Contacts:

Meetings:

After each occasion we enjoyed an informal lunch together at local village pubs and I think all who have attended would say that we thoroughly enjoy ourselves. Numbers of ramblers have varied between six and twelve, so there is still room for you if you would like to join us for the next stroll. We're a friendly bunch and quite harmless!

Reports:

October - Roger Bennett

Meet at the Tally Ho pub in the centre of Broughton

September - Ian McFarling 

August - David Eagles

We had 18 members on this walk, which was an excellent turn-out. Thanks to all those who came.

We met at the George in St Mary Bourne, and at 10.10 with lunch arrangements all sorted, we set out over the ourne bridge and along the tree-lined left-hand side of the recreation ground past the lake. Through the gate the path took us straight up the hillside and then climbed through the woods and up to a more gentle grassy incline which led to our first cornfield. The path was quite clear and straight through the field and it brought us out onto the St Mary Bourne - Finkley - Smannell road, which is roughly the track of the old Roman Portway. Going towards Smannell we very soon turned right onto a bridle way which brought us, after about a mile, to Middle Wyke. Here the footpath went through a small spinney, but our research showed that the whole path was quite lost amongst nettles, so we took a short diversion going down the right hand side of the spinney to reach the path. Again the path in this corn field was clearly marked by a green trail running straight to the hedge about ½ mile away. Here we met our first stile, and after 3 more in quick succession found ourselves high up looking over the Bourne Valley. A herd of bullocks found us quite an interesting spectacle, and came up the hill to watch the entertainment of 18 differently coloured animals on two legs climbing a stile! From this high point the Test Way ran down gradually towards St Mary Bourne on a well marked track with good views all the way. Having joined the valley road alongside the village School, we found ourselves back at the George about 12.15 after a walk of about 4 miles which all enjoyed.

The 2-course lunch deal on offer for £5 at the George was also judged a success.

July - Dave Hazell

The group of eight met at "The Royal Oak" Charlton on a dull day for a 4 mile walk.

Our walk started by crossing the road to head towards and through the Anton Lakes this led us to the back of Saxon Fields towards Knights Enham.

We then turned into Hungerford Lane and back towards Charlton.

Over half way back walking through Little Bilgrove Copse the rain started and kept on until we returned to Charlton very wet where Judith Valerie and Susan met us for a welcome lunch at the Royal Oak.

June -  Steve Jarvis

The June walk clashed with the U3A to Ascot reducing the number of regulars attending but compensated with several new faces.

We met at the Anton Arms on the Salisbury Road and wandered down to Rooksbury Lake, glancing at the new properties on the Mill site, before sauntering past the two lakes.

Lots of water birds to admire, including a heron standing gracefully to attention on the far bank.

We followed the route of the River Anton upstream (the 

Watervole Trail), nosing into the back gardens of the houses.

April - Ian McFarling

On a beautiful spring day a dozen of us set off from the

Swan at Inkpen, the gibbet on the hill to our south warning us should we fall by the wayside. We walked,

sharing a pasture with 3 horses to return briefly to the road then left through woods.

Another short stretch on the road, then a track to introduce us to Inkpen common, a lovely open area

with scattered birch and gorse. Turning to take the direction of The Swan, we walked through farm land

and passed a traditional farm house and grounds and Ian, pretending to lose his way, enjoyed the group

walking through ankle deep mud....only briefly. This exhilaration was short lived as Steve discoverd the

correct path with boards in place above a boggy patch. This led us to the road just 100 yds from The Swan where Judith and Val joined us for an excellent lunch.

March - John Adams

The walkers gathered at the “Red Lion” Clanville on a lovely spring like day to walk about four and a half miles.

We headed toward Penton Mewsey on a nice grassy track across fields and a smaller muddy track that took us to Chalkcroft Lane and then that led to a farm track where we encountered some hares and some deer that passed quite close to us, (Pat’s dog failed to catch them but tried hard!)

After about a mile and a half we turned left onto a bridleway leading to Nutbane Lane and then Duck Street where we passed a small chapel before crossing the Clanville to Tangley Road heading to another track that lead us to Ragged Appleshaw.

