambleden before dropping down into that very pretty village for a quick cuppa at the Post Office. Climbing back up we crossed Rotten Row, some farmland and more beech woods, joining the Chilterns Way (Berkshire extension) at Marlow Common. We then headed down into Marlow, passing the house where Percy Bysshe and Mary Shelley lived and worked. Our bedraggled appearance created a fair bit of interest in the lunchtime cafe.
The afternoon route, which was mostly dry, followed the Thames Path for about 6 miles, crossing and recrossing the river at the islands between Bisham and Hurley. Then we turned away from the river to pass through the park at Culham Court with its large sculptures and great herds of deer. At Aston we left the Thames Path, crossing more farmland at Remenham then skidded our way down into Henley.
It was good weather for ducks so we had fun spotting many birds along the way. In fact, it turned into a bit of a safari. Despite the Big Five escaping us we saw plenty of grebes, coots, Canadian and Egyptian geese, herons, red kites, pheasants, jacobs and herdwick sheep, shetland ponies and white stags.
We completed the walk well before dusk and Gillian and Nick elected to miss their first train home so that they could fully savour the delights of The Chocolate Cafe.
Distance approx. 18 miles.
Conductor: Kate Copeland
Participants: Gillian, Nick and Scott
Route Description from Kate:
The Met Office had promised us double raindrops and a 'feels like' temperature of 0 degrees. A few walkers sent their apologies the night before so the leader was fully expecting no one to turn up and to be back home by 11am!
In fact Gillian and Nick decided to brave it and we were all very glad that they did as it turned out to be a really good day. With the exception of a mini hail storm as we arrived in Marlow the weather was never as bad as we'd feared.
We left Henley along the quiet west side of the Thames, this involves crossing a series of small wooden bridges over the streams that feed the river and passing the grand Fawley Court and Temple Island. Then we climbed into the beech woods above Hambleden before dropping down into that very pretty village for a quick cuppa at the Post Office. Climbing back up we crossed Rotten Row, some farmland and more beech woods, joining the Chilterns Way (Berkshire extension) at Marlow Common. We then headed down into Marlow, passing the house where Percy Bysshe and Mary Shelley lived and worked. Our bedraggled appearance created a fair bit of interest in the lunchtime cafe.
The afternoon route, which was mostly dry, followed the Thames Path for about 6 miles, crossing and recrossing the river at the islands between Bisham and Hurley. Then we turned away from the river to pass through the park at Culham Court with its large sculptures and great herds of deer. At Aston we left the Thames Path, crossing more farmland at Remenham then skidded our way down into Henley.
It was good weather for ducks so we had fun spotting many birds along the way. In fact, it turned into a bit of a safari. Despite the Big Five escaping us we saw plenty of grebes, coots, Canadian and Egyptian geese, herons, red kites, pheasants, jacobs and herdwick sheep, shetland ponies and white stags.
We completed the walk well before dusk and Gillian and Nick elected to miss their first train home so that they could fully savour the delights of The Chocolate Cafe.
Distance approx. 18 miles.
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Guildford Circular - 4 February
Conductors: Gail and John Elrick
Participants: Gail and John (conductors) Chris, Gillian, Helen, Jenny, Jill, Kate, Keith, Lynne, Mary-Anne, Neil, Nick and Simon
Stroll Report from Gail and John:
Fourteen walkers assembled at Guildford Station on a chilly but very clear morning. Gail waited for Neil whose train was running late. However, when Neil arrived he exited the station at a fast trot and the two set up the hill to Pewley Down at a very rapid rate!
Meanwhile, the rest of the group walked over the top of Pewley Down at a more gentle pace where they were rewarded with long views to the south. After descending to the bottom those with eagle eyes spotted Neil and Gail moving quickly down the hill and a runner going in their direction was tasked with giving a message to say the main group was not far ahead. Encouraged by this the two slithered down the rest of the way and the group soon came together.
After a very wet period the preceding week had been quite dry which meant that the mud, so evident during the recce, had dried up considerably. Moreover, Jenny, who we were glad to welcome back after injury, applied her local knowledge to help us get round the remaining muddy areas.
We went over Chinthurst Hill and continued through Bramley and from there due south on the Greensand Way to Hascombe. Lunch was taken at ‘The White Horse’ pub whilst those with sandwiches sat on the village green or in the church porch. After lunch we stayed on the Greensand Way to Hambledon Church from where we climbed up to Hydon’s Ball viewpoint. Here we paused to look at two memorials: the Robertson Obelisk paid for by William Robertson in memory of his two brothers who both died in the First World War and on the summit the memorial to Octavia Hill, philanthropist and one of the founders of the National Trust.
We descended to Winkworth Arboretum where Jenny said farewell and we decided to stop at the National Trust café for tea rather than risk continuing to Farncombe and finding Hectors closed (which it was). Now that the quick way out over the stile is blocked off we had to walk all the way through the Arboretum and along the lane to pick up the path towards Farncombe. By then darkness was falling and we had to stop and find our torches in order to follow the two miles along the River Wey back into Guildford.
Distance 22 miles according to Gerry the Pacemaker! Photographs Gail and John
Conductors: Gail and John Elrick
Participants: Gail and John (conductors) Chris, Gillian, Helen, Jenny, Jill, Kate, Keith, Lynne, Mary-Anne, Neil, Nick and Simon
Stroll Report from Gail and John:
Fourteen walkers assembled at Guildford Station on a chilly but very clear morning. Gail waited for Neil whose train was running late. However, when Neil arrived he exited the station at a fast trot and the two set up the hill to Pewley Down at a very rapid rate!
Meanwhile, the rest of the group walked over the top of Pewley Down at a more gentle pace where they were rewarded with long views to the south. After descending to the bottom those with eagle eyes spotted Neil and Gail moving quickly down the hill and a runner going in their direction was tasked with giving a message to say the main group was not far ahead. Encouraged by this the two slithered down the rest of the way and the group soon came together.
After a very wet period the preceding week had been quite dry which meant that the mud, so evident during the recce, had dried up considerably. Moreover, Jenny, who we were glad to welcome back after injury, applied her local knowledge to help us get round the remaining muddy areas.
We went over Chinthurst Hill and continued through Bramley and from there due south on the Greensand Way to Hascombe. Lunch was taken at ‘The White Horse’ pub whilst those with sandwiches sat on the village green or in the church porch. After lunch we stayed on the Greensand Way to Hambledon Church from where we climbed up to Hydon’s Ball viewpoint. Here we paused to look at two memorials: the Robertson Obelisk paid for by William Robertson in memory of his two brothers who both died in the First World War and on the summit the memorial to Octavia Hill, philanthropist and one of the founders of the National Trust.
We descended to Winkworth Arboretum where Jenny said farewell and we decided to stop at the National Trust café for tea rather than risk continuing to Farncombe and finding Hectors closed (which it was). Now that the quick way out over the stile is blocked off we had to walk all the way through the Arboretum and along the lane to pick up the path towards Farncombe. By then darkness was falling and we had to stop and find our torches in order to follow the two miles along the River Wey back into Guildford.
Distance 22 miles according to Gerry the Pacemaker! Photographs Gail and John
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St. Margaret's (Herts.) Circular - 18 February
Conductor: Lynne McKenzie
Participants: Lynne (conductor) Bozena, Dave, Gail, Jeff, Joëlle, John, Kate, Keith, Nick and Paul
Route Description (from strolling update no.65) :
This walk follows the Hertfordshire Way out of St Margaret's through green fields, along the River Ash and cross country to Barwick Ford where we join the Harcamlow Way. We meander to Wadesmill for lunch at either The Feathers Inn or The Anchor. The shorter afternoon rejoins the Harcamlow Way to Cold Christmas and back over some muddy fields to finish along the Lea Navigation into St Margaret's with a cup of tea option at The Jolly Foresters.
Distance approx. 16 miles. Photographs by Gail and John
Conductor: Lynne McKenzie
Participants: Lynne (conductor) Bozena, Dave, Gail, Jeff, Joëlle, John, Kate, Keith, Nick and Paul
Route Description (from strolling update no.65) :
This walk follows the Hertfordshire Way out of St Margaret's through green fields, along the River Ash and cross country to Barwick Ford where we join the Harcamlow Way. We meander to Wadesmill for lunch at either The Feathers Inn or The Anchor. The shorter afternoon rejoins the Harcamlow Way to Cold Christmas and back over some muddy fields to finish along the Lea Navigation into St Margaret's with a cup of tea option at The Jolly Foresters.
Distance approx. 16 miles. Photographs by Gail and John
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Richmond to Kingston - 4 March
Conductors: John and Gail Elrick
Participants: John and Gail (conductors) , Cathy, Dave, Jeff, Joëlle, Keith, Maggie, Mark, Nick and Vala
Stroll Report from John:
Earlier in the week we decided to cancel the stroll in the programme from Hayes, Kent due to engineering works on the railway line and knee problems experienced by Simon which made him unlikely to be able to lead. Moreover, we were all in the grip of the Beast from the East which saw the capital under snow, a biting wind from the East and mass train cancellations.
We therefore decided to put together a walk connecting the parks and green areas in our locality. Richmond was an accessible place to start and the improvised route offered plenty of flexibility if we had to cut it short due to the bad weather. We assumed that few people would make it but in the event nine people arrived at Richmond station, all of them desperate to get some much needed fresh air. Matters were helped on Saturday when the temperature lurched above freezing and the snow disappeared.
Along the towpath Nick and Jeff pointed out the tallest Plane Tree in London which stands beside Gaucho’s restaurant (see photo on the Strolls web pages). We walked across Petersham Meadows and entered Richmond Park at Petersham Gate to ascend up to Pembroke Lodge. There are always two ritual stops at this point, one is to see if St. Paul’s Cathedral is visible from the viewpoint on King Henry’s Mound (it wasn’t), and the other is to look at the Ian Dury bench (recently repaired but minus music). Having got this out of our system we walked a wide circuit to Ham Gate via Pen Ponds, across Ham Common and on to Teddington Lock.
In Teddington we stopped for lunch with the sandwich eaters occupying the benches near the five foot high poppy statue which commemorates World War One and the drinkers going off to ‘The Adelaide’ pub. After lunch we walked through Bushy Park via the Woodland Gardens, exiting through the Lion Gate and cutting through Hampton Court Palace to cross the river. On the Surrey side the Rivers Mole and Ember run side by side in Molesey and join together just to the west of Hampton Court Way before running into the Thames by Cigarette Island. We meandered in a circle through East Molesey, trying to follow the two rivers as far as possible, and finally finished up back at Hampton Court where we stopped for a very welcome tea and cakes in a small café.
