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WALKS
PROGRAMME No 148 NOVEMBER & DECEMBER
2018, JANUARY 2019
Due to the unpredictability of numbers attending each
walk it will be
appreciated if members advise the leaders by the dates shown. The
leaders may wish to limit the numbers, which they feel, are manageable,
taking into consideration car parking, lunch arrangements and the
number of obstacles en route which could slow the walk. Additionally by
leaving your telephone number you can be contacted in the event of
cancellations etc.
A walk number that is underlined
has been
altered since its original posting or is a new inclusion
Earlier walk programmes have now been removed from the web
pages to
save space, but copies including the reviews going back to 2001 may be
obtained from Stan
Walking
Group Mobile phone numbers are : 0754 6069085 and 0752 2958435
-
Please note that the phones will only be operative on the
morning
of a walk to enable members who are running late, are lost or delayed,
to contact the walk leader. If one number does not work, try
the
other !
Just a brief reminder – if you are leading a walk, you need to make
sure that you have
a
Leader’s Pack containing First Aid, Phone and Safety Jackets.
They are held by Richard Hart and Anne Trott. It may be that
one
of both of those people are on your walk so they will bring it with
them but if not, you must obtain it.
The phone needs to be turned on
before you leave home so that you know about any delayed or lost
walkers, and then kept on during the walk. Don’t forget to
switch
off afterwards and return the Pack to its owner.
If your walk involves roads or lanes with traffic, then you and your
backmarker need to wear a yellow safety jacket.
And
finally: The committee thinks that in future all walkers
should
carry either on their person or in their rucksack, some form of
identity with important details such as emergency contact numbers and
Doctor’s details. You will find an example attached with this
programme. Please adopt and use it.
NOVEMBER
2018
Walk
1265
Date
Thursday 1st November
7.5miles
Mod/Ener Pub lunch
Meet
Witcombe Roman Villa car park GL3
4TW 892146 9.30 for 9.45 start
Contact
Terry &
Margaret
01684
772278
the week before
Directions M5 to J11A, A417,
A46 L at Toby Carvery then take 1st turning R on narrow lane to car
park about 1/4 m.
Details Several steep parts, a
few stiles, some fields, a bit of lane walking and a majority of
woodland tracks on the Cotswold Way, .
There are good views also options to shorten the walk if required.
Margaret
promised all 18 of us a TREEmendous walk! It certainly was! Our spirits
were not at all dampened by a bit of drizzle as it dried up fairly
soon. Before we set off, we stopped to look at the remains of the Roman
Villa - not much left to admire now, but the picture of it looked
marvellous.
Our route took us through gorgeous beech woods up to
Birdlip, following the Cotswold Way, stopping to rest and admire the
lovely views en route .We even spied a brave little scabious still
flowering even on November 1st. Soon after found us trekking
across our first muddy field of the season. Terry choreographed a new
dance in celebration - wiggle, shuffle, get- the- mud- off - your -
boots dance ...very fetching! Crossing between two reservoirs we
saw a lone lady angler stood patiently .. .hoping for a catch.
Altogether
a wonderful walk, Margaret and Terry, thank you. Perhaps we can do it
again .. .a good summer walk in the lovely shady woods.
(Thanks to Anne T for the report and to our trio of photographhers: Bob W, Calvyn and Terry - SF)
Autumn leaves (Calvyn)
Woodland snack (Bob W)
Cotswold scarp (Bob W)
Coming down to Whitcombe reservoirs (Terry)
**** Wednesday 7th November****
“Desperately Seeking Santiago“
An
Illustrated talk with recollections and anecdotes of their 500
mile Pilgrimage across Northern Spain to Santiago de
Compostela.
Given by Ian and Kathy.
£4.00 to include Tapas, Wine and the 50p U3A donation
Any profits go
to Air
Ambulance
Apperley Village Hall 10.30
Phone Ian or Kathy on 01684 290542 the week before to book.
Walk
1266
Date
Thursday 8th November 5.5 miles Energetic Pub lunch
Meet
The Yew Tree, Conderton GL20 7PP
Grid 965371 9.45 start
Contact
Mary and Pamela 01684 850433
the week before. Food orders by 3rd
Directions Bredon – Kemerton – Conderton
Details
A walk from the village, following the contour of Bredon Hill to above
Ashton under Hill then fairly long pull up the hill and eventually down
through Overbury Park and Conderton orchard. Three stiles.
n.b. No loos at start. Park along road by pub
or on main road. Back by 1.00 p.m. Pre-book food please
from www.yewtreeconderton.co.uk and give order when booking on walk.
