Long Walk May 6th led by Helen Langston
7.7 miles. Circular walk with incredible views all day firstly climbing to the summit of Ivinghoe Beacon; following the Ridgeway down through The Slopes; looping back through the grassy tracks of the dry valley; then on to climb up to Incombe Hole, where enjoyed a break. Following through the Ashridge forests and woodland paths to reach Bridgewater Monument cafe, and finally a last glimpse of the departing bluebells at Dockey Wood to complete our circular walk.
Strollers May 11th led by Sue Dawson
8 of us had a pleasant circular walk from Chinnor to Crowell and back to Chinnor. We could hear the birdsong from the skylarks although difficult to spot them as it was drizzling with rain. We did a slight detour to see the lake at the former chalk quarry pits. Usually there is an abundant of waterfowl there but it was quiet today.
The sun came out as we returned to the car park when everyone said they had enjoyed the walk and it was a new venue for them with the Crowell route.
Medium May 15th led by Jenny & David, 5.4 miles
We set off walking, at 9.20 am from The Rising Sun Pub at Witheridge Hill, nr Nettlebed, Oxfordshire. The weather was dry and bright but unseasonally cold, at around 8 C. Initially we took a path through fields in the direction of Stonehouse Farm and then entered woods with towering redwood conifers before crossing open fields leading to Rocky Lane. From here we walked easterly along the single-track road, past fields of sheep and young lambs, onto a rocky downhill footpath, which shortly, led steeply uphill into Earl’s Wood. The wood is part of the Bromsden Farm Estate, owned by the local Fleming Family and where Ian Fleming’s brother Peter, farmed. Eventually, we joined the Chiltern Way through fields with fine open views, to the National Trust’s Grey’s Court.
The public footpath runs through the Grey’s Court and the café and outdoor seating provided a welcome and convenient spot for a morning break. From here we walked downhill, across a field, which fortunately was clear of cattle today, and then up a short steep hill leading onwards to Shepherd’s Green hamlet. True to its name, it is a quintessential Chiltern landscape which features attractive 20th-century houses built around an expansive, classic English village green.
We then walked towards Padnell’s Wood passing large desirable modern homes, in extensive grounds, before retracing our steps to picturesque 17 C The Rising Sun pub where we enjoyed friendly service and enjoyable food.