From here we recrossed the river and headed through Home Park, mainly along the Long Water, to reach Kingston station.
Distance: 18 miles according to Gerry the Pacemaker. Photographs Gail and Mark.
Conductors: John and Gail Elrick
Participants: John and Gail (conductors) , Cathy, Dave, Jeff, Joëlle, Keith, Maggie, Mark, Nick and Vala
Stroll Report from John:
Earlier in the week we decided to cancel the stroll in the programme from Hayes, Kent due to engineering works on the railway line and knee problems experienced by Simon which made him unlikely to be able to lead. Moreover, we were all in the grip of the Beast from the East which saw the capital under snow, a biting wind from the East and mass train cancellations.
We therefore decided to put together a walk connecting the parks and green areas in our locality. Richmond was an accessible place to start and the improvised route offered plenty of flexibility if we had to cut it short due to the bad weather. We assumed that few people would make it but in the event nine people arrived at Richmond station, all of them desperate to get some much needed fresh air. Matters were helped on Saturday when the temperature lurched above freezing and the snow disappeared.
Along the towpath Nick and Jeff pointed out the tallest Plane Tree in London which stands beside Gaucho’s restaurant (see photo on the Strolls web pages). We walked across Petersham Meadows and entered Richmond Park at Petersham Gate to ascend up to Pembroke Lodge. There are always two ritual stops at this point, one is to see if St. Paul’s Cathedral is visible from the viewpoint on King Henry’s Mound (it wasn’t), and the other is to look at the Ian Dury bench (recently repaired but minus music). Having got this out of our system we walked a wide circuit to Ham Gate via Pen Ponds, across Ham Common and on to Teddington Lock.
In Teddington we stopped for lunch with the sandwich eaters occupying the benches near the five foot high poppy statue which commemorates World War One and the drinkers going off to ‘The Adelaide’ pub. After lunch we walked through Bushy Park via the Woodland Gardens, exiting through the Lion Gate and cutting through Hampton Court Palace to cross the river. On the Surrey side the Rivers Mole and Ember run side by side in Molesey and join together just to the west of Hampton Court Way before running into the Thames by Cigarette Island. We meandered in a circle through East Molesey, trying to follow the two rivers as far as possible, and finally finished up back at Hampton Court where we stopped for a very welcome tea and cakes in a small café.
From here we recrossed the river and headed through Home Park, mainly along the Long Water, to reach Kingston station.
Distance: 18 miles according to Gerry the Pacemaker. Photographs Gail and Mark.
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Dorking Circular - 17 March
Conductor: Keith Lane
Participants: Keith (conductor), Cathy, Dave T, Dave W, Gail, Gillian, Jane, Jeff, Joëlle, John, Richard and Ron
Report: See below photos
A Stroll to Remember from the conductor
Despite snowing in the morning and an Amber warning for the Dorking area, in the late afternoon, 12 Strollers assembled at Dorking station.
For mid-March (or indeed any month) this was a bitterly cold day, however, once Box Hill had been climbed at Ashurst Roughs and we entered the woods towards Juniper Top the beauty of the fresh snow was apparent. Five miles of undulating footpaths and tracks took us to an almost deserted Headley Heath. To the relief of the Strollers the mobile café was open. The sight of this almost caused a Strollers’ stampede.
The next stage through mud, large puddles and snow turned into a trudge to get to Colley Hill where the Conductor took a message from someone not unimportant in Strollers’ matters and discovered he had been left behind and had decided to return to Dorking.
The original idea of having lunch on top of Colley Hill was quickly dispensed with and we made our way down to Reigate Heath where the first pub was considered to look very muddy-walkers-unfriendly so we made our way to The Skimmington Castle.
Now, dear reader, reflect for a moment on what you want from a pub on a freezing day. Fires? Warm hospitality? Stone floors? Good service? If so, you will love the Skimmington Castle as it excelled on all counts.
The Conductor had decided to shorten the 19 mile stroll and instead of returning via Leigh, after lunch, we walked back to Dorking Station conveniently along the Greensand Way as the Conductor had not recce’d this alternative route.
Dorking station was reached in good time to catch the 17:33 train having walked 15 miles. A day of beauty, hardship, mishap, some humour and a winter wonderland.
Distance 15 miles. Photographs Gail and Keith
Conductor: Keith Lane
Participants: Keith (conductor), Cathy, Dave T, Dave W, Gail, Gillian, Jane, Jeff, Joëlle, John, Richard and Ron
Report: See below photos
A Stroll to Remember from the conductor
Despite snowing in the morning and an Amber warning for the Dorking area, in the late afternoon, 12 Strollers assembled at Dorking station.
For mid-March (or indeed any month) this was a bitterly cold day, however, once Box Hill had been climbed at Ashurst Roughs and we entered the woods towards Juniper Top the beauty of the fresh snow was apparent. Five miles of undulating footpaths and tracks took us to an almost deserted Headley Heath. To the relief of the Strollers the mobile café was open. The sight of this almost caused a Strollers’ stampede.
The next stage through mud, large puddles and snow turned into a trudge to get to Colley Hill where the Conductor took a message from someone not unimportant in Strollers’ matters and discovered he had been left behind and had decided to return to Dorking.
The original idea of having lunch on top of Colley Hill was quickly dispensed with and we made our way down to Reigate Heath where the first pub was considered to look very muddy-walkers-unfriendly so we made our way to The Skimmington Castle.
Now, dear reader, reflect for a moment on what you want from a pub on a freezing day. Fires? Warm hospitality? Stone floors? Good service? If so, you will love the Skimmington Castle as it excelled on all counts.
The Conductor had decided to shorten the 19 mile stroll and instead of returning via Leigh, after lunch, we walked back to Dorking Station conveniently along the Greensand Way as the Conductor had not recce’d this alternative route.
Dorking station was reached in good time to catch the 17:33 train having walked 15 miles. A day of beauty, hardship, mishap, some humour and a winter wonderland.
Distance 15 miles. Photographs Gail and Keith
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Strolls April to June
Thames Valley Circular - 2 April (Bank Holiday Monday)
Conductor: Janette Platt
Participants: Janette (conductor) Dave, Gail, Helen, Jill, John and Nick
This road outside Reading station commemorates Trooper
Potts, a resident of Reading, who was awarded the Victoria
Cross at Gallipoli in August 1915.
Stroll Report from Janette:
A day of heavy rain was forecast so the conductor would not have been surprised to have been the only SWC member on Reading station that morning but, no, four hardy souls (soon five hardy souls when Jill joined us after having got a slightly later train) were there raring to go and, what's more, all had read Gail's email of a couple of days before and had dutifully gone to the correct exit. Hurrah! And we were rewarded by a much better day weather-wise than predicted. Still quite wet, particularly underfoot, but not too heavy rain and with dry spells in between. Phew!
So off we set from the station, making a bee-line for the Thames Path on the south bank of the Thames which we followed westward for about a hour. Shortly before a large marina at Purley on Thames we followed the Thames Path on its short detour inland before leaving it to head for the hills (and woods) to the south, eventually dropping down into the (wet) valley of the River Pang where puddles had become ponds. Successfully negotiating these we admired four large WW2 pillboxes before we reached Tidmarsh, where the conductor had originally planned to stop for lunch (at the Greyhound). All agreed this would have been too early so were glad that the conductor had subsequently decided that the lunch stop should be in Whitchurch on Thames instead (also the Greyhound, strangely). Because the Pang was very flooded the conductor abandoned the idea of walking all the way back to Pangbourne along its banks and took to the road for part of the way instead.
Reaching Pangbourne, we crossed the Thames by the historic toll bridge and made our way to the pub via the church, those with sandwiches eating them in the very cold church porch, while Helen and the conductor warmed themselves by a roaring log fire in the pub.
After lunch the group headed up hill to join the Thames Path again heading west. A pleasant woodland walk took them along the north bank of the Thames (passing another WW2 pillbox) until the group headed steeply up hill to a view point over the Goring Gap. A short detour into Hartslock nature reserve to take in the view of the Thames to the east took the group even higher.
After that the return journey eastwards began through fields and woods (often very muddy) above the Thames valley before emerging from the woods for yet another lovely view and more importantly sharing the biggest Ritter Sport chocolate bar I have ever seen, courtesy of Jill. After that we dropped down towards Mapledurham, an Elizabethan grand pile, and thereafter followed an hour's flat walking back to Reading. The advantage of returning from Reading is that the trains are very frequent. The disadvantage that day was that it was Bank Holiday Monday and the trains were packed! Ah well.
Thanks to those who braved the weather to come. Hope you enjoyed it.
Distance approx. 20 miles. Photographs Gail and John
Conductor: Janette Platt
Participants: Janette (conductor) Dave, Gail, Helen, Jill, John and Nick
This road outside Reading station commemorates Trooper
Potts, a resident of Reading, who was awarded the Victoria
Cross at Gallipoli in August 1915.
Stroll Report from Janette:
A day of heavy rain was forecast so the conductor would not have been surprised to have been the only SWC member on Reading station that morning but, no, four hardy souls (soon five hardy souls when Jill joined us after having got a slightly later train) were there raring to go and, what's more, all had read Gail's email of a couple of days before and had dutifully gone to the correct exit. Hurrah! And we were rewarded by a much better day weather-wise than predicted. Still quite wet, particularly underfoot, but not too heavy rain and with dry spells in between. Phew!
So off we set from the station, making a bee-line for the Thames Path on the south bank of the Thames which we followed westward for about a hour. Shortly before a large marina at Purley on Thames we followed the Thames Path on its short detour inland before leaving it to head for the hills (and woods) to the south, eventually dropping down into the (wet) valley of the River Pang where puddles had become ponds. Successfully negotiating these we admired four large WW2 pillboxes before we reached Tidmarsh, where the conductor had originally planned to stop for lunch (at the Greyhound). All agreed this would have been too early so were glad that the conductor had subsequently decided that the lunch stop should be in Whitchurch on Thames instead (also the Greyhound, strangely). Because the Pang was very flooded the conductor abandoned the idea of walking all the way back to Pangbourne along its banks and took to the road for part of the way instead.