24
stalwart walkers started from Conderton in heavy rain, but fortunately
it cleared in time to see great Autumn colours stretching across to the
Cotswolds.
On the early part of the walk Pamela introduced us to a
new crop, Phacelia, grown as green manure,that attracts bees and other
insects. Another instance of care for the natural environment on the
Overbury land could be seen on the field edges that were tilled to
encourage wild flowers to grow.
At the second coffee break Andrea found an unusual piece of wildlife in an opened beech nut,that of 4 ladybirds hibernating!
Towards
the end of the walk we passed through Conderton’s Community orchard set
up in 2012 to improve the existing apple,pear and plum trees.
A
great walk even in blustery conditions and a welcome pub at the finish.
(Many thanks to our leaders, Sonia for her report and the
photographers; Graham and Bob - SF)
I think it has stopped! (Graham)
Is this the way down? (Bob)
Chatting over the garden wall? (Graham)
Age old temptation ? (Gtaham)
Walk
1267
Date
Wednesday 14th November 5.75 miles Moderate Energetic Own arra’nts for lunch.
Meet:
St Michael & All Angels Church, Snowshill
Rd, Broadway WR12 7AE.
Grid 095374 9.45 for
10.00
Contact Graham & Betty 01684594331 week before
Details Undulating circular walk follows Cotswold Way to Broadway Tower via
Coneygree
Lane (once main rd to London)Good views to the Malverns before
descending to Broadway for lunch where there are a variety of places to
eat & sup.
Why not visit the Ashmolean Museum ( an offshoot of Oxford’s own) after lunch?ygree
Lane (once main rd to London)Good views to the Malverns before
descending to Broadway for lunch where there are a variety of places to
eat & sup.
Why not visit the Ashmolean Museum ( an offshoot of Oxford’s own) after lunch?
A
really super walk led by Betty and Graham – 24 of us set off eagerly
(and in sunshine!) from the parish church of St. Michael & All
Angels and joined the Cotswold Way which led us gently uphill.
Endless golden pastoral views and on a coffee break we savoured ‘the
sweet especial rural scene’ of St Eadburgha's church (the original
parish church of Broadway) nestled in the valley. On to Broadway
Tower, stopping at the memorial to the bomber crew who came down in
1943. Mike B. then reminded us of the history of the tower
built in 1798 by the then Earl of Coventry whose family home at
Croome could be seen from it (a signal could be seen by staff at Croome
to alert them of the family’s imminent return from London – and to get
the kettle on!). Finally down through rolling fields, the
hawthorn laden with bright berries, past a little orchard with grazing
flock (with tup) and back into the town.
Many thanks to Betty and Graham. (Report by Pamela photos by Graham)
The destination (Graham)
Lovely late autumn colours (Graham)
Made it! (Graham)
Mind the moles! (Graham)
Walk
1268
Date
Thursday 15th November 4.5 miles Easy/Moderate Pub lunch
Meet
Farmers Arms, Guiting Power Grid
095247 9.30 for 10.00
Contact Anne 01684 294859 the week before
Directions B4077 and turn right just before Ford. Follow signs for Guiting Power.
Details Mostly tracks and paved surfaces. Gentle slopes.
On a lovely Autumnal day 13 brave souls joined "I'm in Charge" Anne in the car park of The Farmers Arms in Guiting Power.
Food
booked and paid for, register taken and orders issued, "Yes Anne", it
was time to follow our leader .......... down the wrong lane. So much
for our map reading course! Once on the right path we enjoyed a
most pleasant walk along lanes and tracks, over streams and
through woodlands.quirky signs, a stone frog that looked like a large
stone, and gave us a description of the origins of Power, Guiting and
the influence of the Knights Templar's in the area. In the village of
Temple Guiting once stood a Preceptory. It was a medieval
monastic house of the Knights Templar in Gloucestershire, England. It
was founded around the middle of the twelfth century but closed in
1308-1309.
Did you know the red, cast iron telephone boxes were made in Scotland, in Stirlingshire?
The coffee stop was supplemented with lovely views, and Anne's jolly, Jelly Babies.
