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Home , Alvediston, Bentley Wood, Fovant, Great Ridge Wood, Grovely Wood, Keevil

SOUTH RAMBLERS' GROUP

WALKS' PROGRAMME and General Information

FEB TO MAY 2020

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Friday 3rd to Monday 6th April 2020 – Brecon Beacons Walking Weekend based in Brecon - for more details can you please contact Nikki & Ian Wroe Tel: 01404 47654 or Mob: 07513 168451 or email [email protected]. These walks will be entered on our website as soon as we have the details from them. Friday, 24th April 2020 – Skittles & Supper Evening. At the Silver Plough, Pitton. Details in late February. Saturday, 25th July 2020 – BBQ. GENERAL INFORMATION

Meeting arrangements – The meeting point for Sunday walks is Salt Lane car park, in , unless stated otherwise. Weekday walkers are encouraged to share cars whenever possible, to reduce mileage and ease any parking limitations at the starting points listed. Starting point of a walk – If it is necessary to change the starting point of a walk, the walk leader will redirect walkers from the published start point to the new rendezvous. Please share transport if practicable, taking as few cars as possible to the new start point. Please check website for any changes. Lifts – Drivers may accept donations of £2 for journeys up to ½ hour to the start, £3 for journeys between ½ to 1 hour and £4 for journeys taking over 1 hour to the start. Refreshments – A pub is usually available at the end of shorter walks (of up to about 7 miles). There is also usually a coffee break during these walks. On longer walks (and all Sunday Walks) you should bring food and plenty of water or other suitable drinks, unless advised otherwise. Leaders – New leaders are always very welcome. If you are interested in leading, or need advice, please contact Liz Penn (01980 610979) for weekend walks at: [email protected] or Ian Beaver at: [email protected] or on 01722 326840 for walks on other days. Please send details of your walks for the next programme to Liz or Ian, as above, by 24th April 2020. Visitors – New walkers, guests of members and other visitors or tourists are welcome to join us for up to three walks. Those who intend to walk regularly should then join The Ramblers Association. Please contact our Membership Secretary, Jennifer Day at [email protected] for details. Dogs – All dogs brought on walks are to be kept on leads at all times. Assistance Dogs are always welcome on our walks, unless there is a physical or safety reason why a walk cannot accommodate them. Safety – On all roads walk on the right in small groups and in single file with high visibility jackets. Footpath Committee Meetings (3 monthly). Chairman: Norman Martin 01725 511989. Minutes are available for viewing on our website. Interested parties are welcome to attend by prior arrangement. Heavy Gang (bridges, stiles, kissing gates etc). Third Monday of each month. Contact – Graham Read at: [email protected] or 01722 710796. Light Footpath Work – The last Wednesday in the month. Contact Patricia Dashwood at [email protected] or 01722 710869 for information and to report blocked and overgrown paths for light clearance. New members for both gangs are always welcome. Footpath Problems – To report any footpath problems, please seek advice from a committee member. Disclaimer – All sporting and leisure activities have hazards associated with them. Rambling is no exception. The safety of members is of paramount concern, but accidents may still occasionally occur. It is important that each member joining a walk appreciates that they have a responsibility to identify any hazards and takes all reasonable steps to eliminate the risk of an accident or mishap. Change of address – If you are a Ramblers member looking to update your personal details or change your group, log in to your Online Account. If you haven’t got an online account, it only takes a few minutes to Register. Alternatively, phone 0207 339 8500 (Ramblers Head Office) The printed walks’ programme is posted only to those members who have requested a copy. Further copies may be available from Anne and the walks programmers as above. The Group’s Website – The South Wiltshire Group page of the Wiltshire Ramblers website gives access to the walking programme via the Ramblers Walks Finder. A printable version of this booklet can also be found there on the South Wiltshire Notice Board. The Group’s website is updated frequently. Please email photos and information for uploading onto the website to Jill at: [email protected] Please take the time to look at our website. It’s the most convenient way to keep up to date (see back page).