Reaching Pangbourne, we crossed the Thames by the historic toll bridge and made our way to the pub via the church, those with sandwiches eating them in the very cold church porch, while Helen and the conductor warmed themselves by a roaring log fire in the pub.
After lunch the group headed up hill to join the Thames Path again heading west. A pleasant woodland walk took them along the north bank of the Thames (passing another WW2 pillbox) until the group headed steeply up hill to a view point over the Goring Gap. A short detour into Hartslock nature reserve to take in the view of the Thames to the east took the group even higher.
After that the return journey eastwards began through fields and woods (often very muddy) above the Thames valley before emerging from the woods for yet another lovely view and more importantly sharing the biggest Ritter Sport chocolate bar I have ever seen, courtesy of Jill. After that we dropped down towards Mapledurham, an Elizabethan grand pile, and thereafter followed an hour's flat walking back to Reading. The advantage of returning from Reading is that the trains are very frequent. The disadvantage that day was that it was Bank Holiday Monday and the trains were packed! Ah well.
Thanks to those who braved the weather to come. Hope you enjoyed it.
Distance approx. 20 miles. Photographs Gail and John
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Haslemere Circular - 14 April
Conductor: Jill Goddard
Participants: Jill (conductor) Andy, Bozena, Chris, Debbie, Joelle, Kate and Nick
Route Description (from strolling news no.66):
The route is an interesting mix of woodland, heath and farmland and there are opportunities for great views. We walk west from Haslemere over Marley Common to join the Sussex Border Path and then take the New Lipchis Way to cross Stanley Common and up to Woolbeeding Common. We drop down to Fernhurst for lunch (pub stop) and then climb up onto Black Down, rejoining the Serpents Way and the Sussex Border Path. We descend through farmland to Grayswood and back to Haslemere, where there are cafes etc for Distance 19 miles. Photograph Kate
Conductor: Jill Goddard
Participants: Jill (conductor) Andy, Bozena, Chris, Debbie, Joelle, Kate and Nick
Route Description (from strolling news no.66):
The route is an interesting mix of woodland, heath and farmland and there are opportunities for great views. We walk west from Haslemere over Marley Common to join the Sussex Border Path and then take the New Lipchis Way to cross Stanley Common and up to Woolbeeding Common. We drop down to Fernhurst for lunch (pub stop) and then climb up onto Black Down, rejoining the Serpents Way and the Sussex Border Path. We descend through farmland to Grayswood and back to Haslemere, where there are cafes etc for Distance 19 miles. Photograph Kate
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Southend-on-Sea Linear (Pitsea to Thorpe Bay)- 29 April
Conductor: David Hoben
Participants: David (conductor) John, Joelle, Gail and Nick
Stroll Report: Below the photos
Stroll Report from David:
After a plan to do a walk involving a return ride on the Epping Ongar Steam Railway which had to be abandoned, the stroll from 2017 to Britain’s driest town was repeated.
The Fenchurch Street service was on diversion that morning, going on a circuitous route via Grays to Pitsea, but amazingly only arrived at Pitsea station one minute later than advertised by SWC!
The Thames Estuary path started outside the station so it was possible to get into the countryside with immediate effect, the first 3 miles or so already back to winter ground conditions even though
The London Marathon weekend just a week earlier had been fine and sunny. From Benfleet to Hadleigh Castle the route was on mountain bike trails and the quality of the surface was much better, which made progress easy.
There was also a chance to spectate an orienteering event which was taking place on the same piece of woodland.
Morning coffee was at the Salvation Army Café at Hadleigh Castle which usually affords great views over the Thames estuary into Kent, the dull weather this particular day making the views less distinct.
The view that was expected and we didn’t get was the one over the 2012 Olympic mountain bike course, which was a shame. The remainder of the stroll was the over the Southend Millennium Walk, which was hosted by a local RA group for the first few years of the present century until it was deemed not worth putting on for turnouts of only 90 or so.
After coffee the party made a mini tour of Hadleigh Castle, which is open to the public at all times and free. Although much of the castle is in ruins, there was still enough of interest to look round.
The Millennium Walk then climbed again giving view over Canvey Island, Hoo Peninsular, and Isle of Grain, with Isle of Sheppey in the distance.
The route into Old Leigh was through the huts selling local seafood, then through the cobbled streets and wooden buildings which make this resort popular throughout the year.
The high street featured a plaque for the high water mark reached in the severe floods of 1953 which tragically affected the Canvey Island area, and the local museum. The next port of call on the promenade was the Crow Stone, marking the point at which the Thames ends and the North Sea begins, unfortunately it was approaching high tide and not possible to visit at close quarters.
Lunch was at Rossi’s café at Westcliff; from there the Millennium Walk turned inland slightly and followed the public park and gardens overlooking the promenade.
It was then time to do the walk to the end of the pier and back, still Britain’s longest pier at 1.34 miles each way, and have photos taken next to just about the thinnest pillar box you could imagine, still in service.
The last mile back to Thorpe Bay station was on a pleasant avenue in the central reservation of the dual carriageway, on arrival at the station we were greeted by yet another replacement bus service for the ride back to Southend Central station, again this did not add too much to the journey time.
Southend had lived up to its reputation – it didn’t rain.
“Southend is the pier. The pier is Southend.” Sir John Betjeman on his favourite pier.
Distance 18 miles. Photographs Gail and John
Conductor: David Hoben
Participants: David (conductor) John, Joelle, Gail and Nick
Stroll Report: Below the photos
Stroll Report from David:
After a plan to do a walk involving a return ride on the Epping Ongar Steam Railway which had to be abandoned, the stroll from 2017 to Britain’s driest town was repeated.
The Fenchurch Street service was on diversion that morning, going on a circuitous route via Grays to Pitsea, but amazingly only arrived at Pitsea station one minute later than advertised by SWC!
The Thames Estuary path started outside the station so it was possible to get into the countryside with immediate effect, the first 3 miles or so already back to winter ground conditions even though
The London Marathon weekend just a week earlier had been fine and sunny. From Benfleet to Hadleigh Castle the route was on mountain bike trails and the quality of the surface was much better, which made progress easy.
There was also a chance to spectate an orienteering event which was taking place on the same piece of woodland.
Morning coffee was at the Salvation Army Café at Hadleigh Castle which usually affords great views over the Thames estuary into Kent, the dull weather this particular day making the views less distinct.
The view that was expected and we didn’t get was the one over the 2012 Olympic mountain bike course, which was a shame. The remainder of the stroll was the over the Southend Millennium Walk, which was hosted by a local RA group for the first few years of the present century until it was deemed not worth putting on for turnouts of only 90 or so.
After coffee the party made a mini tour of Hadleigh Castle, which is open to the public at all times and free. Although much of the castle is in ruins, there was still enough of interest to look round.
The Millennium Walk then climbed again giving view over Canvey Island, Hoo Peninsular, and Isle of Grain, with Isle of Sheppey in the distance.
The route into Old Leigh was through the huts selling local seafood, then through the cobbled streets and wooden buildings which make this resort popular throughout the year.
The high street featured a plaque for the high water mark reached in the severe floods of 1953 which tragically affected the Canvey Island area, and the local museum. The next port of call on the promenade was the Crow Stone, marking the point at which the Thames ends and the North Sea begins, unfortunately it was approaching high tide and not possible to visit at close quarters.
Lunch was at Rossi’s café at Westcliff; from there the Millennium Walk turned inland slightly and followed the public park and gardens overlooking the promenade.
It was then time to do the walk to the end of the pier and back, still Britain’s longest pier at 1.34 miles each way, and have photos taken next to just about the thinnest pillar box you could imagine, still in service.
The last mile back to Thorpe Bay station was on a pleasant avenue in the central reservation of the dual carriageway, on arrival at the station we were greeted by yet another replacement bus service for the ride back to Southend Central station, again this did not add too much to the journey time.
Southend had lived up to its reputation – it didn’t rain.
“Southend is the pier. The pier is Southend.” Sir John Betjeman on his favourite pier.
Distance 18 miles. Photographs Gail and John
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Gravesend to Borough Green - 12 May
Conductor: Dave Williams.
Route Description from strolling news no.66):
An 18 mile linear walk from Gravesend to Borough Green, roughly following the London Countryway with lunch at Sole Street.
Distance 18 miles
Conductor: Dave Williams.
Route Description from strolling news no.66):
An 18 mile linear walk from Gravesend to Borough Green, roughly following the London Countryway with lunch at Sole Street.
Distance 18 miles
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Greenwich to Westerham - 26 May
Conductor: Neil Cook
Participants: Neil (conductor) Joelle and Simon
Stroll Report from Neil:
After departing Greenwich and Simon had changed into his warm weather gear we headed up Greenwich Hill for photographs of General Wolfe and the Millenium Line. We headed on towards Bromley via the Waterlink Way. Numbers on the stroll were low due to the LDWA 100 in Kent, the Aviva Premiership Final and the Champions League Final all taking place over the same weekend.
We arrived at Bromley where both Simon and Joelle decided to bail (or bale) out. Neil decided to continue and got to Downe where he ended with a pint (part of a full or Fuller’s day).
Photographs Joelle and Simon
Conductor: Neil Cook
Participants: Neil (conductor) Joelle and Simon
Stroll Report from Neil:
After departing Greenwich and Simon had changed into his warm weather gear we headed up Greenwich Hill for photographs of General Wolfe and the Millenium Line. We headed on towards Bromley via the Waterlink Way. Numbers on the stroll were low due to the LDWA 100 in Kent, the Aviva Premiership Final and the Champions League Final all taking place over the same weekend.
We arrived at Bromley where both Simon and Joelle decided to bail (or bale) out. Neil decided to continue and got to Downe where he ended with a pint (part of a full or Fuller’s day).
Photographs Joelle and Simon
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Paddock Wood to Headcorn - 9 June
Conductor: Lilian Chelli
Participants: Lilian (conductor) Debbie, Gail, John, Lynne, Neil and Paul
Route description from strolling news no.68)
A classic linear walk through the orchards, woods, and meadows of Kent. In the morning we climb to the picturesque village of Brenchley. We then follow the High Weald Landscape Trail to Goudhurst where there are impressive views over the Kent countryside. Lunch is at the Star and Eagle. The afternoon route passes through Old Park Wood and Hocker Edge. Tea is at Sissinghurst Castle. In the evening we walk through the fields to Frittenden, and along a back lane to the old village of Headcorn.