A punctual arrival back at the pub enabled us to relax with good food,company and ale
Thanks for a lovely, informative walk Anne.(Thanks also to Ian for the report and to Stuart for the photos - SF)
Anne's in charge!! (Stuart)
Well on the way (Stuart)
Made in Scotland . . . ! (Stuart)
This way . . . ? (Stuart)
Walk
1269
Date
Thursday 22nd November 4.2 miles Moderate Pub lunch
Meet
The Shutter Inn, Gotherington GL52 9EZ
Grid 958297 9.30 for 10.00
Contact Andrea and Bob. 01684 294676 the week before.
Directions
Cheltenham road from Teddington r’bout. Turn left to
Gotherington after about 2 miles. The pub is on your right after
about 500 yards.
Details Through Woolstone to
Overton and back, via rough pasture, woodland and lanes. We may well
meet cattle, horses and sheep. Great views at the top in all
directions. Two interesting churches.
24
met at the Shutters on a frosty and unexpectedly sunny morning. A
welcome change from the snow and rain of the day before. We
walked across fields, taking action to avoid cattle with calves.
Then on to Oxenton church for our coffee stop in the sun.
Up on to Crane hill for good views in all directions then back through
muddy fields for our lunch. A short walk but the stiles and mud
made us feel as if we had enjoyed a good mornings exercise and
thoroughly deserved our lunch. (Thanks to Jenny B for the report
and to Terry and Shirley for the photos - SF)
Congregation (Terry)
Alternative transport (Terry)
Pause for a breather (Terry)
Frost in the shade (Shirley)
Walk
1270
Date
Wednesday 28th November Moderate/Energetic Pub lunch 6.2 miles
Meet
The Red Lion, Ilmington, CV36
4LX Grid: 4212244
9.15 for 9.45 start
Contact Tony &
Jennifer 01684 276960
by the previous Sunday
Directions A46 to Evesham,
turn R onto Evesham by-pass then R onto A44 signed Oxford. At first
roundabout turn L signed Willersley leading to B4632 through Weston Sub
Edge to Mickleton. At mini roundabout as you are leaving village turn
right signed Ilmington. When you enter Ilmington, at ‘T’ junction, turn
R into Front Street. Second pub on the right side.
Details
Leave the pretty village on steady climb to top of escarpment with good
views, then follow track along the ridge to Hidcote, returning via
Monarchs Way and Centenary Way to Ilmington. Can be muddy in places
with 2 stiles.
On
a damp, grey morning, sixteen of us met outside the Red Lion in
Ilmington. The weather wasn't inviting but at least we were
spared the worst of the super tempest, "Diana".
Our walk
began along the village main street then off up a long incline
onto the Ilmington Downs. We passed the Nebsworth
radio aerials and walked on to the highest point in Warwickshire at
260m. However today, spectacular views of the Evesham valley were
definitely "off". After the hill we walked down to Hidcote before
turning back towards Ilmington enjoying woodlands and pastures
along the way.
Many thanks to Tony and Jennifer for leading
a walk through rolling countryside which every one enjoyed , in
spite of the weather. (Thanks to Jim for the report and to Terry and
Bob W for the photos _ SF)
A bit damp (Terry)
The long plod to the top (Terry)
Handy barn (Bob W)
Woodland wanderings (Terry)
Walk
1271
Date
Thursday 29th November 4.7
miles
Easy Pub lunch
Meet Hanley Bowling Green Inn WR9 0AR Grid 863621. 9.30 food, 10.00 start
Contact Mike and Jenny 01684 772194 week before
Directions
J6 M5 - A4538 Pershore Lane - Right on to A38. Left
at Copcut (1 mile) Keep Left to Ladywood. Turn Right, Cross
canal, keep Rt. Pub ¾ mile on Right after you cross
the river.
Details Across fields to Salwarpe
Church. Along Droitwich Canal towpath, and back through fields
and quiet lanes. Might be muddy in places.
15
hardy souls braved the gales and rains of Storm Diana, and set off to
explore the Droitwich Canal and its environs. Observation of the day
came from Stuart as we pulled in to the car park of The Bowling Green
Inn, he asked with a degree of surprise, "Is that a Bowling Green?"
By
the time of the of the first stop the wind had removed 2 sets of
headgear. One more and we would have had a 'hat-trick'. A brief halt in
the small village of Salwarpe. It was once called Salop, but now shares
its name with the River Salwarpe, whose origins give a nod to the salt
industry that once dominated the area of Droitwich. The village has a
rich history dating back to pre-Norman times. Throughout the medieval
period the estate was passed between the church and the wealthy. The
size of the parish church is an indication that this now tiny,
insignificant community was once quite important. Back in the early
1600's, the house opposite the church served as a Grammar School.The
Droitwich Canal too has a rich history. In the 1600's, the salt
industry had grown and so did the need for improved transport links.