Passing through the village we took a path that should have taken us back to the pub but part of it was too muddy to cross so we took the road and arrived right on twelve thirty where 21 of us had lunch. Eighteen walked.

February 2009 - Roger Bennett

Our February outing was a 4½ mile easy stroll on the southern side of Over Wallop. We met at the White HartPub in the village (they do an excellent curry) and itwasn’t long before all our boots were well and trulymuddy. We made our way via various tracks in the direction of Porton which, despite its affiliations with theMinistry of Defence, affords some beautiful views,especially from the top of Suddern Hill. Indeed wecould see Quarley Hill to the west, Danebury Hill to thenorth and Broughton Down to the east. Our monthlywalks certainly help us get to know our area!! 

Eventually we made our way back via Croft Farm (a well known equestrian centre) towards the villagewhich, by any standards, is one of the most attractive inTest Valley. On our return to the White Hart, we enjoyedtheir excellent food and drink and generally put theworld to rights. Please come and join us, our walks areNOT crippling (only around 4 miles). We are not aclique and we look forward to welcoming you.

January 2009 - Ian McFarling

The January walk was led by Ian McFarling. Ourjourney to the meeting point was picturesque, taking uspast Coombe Gibbet. We gathered in the car park atthe Swan public house in Inkpen, ordered our lunchesand prepared for the walk. Disaster struck Roger! Hetook his boots out of the car and discovered that one ofthem belonged to his wife. After several helpfulsuggestions (such as hop around) he decided to takethe short route (avoiding muddy fields) and to wait atthe pub for our return.

The walk was very varied – across open fields withmarvellous views over three counties and past fine andpretty houses. Wildlife was limited except for a flock ofFieldfare and some unusual domestic chickens. Ianhad done his homework and was able to provide aninformative commentary, including the origins of thename ‘Inkpen’ and the first recorded owner ‘Richard deIngepenne’.

December  2008 - Steve Jarvis 

For the Christmas walk we returned to Longparish but this time we ventured to the west. A dozen walkersmaintained our high turnout on a dry, crisp day. Westarted our walk through the fields behind the housesthat line the main road through the village and passedthe fish farm before turning back into the centre of thevillage and through the churchyard. We walked throughthe hamlet of Forton, parallel to the River Test beforestriking out towards Harewood Forest. Reaching thecrest of the hill, we paused, hoping to admire the viewsbut we were disappointed – due to the fog. We followedthe track of the disused railway line and were rewardedwith the sight of a hare running madly across a field andthen some deer, who ran off to be engulfed by the fog.The tracks took us back to the Cricketers after a brisk2¼ hours walk, where we were rewarded with a finemeal and service from this welcoming establishment.

November 2008- Peter Evans

At about quarter past ten an excellent turnout of eighteen members commenced the walk through North Waltham to Steventon in quite mild conditions although cloudy. The sun whilst boding well earlier had now decided to hide! Some members commented that they had never been to orth Waltham and were surprised how picturesque it is.

In due course we were walking across the fields towards Steventon. It was muddy in parts and care was required.

A gentle gradient brought us to the point where we could see Steventon Church through the trees which we reached to find the door open. Some entered to see many reminders of Jane Austen and her family. Her father had been rector there until he retired to Bath in 1801.

We pressed on in the direction of Steventon village with a short detour along farm tracks. We came then to a lane which took us to a crossroads where we turned right into Steventon. The village straggles about a mile before it ceases rather abruptly at the tunnel under the railway embankment. We then turned right again up a lane which went past the site of the rectory where Jane Austen was born and wrote her first novels. We now proceeded along a gently winding lane through open fields eventually taking a different route through North Waltham. The sun reappeared and we arrived back at The Fox with its welcoming landlord for bar snacks if required. Distance was about 5 miles mostly on dry roads and avoiding muddy tracks where possible in view of recent wet weather.

October 2008 - John Adams

Eighteen of us plus a dog set off from ‘The Oak’ at Smannell along a track and field to enter ‘Ridge Copse’hence to ‘Lang Copse’ and ‘Rag Copse’ on a carpet of fallen leaves, leading to the Andover/Newbury road. We then followed a track to some fields which took usto Enham and then a further track back to Smannell forlunch where we were joined by Judith and Valerie.

And not a hill in sight!