Distance approx. 20 miles. Photographs Gail and John
Conductor: Lilian Chelli
Participants: Lilian (conductor) Debbie, Gail, John, Lynne, Neil and Paul
Route description from strolling news no.68)
A classic linear walk through the orchards, woods, and meadows of Kent. In the morning we climb to the picturesque village of Brenchley. We then follow the High Weald Landscape Trail to Goudhurst where there are impressive views over the Kent countryside. Lunch is at the Star and Eagle. The afternoon route passes through Old Park Wood and Hocker Edge. Tea is at Sissinghurst Castle. In the evening we walk through the fields to Frittenden, and along a back lane to the old village of Headcorn.
Distance approx. 20 miles. Photographs Gail and John
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Knockholt Circular - 23 June
Conductor: Helen Franklin
Participants: Helen (conductor) Bozena, Cathy, Dave, Gail, Gillian, John, Lilian, Paul, Rachel, Simon, Vala and Bozena's friend.
Route description (from strolling news no.66):
Crossing Broke Hill Golf Club, we make our way through Pratt’s Bottom, and along undulating paths towards High Elms Country Park, for a ‘comfort’ stop. We then pick up the London Loop to Downe Village. Pub lunch at either the George and Dragon or the Queen’s Head (need to recce) or picnic in the village, plenty of benches available. In the afternoon we pass Downe House, home of Charles Darwin, and on through farmland and woodland towards Knockholt Village. We then start to head back towards the station, stopping at Arthur’s Café in Coolings Nursery for tea, on the way.
Distance approx. 18 miles. Photographs Gail and Simon
Conductor: Helen Franklin
Participants: Helen (conductor) Bozena, Cathy, Dave, Gail, Gillian, John, Lilian, Paul, Rachel, Simon, Vala and Bozena's friend.
Route description (from strolling news no.66):
Crossing Broke Hill Golf Club, we make our way through Pratt’s Bottom, and along undulating paths towards High Elms Country Park, for a ‘comfort’ stop. We then pick up the London Loop to Downe Village. Pub lunch at either the George and Dragon or the Queen’s Head (need to recce) or picnic in the village, plenty of benches available. In the afternoon we pass Downe House, home of Charles Darwin, and on through farmland and woodland towards Knockholt Village. We then start to head back towards the station, stopping at Arthur’s Café in Coolings Nursery for tea, on the way.
Distance approx. 18 miles. Photographs Gail and Simon
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Strolls July to September
Guildford Circular - 7 July
Conductor: Jill Goddard
Participants: Jill (conductor) Andy, Debbie, Gail, John, Laurence, Lilian, Lynne and Rachel
Route Description (from strolling news no. 67):
Route description: An undulating walk with a good mix of downs, woods and farmland paths. We start on the North Downs Way before heading across Blackheath and to Shamley Green for lunch. The afternoon takes us further on the Greensand Way before heading over to Cateshall and returning to Guildford alongside the River Way.
Distance 20 miles. Photos: Gail and John
Conductor: Jill Goddard
Participants: Jill (conductor) Andy, Debbie, Gail, John, Laurence, Lilian, Lynne and Rachel
Route Description (from strolling news no. 67):
Route description: An undulating walk with a good mix of downs, woods and farmland paths. We start on the North Downs Way before heading across Blackheath and to Shamley Green for lunch. The afternoon takes us further on the Greensand Way before heading over to Cateshall and returning to Guildford alongside the River Way.
Distance 20 miles. Photos: Gail and John
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Ashurst Circular - 21 July
Conductor: Kate Copeland
Participants: Kate (conductor) Bozena, Carol, Dave T, Dave W, Gail, Gillian, Gosha, John, Kate, Keith, Lilian, Lynne, Nick and Scott
Stroll report from Kate:
It was already pretty warm when we set off from Ashurst station but there were a few clouds in the sky which we looked at hopefully. The forecast suggested temperatures would be a dash cooler than in the preceding few weeks.
The walk plunged us straight into a rural landscape and there wasn't great deal of habitation along the rest of our route, nor many other walkers. We ambled along the Himalayan balsam-lined Medway, through various cereal crops and even along the edge of a large field of chamomile flowers. The dry, hot weather meant the colours were all bleached and rather striking.
We stopped for homemade cakes on a rocky hill near Penns In The Rocks and were then treated to the sight of a huge herd of deer in the nearby farm. We popped into the pub at Withyam (sadly a bit too early into the walk to make a sensible lunch stop) to fill up our water bottles. It was much needed as we were drinking gallons in the heat. There were some very inquisitive bulls just before we entered Withyam churchyard. It didn't go unnoticed that at this point the Backmarker gallantly broke rank and nipped through the gate ahead of the last few walkers in the group.
We picnicked in the shade just before entering Five Hundred Acre wood (famously renamed by A. A. Milne). We were glad of the tree cover for our climb along the Weald Way up onto Ashdown Forest. This is a misnomer as the area is technically a heath (shrubland with low-growing woody plants, which is rarer around the world than tropical rainforest, apparently), that has been protected and funded by the European Union. The conservation process relies on grazing animals and using controlled fires to keep the heath from becoming woodland.
From the 'Forest' we had stunning views all the way back to the North Downs. We didn't dally to admire them as this was the hottest part of the walk and we had our sights set on the ice cream van parked at Chuck Hatch Road. From here (with more stunning views, to the West) we descended, via Gill's Lap and the plaque commemorating A. A. Milne and E. H. Shepard, into the wood. We had a quick game of Pooh Sticks before heading into Hartfield for our refreshment stop. Most made a beeline for the pub and its cool garden and a few tackled the very hearty teas at the Piglet's Tearooms. We then had a lovely 4 miles back to Ashurst, mirroring our outbound route along the other side of the Medway.
The only fly in the ointment was provided (or not as the case may be) by Southern Rail who cancelled the hourly train we were aiming to catch. This wasn't causing too much consternation until word got round that - There Is No Pub Near Ashurst Station! Luckily Lilian and the Elricks had driven and they kindly forwent their quiet journeys home to fill their cars with grateful walkers. Thank you. Especial thanks to Gillian, David T and Nick who elected to sit it out at Ashurst station for an extra hour. Dave W and Keith nobly headed off to complete some research into Kentish Ales along the Uckfield line. It is believed that the station pubs at Eridge AND Oxted did good business that evening...!
Distance 18 miles (though Gerry the Pacemaker suggested 20). Photographs Gail, John and Lynne
Conductor: Kate Copeland
Participants: Kate (conductor) Bozena, Carol, Dave T, Dave W, Gail, Gillian, Gosha, John, Kate, Keith, Lilian, Lynne, Nick and Scott
Stroll report from Kate:
It was already pretty warm when we set off from Ashurst station but there were a few clouds in the sky which we looked at hopefully. The forecast suggested temperatures would be a dash cooler than in the preceding few weeks.
The walk plunged us straight into a rural landscape and there wasn't great deal of habitation along the rest of our route, nor many other walkers. We ambled along the Himalayan balsam-lined Medway, through various cereal crops and even along the edge of a large field of chamomile flowers. The dry, hot weather meant the colours were all bleached and rather striking.
We stopped for homemade cakes on a rocky hill near Penns In The Rocks and were then treated to the sight of a huge herd of deer in the nearby farm. We popped into the pub at Withyam (sadly a bit too early into the walk to make a sensible lunch stop) to fill up our water bottles. It was much needed as we were drinking gallons in the heat. There were some very inquisitive bulls just before we entered Withyam churchyard. It didn't go unnoticed that at this point the Backmarker gallantly broke rank and nipped through the gate ahead of the last few walkers in the group.
We picnicked in the shade just before entering Five Hundred Acre wood (famously renamed by A. A. Milne). We were glad of the tree cover for our climb along the Weald Way up onto Ashdown Forest. This is a misnomer as the area is technically a heath (shrubland with low-growing woody plants, which is rarer around the world than tropical rainforest, apparently), that has been protected and funded by the European Union. The conservation process relies on grazing animals and using controlled fires to keep the heath from becoming woodland.
From the 'Forest' we had stunning views all the way back to the North Downs. We didn't dally to admire them as this was the hottest part of the walk and we had our sights set on the ice cream van parked at Chuck Hatch Road. From here (with more stunning views, to the West) we descended, via Gill's Lap and the plaque commemorating A. A. Milne and E. H. Shepard, into the wood. We had a quick game of Pooh Sticks before heading into Hartfield for our refreshment stop. Most made a beeline for the pub and its cool garden and a few tackled the very hearty teas at the Piglet's Tearooms. We then had a lovely 4 miles back to Ashurst, mirroring our outbound route along the other side of the Medway.
The only fly in the ointment was provided (or not as the case may be) by Southern Rail who cancelled the hourly train we were aiming to catch. This wasn't causing too much consternation until word got round that - There Is No Pub Near Ashurst Station! Luckily Lilian and the Elricks had driven and they kindly forwent their quiet journeys home to fill their cars with grateful walkers. Thank you. Especial thanks to Gillian, David T and Nick who elected to sit it out at Ashurst station for an extra hour. Dave W and Keith nobly headed off to complete some research into Kentish Ales along the Uckfield line. It is believed that the station pubs at Eridge AND Oxted did good business that evening...!
Distance 18 miles (though Gerry the Pacemaker suggested 20). Photographs Gail, John and Lynne
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Walking in the Footsteps of Buckinghamshire Suffragettes - Wendover to High Wycombe - 5 August
Conductor: Lynne McKenzie
Participants: Lynne (conductor) Andy, Claire, Dave T, Dave W, Debbie, Gillian, Jeff, Kate, Keith, Paul and Simon
Stroll Report from Lynne:
Twelve of us made the journey to Wendover to start this Suffrage walk in the heat of an August Sunday. In light of the temperatures the route had been cut to 16.5 miles with regular stops to take on much needed water and apply sun cream.
The first 8 miles of the walk followed the Ridgeway. The first climb of the day was a gentle one to the Boer War Monument from where we caught glimpses of Chequers. Closer views were had as we crossed the driveway and headed up to a wood with splendid views of Chequers and the Boer War Monument high on the hill above. After crossing the Grangelands Nature Reserve we came to the Plough to make use of their shaded picnic tables to sample the leader's Courgette and Lime Cake (walnut and cinammon vegan bites for some others). Thus fortified for the stiff hill that followed before we descended towards Princes Risborough through a very lunar landscape at times.