The initial plan was to make the River Salwarpe navigable but by 1755
all efforts had failed. In 1767 Droitwich Council asked James Brindley
to survey a route for a canal and by 1771 the 5.7 mile canal, linking
Droitwich with the River Severn, was opened at a cost of £23,500. The
local salt deposits caused there to be an abnormally high brine content
in the water, and this resulted in a lack of fish in the canal, and
flora and fauna more normally associated with coastal areas. By 1830
the canal was in decline. Attempts to revive its fortunes saw it
connected to the Worcester-Birmingham canal, but increased competition
from the railways failed to improve business. The canal saw its last
boat in 1916 and it was formally closed in 1939. (Re-opened in
2011 after restoration - SF)
Coffee was taken at lock number 5a and
this saw a change in the weather. The rain abated and the sun made
fleeting visits as it played hide and seek with the passing clouds.
This made the return to the pub via tow path, fields and lanes, a
little more pleasant. A fine lunch followed.
Thanks to Mike and
Jenny for great organisation. Thanks also to Ian for his usual
comprehensive and informative report - SF
It's windy too!
Shorts !
Meeting the canal
Bridge repairs
DECEMBER
2018
Walk
1272
Date
Wednesday 5th December 6.7 miles Easy/Moderate Pub lunch
Meet Eagle and Sun Hanbury Wharf WR9 7DX. 9:30 to order food.
Contact Bob & Andrea 01684 294676 the week before
Directions Leave the M5 at J 6 turn left towards Hanbury and follow the signs to Hanbury Wharf.
Details
A varied walk combining canal side, hedge lined fields,
historic buildings and parkland. Afterwards, NT members may choose
to go on to visit Hanbury Hall or anyone can go to The Jinney
Ring Centre, both nearby.
We assembled at the Eagle and Sun carpark, overlooking the narrow boats moored in its picturesque setting.
Seventeen started at nine fifty five, along the towpath. The going was soft, plenty of chances to slip and to dive.
After
a considerable distance, we turned away from the canal with its still
water and weak reflections, swimming ducks and Pamela hearing the call
of a missel thrush. For a moment, the sun tried to show
itself. We continued on through the fields climbing to Pipers
wood, where the coffee stop was taken. From here, the route went on up
to Hanbury Church, where Andrea told of the connection of the Church
with the Archers (of radio fame) and also of an old farmhouse in
the area. By this time the rain steadily fell, yet the walk continued
down hill into the parkland through the avenue of old oak trees,
onwards passing Hanbury Hall and meeting up with the walkers who chose
the easier route. Little did we know what confronted us: a
very muddy, sloping ploughed field.back to the canal. This walk was
classified as "MUDerate".
Many thanks to Bob and Andrea for a very
varied walk and a great lunch venue. (Thanks also to Margaret for
the report and to Bob W. and Terry for the photos.) JD
Along the Towpath (Bob W.)
Church on the Hill (Bob W.)
A bit wet! (Bob W.)
Where are we? (Terry)
Date
Thursday 6th December
Walking Group Christmas Lunch
Corse Lawn House Hotel
Noon for 12.30
Please do not arrive before 12.00
A
splendid time was had by all! The food and service were
excellent, the company was, of course wonderful! our new chairman
Sylvia gave us a rousing speech, and her husband Ian entertained us
with more of his funny Scottish poems. Many thanks must go to
Calvyn for all his hard work organising the event.
The congregation
Walk
1273
Date
Wednesday 12th December
5 miles
Easy
Own arrangements
Meet
Gallagher Retail Park car park, Cheltenham GL51 9SL Grid
930244 outside Majestic
Wine 10.00
start
Contact Barry 01242 522973 the week before
Details To Swindon Village, Brockhampton, Elmstone Hardwick and back on easy paths and tracks.
Eleven of us met in the Gallagher Retail Park, outside
Majestic Wines on a pleasant, if a little cold, partially sunny day. The aim was to enjoy the countryside which
hides behind modern industrial and commercial estates.
We had to wait until, after various excursions to coffee
shops for pre-emptive "comfort", to set off through Swindon Village,
passing under the main railway line on footpaths to Brockhampton. The route
then took a very good and rural footpath back over the railway and alongside
the Wigmore Farm reclamation site which was well-camouflaged as a grassy hill
meadow. Even though we were far from Tewkesbury, we crossed and re-crossed
Carrant Brook several times before we had coffee.