Tues 16 Sept 2008 - Roger & Barbara Bennett

15 Jul 2008 - Ian Mcfarling

Jack Russell at Faccombe at 10:00 for a 4 mile walk, followed by lunch

20 May 2008 - Roger Bennett

Eight members met at the newly refurbished ‘Crown Inn’ at Kings Somborne and the weather was great.After climbing a small hill north out of the village, we

joined the Clarendon Way and walked in a westerlydirection, crossing the lovely River Test and somelittle tributaries, until we reached the road into Houghton. Resisting the temptation to spend the rest of the day at the ‘Boot Inn’. We turned south and followed the road for almost a mile. Although tarmaced, this is a lovely lane which took us near the lost village of Bossington. Bossinton Park remains as does the heavily restored church. At Bossington Farm we turned east onto a path through fields and recrossed the Test a mile south of our earlier crossing. In time we joined the Monarch’s Way to the Hamlet of Horsebridge which still retains its picturesque railway station (now a private dwelling) from the old Sprat & Winkle Line. The map needs careful reading at this point to pick up a track which literally passes through people’s back gardens beforereaching Kings Somborne. The last stretch took us past the sight of John of Gaunt’s Palace and the village church, from where we could see Judith and Valerie arriving at ’The Crown’ to join us for lunch. Wecalled to them to get the pints in, but both seemed to have hearing problems!

April 15th. Diane Richards. Steady 4.6 mile walk from Chilbolton across Cow Common and around West Down and the River Anton valley.

THE SUN SHONE - there were around a dozen of us (I forgot to count)and one dog, and we had a very pleasant walk in the sunshine. The birds were singing and the sky was blue, and the mud had dried in most places. We set off across Cow Common and loitered appropriately on the bridges across the Test in Wherwell to admire the trout and the beautiful houses. We climbed over the hill into the Anton Valley and crossed the River Anton (more loitering) and walked part of the old 'Sprat and Winkle' railway line, before climbing up again and into Fullerton. Here we passed through the Golden Pond coarse fishery, and rejoined the old railway line, before passing old Fullerton Station (now a lovely house), and then climbed (again) over the shoulder of Stockbridge Down, and back into Chilbolton. Everyone seemed to have enjoyed it, and our 'ladies who lunch' were waiting for us in the Abbot's Mitre.

March Steve Jarvis Easy 4 mile walk around Longparish.

January/February -- Ian McFarling]

I had planned the January walk and briefed the lovely Sue at The Coronation Arms to transfer people to Ibthorpe in her people carrier. However, the morning of 15th January dawned with heavy rain and very strong, gusting wind bringing down branches. The walk was cancelled. Brave to the last, 3 of us joined Val and Judith for lunch at The Coronation Arms.

We repeated the itinerary in February and 19th February dawned still, frosty and sunny. Three of us living just a few hundred yards from Ibthorpe joined the other eight transferred from St Mary Bourne and we crossed the road to the track which took us slowly up from the valley. Hearts pulsing and panting a little, we soon arrived at the top and continued to a lane, turning left and crossing the A343 into a wood, muddy underfoot. Soon we came into open fields and followed the ridge with glorious views across the Bourne valley to the North. We chatted to a herd of horses (my partner Sally has since told me that they were Cobs) and continued to descend diagonally to the valley floor where, after negotiating two styles, we found ourselves at The Coronation Arms where Judith and Val were waiting to join us for a well earned lunch.

Dec 2007 walk organised by Steve Jarvis

December

A few hardy souls braved the cold and doubtful weather but were rewarded with an invigorating and informative outing. We congregated at the Poplar Farm on the outskirts of Abbotts Ann and walked through the village towards the church of St Mary. Roger drew on his local and ecclesiastical knowledge to tell us about the rare Virgin Crowns of Abbotts Ann, which is a survival of the custom to ‘throw down the gauntlet’ as a challenge to anyone to ‘asperse the character of the deceased’. We went into the church and found a leaflet that informed us that the earliest crown dates from 1740 and the most recent to 1973.

We walked through the village and then along Dunkirt Lane with open fields on both sides. We continued along several farmland tracks, by which time we had straggled out a bit, and after crossing an open field along a ridge with chilling winds, we all regrouped for our journey back to the village. The return route took us through a playing field and past back-gardens, before emerging near the pub, where we were joined by ‘the Ladies Who Lunch’ and enjoyed a fine welcome and a good meal (with lots of custard!).