FEBRUARY

Sun 2 February 2020 10:00 - 10 miles/16.1 km - Moderate PEWSEY VALE AND DOWN Meet at 09:00: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Start point Walkers' Hill CP Alton Barnes. There is limited car parking in the Walkers’ Hill car park at the start of the walk and car sharing is advised. (SN8 4JX, SU115637) This is the second in the series of three walks that cover the Pewsey vale and Down and the Kennet and Avon Canal path. This 10-mile walk across high chalk downland is rich in archaeological and natural treasures. It includes a stretch along the Kennet and Avon canal towpath, a climb up onto Wiltshire’s highest tract of downland, a section of The Wansdyke, an ancient line of defence characterised by a massive 25 feet high bank and ditch built in the 6th or 7th Century by The Britons. The views from the hilltops are wide ranging and you will walk up onto the top of Adams Grave (Long Barrow) 262m and the Alton Barnes White Horse at Milk Hill. There are no toilet facilities on the route. You can expect muddy tracks, field paths, tow path and some stiles. Assistance Dogs Only.Map: EX157. Leader: Fi, 07776301739.

Tue 4 February 2020 10:00 - 5.3 miles/8.5 km - Leisurely MOTTISFONT ESTATE Starts at 10:00: NT CP Spearywell Wood on B3084. (SO51 0LS, SU315276) Mainly woodland including some permissive paths on the NT estate. Dogs on leads. No Pub. Map: EX131. Leaders: Alan & Nicky, 01722 331720 or Mob: 07541 078992.

Wed 5 February 2020 10:00 - 4.4 miles/7.1 km - Moderate - BOYTON - RIVER - SUFFERS BRIDGE - BOYTON DOWN Starts at 10:00: Park near Boyton Church. (BA12 0SS, ST950395). Turn W from Boyton Church and follow the course of the to Suffers Bridge. Ascend to Corton Barn and follow the track across Boyton Down before descending to Sherrington and Boyton. Steep hill at 0.8 miles distance. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX143. Leaders: Richard and Rose, 01722 742368 or Mob: 07757 450525.

Thu 6 February 2020 10:00 - 6.2 miles/10 km - Moderate RIDGE AND RIVER FROM BERWICK ST JAMES Starts at 10:00: The church at Berwick St James. Park in the street nearby. (SP3 4TS, SU071391) Great views from above the Wylye Valley followed by a riverside meander. Some stiles and bridges. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX130. Leader: Phil W, 01722 502673 or Mob: 07847 490061.

Sun 9 February 2020 10:00 - 10 miles/16.1 km - Moderate CIRCULAR INCLUDING THE BADGES HILLSIDE Meet at 09:30: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Lay-by opposite the Greater Good Pub on the A30 otherwise please park on Fovant High Street. (SP3 5JH, SU007285) This circular walk takes us up Fovant Down on to the Drove road crossing back towards returning via the steep path between the badges. Walking poles are advisable for this steep, possibly slippery slope. There is a 7 mile option. Dogs: please contact walk leader before day of walk. Map: EX118. Leaders: Jill, Jennifer & Zella, 01747 853384 or Mob: 07970 113467.

Tue 11 February 2020 10:00 - 5.9 miles/9.5 km - Moderate HURDCOTT - MONARCHS WAY - OLD SARUM - FORD CIRCULAR Starts at 10:00: The Black Horse, Hurdcott. Park in pub CP or in Black Horse Lane if not lunching. (please park as close to hedge as possible as delivery lorries use the road) (SP4 6HW, SU169336) Narrow and wider bridle and public footpaths through farmland and ongoing development of the new Castle Hill country park in Laverstock. No stiles. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX130. Leader: Phil A, 01722 349087 or Mob: 07765 311400.

Wed 12 February 2020 10:00 - 7 miles/11.3 km - Moderate - HIGHER PERTWOOD - GREAT RIDGE Starts at 10:00: Hindon to Chicklade Road on road side. (SP3 5SU, ST911341) This will be a brisk walk, up and down hills, for those who would like to walk rather faster than is usual on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: EX143. Leader: Roger W, 01747 871105 or Mob: 07891 442664.

Thu 13 February 2020 10:00 - 5.7 miles/9.2 km - Moderate PITTON PUB WALK Starts at 10:00: Silver Plough CP if stopping for lunch/drink. Otherwise please park in village streets. (SP5 1DU, SU212312) Circular walk mainly on tracks via Farley, Hound Wood, West Winterslow. Some road walking. No stiles. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX131. Leaders: Ian & Christine, 01722 326840 or Mob: 07835 455496.