We returned via a mature system of green roads along the evocative
Dog Bark Lane, aware of the
industrial estate looming in the distance.
It was a pleasant surprise when the green road suddenly found the
hissing steam pumps of Spirax Sarco. We
joined the stream of workers leaving for their lunch break until we gratefully
rediscovered our cars.
Thanks to Barry for organising this fascinating insight to a
relatively unknown suburb of Cheltenham and for Stan for taking the
photos. (Hugh and John; photos by Stan; "Stub", the Deputy, Trainee Webmaster.)
Social Strolling
Coffee Conference
On the right track
Keep right on.....
Walk
1274
Date
Thursday 13th December 6.5 miles Moderate Own arrangements
Meet
The Valley (Evesham Country Park) WR11
4DS 10.00 start
Contact Richard & Eileen 01684 274197 the week before
Directions
A46 to Evesham and follow ring Rd. Signs take you there.
Meet by the railway station in the top car park. Toilets by the shops.
Details We follow the Avon into town and then wander back by another route.
There is a café and coffee shops at the Valley. Lots of shops for Christmas shopping!
On a bright
crisp morning 17 warmly clad walkers assembled on the hill by the miniature
railway station. Being on a small hill,
the country park is aptly named “The Valley”.
We dropped down to the Avon, and followed it under the busy A46 into
Evesham. We passed a former water mill
and some neatly constructed Victorian terraces and factories, and dropped down
to the Abbey Park, where we were greeted by a peal of bells. We passed through the old centre of town: it
was a delight to walk under the arch and beside the little shops, thankful that
we were walking and not stuck in the usual traffic queue. We headed northwards along the main street
passing several mansions, then turned off right towards the river, passing through
farmland and under the A46 to meet our outward route, and climb back up to “The
Valley”.
Nobody fell
in the river, nobody fell in the mud. A
very enjoyable walk, well thought out by Richard & Eileen. We had a good lunch in the garden centre,
which was over-warm for us after our invigorating walk. (Thanks to Mike Barrett for the report and Bob & Graham for the photos"Stub", the Deputy, Trainee Webmaster.)
What a view!
A Season Symbol for the Photographer?
"Nobody fell in the Mud"!
"Nobody fell in the River"!
A Winning Smile?
Top of the World?
Thanks-Giving for home?
Walk
1275
Date
Wednesday 19th December 3.5 miles Easy Pub lunch
Meet
Gloucester Old Spot GL51
9SY 9.30 for 10.00
Contact Barry 01242 522973 the week before
Directions A38 south and turn left at Coombe Hill traffic lights.
Details A gentle wander around the Boddington Estate with just 3 stiles
There
are problems with the pub for Walk 1275 on Dec 19th so Barry has
decided to postpone the walk until the new year when things are less
busy.
Report
Walk
1276
Date
Thursday 20th December 4.7 miles Moderate/Energetic Pub lunch
Meet.
Duke of York, Berrow WR13 6JO. Grid
782355 9.30am to order. Walk 10am from Hollybush
Contact
Mike & Jenny 01684
772194 the week before
Directions A438 from Tewkesbury.
Details
Ragged Stone and Chase End hills with a Moderate
option to bypass the tops. Also the lake at Bromesberrow,
(which can be left out if the weather is bad)
A
glorious day awaited 22 walkers on the penultimate walk of the year,
sunshine until the last moments, ably led by Mike & Jenny.