Nov 2007 walk organised by Roger Bennett

You will notice that our walk reports come from various people. This is because a number of us are willing to take responsibility and lead. This is great and I would like to thank all who plan our rambles and make them so enjoyable. When you read this, the November walk (Tuesday 20th) will have taken place. I will lead this and yesterday Barbara and I enjoyed ‘reccying’ possibilities around Broughton where we planned we could have lunch. On arrival we found the first of the two village pubs had been closed for a year. So we went to the second. “Sorry , love”, said the barmaid, “that’s the Chef’s day off.” We left Broughton deflated and started again. The whole route was replanned and we have now booked lunch at the Boot Inn at Houghton where we sampled the cuisine, which is excellent. Come and join us each month, as we explore this lovely area. By the way, we are now being joined at lunch by some non-walkers, which is most encouraging. So if you don’t want to exercise your legs, how about exercising your jaws? We’re a happy bunch and totally harmless. If you arrive just before the hikers, you can get the pints in!!

Meanwhile thanks again to all who take turns in

Oct 2007 walk organised by Diane Richards

Mottisfont Estate - 16 October

Unfortunately once again (when I do the organising at any rate!) the weather was not looking good (one bad day all week and I chose it), so we were a very small but dogged band who gathered in the Mottisfont National Trust car park, midway between Romsey and King’s Somborne. Since there were so few I can name them – Tricia, Connie, Steve, Ted and me! Although it was drizzling a little, we decided to go for it, and set off for a 4 miler using the National Trust Mottisfont Estate Path leaflet.

After crossing a grassy field we crossed the River Test where there weren’t many Brown Trout to be seen, but I think we spotted a couple. The leaflet gives snippets of information and interest, which of course I had to read aloud to the assembly at the appropriate points (all numbered). Discipline was required at times to ensure that everyone was listening.

After crossing another field, we followed a lane, and then a farm track to Queenmeadow Copse, Oak woodland with an under storey of Hazel, and where there was evidence of the ancient art of Hazel coppicing to be viewed.

After crossing the Mottisfont to Houghton lane, we followed the path around the edge of some large fields, and then entered Great Copse, a semi-natural Ancient wood, thought to be over 400 years old. We crossed the Awbridge to Broughton road, and followed the path to another wood called Spearywell which is managed commercially by the Trust for timber. Evidence of this could be seen and heard, the petrol saws were out in force.

Although the walk continues for another few miles (7 in all), we had already decided to stick to the 4 mile version, even though the weather by now was very pleasant and quite warm, so we took the ‘short cut’ back to Mottisfont, including traversing a ploughed field. The tenant farmer had ploughed 2 fields, but had not yet reinstated the footpaths properly.

Then as usual it was back to the pub, The Bear and Ragged Staff, where we were joined for lunch by Valerie and Judith – who although being last to arrive, and last to order, managed to be served first

Sept 2007 walk organised by Steve Jarvis

The September walk was well attended with 12 members venturing out on a fine day from the Royal Oak, Goodworth Clatford. The walk crossed the ‘Ford’ in the river (by footbridge) and we wandered along a track with interesting houses and open views across towards the Church. At the Stockbridge road we entered Cowdown Lane and skirting the Hampshire Golf Club, we climbed the long incline to the top of the rise which provided excellent views of Harewood Forest and back towards the Clatfords. Striking North we crossed open fields and saw deer and then were startled by a hare charging off from cover near our path.

At the A303, we asked Roger to bless our crossing of the dual carriageway, before we dashed between the lorries and gained refuge in the field beyond. We proceeded past Bere Hill Farm and eventually arrived at Ladies Walk, which had existed from pre-Roman days and was called the Mark Way before being planted with 121 trees and re-christened in 1863. We spent a few minutes admiring the view over Andover and trying to identify buildings and other landmarks before proceeding along the Walk to the top of Old Winton Road.