Sun 16 February 2020 10:00 - 11.5 miles/18.5 km - Moderate SALISBURY RACECOURSE-BISHOPSTONE- Meet at 09:30: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: On Old Drove Road opposite the entrance to Salisbury Racecourse and close to entrance to Hare Warren Forestry Commission Plantation. (SP2 8PN, SU093286) Varied terrain taking in two villages and one hamlet on mainly good paths and quiet lanes. No steep climbs. Dogs on leads. . Map: EX130. Leaders: Shelagh & Kevin, 01722 415917 or Mob: 07854 612907.

Tue 18 February 2020 10:00 - 5.5 miles/8.8 km - Moderate TOYD CORNER - EAST MARTIN - TIDPIT - GRANS BARROW Starts at 10:00: On junction of track which leads off at sharp corner (Toyd Corner, near Cranway Farm). Park on verge of track beyond the tarmac surface. Car share if possible. (SP6 3PF, SU091207) Undulating downs, ancient tracks and turnpike, barrows and tumuli. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. No Pub. Map: EX130. Leaders: David and Anne, 01722 421737 or Mob: 07794 917094.

Wed 19 February 2020 10:00 – 4 miles/6.4 km – Leisurely HARNHAM CIRCULAR Starts at 10.00: Salisbury Cathedral Close, Chorister’s Green. (SP1 2EJ, SU142296) A walk above Harnham, through Lime Kiln and back via Britford Lane to The Close. Dogs – contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: OS184. Leader: Su, 01722 338828 or Mob: 07500 990860.

Thu 20 February 2020 10:00 - 6 miles/9.7 km - Moderate EBBLE VALLEY AND AROUND THE HOSPITAL Starts at 10:00: Britford Park & Ride. (SP2 8FH, SU153280) Along and above the Ebble south of Salisbury. Dogs on leads. No Pub. Map: EX130. Leaders: Alan & Nicky, 01722 331720 or Mob: 07541 078992.

Sun 23 February 2020 10:00 - 10.5 miles/16.9 km - Moderate SPEARYWELL WOOD - LOCKERLEY HALL PARK - RIVER DUN - DEAN HILL Meet at 09:10: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Spearywell NT car park can be found on the B3084 Broughton to Dunbridge Road on the right hand side. The car park is small and well used so please lift share where possible. (SO51 0LS, SU315277) A varied walk on good tracks in the wood, open fields, river bank and a good ascent up to Dean Hill. Far reaching views. Dogs: contact walk leader before day of walk. . Map: EX131. Leader: Liz P, 01980 610979 or Mob: 07768 621058.

Tue 25 February 2020 10:00 - 5 miles/8.1 km - Moderate PARK BOTTOM - GREAT RIDGE - CORTON FIELD BARN Starts at 10:00: About a mile down lane from the railway bridge between Sherrington and Stockton. (BA12 0SJ, ST957373) A walk into , good views towards . One steady hill and one stile. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX143. Leader: Philip, 01722 716695 or Mob: 07926 265538.

Thu 27 February 2020 10:00 - 6 miles/9.7 km - Moderate WIMBORNE ST GILES - KNOWLTON CHURCH Starts at 10:00: Wimborne St Giles, by the triangle junction. (BH21 5LZ, SU030119) Tracks, paths and quiet lanes. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: EX118. Leaders: Elaine and Alison, 01722 320302 or Mob: 07786 396303.

MARCH

Sun 1 March 2020 NO WALK OFFERED

Tue 3 March 2020 10:00 - 5 miles/8.1 km - Moderate EAST AND Starts at 10:00: Windmill Hill. On the road from to Upton. Roadside parking below the old windmill. (SP3 6BL, ST872310) From Windmill Hill near East Knoyle around West Knoyle taking in the Mackintosh Davidson Nature Reserve. Dogs on leads. No Pub. Map: EX143. Leaders: Alan & Nicky, 01722 331720 or Mob: 07541 078992.