Leaving
Hollybush car park, where hollybushes were once in profusion, we
walked the lower slopes to the eastern side of Ragged Stone Hill
en route to the hamlet of Whiteleaved Oak. Here the boundaries of 3
counties, Herefordshire, Worcestershire & Gloucestershire meet and
local writers with an unusual sense of humour seek volunteers via their
notice board to take their children away for Christmas. Here a
tree with variegated leaves with their white
appearance once grew. Druids are reputed to celebrate Summer &
Winter Solstice here, hanging trinkets and messages on a nearby oak
tree, sadly now very much in decline, and we realised that this might
be happening tomorrow, 21st December. From the path running alongside
Chase End Hill, the most southerly peak in the Malvern Hills (which 16
hardy souls climbed) we had lovely views of Eastnor Castle, built in
1812 nestling in extensive woodland. We all then descended to the
foot of the hill alongside Bromsberrow Estate where a lovely coffee
stop was enjoyed by the lakeside. During our return through the
parkland of Bromsberrow along a broad drive we were surprised to see
rhododendrons in bloom.At the bridge below White Leaved Oak we
scrambled down a steep path which led again to Ragged Stone Hill and a
choice for the mountaineers walking over the top or an easier route
back to the car park.The Duke of York pub laid on an excellent lunch as
we remembered what a great walk we had just enjoyed thanks to Mike
& Jenny." (Many thanks to Betty for the report and to Graham for
the photos - What a team! - SF)
The track to Whiteleaved Oak (Graham)
Chase End Hill (Graham)
In the park (Graham)
Coffee break (Graham)
Walk
1277
Date
Friday 28th December 4.5
miles Easy/Moderate Pub
lunch
Meet The Fox & Hounds, Church St, Bredon, Worcs, GL 20 7LA. 9.30 order food
Contact Betty & Graham 01684 594331 before Christmas please.
Directions TL into Church St after passing Bredon Church on left. Pub is on right.
Details
This is the last U3A Walk in 2018 famously known as the ‘Pudding
Buster’ to get rid of those unwanted pounds after the Festive Season.
Our walk takes us around the Bredon foothills via Westmancote &
Bredons Norton returning alongside the Avon & the Tithe Barn built
more that 650 years ago, free for NT members (with a collecting box for
60p’s otherwise). Join us for post Christmas fun
A beautiful,
bright morning greeted 28 of us gathered in the car park of the Fox and Hounds
in Bredon for the Walking Group’s now traditional ‘Pudding Buster’, and we set
off up Bredon Hill with sunshine above and mud underfoot, but not so much of it
as to be a nuisance. Single file paths
didn’t stop the chatter, and we nearly had a dog join us en route, while its
owner caught up with an old friend from the group in Westmancote – a very
sociable walk today.
Being
somewhat strung out, we regrouped around the Edwardian post box and headed on,
past ‘Beggarboys’ Nature Reserve and
along field margins, enjoying the view of the sun shining brightly on the
Malvern Hills in the distance.
We stopped
for coffee in the garden of Bredon’s Norton Village Hall, where they had kindly
provided nearly enough seats for everyone, and yellow jackets were donned in
readiness for a brief bit of road walking. We all safely negotiated a really
dodgy stile, with Ian fielding the less sure footed among us, and walked fields
and woods, admiring enormous fungi and still-colourful foliage as we went.
Past Bredon
Dock, up the hill and across the pretty St Giles’ church yard, which yielded
our first sighting of snowdrops, to admire the National Trust’s Tithe Barn, and
then back to the Fox and Hounds to don festive headwear, eat good food and, for
some, to win prizes in Mary’s raffle, which raised £70 for the Air Ambulance.
Many thanks to Betty and Graham for a very enjoyable post-Christmas outing. (Report by
Shirley; "Stub", the Deputy, Trainee Webmaster)
What a disciplined Squad!
Luxury Coffee Stop
We were promised only 2 stiles!
Admiring the Anatomical View?
The Diet Busted!
Thanks
to everyone's generosity, Mary tells me that the final total going to
Ait Ambulance from the raffle is £80. Well done folk, and thanks
also to Mary for her usual genial organization and to Anne for acting
as custodian of the hat collection! _SF
Fun in funny hats
JANUARY
2019
Walk
1278
Date
Thursday 3rd January 6.5 miles Moderate Pub lunch
Meet
Rising Sun, Cleeve Hill, Grid 981267 9.30 order
food 0945 start
Contact Bob & Kath 01242 232527 by Sunday before
Directions On the B4632 between Cheltenham Prestbury and Winchcombe
Details
A steepish climb to the quarries then an undulating walk across the
Common to Wontley Barn. Returning via West Barn, the Masts and
below Cleeve Cloud to the Rising Sun
What
a wonderful way to start the year. 24 hardy souls gathered in the
car park of The Rising Sun to begin the first walk of 2019. A
very cold day had been forecast at 1C, but in fact it was 4C when we
started, which with no rain, fog or wind made it perfect winter walking
weather.
We were initially confronted with what appeared to be
the north face of the Eiger, but it is the short way to the heights of
Cleeve Hill and got rid of the climb in one foul swoop. No problem, as
everyone made their own pace. After regrouping at the top it was plain
sailing from then on. We followed the undulations of Cleeve
Common and dodging the ever intrepid golfers, made our way via the
slight descent to Wontley Barn for a welcome coffee break.