On July 22 1913 a group of around 50 women arrived in Princes Risborough as part of the national pilgrimage to highlight popular support for "Votes for Women". We followed in their footsteps as we left the Ridgeway towards lunch in Loosley Row (after another hill). The Whip Inn is a highly recommended lunch stop where they happily allowed us to eat our packed lunch in the garden. Simon had a lovely looking roast dinner but with word of a bus to High Wycombe left us there.
The remaining eleven followed a very pretty path towards Small Dean Farm and round to Saunderton Station. This had been burned down by suffragettes in March 1913. Under the cover of darkness they set it alight leaving the message "Burning to get the vote". Dave Williams was burning to make it home for some rest before an early morning flight so we left him at the station to catch the next train to London.
Down to ten who tackled another hill before a pleasant hour's walk to the Dashwood Mausoleum and more importantly a much needed tea stop at the Hellfire Caves. Suitably refreshed we tackled the last hill of the day to skirt around West Wycombe Park through some lovely shade before the trudge on to High Wycombe station. Thank you to Andy for negotiating the last half mile.
The leader fully enjoyed her day and felt the others did too. All that recceing really does pay
Distance approx. 20 miles. Photographs ??
Conductor: Lynne McKenzie
Participants: Lynne (conductor) Andy, Claire, Dave T, Dave W, Debbie, Gillian, Jeff, Kate, Keith, Paul and Simon
Stroll Report from Lynne:
Twelve of us made the journey to Wendover to start this Suffrage walk in the heat of an August Sunday. In light of the temperatures the route had been cut to 16.5 miles with regular stops to take on much needed water and apply sun cream.
The first 8 miles of the walk followed the Ridgeway. The first climb of the day was a gentle one to the Boer War Monument from where we caught glimpses of Chequers. Closer views were had as we crossed the driveway and headed up to a wood with splendid views of Chequers and the Boer War Monument high on the hill above. After crossing the Grangelands Nature Reserve we came to the Plough to make use of their shaded picnic tables to sample the leader's Courgette and Lime Cake (walnut and cinammon vegan bites for some others). Thus fortified for the stiff hill that followed before we descended towards Princes Risborough through a very lunar landscape at times.
On July 22 1913 a group of around 50 women arrived in Princes Risborough as part of the national pilgrimage to highlight popular support for "Votes for Women". We followed in their footsteps as we left the Ridgeway towards lunch in Loosley Row (after another hill). The Whip Inn is a highly recommended lunch stop where they happily allowed us to eat our packed lunch in the garden. Simon had a lovely looking roast dinner but with word of a bus to High Wycombe left us there.
The remaining eleven followed a very pretty path towards Small Dean Farm and round to Saunderton Station. This had been burned down by suffragettes in March 1913. Under the cover of darkness they set it alight leaving the message "Burning to get the vote". Dave Williams was burning to make it home for some rest before an early morning flight so we left him at the station to catch the next train to London.
Down to ten who tackled another hill before a pleasant hour's walk to the Dashwood Mausoleum and more importantly a much needed tea stop at the Hellfire Caves. Suitably refreshed we tackled the last hill of the day to skirt around West Wycombe Park through some lovely shade before the trudge on to High Wycombe station. Thank you to Andy for negotiating the last half mile.
The leader fully enjoyed her day and felt the others did too. All that recceing really does pay
Distance approx. 20 miles. Photographs ??
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Haslemere Circular - 19 August
Conductors: John and Gail Elrick
Participants: Gail and John (conductors), Andy, Carol, Dave, Debbie, Jill, Kate and Lynne
Stroll report from Gail and John
This stroll, originally devised and led by Roger Moss, includes some of the best scenery in Surrey, including the Devil’s Punchbowl, Gibbet Hill, Golden Valley and Whitmore Vale.
Having made use of the new car park at the station we met the group from the train and set off in a northerly direction into the woods. After passing across Weydown Common the first stop was at South Park Farm, about an hour’s walk from the start, where there are the remains of a medieval moated site. At first glance it is difficult to see how this site was used but it is thought to date from around 1300, acting as the prestigious residence of the Lord of the Manor, the moat marking the high status of the occupier and also deterring casual raiders and wild animals.
We continued through open farmland and then made our way via woods and lanes up to Gibbett Hill. Those of us who came here prior to 2011, when the Hindhead Tunnel was opened, will remember the busy traffic of the A3, but now the site is landscaped and peaceful. We turned left along the ridge of the Devil’s Punchbowl passing the memorial stone to the Unknown Sailor who was murdered here in 1786. After a brief stop for elevenses outside the National Trust café we continued through woodland and along lanes to Churt where we stopped for a picnic lunch on the village green.
Whilst sitting on one of the benches an elderly lady emerged from her back garden to ask if we could help fix her television because she wanted to watch the Test Match. John and Jill went into her bungalow to see what we could do but clearly there was a problem with the signal. At that moment her son happened to telephone from Perth, Australia and we stood there somewhat helpless whilst she asked advice from him. We bade our farewell and headed over to the Crossways Inn, a friendly, traditional pub with plenty of real ales (but no food on Sundays).
Leaving the pub we headed through the heavily wooded Golden Valley back to the National Trust café where we stopped for tea. This had been virtually empty when John and Gail had stopped here on their recce due to competition from an England World Cup match. Now it was much busier but still a good opportunity to buy some ice lollies and cold drinks in the hot afternoon. From here we crossed the road and spent the last hour descending through more woods and along the Greensand Way to reach Haslemere station.
Distance 20 miles. Photographs Gail, John and Lynne
Conductors: John and Gail Elrick
Participants: Gail and John (conductors), Andy, Carol, Dave, Debbie, Jill, Kate and Lynne
Stroll report from Gail and John
This stroll, originally devised and led by Roger Moss, includes some of the best scenery in Surrey, including the Devil’s Punchbowl, Gibbet Hill, Golden Valley and Whitmore Vale.
Having made use of the new car park at the station we met the group from the train and set off in a northerly direction into the woods. After passing across Weydown Common the first stop was at South Park Farm, about an hour’s walk from the start, where there are the remains of a medieval moated site. At first glance it is difficult to see how this site was used but it is thought to date from around 1300, acting as the prestigious residence of the Lord of the Manor, the moat marking the high status of the occupier and also deterring casual raiders and wild animals.
We continued through open farmland and then made our way via woods and lanes up to Gibbett Hill. Those of us who came here prior to 2011, when the Hindhead Tunnel was opened, will remember the busy traffic of the A3, but now the site is landscaped and peaceful. We turned left along the ridge of the Devil’s Punchbowl passing the memorial stone to the Unknown Sailor who was murdered here in 1786. After a brief stop for elevenses outside the National Trust café we continued through woodland and along lanes to Churt where we stopped for a picnic lunch on the village green.
Whilst sitting on one of the benches an elderly lady emerged from her back garden to ask if we could help fix her television because she wanted to watch the Test Match. John and Jill went into her bungalow to see what we could do but clearly there was a problem with the signal. At that moment her son happened to telephone from Perth, Australia and we stood there somewhat helpless whilst she asked advice from him. We bade our farewell and headed over to the Crossways Inn, a friendly, traditional pub with plenty of real ales (but no food on Sundays).
Leaving the pub we headed through the heavily wooded Golden Valley back to the National Trust café where we stopped for tea. This had been virtually empty when John and Gail had stopped here on their recce due to competition from an England World Cup match. Now it was much busier but still a good opportunity to buy some ice lollies and cold drinks in the hot afternoon. From here we crossed the road and spent the last hour descending through more woods and along the Greensand Way to reach Haslemere station.
Distance 20 miles. Photographs Gail, John and Lynne
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Epsom to Dorking - 1 September
Stroll cancelled due to rail strike.
Stroll cancelled due to rail strike.
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Hollingbourne Circular - 15 September
Conductor: Nick White
Participants: Nick (conductor) Carol, Casilda, Dave T, Janette, Kate, Paul and Rachel
Stroll Report by Nick:
We arrived on time at Hollingbourne station for a walk in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Sadly, some strollers were unable to make it due to yet more strikes on the railways (thank you South Western Railway).
We set off at a brisk pace to climb a steep hill up onto the North Downs. WW2 planes flying in formation caught our eyes. Crossing huge open fields with pylons marching off into the distance, we reached Hucking Estate, owned and managed by the Woodland Trust. Prior to the acquisition of the Estate by the Trust in 1997, it was known as the Howe Court Estate, but was re-named Hucking Estate after the nearby village of Hucking. The Estate runs to the escarpment of the North Downs along the southern boundary giving us fantastic views across the Weald of Kent. We passed a carved wooden sculpture of a shepherd, gazing out over Kent, and then saw a carved family of wild boar. At the very top of the Estate we stopped for elevenses, resting on a giant carved wooden axe.
It was now time to return to the North Downs Way. We passed through Hucking itself (not much more than a few houses and St Margaret’s church) and then headed south though Smokes Wood, encountering another carving, the habitat log, along the way.
We were now following the North Downs Way to White Horse Wood Country Park and Thurnham for lunch. You would be forgiven for thinking that the NDW was an easy walk along the top of the escarpment, but, in fact there are many undulations and we found ourselves having to descend steep steps only to have to immediately climb again. Casilda adopted the practical approach of taking her time going up but running down!
Eventually, we approached Thurnham and, while Janette went straight to the pub, The Black Horse Inn, to eat, the rest of us entered White Horse Wood Country Park with our packed lunches. We were fascinated by paragliders floating gently across the hills and two strange wooden sculptures like Christmas trees gone wrong. We then rejoined Janette for a drink before heading back towards Hollingbourne.
After the exertions of the morning, the afternoon part of the walk was much easier. We continued along the valley below the North Downs through fields, passing oast houses and some friendly horses. Arriving at Eyhorne Street it was now time to see Leeds Castle and take a walk through the grounds of "the loveliest Castle in the world". The owners are strict about paying to enter the grounds, so we had to ensure that we stuck to the public right of way!
Returning to Eyhorne Street, Janette and Rachel decided to stop at the Sugar Loaves pub for a drink while the rest of us headed back to Hollingbourne station for the return journey.
P.S. Rachel would like it to be known that she was very happy with her new Brasher boots (I’m not on commission!).