Wed 4 March 2020 10:00 - 4.1 miles/6.6 km - Moderate COW DOWN - - KNOWLE POND - OX DROVE Starts at 10:00: Cow Down Hill - Park on Ox Drove. (SP5 5RB, SU023216) From Cow Down walk N over Marleycombe Hill and steeply descend to Bowerchalke. Follow path to Knowle Pond and follow the edge of the Coombe to the Ox Drove. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX130. Leaders: Richard and Rose, 01722 742368 or Mob: 07757 450525.

Thu 5 March 2020 10:00 - 5.8 miles/9.3 km - Moderate MARTIN VILLAGE - LITTLE TOYD DOWN Starts at 10:00: Martin Club CP (by kind permission of the Members. 50p charge please} (SP6 3LR, SU064199) Fields and tracks with good views. Steady climb up and down. Dogs on leads. No pub. Map: OL22/EX130. Leaders: Christine and Mike, 01722 332469 or Mob: 07535 341295.

Sun 8 March 2020 10:00 - 10 miles/16.1 km - Moderate MARTIN DOWN - Meet at 09:30: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Martin Down Car Park (free) on A354. (SP5 5RH, SU037201) Downland, views and woods. Assistance dogs only. Map: EX130. Leader: Donald, 01722 416167.

Tue 10 March 2020 10:00 - 5.5 miles/8.8 km - Moderate DOWNTON - TRAFALGAR HOUSE CIRCULAR Starts at 10:00: The White Horse CP. (SP5 3LZ, SU175214) Riverside paths, downland tracks, metalled lanes. Mainly level with a few ups and downs, 5 stiles. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: EX130. Leader: Rob, 01722 501113 or Mob: 07748 964812

Wed 11 March 2020 10:00 - 7 miles/11.3 km - Moderate FOVANT - DROVE - COMPTON CHAMBERLAYNE Starts at 10:00: Fovant, A30 Lay by or on roadside in High Street. (SP3 5JH, SU007285) This will be a brisk walk, up and down hills, for those who would like to walk rather faster than is usual on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: EX118. Leader: Roger W, 01747 871105 or Mob: 07891 442664.

Thu 12 March 2020 10:00 - 5 miles/8.1 km - Moderate - WOODLANDS DOWN - NORRINGTON Starts at 10:00: Talbot Inn CP. If not staying for lunch please park on street or village hall CP. (SP7 0HA, ST947223) One long steep climb to the drove road, down to Norrington, back across fields. Lovely views 3 stiles. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX118. Leader: Anne, 01747 873171 or Mob: 07787 505585.

Sun 15 March 2020 10:00 - 10 miles/16.1 km - Moderate PEWSEY VALE AND DOWN Meet at 09:00: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Start point The Golden Swan, Wilcot. Please car share where possible and park considerately on the roadside in the vicinity of the Golden Swan. (SN9 5NN, SU144611) This is the third in the series of the three walks that cover the Pewsey vale and Down and the Kennet and Avon Canal path. This 10-mile walk includes a height difference of some 500ft (152m) between the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath and the downland around Knap Hill. It includes a stretch along the Kennet and Avon canal towpath taking in the Suspension bridge at Wilcot, the beautiful ornamental lake known as Wilcot Wide Water and Ladies Bridge which resembles the grander bridges of the Dundas and Avoncliff aqueducts and a rigorous climb up onto Draycot Hill and Knapp Hill. You can expect muddy tracks, field paths, tow path and some stiles. There are no toilet facilities on the route although the Barge Inn at Honey Street may be open. Assistance Dogs Only. Map: EX157. Leader: Fi, 07776301739.

Tue 17 March 2020 10:00 - 5.6 miles/9 km - Moderate LAVERSTOCK CIRCULAR Starts at 10:00: Duck Inn CP. (SP1 1PN, SU159303) Farmland and downland, steep in parts. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX130. Leader: Roger T, 01722 341680 or Mob: 07472 425371.

Wed 18 March 2020 10:00 - 4 miles/6.4 km - Moderate BERWICK ST JAMES - STAPLEFORD CIRCULAR Starts at 10:00: The Boot Inn, park in village. (SP3 4TX, SU071394) Tracks and pastures, views. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: EX130. Leader: Sheila & Sarah, 01722 744900 or Mob: 07771 764001.