We then took a track passing between the Andover Golf Club and the A303, some of us were tempted by the profusion of blackberries, despite warnings from others regarding the potential pollution caused by car fumes. We then walked through the housing estate, across Barlows Lane, through Watermills Park until we joined the footpath running along the River Anton. Our route then took us into Rooksbury Mill Park and we spent some time admiring the waterfowl on the lake and especially, a heron standing statuesquely on a landing stage; followed by counting the numerous trout in the stream; and discussing some impressive fungi in a tree and which of us was brave enough to pick and eat wild mushrooms.

Leaving Rooksbury Mill we walked along the old Canal / Railway line out to Upper Clatford and as time was getting on, and some had afternoon engagements, we split into two groups for either the short route or the longer more picturesque route back to the pub.

Although some members were unable to stay for lunch, our overall numbers were maintained by the addition of our ‘luncheon club’ members. The walk was a bit longer than usual (nearly 7 miles) but many people expressed their enjoyment at discovering lovely parts of Andover that previously they did not know existed.

Aug 2007 walk organised by Diane Richards from Amport

This walk was originally planned for July – but the weather beat us on that day, so this was the remake.

Nine intrepid U3A walkers met at the Amport Inn on a chilly (is it really August?) but dry Tuesday morning and we set off at around 10.15 after submitting our lunch orders to the pub.

We walked down through the village to the Green where we met the first of many of Roger’s ex-parishioners. These little meetings had of course been pre-arranged (not!) and were a main feature of the walk. Then right and past the old watercress bed area (now a nature reserve of sorts), climbed up the hill with nice views over towards Grateley and up to the old water tower, where more ex-parishioners lurked for a glimpse and chat with the man of God.

We turned left up through a farm yard, and up another hill where there were yet more views towards Thruxton. More disciples appeared here, and at the end of a long straight slog across open fields where we came to the lane to Quarley. We were astonished to find a bush hung with various items of ladies undergarments, which the man of God said had been there since his time in the parish some years ago. More elevated items on view (literally) were buzzards and sight of Quarley Hill (ancient iron age settlement).

We walked down the lane to Quarley and made a detour to view the lovely St Michaels and All Angels church there. Mike was particularly pleased to see it of course! This is a lovely church where the bells are hung outside the church in a wooden frame. Unfortunately 2 of the 3 bells were stolen in early July, they were 13th and 17th Century! However, the village is in the throes of an appeal and they are shortly to be replaced with 21st Century ones, once the PCC can work out how to make them safe! One suggestion is to build a bell tower, but much more money would be needed, and of course the uniqueness of the previous siting would be lost.

We walked on through the village and took a left past some lovely houses and again through open fields (now harvested) back towards Amport. Deer were spotted by two eagle eyed female walkers, but the rest of the group remained oblivious – chat, chat, chat.

And so on past Amport House and some very select properties, up through the village to the pub, to be met by Valerie who joined us for a pleasant lunch.

July 2007 walk cancelled due to bad weather.

June 2007 walk organised by Roger Bennett

Report to be provided.

May 2007 walk organised by Steve Jarvis

From Goodworth Clatford, approx 6 miles.

The route took us along the river Anton, then to near Wherwell, into Harewood Forest and then back to the Royal Oak.

Apr 2007 walk led by Ian McFarling - 5 mile walk around Mottisfont Abbey.

The fine April weather encouraged a high turnout of a dozen walkers, including several new faces.

We met at the Bear & Ragged Staff, north of Romsey and set off along the route undertaken in damp and misty December led by Roger. We climbed the “Monarch’s Way” towards Michelmersh before turning north across fields and into a copse on the brow of the hill. Spring flowers were dotted everywhere but the copse contained a profusion of bluebells in their prime, and even a wild spotted orchid in flower.

We dropped down the hill to Lower Brook, crossing the main Romsey Road, rejoining the Monarch’s Way/Test Way and stopped on the bridge admiring the river. We walked past the picturesque cottages and houses before crossing fields to Mottisfont village and then into the woods before crossing the Salisbury – Southampton railway line. At Kimbridge we turned east and walked along the road back to the pub with its usual friendly welcome.