Distance 18 miles. Photographs Kate
Conductor: Nick White
Participants: Nick (conductor) Carol, Casilda, Dave T, Janette, Kate, Paul and Rachel
Stroll Report by Nick:
We arrived on time at Hollingbourne station for a walk in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Sadly, some strollers were unable to make it due to yet more strikes on the railways (thank you South Western Railway).
We set off at a brisk pace to climb a steep hill up onto the North Downs. WW2 planes flying in formation caught our eyes. Crossing huge open fields with pylons marching off into the distance, we reached Hucking Estate, owned and managed by the Woodland Trust. Prior to the acquisition of the Estate by the Trust in 1997, it was known as the Howe Court Estate, but was re-named Hucking Estate after the nearby village of Hucking. The Estate runs to the escarpment of the North Downs along the southern boundary giving us fantastic views across the Weald of Kent. We passed a carved wooden sculpture of a shepherd, gazing out over Kent, and then saw a carved family of wild boar. At the very top of the Estate we stopped for elevenses, resting on a giant carved wooden axe.
It was now time to return to the North Downs Way. We passed through Hucking itself (not much more than a few houses and St Margaret’s church) and then headed south though Smokes Wood, encountering another carving, the habitat log, along the way.
We were now following the North Downs Way to White Horse Wood Country Park and Thurnham for lunch. You would be forgiven for thinking that the NDW was an easy walk along the top of the escarpment, but, in fact there are many undulations and we found ourselves having to descend steep steps only to have to immediately climb again. Casilda adopted the practical approach of taking her time going up but running down!
Eventually, we approached Thurnham and, while Janette went straight to the pub, The Black Horse Inn, to eat, the rest of us entered White Horse Wood Country Park with our packed lunches. We were fascinated by paragliders floating gently across the hills and two strange wooden sculptures like Christmas trees gone wrong. We then rejoined Janette for a drink before heading back towards Hollingbourne.
After the exertions of the morning, the afternoon part of the walk was much easier. We continued along the valley below the North Downs through fields, passing oast houses and some friendly horses. Arriving at Eyhorne Street it was now time to see Leeds Castle and take a walk through the grounds of "the loveliest Castle in the world". The owners are strict about paying to enter the grounds, so we had to ensure that we stuck to the public right of way!
Returning to Eyhorne Street, Janette and Rachel decided to stop at the Sugar Loaves pub for a drink while the rest of us headed back to Hollingbourne station for the return journey.
P.S. Rachel would like it to be known that she was very happy with her new Brasher boots (I’m not on commission!).
Distance 18 miles. Photographs Kate
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Loop de Lewes - 29 September
Conductor: Helen Franklin
Participants: Helen (conductor) Mary-Anne, Dave T, Gail, Gillian, John, Kate, Lilian and Nick
Stroll Report from Helen:
This circular walk from the pretty town of Lewes will be a memorable one for me as the conductor. The day couldn’t have been bettered. The published train ran on time (wow!) and we were greeted by Lilian and Mary-Anne in the ticket hall. Without delay we set off up through the town towards the Greenwich Meridian Trail. This relatively new long-distance trail was inaugurated in 2009. Beginning at Peacehaven and ending on the coast at Sand le Mere in East Yorkshire, its 273 miles distance cuts through some of our familiar strolling counties of Sussex, Surrey, Kent, London, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and beyond to Lincolnshire and East Yorks.
We continued our route to Blackcap, by which time we were all down to shirtsleeves and t-shirts as the warmth of the sun began to be felt. We were lucky enough for a passer-by to offer to take the group photo (see below), better than the ones I took, as we faced the sun.
We then picked up the South Downs Way, and continued down to the busy A27, passing cyclists and youngsters doing their DofE. A spot of first aid was required when the conductor snagged a dry bramble across her ankle, which needed cleaning and dressing. This was swiftly and expertly carried out by Kate, Lilian and Gail. It was not too long to lunch, and the village of Kingston near Lewes. The weather allowed for picnics in the church, and the Juggs Inn pub some refreshment. We resumed our walk with a steady climb back onto the South Downs Way at Swanborough Hill. We were all taken with the number of paragliders who were enjoying the warmth of the day. Some of us, I think, would have been happy to have had a go, others not! But it was wonderful to see other groups enjoying the countryside, scenery and good weather as we were.
Our afternoon was a little shorter than the morning, so we were soon in Rodmell for our break at The Abergavenny Arms, for an expensive, but delicious cream tea. It was a simple four miles back to Lewes station along the Sussex Ouse Valley Way. We were all making good pace to catch the train, when a couple ahead were pointing in the river. We could see an animal with a fish, it looked like an otter, but then we realised it was a seal. We couldn’t quite work out what he was doing here so far up from the sea. I since found out that seal spotting in Lewes is by no means an unusual phenomenon, and it has something to do with the high tides.
We arrived at the station in good time for our train back to London, having had a full day of sunshine and fresh air. It was my pleasure to be able to lead such a wonderful group, on such a beautiful day in the stunning South Downs.
Distance approx. 20 miles. Photographs Mary-Anne, Gail, Helen and John
Conductor: Helen Franklin
Participants: Helen (conductor) Mary-Anne, Dave T, Gail, Gillian, John, Kate, Lilian and Nick
Stroll Report from Helen:
This circular walk from the pretty town of Lewes will be a memorable one for me as the conductor. The day couldn’t have been bettered. The published train ran on time (wow!) and we were greeted by Lilian and Mary-Anne in the ticket hall. Without delay we set off up through the town towards the Greenwich Meridian Trail. This relatively new long-distance trail was inaugurated in 2009. Beginning at Peacehaven and ending on the coast at Sand le Mere in East Yorkshire, its 273 miles distance cuts through some of our familiar strolling counties of Sussex, Surrey, Kent, London, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and beyond to Lincolnshire and East Yorks.
We continued our route to Blackcap, by which time we were all down to shirtsleeves and t-shirts as the warmth of the sun began to be felt. We were lucky enough for a passer-by to offer to take the group photo (see below), better than the ones I took, as we faced the sun.
We then picked up the South Downs Way, and continued down to the busy A27, passing cyclists and youngsters doing their DofE. A spot of first aid was required when the conductor snagged a dry bramble across her ankle, which needed cleaning and dressing. This was swiftly and expertly carried out by Kate, Lilian and Gail. It was not too long to lunch, and the village of Kingston near Lewes. The weather allowed for picnics in the church, and the Juggs Inn pub some refreshment. We resumed our walk with a steady climb back onto the South Downs Way at Swanborough Hill. We were all taken with the number of paragliders who were enjoying the warmth of the day. Some of us, I think, would have been happy to have had a go, others not! But it was wonderful to see other groups enjoying the countryside, scenery and good weather as we were.
Our afternoon was a little shorter than the morning, so we were soon in Rodmell for our break at The Abergavenny Arms, for an expensive, but delicious cream tea. It was a simple four miles back to Lewes station along the Sussex Ouse Valley Way. We were all making good pace to catch the train, when a couple ahead were pointing in the river. We could see an animal with a fish, it looked like an otter, but then we realised it was a seal. We couldn’t quite work out what he was doing here so far up from the sea. I since found out that seal spotting in Lewes is by no means an unusual phenomenon, and it has something to do with the high tides.
We arrived at the station in good time for our train back to London, having had a full day of sunshine and fresh air. It was my pleasure to be able to lead such a wonderful group, on such a beautiful day in the stunning South Downs.
Distance approx. 20 miles. Photographs Mary-Anne, Gail, Helen and John
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Strolls October to December
In Darwin's Footsteps - 14 October
Conductor: Simon Lloyd
Participants: Casilda, Dave, Gail, Gosha, Helen, Joelle, John, Keith, Neil and Ron
Route description taken from strolling news no.68:
The morning heads across ancient Commons (Hayes and Keston via the London Loop) passing William Pitt’s Holwood estate and the Wilberforce Oak, then to Downe village to pass Down House, home of Charles Darwin, to walk in his meadows and woods. Skirting Biggin Hill's edges, we reach The Blacksmith’s Arms, Cudham. After lunch, via fields and woods to High Elms Country Park, the past estate of the Lubbocks, friends of the Darwins, for tea (Green Roof Café: visitor centre, and exhibition). The evening section returns to Hayes visiting Farnborough village and church, finishing across the north of Keston Common.
Distance approx. 20 miles. Photographs Simon
Commentary re photo
The group at the site of the Wilberforce Oak near Keston.
On 12 May 1787 William Wilberforce sat here with William Pitt the Younger (then Prime Minister)
and Wiiliam Grenville (future Prime Minister). During their conversation Wilberforce decided to take
action to abolish slavery and the slave trade in the British Empire.
Conductor: Simon Lloyd
Participants: Casilda, Dave, Gail, Gosha, Helen, Joelle, John, Keith, Neil and Ron
Route description taken from strolling news no.68:
The morning heads across ancient Commons (Hayes and Keston via the London Loop) passing William Pitt’s Holwood estate and the Wilberforce Oak, then to Downe village to pass Down House, home of Charles Darwin, to walk in his meadows and woods. Skirting Biggin Hill's edges, we reach The Blacksmith’s Arms, Cudham. After lunch, via fields and woods to High Elms Country Park, the past estate of the Lubbocks, friends of the Darwins, for tea (Green Roof Café: visitor centre, and exhibition). The evening section returns to Hayes visiting Farnborough village and church, finishing across the north of Keston Common.
Distance approx. 20 miles. Photographs Simon
Commentary re photo
The group at the site of the Wilberforce Oak near Keston.
On 12 May 1787 William Wilberforce sat here with William Pitt the Younger (then Prime Minister)
and Wiiliam Grenville (future Prime Minister). During their conversation Wilberforce decided to take
action to abolish slavery and the slave trade in the British Empire.
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Clandon Circular - 28 October
Conductors: Gail and John Elrick
Participants: John and Gail (conductors), Bozena, Kate, Neil, Nick, Paul, Rachel and Scottney
Stroll Report from John:
The conductors have led several strolls over the years using Clandon as a hub but always in the summer months. They thought it might be a good idea to use one of their routes as a winter stroll as a change of season creates a quite different walk. In this case, although the scenery during the daylight was much the same, new sight lines were available with the lack of foliage but apart from that it was not very different. However, the end of the stroll was quite challenging as it had become overgrown since last used on a stroll and quite difficult in poor light/darkness.
John was also not quite at his best with coverings on his face and the remains of a black eye from recent minor surgery to remove 2 moles from his face (that was his story) but it did not affect his walking!