Thu 19 March 2020 10:00 - 5.9 miles/9.5 km - Moderate BROAD CHALKE AND THE OX DROVE Starts at 10:00: CP adjacent to the Church in Broad Chalke. (SP5 5DW, SU040253) A downland and valley walk from Broad Chalke along Church Bottom in the countryside and up on to the Ox Drove returning to the Chalke valley via Knighton Farm and back to Broad Chalke via the valley. 8 stiles, 7 compulsory. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: EX130. Leader: Ray, 01722 320302 or Mob: 07786 616590.

Sun 22 March 2020 10:00 - 11 miles/17.7 km - Moderate ST PETER – IMBER PERIMETER PATH – Meet at 09:30: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Please park on the old Codford Road parallel to the A36. (BA12 0NJ, ST961402) Paths and byways with good views across the Wylye Valley. Dogs: please contact walk leader before day of walk. Map: EX143. Leaders: Rosemary & Bob, 01722 325183 or Mob: 07714 396438.

Tue 24 March 2020 10:00 - 5.6 miles/9 km - Moderate BLASHFORD LAKE - ROCKFORD COMMON - APPLESLADE ENCLOSURE Starts at 10:00: The Alice Lisle CP, Rockford. (BH24 3NA, SU159080) A walk around a quiet but scenic part of the . Generally good paths but with some muddy patches in woodland. Good views. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: OL22. Leader: Phil H, 01722 325814 or Mob: 07831 379129.

Thu 26 March 2020 10:00 - 5.7 miles/9.2 km - Moderate TISBURY CIRCULAR Starts at 10:00: South Western Hotel (closed).Please park in nearby roads. (SP3 6BF, ST944290) An undulating walk, mainly on footpaths via the edge of Chicksgrove, Upper Chicksgrove, Vicarage Barn and Place Farm. Some road walking. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX118/143. Leaders: Ian & Christine, 01722 326840 or Mob: 07835 455496.

Sun 29 March 2020 10:00 - 9.5 miles/15.3 km - Moderate ROCKBOURNE AND DAMERHAM VIA WINDMILL HILL Meet at 09:30: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Car park beside Rockbourne school. Up a little road on the same side of the Rockbourne to Sandleheath Road as the church. (SP6 3NB, SU116180) Good views, walking through open farmland and downland. Dogs: please contact walk leader before day of walk. Map: OL22. Leader: Joan, 01722 502183 or Mob: 07796 098084.

Tue 31 March 2020 10:00 - 5.5 miles/8.8 km - Moderate BENTLEY AND HOUND WOODS Starts at 10:00: Main CP on E side of Bentley Wood. From Salisbury go via West Dean. Rely on postcode only to approach then use map. (SP5 1JP, SU258291) Easy walking on woodland tracks. Dogs on leads. No Pub. Map: EX131. Leaders: Alan & Nicky, 01722 331720 or Mob: 07541 078992.

APRIL

Wed 1 April 2020 10:00 - 4.4 miles/7.1 km - Moderate AROUND DINTON AND Starts at 10:00: Dinton Village Hall CP or adjacent. (SP3 5TE, SU016314) Ascend from Dinton village, via Baverstock, to the Ox Drove. Turn W to the edge of before a long return descent to Dinton. Mainly tracks with some quiet road. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX130. Leaders: Richard and Rose, 01722 742368 or Mob: 07757 450525.

Thu 2 April 2020 10:00 - 5.5 miles/8.8 km - Moderate BERWICK ST JAMES Starts at 10:00: The Boot Inn CP. Park on local roads if not stopping for lunch. (SP3 4TX, SU072394) Berwick St James, Horse Down, Winterbourne Stoke, Berwick St James. Valley of the River Till. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: EX130. Leader: Ray, 01722 320302 or Mob: 07786 616590.