A
gradual incline took us back to the masts. The fitness of
everyone was impressive, especially just following on from Christmas
festivities, which meant we were well ahead of schedule. We took
a short break whilst Kath alerted The Rising Sun to our impending early
return, which was achieved by going via the hill fort and Cleeve Cloud
affording us great views across the valley to The Malverns. We were
delighted that one long table had been set up for us in the Malvern
View Bar - just perfect for the 22 of us who stayed for lunch. Thanks
to everyone who joined us for the walk. It was lovely to see so many of
you. Many thanks to Bob and Kath for leading today, and to Kath
for the report and Bob for the photos - (did they sweep up afterwards
too? - SF)
Across the grid (photos by Bob P)
Near the top
Time out
Front runners
Walk
1279
Date
Thursday 10th January 6.5 miles
Moderate
Pub lunch (Bob P) (Bob P)
Meet
Cleeve Hill Golf Club GL52
3PW Grid 988270
9.30 for 10
Contact Margaret & Terry 01684 772278 week before
Directions At top of Cleeve Hill turn into Wickfield Lane to Golf Club. Please park at lower part of car park.
Details
This walk over Cleeve hill starts along the lower slopes in the
direction of the aerials, later taking an anti clockwise route back.
21 - or was it 22?
- gathered in the car park at Cleeve Cloud Golf Course to continue to shift
those Xmas pounds.
Off we set at a
goodly pace; in fact we zipped along (wink wink to Terry) along the lower Western
Edge.
Terence seemed to
be doing a jazz walk by improvising as he went, in that we missed out the hill
fort that he intended to climb. This would have given me something to talk
about ... I did notice a lot of earth worms though .
Then after a short
break it was an ascent to the masts and a return along the edge, with a second
break near the windblown tree. I had
watched that tree grow ‘mm by mm’ my from my window at work over the years.
All into the Golf
Club for some hearty lunches - well I was happy as I was one of the first
served.
We’d chosen our
time for the walk well – as, by the time we were leaving, the atmospheric cloud
had descended.
So an enjoyable
walk, with good views, good company as always and robust food. Thanks Terry and
Margaret for leading, (and thanks also for the photos to Terry and to Calvyn
for the report; webmaster “Stub”).
Optimism beneath the Cloud
Overwhelmed by the Cloud?
Contemplation in the Cloud?
A Stimulating Lecture in the Cloud?
Walk
1280
Date
Wednesday 16th January 5.5 miles Easy/Moderate Pub lunch
Meet
The Swan Inn, Coombe Hill, GL19 4BA, Grid
889271 9.30 for 10.00
Contact Hugh on 01452 780460 or Fran on 01684 491698 the week before
Directions Coombe Hill traffic lights on A38
Details
A mainly flat walk with three gentle up slopes, footpaths, a long
bridle path which could be muddy, some short road sections and
six stiles. The walk takes in Knightsbridge, Tredington Park and
Deerhurst Walton.
Report
Walk
1281
Date
Thursday 17th January 6 miles Moderate Pub lunch
Meet The Fleet, Twyning GL20 6FL Grid 905366 9.45 for 10.00
Contact Sonia 01684 298409 the week before. Food orders by 11th.
Directions Off A.38 from Tewkesbury
Details
A walk to Strensham with one or two ascents. Some lanes,fields and
tracks. 4 stiles. n.b. Availability of loos at start
t b a.
Please choose food from www.thefleetattwyning.co.uk and give
your choice to Sonia by 11th Jan when
booking on the walk.
Report
Walk
1282
Date
Thursday 24th January 4.5
miles
Moderate/Energetic Pub lunch*
Meet
Royal William Hotel GL 6 6TT Grid
879128 9.30 to order food
Contact Anne & Margaret 01684 294859 the week before
Directions A46 Cheltenham to Painswick road. Pub is on R after Cranham turning.
Details Mostly woodland paths. Some fields. Very little flat walking. Muddy. Some stiles.
*
Food needs to be ordered in advance. Please choose your lunch and
let Anne know by Monday 21st. http://www.royalwilliam.co.uk/ for
menus.
Report
Walk
1283
Date
Thursday 31st January 5.5
miles
Mod/energetic pub
lunch
Meet
Fostons Ash GL6 7ES Grid
915115
9.30 for 10.00 start
Contact Jim and Margaret 01684 296773 the week before
Directions
M5 to Jct. 11A then A417 passing the "Air Balloon" . In 1
mile take right
turn
.