If anyone is interested in the views, the following web site has several taken a couple of weeks after our journey: http://www.geograph.org.uk/user/Hythe+Eye

March 2007 walk organised by David Horobin

We met for the March walk in Whitchurch at the free car park in Bell Street. In spite of the cold it was a bright and breezy and ideal for the walk, and we soon warmed up after the initial haul up the Newbury Rd. From this point it was mainly down hill back to Whitchurch going past the the Watership Down pub at Freefolk, a brief visit to St Nicholas church (now redundant) and on past Bere Mill originally owned by the Portal family.

The White Hart was the choice of pub, the food had mixed blessings, very artistically presented, some of which would have qualified for the Tate Modern, although I think my eggs had already been. However the service was friendly

February 2007 walk organised by Peter Evans

The February walk was planned as a short walk of no more than 3 miles across flat country. We met at picturesque Wherwell and walked to the church where we were able to view the site of the old priory. Then, we strolled to the bridle path to cross the bridges over the River Test to ancient Chilbolton Cow Common and onto Chilbolton church. We returned across the common by a partly different route to the White Lion where some of us had lunch. Fortunately, the weather had been kind to us on this occasion.

A disappointing turnout of six people but I believe enjoyed by those who came

January 2007 Walk organised by Steve Jarvis

Six intrepid walkers met at the John O’Gaunt, Horsebridge on a wet January morning for our monthly walk.

After ordering lunch we set off along the Test Way, following the old ‘Sprat and Winkle' railway line. The River Test was almost overflowing its banks a few yards away from our path and we remarked at the beautiful views that passengers must have enjoyed in bygone days.

A mile down the path we intersected with the Clarendon Way (which linked Winchester with Salisbury) and paused to regain our breath. Behind us, on a track, we saw some movement in the undergrowth, shortly followed by the appearance of three deer, which Ian identified as roe deer. In referring to our guide map we realised that this was the edge of John O’Gaunt’s deer park and hence they were probably descendants of the herd originally introduced eight hundred years ago.

We climbed out of the valley, along the Clarendon Way and as the rain eased we enjoyed wonderful views over the surrounding countryside and down upon King’s Somborne. The track then descended down into the village, past the pub and Saxon church before we climbed out of the other side of the village via the country road. At a fork we turned east along a drive, to be confronted with a large field containing hundreds of plants in neat regimental rows standing to attention. Our enquiries of a workman confirmed our suspicion that these were grape vines being planted in anticipation of the global warming that is now commonly predicted.

The drive passed the entrance to an equestrian centre and we came across a memorial stone dedicated to four unknown German airman shot down in 1940. Shortly after, we turned north, re-joining the Clarendon Way, skirting the equestrian centre until we met a lane that took us back into the centre of King’s Somborne. We passed several picturesque cottages, before proceeding along a path next to the churchyard. This emerged into a large field with a useful information board telling us all about John O’Gaunt and his palace, which is believed to have existed on the site. A bell rang and all the children in the local school came out to greet us. However, we soon realised it was not for our benefit but a fire-drill.

We crossed the main Stockbridge–Romsey road and walked along the marked footpath that took us through the back gardens of several houses and we discussed the various ways that they had sought to retain their privacy (or not) from ramblers like us. In a field, Tricia spotted that we were walking under a tree covered in berried mistletoe but we were all too shy to suggest we should participate in the traditional activity.

We returned to the John O’Gaunt pub three hours after departure and settled down next to the lively log fire to recuperate with a glass of happy juice and some fine ‘home cooked’ food.

The December walk was organised by Roger Bennett near Mottisfont Abbey. Ten walkers set out from the Bear & Ragged Staff on a cool, misty morning, but unfortunately two had to turn back due to feeling unwell. The remaining 8 climbed a gentle hill eastwards towards Michelmarsh. The anticipated views of open countryside were somewhat restricted by the mist nevertheless we could all appreciate the fresh air and anticipate an improvement in the weather. St the brow of the hill, we enetered a small wooded area before descending to Lower Brook and crossing the A3057.

In the valley, the scenery changed as we followed driveways and footpaths across the River Test and water sodden fields. We passed North and West of the Abbey through Mottisfont village before crossing the railway line between Southampton & Salisbury and returning via Kimbridge to the public house and lunch. The 4½ mile walk took 2½ hours at a moderate pace, nice and comfortable to stimulate our appetites for the excellent lunch.