Sun 5 April 2020 10:00 - 10 miles/16.1 km - Moderate BOLDERWOOD – ACRES DOWN - MINSTEAD Meet at 09:00: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Bolderwood Car Park (SO43 7GQ, SU239088) From the Bolderwood area of the New Forest, the route passes the Deer Sanctuary and across Acres Down. It then follows paths and lanes to Minstead with a visit to the historic village church. Return via the Canadian Memorial. Some paths muddy after rain. Four stiles. Dogs: please contact walk leader before day of walk. Map: OL22. Leader: Phil H, 01722 325814 or Mob: 07831 379129.

Tue 7 April 2020 10:00 - 5 miles/8.1 km - Moderate CIRCULAR (NORTH) Starts at 10:00: Behind church - take first turning to right after the pub and CP is on the right next to the Old Vicarage. (SP5 5JJ, ST990241) Tracks, drove and fields. Dogs - contact walk leader before day of walk. Pub possible - need to order beforehand. Map: EX118. Leader: Virginia, 01722 780444 or Mob: 07979 896207.

Wed 8 April 2020 10:00 - 7.1 miles/11.4 km - Moderate CROCKERTON FIRS - BUXBURY HILL - PHEASANTS COPSE Starts at 10:00: On Shaftesbury Drove off Ansty to Road. (SP3 5PS, ST964250) This will be a brisk walk, up and down hills, for those who would like to walk rather faster than is usual on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: EX118. Leader: Roger W, 01747 871105 or Mob: 07891 442664.

Thu 9 April 2020 10:00 - 5 miles/8.1 km - Moderate BISHOPSTONE - OX DROVE - KNIGHTON HILL - EBBLE VALLEY CIRCULAR Starts at 10:00: White Hart, Bishopstone. If not lunching please park in village or Village Hall CP. (SP5 4AA, SU068257) Downland climb, mainly on tracks, but with some minor roads. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX130. Leader: Ken P, 01722 416328 or Mob: 07736 770078.

Sun 12 April 2020 10:00 - 9.8 miles/15.8 km - Moderate LUDWELL - DONHEAD - - LONG BOTTOM Meet at 09:10: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Start point St John the Baptist church, Ludwell Park in nearby roads. (SP7 9LZ, ST902226) A bit of everything - woodland, fields, hills, stiles, road, views. Dogs: on leads. Map: EX118. Leader: Phil W, 01722 502673 or Mob: 07847 490061.

Tue 14 April 2020 10:00 - 5.3 miles/8.5 km - Moderate HIGH CORNER - OGDEN'S PURLIEU - BROOMY INCLOSURE Starts at 10:00: High Corner Inn CP. (BH24 3QY, SU196107) A varied New Forest walk across undulating heathland and through pine, oak and beach woods. Some paths may be marshy and muddy after prolonged rain. Good views. Dogs - contact walk leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: OL22. Leader: Phil H, 01722 325814 or Mob: 07831 379129.

Wed 15 April 2020 10:00 - 4 miles/6.4 km - Moderate CHICKSGROVE - - WHITMARSH WOOD Starts at 10:00: The Compasses CP. (SP3 6NB, ST974294) Familiar fields and woods, several stiles. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX118. Leader: Anne, 01747 873171 or Mob: 07787 505585.

Thu 16 April 2020 10:00 - 6 miles/9.7 km - Leisurely WHITSBURY - BREAMORE CIRCUIT Starts at 10:00: The Cartwheel Pub CP, Whitsbury. (SP6 3QA, SU128188) Tracks and paths through woodland and farmland, some quiet lanes. Rolling countryside with gentle ascents and descents, good views. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: OL22. Leader: Sarah, 01722 349706 or Mob: 07855 779692.

Sun 19 April 2020 10:00 - 9.5 miles/15.3 km - Moderate EDINGTON AND THE HISTORIC VILLAGES OF AND Meet at 09:00. Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Please park on grass verge by Edington Priory. (BA13 4QN, ST927535) Farmland, byways, ancient tracks and quiet country roads. Assistance Dogs Only. Map: EX143. Leader: Cathie, Mob: 07751 466342.

Tue 21 April 2020 10:00 - 6 miles/9.7 km - Moderate - GROVELY WOOD CIRCULAR Starts at 10:00: The Royal Oak CP, Great Wishford if staying for lunch or nearby. (SP2 0PB, SU077354) Farm, downland and woodland tracks. Steepish climb at start.Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX130. Leader: Rob, 01722 501113 or Mob: 07748 964812.