The first part of the route passed through Clandon Regis Golf Club and East Clandon village to cross the A246 and head into undulating farm land with some lovely views. After a slightly convoluted route along lanes and footpaths we skirted meadows to enter the Sheepleas. Avoiding the myriad of paths going off in all directions, the conductors headed through the woods to join the lane at Honeysuckle Bottom and from here we joined the Lovelace Bridges Trail through the woods. This trail takes in the bridges built by Earl Lovelace, the owner of the East Horsley Estate in the mid-19th century, to facilitate the transport of timber by horse cart from his woods to the depot. Our route took us under some of the restored bridges which are notable for their Moorish design and use of local flint and brick and we were pleased to see that there appeared to have been some conservation work on the bridges since we last passed this way.
Emerging from the woods we continued eastwards across fields and lanes as far as Hogden Cottage where we turned southwards to head for lunch at Westcott. On beginning the descent from the Downs we passed a Ramblers walking group of which Nick was a member and some banter ensued! As they were also going to Westcott we carried on at a good pace to the lunch stop! On entering the village we paused to look at a plaque on the wall of a house where the actor Leslie Howard, one of the stars of Gone with the Wind, lived until his untimely death in 1943, aged 50. As Bozena sagely remarked, looking at the very attractive and well located house, he did well for himself taking the part in that film!
We took possession of the tree in the village green with its tree seat before the Ramblers Group arrived but there was room for all. In the event our picnic was somewhat truncated with the arrival of a heavy shower which caused a rapid departure by all for the pub. Here some delays ensued as the staff found it difficult to cope with the demands for drinks and coffee by the combined groups so we were quite glad to scamper away. The afternoon route took us westwards along the left side of the valley with fine views of the nearby North Downs on the right.
Our original intention had been to take tea at the Abinger Hammer village shop/tea rooms. However, in the course of a recce undertaken during the previous weekend Gail and John discovered that the end of the route, which would need to be walked in the dark, was very overgrown. A further visit during the week had found an alternative path but still the final part was quite over- grown and the conductors felt it would be preferable to complete it before it became completely dark. The group stoically agreed to forego tea and to press on and at top of the Downs a short stop was taken on some handy logs and to the consumption of biscuits from M and S!
Good progress was made by the group along the North Downs Way and the ‘problem area’ along the top of Clandon Downs was reached as dusk was falling. This was circumvented without incident and the quite large animal holes (big bunnies or badgers??) were also avoided in the descent along the edge of the field and we regained the easy walking of the golf course to walk to the station.
All reached the station by dark without incident!
Distance 20 miles. Photos: ???
Conductors: Gail and John Elrick
Participants: John and Gail (conductors), Bozena, Kate, Neil, Nick, Paul, Rachel and Scottney
Stroll Report from John:
The conductors have led several strolls over the years using Clandon as a hub but always in the summer months. They thought it might be a good idea to use one of their routes as a winter stroll as a change of season creates a quite different walk. In this case, although the scenery during the daylight was much the same, new sight lines were available with the lack of foliage but apart from that it was not very different. However, the end of the stroll was quite challenging as it had become overgrown since last used on a stroll and quite difficult in poor light/darkness.
John was also not quite at his best with coverings on his face and the remains of a black eye from recent minor surgery to remove 2 moles from his face (that was his story) but it did not affect his walking!
The first part of the route passed through Clandon Regis Golf Club and East Clandon village to cross the A246 and head into undulating farm land with some lovely views. After a slightly convoluted route along lanes and footpaths we skirted meadows to enter the Sheepleas. Avoiding the myriad of paths going off in all directions, the conductors headed through the woods to join the lane at Honeysuckle Bottom and from here we joined the Lovelace Bridges Trail through the woods. This trail takes in the bridges built by Earl Lovelace, the owner of the East Horsley Estate in the mid-19th century, to facilitate the transport of timber by horse cart from his woods to the depot. Our route took us under some of the restored bridges which are notable for their Moorish design and use of local flint and brick and we were pleased to see that there appeared to have been some conservation work on the bridges since we last passed this way.
Emerging from the woods we continued eastwards across fields and lanes as far as Hogden Cottage where we turned southwards to head for lunch at Westcott. On beginning the descent from the Downs we passed a Ramblers walking group of which Nick was a member and some banter ensued! As they were also going to Westcott we carried on at a good pace to the lunch stop! On entering the village we paused to look at a plaque on the wall of a house where the actor Leslie Howard, one of the stars of Gone with the Wind, lived until his untimely death in 1943, aged 50. As Bozena sagely remarked, looking at the very attractive and well located house, he did well for himself taking the part in that film!
We took possession of the tree in the village green with its tree seat before the Ramblers Group arrived but there was room for all. In the event our picnic was somewhat truncated with the arrival of a heavy shower which caused a rapid departure by all for the pub. Here some delays ensued as the staff found it difficult to cope with the demands for drinks and coffee by the combined groups so we were quite glad to scamper away. The afternoon route took us westwards along the left side of the valley with fine views of the nearby North Downs on the right.
Our original intention had been to take tea at the Abinger Hammer village shop/tea rooms. However, in the course of a recce undertaken during the previous weekend Gail and John discovered that the end of the route, which would need to be walked in the dark, was very overgrown. A further visit during the week had found an alternative path but still the final part was quite over- grown and the conductors felt it would be preferable to complete it before it became completely dark. The group stoically agreed to forego tea and to press on and at top of the Downs a short stop was taken on some handy logs and to the consumption of biscuits from M and S!
Good progress was made by the group along the North Downs Way and the ‘problem area’ along the top of Clandon Downs was reached as dusk was falling. This was circumvented without incident and the quite large animal holes (big bunnies or badgers??) were also avoided in the descent along the edge of the field and we regained the easy walking of the golf course to walk to the station.
All reached the station by dark without incident!
Distance 20 miles. Photos: ???
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Hendon to Cockfosters - 11 November
Conductor: Dave Williams
Participants: Dave W (conductor) Casilda, Dave H, Dave T, Dave W, Jeff, Kate, Keith, Maggie, Mark, Nick, Paul, Sally, Simon and visitor
Route description (from strolling news no.68):
An 18 mile linear stroll taking in a disused railway line before we pause at the War Memorial near Mill Hill School to observe the 2 minute silence at 11:00 on the centenary of the Armistice. We then follow the Dollis Valley Greenway/London Loop to Barnet for our lunch stop at The Red Lion (pizzas & Sunday Roast). After lunch we largely follow the London Loop through the picturesque village of Monkton Hadley and onto Cockfosters where we divert into Trent Park for our tea-stop. Then a short stroll to Cockfosters Station (end of the Piccadilly Line).
Distance 18 miles. Photographs Keith and Simon
Conductor: Dave Williams
Participants: Dave W (conductor) Casilda, Dave H, Dave T, Dave W, Jeff, Kate, Keith, Maggie, Mark, Nick, Paul, Sally, Simon and visitor
Route description (from strolling news no.68):
An 18 mile linear stroll taking in a disused railway line before we pause at the War Memorial near Mill Hill School to observe the 2 minute silence at 11:00 on the centenary of the Armistice. We then follow the Dollis Valley Greenway/London Loop to Barnet for our lunch stop at The Red Lion (pizzas & Sunday Roast). After lunch we largely follow the London Loop through the picturesque village of Monkton Hadley and onto Cockfosters where we divert into Trent Park for our tea-stop. Then a short stroll to Cockfosters Station (end of the Piccadilly Line).
Distance 18 miles. Photographs Keith and Simon
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Harrow-on-the-Hill - 25 November
Conductor: Keith Lane
Participants: Keith (conductor) Bozena, Casilda, Dave T, Dave W, Gail, Gavin, Jeff, Joelle, John, Machiko, Neil, Nick, Rachel, Simon and guest
16 Strollers started, 11 Strollers finished and 9 partook of refreshments in The Lord Moon of the Mall.
Stroll Report from Keith:
A Victorian Clerk was the inspiration for this Stroll. Nathaniel Bryce kept a diary in the year 1846 which was published online by Westminster Council. On the 12th July that year he walked from Soho to Harrow on the Hill via the villages of Kilburn, Willesden, Neasden, and Kingsbury and back along the Harrow Road. The Conductor of this Stroll, acknowledging how unrealistic this route is now, changed it to utilise the availability of open spaces and walk it in the opposite direction to finish in Trafalgar Square so that we could visit St Mary’s Church, Harrow on the Hill. Here is part of Nathaniel’s diary entry pertaining to his visit of St Mary’s church….
"Arrived at the church as the clock struck twelve; walked about churchyard taking down a few inscriptions from tombs until half past 1 o’clock, when I went into the church and was shown over every part of it by the door keeper or church manager (an elderly gent, a more civil and obliging man I never met with). He, seeing my taste for antiquities, humoured my fancy and was not sparing of trouble neither, a brief account which I will give. He first showed me the age of the doors and locks, the keys whereof were ponderous, with curious wards. Next the tomb of a brother and sister kneeling, painted alabaster, date 1609. Then the pews which were put up in the reign of James I, but some of the seats for poor folk were about as old as the church. The ceiling was carved wood with the twelve apostles with their faces sawed off in the time of Cromwell".
We entered the church prior to the Sunday Morning Service and met a ‘civil and obliging’ lady who showed us the sawn off faces of the 12 Apostles and the tomb of a brother and sister to which Nathaniel had referred. We then proceeded across the playing fields of Harrow School, Northwick Park and Fryent Country Park to stop at Barn Hill. The view backwards thence we had come showed St Mary’s towering over the landscape which excited the imagination of some Strollers wondering upon the journey and the countryside in 1846. The view forwards to Wembley Stadium excited the sole Spurs fan. After 7 miles, our refreshment stop was at the Cafe at Hendon Park where we took a break until a Stroller’s toasted Cheese sandwich had been delivered and eaten. 7 miles later having crossed Hampstead Heath and paused to take in the view at Parliament Hill we arrived at our lunch stop which was disappointedly busy but nevertheless getting out of the cold was welcomed.
After lunch it was downhill all the way except for the up bits (the biggest up bit being Primrose Hill which has a similar view to Parliament Hill but a bit closer) and after crossing Regent’s Park we availed ourselves of backstreets and alley ways to avoid Shopper-mania and finished the Stroll walking across Green Park and St James’s Park to The Lord Moon of the Mall where the Conductor had a very strange rendition of fish and chips.