Roger will repeat the walk in April for a different experience, without the mist and some spring flowers and more wildlife in evidence.

Nov 2006 walk organised by Ian McFarling

It threatened rain on 21st November but a group of 15 stalwarts were not deterred and we set off at 10.30 from the Coronation Arms at St Mary Bourne, soon to cross the first of 3 styles and climb 150 ft on a stony track.

A woodland path led us into the sleepy village of Binley where we turned right to cross a newly sewn field then right along a forest path. A further right turn put

us on the return leg and 2 ploughed fields brought us down to cross a country road. Another woodland path and short road walk returned us to the welcoming Coronation Arms.

It took us 2 hours to complete the 4.5 miles, maximum height gained being 200ft (only 28900ft off Everest !!).

Removing our muddy boots 11 of us enjoyed a drink and Len'shome cooking. An excellent finish to our ramble

May - John Adams

Eleven of us started walking from the “John-o-Gaunt” Horsebridge over the hump towards King’s Somborne, crossing the main road and following a downhill pathway to the village passing through the sports field (no one took up the challenge to do the keep fit circuit) passing the old church and on through the village to join the Clarendon Way.

We had a steep climb which took us high above the village where we had a birds-eye view of the village and could see the countryside for miles around. After a short rest we continued on downhill following the Clarendon Way and passing over the River Test in several places, eventually reaching Houghton and leaving the Clarendon Way.

The last mile took us along a country road crisscrossing the Test back to our starting point where we had lunch and were joined by our mobile walkers.

We followed the route of the River Anton upstream (the

Watervole Trail), nosing into the back gardens of the

houses.

Past Asda, we used the new footpath overlooking

South Street housing. We were all amazed at how

quickly the river planting had matured but I’m sure this

doesn’t compensate the house-holders for the

imposing edifice obstructing their view.

The footpath emerged next to Iceland and we

navigated our way through town, past Town Mills and

the bus station, up Chantry Street, arriving at the rebuilt

Ford Cottage, where we stood on tip toe to look through

the windows. We then ventured into St Mary’s

Churchyard where we discovered St Mary’s Chapel

being renovated and being turned into ‘Chapel Arts’

To the North of the Churchyard we met up again with

the Anton and followed its path under the bypass and

behind The Range and Homebase, where a gaggle of

young geese were being chaperoned by some adults,

We passed a derelict Gamekeeper’s cottage before

emerging at Anton Lakes. Lots of children’s activities

going on here but too far away to make out the details.

We skirted the edge of the lake and followed a footpath

emerging in Charlton, near Tesco Express and followed

the track down to Charlton Lakes.

We stopped at the cafe to catch our breath and all had

an ice cream before heading back to Town.

We took the footpath that runs behind the Hospital,

emerging near the Folly roundabout, along Junction

Road and the old railway line before climbing the hill

back to the Anton Arms.

The walk was probably close to 5 miles and many of us

were struggling up the last hill but we were soon

revived with a glass of pop and lunch.

Past Asda, we used the new footpath overlooking South Street housing. We were all amazed at how quickly the river planting had matured but I’m sure this doesn’t compensate the house-holders for the imposing edifice obstructing their view.

The footpath emerged next to Iceland and we navigated our way through town, past Town Mills and the bus station, up Chantry Street, arriving at the rebuilt Ford Cottage, where we stood on tip toe to look through the windows. We then ventured into St Mary’s Churchyard where we discovered St Mary’s Chapel being renovated and being turned into ‘Chapel Arts’ To the North of the Churchyard we met up again with the Anton and followed its path under the bypass and behind The Range and Homebase, where a gaggle of young geese were being chaperoned by some adults, We passed a derelict Gamekeeper’s cottage before emerging at Anton Lakes. Lots of children’s activities going on here but too far away to make out the details. We skirted the edge of the lake and followed a footpath emerging in Charlton, near Tesco Express and followed the track down to Charlton Lakes.

We stopped at the cafe to catch our breath and all had an ice cream before heading back to Town.

We took the footpath that runs behind the Hospital, emerging near the Folly roundabout, along Junction Road and the old railway line before climbing the hill back to the Anton Arms.

The walk was probably close to 5 miles and many of us were struggling up the last hill but we were soon revived with a glass of pop and lunch.