B4070 towards Stroud
and Birdlip . At Birdlip keep to B4070. Fostons Ash
is
pub on LHS in about 2
miles.
.Details The walk is on
open country past Overtown with good views over
Cranham
woods, then mostly in
woodland to Sheepscombe and back to Fostons Ash.
Good
views of Painswick vallley .
Report
Thanks
to all walk leaders for your hard work.
.
Nearly
all the photos on this page have been reduced in size and resolution to
save both space and bandwidth. Should you want a copy of any
of
the photos, Stan would be happy to supply a copy of the original file -
just quote the walk number and the photo title.
NOTICE
BOARD
The
Walking Group has a mobile
phone to be used before and during walks for emergency contact — see
paper programme for number.
We
are affiliated to the Ramblers
Association and the membership card
above may be used to obtain a 10 percent discount on walking gear in
most local outlets.
If
you require a paper copy of
the walking programme, there is a charge of £4
p.a., payable at the Walking Group AGM or at the U3A enrolment meeting.
If you have internet access, then all information can be obtained by
email, free of charge.
Walks are graded to give some
idea of what to expect:
Stroll:
A short
walk at an easy pace with frequent stops.
Easy:
Undemanding and mainly level with occasional gentle ascents or
descents. There may be a few stiles.
Moderate:
Some
uphill/downhill stretches - unlevel walking - several stiles.
Energetic:
Some longer steep hills and rough ground - may be many stiles.
Please
book with the leader of the walk by the date given and arrive in good
time before the start to boot-up and order lunch etc. Be sure to cancel
with the leader if you are later unable to take part. Wear suitable
shoes/boots and clothing for the walk and do not over-estimate your
abilities. An attendance fee of 50p is charged for each walk attended.
Dogs are not allowed on walks.
Walk
Talk
The
Ordnance Survey has a service now that enables you, for an annual
subscription of £19.99, to download and print off extracts from the OS
maps that we use for our walks - anywhere in Britain! - no
more
having to fold and unfold vast sheets of paper in the wind and rain -
bliss! (Stop Press! There is now an "App" for smart phones
that
does all kinds of amazing stuff!) A real bargain - for a free
trial go to - http://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/osmaps/
SAFETY
POLICY
WALKERS
a)
Carefully read the walk
description to ensure that you are capable
of walking the route at a moderate pace (about 2 miles per hour)
without risk to health. Attention should be paid to the
EASY/MODERATE/DIFFICULT grading as well as to any references to steep
climbs, stiles, etc.
b)
Dress sensibly. Make
sure that you have suitable clothing and
footwear for the weather expected. A walking pole or stick can be of
great help.
c)
Remember to carry any
medications that you might need. Carry food, and water, especially on
hot days.
d)
Follow instructions
given by the leader. Keep those in front and those behind you, in sight
all the time.
e)
Keep to the route
indicated by the leader: do not devise shorts cuts, etc.
f)
Walk in single file on
roads and heed any advice about crossing roads given by the leader.
LEADERS
g)
Classify your walk as STROLL/EASY/MODERATE/ENERGETIC. Mention any steep
climbs and stiles.
h)
Limit your walk to a
maximum numbers that you think you can safely manage, given the nature
of your walk.
i)
Have a co-leader to act
as back-marker: count the party at the start and at suitable points
during the walk
j)
Carry a first aid kit or
ensure that someone else in the group has one.
k)
Set a pace of about 2
miles per hour plus coffee and lunch/tea
stops. Ensure that those finding the pace difficult have sufficient
time to rest and recover, even if this is not favoured by more
energetic members.
l)
Carry a map, the group
mobile phone and GPS receiver to make emergency calls and give exact
locations.
To
download a copy of the
Leader's Walk Plan Form (In Adobe Acrobat Format ie PDF) — Click on the
following link FORM
To
go to further advice for
leaders - Click on the following link
Advice
To
go to The Tewkesbury U3A
main site click here; Tewkesbury
U3A
Contacts:
Sylvia (Group Leader) 01684 437462
E Mail /
Tony,
(Administrator) 01684 276960
E Mail tonyandjenniferbarrett@btinternet.com
Richard,
(walks
coordinator) 01684 274197
E Mail / richard.hart13@btinternet.com
Webmaster
. . .
Stan Fagg stanfagg@freeuk.com
Updated 7th January
2019
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