Distance 19 miles. Photographs Gail, Simon and Gavin
Conductor: Keith Lane
Participants: Keith (conductor) Bozena, Casilda, Dave T, Dave W, Gail, Gavin, Jeff, Joelle, John, Machiko, Neil, Nick, Rachel, Simon and guest
16 Strollers started, 11 Strollers finished and 9 partook of refreshments in The Lord Moon of the Mall.
Stroll Report from Keith:
A Victorian Clerk was the inspiration for this Stroll. Nathaniel Bryce kept a diary in the year 1846 which was published online by Westminster Council. On the 12th July that year he walked from Soho to Harrow on the Hill via the villages of Kilburn, Willesden, Neasden, and Kingsbury and back along the Harrow Road. The Conductor of this Stroll, acknowledging how unrealistic this route is now, changed it to utilise the availability of open spaces and walk it in the opposite direction to finish in Trafalgar Square so that we could visit St Mary’s Church, Harrow on the Hill. Here is part of Nathaniel’s diary entry pertaining to his visit of St Mary’s church….
"Arrived at the church as the clock struck twelve; walked about churchyard taking down a few inscriptions from tombs until half past 1 o’clock, when I went into the church and was shown over every part of it by the door keeper or church manager (an elderly gent, a more civil and obliging man I never met with). He, seeing my taste for antiquities, humoured my fancy and was not sparing of trouble neither, a brief account which I will give. He first showed me the age of the doors and locks, the keys whereof were ponderous, with curious wards. Next the tomb of a brother and sister kneeling, painted alabaster, date 1609. Then the pews which were put up in the reign of James I, but some of the seats for poor folk were about as old as the church. The ceiling was carved wood with the twelve apostles with their faces sawed off in the time of Cromwell".
We entered the church prior to the Sunday Morning Service and met a ‘civil and obliging’ lady who showed us the sawn off faces of the 12 Apostles and the tomb of a brother and sister to which Nathaniel had referred. We then proceeded across the playing fields of Harrow School, Northwick Park and Fryent Country Park to stop at Barn Hill. The view backwards thence we had come showed St Mary’s towering over the landscape which excited the imagination of some Strollers wondering upon the journey and the countryside in 1846. The view forwards to Wembley Stadium excited the sole Spurs fan. After 7 miles, our refreshment stop was at the Cafe at Hendon Park where we took a break until a Stroller’s toasted Cheese sandwich had been delivered and eaten. 7 miles later having crossed Hampstead Heath and paused to take in the view at Parliament Hill we arrived at our lunch stop which was disappointedly busy but nevertheless getting out of the cold was welcomed.
After lunch it was downhill all the way except for the up bits (the biggest up bit being Primrose Hill which has a similar view to Parliament Hill but a bit closer) and after crossing Regent’s Park we availed ourselves of backstreets and alley ways to avoid Shopper-mania and finished the Stroll walking across Green Park and St James’s Park to The Lord Moon of the Mall where the Conductor had a very strange rendition of fish and chips.
Distance 19 miles. Photographs Gail, Simon and Gavin
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Epsom Circular - 8 December
Conductor: Lilian Chelli
Participants: Alice, Andy, Bola, Dave, Debbie, Gail, Gosha, Joelle, John, Neil and Simon
Route description from strolling update no.68:
From Epsom we climb to Epsom Downs, and cross the racecourse to reach Headley Church. Later we cross an attractive area of open downland known as Mickleham Gallops, before descending to Mickleham Village. Lunch is at the Racing Horses PH. In the afternoon we climb Box Hill, walk along the North Downs Way, and pass through the woods of Headley Heath. Tea is at the Grey Dove Village Café in Walton on the Hill. The evening section is mainly downhill along Ebbisham Lane and Chalk Lane. Distance approx. 19 miles. Photographs Gail and Gosha
Conductor: Lilian Chelli
Participants: Alice, Andy, Bola, Dave, Debbie, Gail, Gosha, Joelle, John, Neil and Simon
Route description from strolling update no.68:
From Epsom we climb to Epsom Downs, and cross the racecourse to reach Headley Church. Later we cross an attractive area of open downland known as Mickleham Gallops, before descending to Mickleham Village. Lunch is at the Racing Horses PH. In the afternoon we climb Box Hill, walk along the North Downs Way, and pass through the woods of Headley Heath. Tea is at the Grey Dove Village Café in Walton on the Hill. The evening section is mainly downhill along Ebbisham Lane and Chalk Lane. Distance approx. 19 miles. Photographs Gail and Gosha
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Beckenham to Greenwich – 22 December
Conductor: Helen Franklin
Participants: Helen (conductor) Alice, Casilda, Cathy, Charlotte, Chris, Corinne, Gail, Gillian, Janette, Joelle, John, Lilian, Nick, Ron and Simon
Stroll Report from Helen:-
For a route which I had not originally planned to be a stroll, I really enjoyed our Christmas walk. The route was plotted when I challenged myself in the summer to start a walk from my front door and not feel as if I was walking in suburbia. The first part of the route uses sections of the Green Chain Walk, linking green spaces in this part of London. It’s not one continuous path and not well signed or waymarked in places.
We began at Beckenham Junction. It’s quite a good station to start from as it is well served by trains and trams. Unfortunately, on arrival, Gail realised she had mislaid her pass, having possibly left it on the train. Simon stepped up by asking the station staff to contact the terminus station in case it was handed in (sadly not). I agreed to start the stroll and led the main group through Beckenham Place Park picking up the Green Chain and Simon, Gail and John soon caught us up.
It was a bright and sunny morning and as we followed the route through playing fields and local parks, over roads and into woodland, we all chatted with one another, perhaps without realising how green and pleasant this corner of South East London is.
This stroll had a different format than most in so far as we had a longer than average ‘coffee stop’ at Oxleas Wood café, around 11 miles in, rather than an hour lunch break. This was so we could ‘save ourselves’ for a meal and drink at the end of the walk. We were lucky enough to be able to sit outside in the sunshine. We were joined by Chris Dent in his fetching purple beanie. Cathy kindly offered round some biscuits and homemade mince pies which went down well with all.
We left the café and headed past Severndroog Castle, built on one of the highest points in London and would make a good stop for another day for a trip to the top of the 18th century tower with views over London, and a cup of tea in their Terrace Tearoom. We continued down towards Woolwich Common, at which point Corrine left the group as a social engagement was planned. We continued towards Woolwich to pick up the Thames Path at the Thames Barrier. I was pleased to know before the stroll that the Thames Path from here to Greenwich has now reopened after several protracted months of closure for a housing development. It was great to be able to use the path properly again, and not the rather grim diversion alongside the Blackwall Tunnel approach road. However, we did need to take a short diversion as we approached Greenwich, just before the Trafalgar pub, but we used this to our advantage and walked on through the Old Naval College which also happened to be a more direct route finish our walk in the Wetherspoons Gate Clock pub.
Joelle and Janette dashed upstairs to find us a great table in the corner, and we all squeezed in for a group drink and meal. We were joined by John, Lilian’s husband and Neil Cook who had led a walk for the LDWA.
I hope that everyone enjoyed the slightly different stroll. It’s wonderful to get out of London, but this stroll allowed folk to come and go, the weekend before Christmas is a busy time for social events after all.
Many thanks to Simon for helping with the mislaid pass, Gail for back marking- without being asked, and Joelle and Janette for bagging the great table in the pub.
Distance approx. 18 miles. Photographs Charlotte, Gail, Helen and John
Conductor: Helen Franklin
Participants: Helen (conductor) Alice, Casilda, Cathy, Charlotte, Chris, Corinne, Gail, Gillian, Janette, Joelle, John, Lilian, Nick, Ron and Simon
Stroll Report from Helen:-
For a route which I had not originally planned to be a stroll, I really enjoyed our Christmas walk. The route was plotted when I challenged myself in the summer to start a walk from my front door and not feel as if I was walking in suburbia. The first part of the route uses sections of the Green Chain Walk, linking green spaces in this part of London. It’s not one continuous path and not well signed or waymarked in places.
We began at Beckenham Junction. It’s quite a good station to start from as it is well served by trains and trams. Unfortunately, on arrival, Gail realised she had mislaid her pass, having possibly left it on the train. Simon stepped up by asking the station staff to contact the terminus station in case it was handed in (sadly not). I agreed to start the stroll and led the main group through Beckenham Place Park picking up the Green Chain and Simon, Gail and John soon caught us up.
It was a bright and sunny morning and as we followed the route through playing fields and local parks, over roads and into woodland, we all chatted with one another, perhaps without realising how green and pleasant this corner of South East London is.
This stroll had a different format than most in so far as we had a longer than average ‘coffee stop’ at Oxleas Wood café, around 11 miles in, rather than an hour lunch break. This was so we could ‘save ourselves’ for a meal and drink at the end of the walk. We were lucky enough to be able to sit outside in the sunshine. We were joined by Chris Dent in his fetching purple beanie. Cathy kindly offered round some biscuits and homemade mince pies which went down well with all.
We left the café and headed past Severndroog Castle, built on one of the highest points in London and would make a good stop for another day for a trip to the top of the 18th century tower with views over London, and a cup of tea in their Terrace Tearoom. We continued down towards Woolwich Common, at which point Corrine left the group as a social engagement was planned. We continued towards Woolwich to pick up the Thames Path at the Thames Barrier. I was pleased to know before the stroll that the Thames Path from here to Greenwich has now reopened after several protracted months of closure for a housing development. It was great to be able to use the path properly again, and not the rather grim diversion alongside the Blackwall Tunnel approach road. However, we did need to take a short diversion as we approached Greenwich, just before the Trafalgar pub, but we used this to our advantage and walked on through the Old Naval College which also happened to be a more direct route finish our walk in the Wetherspoons Gate Clock pub.
Joelle and Janette dashed upstairs to find us a great table in the corner, and we all squeezed in for a group drink and meal. We were joined by John, Lilian’s husband and Neil Cook who had led a walk for the LDWA.
I hope that everyone enjoyed the slightly different stroll. It’s wonderful to get out of London, but this stroll allowed folk to come and go, the weekend before Christmas is a busy time for social events after all.
Many thanks to Simon for helping with the mislaid pass, Gail for back marking- without being asked, and Joelle and Janette for bagging the great table in the pub.
Distance approx. 18 miles. Photographs Charlotte, Gail, Helen and John
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