Wed 22 April 2020 10:00 - 4 miles/6.4 km - Moderate MARTIN DOWN - JUBILEE TRAIL - PENTRIDGE CHURCH - BOKERLEY DOWN Starts at 10:00: CP at end of Sillens Lane. The post-code for entrance to Sillens Lane is SP6 3LB, a triangle of land at the south-east of Martin. Sillens Lane not marked. (SP6 3LP, SU057191) The walk crosses a National Nature Reserve, over a gentle hill to the remote village of Pentridge, then back over enclosed tracks. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX118. Leader: Philip, 01722 716695 or Mob: 07926 265538.

Thu 23 April 2020 10:00 - 5.3 miles/8.5 km - Moderate PITTON - WINTERSLOW CIRCULAR Starts at 10:00: Silver Plough CP or nearby roads. (SP5 1DU, SU212312) Field and woodland footpaths, some road walking. Possibly muddy in places. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: EX131. Leaders: Leslie and Pat, 01722 710568 or Mob: 07745 891800.

Sun 26 April 2020 10:00 - 10 miles/16.1 km - Moderate DOWNTON CIRCULAR Meet at 09:30: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Moot Lane Car Park, Downton (SP5 3QD, SU181213) Mixed terrain, open views, woodland and riverside. Assistance dogs only. Map: EX130/OL22/EX131.. Leader: Peter, 01725 510107 or 07833601216.

Tue 28 April 2020 10:00 - 5 miles/8.1 km - Moderate BERWICK ST JAMES - HORSE DOWN - WINTERBOURNE STOKE Starts at 10:00: Boot Inn Pub CP or park on road in village if not lunching or drinking. (SP3 4TX, SU071394) Farm tracks, one long gentle hill at start, fields, Horse Down, Winterbourne Stoke Hill, Coniger Earth Works. 4 stiles. Dogs on leads but cows in field. Pub possible. Map: OS130/OS184. Leader: Mike M, 01722 505325 or Mob: 07833 542920.

Thu 30 April 2020 10:00 - 4.5 miles/7.2 km - Moderate BROADCHALKE - STOKE DOWN - KNIGHTON HILL Starts at 10:00: Queens Head Inn CP. If not staying for lunch please park on street or Church CP. (SP5 5EL, SU039255) Downland and Chalke valley, involves two long climbs, a few stiles. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX118. Leader: Anne, 01747 873171 or Mob: 07787 505585.

MAY

Sun 3 May 2020 10:00 - 11 miles/17.7 km - Moderate MILTON ABBAS-BULBARROW AND WESSEX RIDGEWAY Meet at 08:45: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Park in front of the Hambro Arms at top The Street, Milton Abbas, (DT11 0BP, ST808019) The route passes Milton Abbey and ascends through woodland to Bulbarrow. Returns across the Wessex Ridgeway. Extensive views over Blackmore Vale. Some moderately steep ascents which could be muddy after rain. Two stiles. Shorter route option of 8.5 miles. Dogs: please contact walk leader before day of walk. Map: EX117. Leader: Phil H, 01722 325814 or Mob: 07831 379129.

Tue 5 May 2020 10:00 - 6 miles/9.7 km - Moderate EAST AND WEST KNOYLE Starts at 10:00: East Knoyle village hall CP (donation of 50p per car requested by village hall)

(SP3 6AE, ST879305) A varied walk through bluebell woods, fields and quiet village roads. Dogs on leads. Pub possible.

Map: EX143. Leaders: Bernie and Erica, 01722 504262 or Mob: 07518 707362.

Wed 6 May 2020 10:00 - 4.9 miles/7.9 km - Moderate BENTLEY WOOD CIRCULAR Starts at 10:00: Ben Lane CP in Bentley Wood. (SP5 1AG, SU236286) Woodland walk with Spring flowers. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: EX131. Leader: Roger T, 01722 341680 or Mob: 07472 425371.

Thu 7 May 2020 10:00 - 5 miles/8.1 km - Moderate BROAD CHALKE - - KNOWLE HILL CIRCULAR Starts at 10:00: Church CP at rear of All Saints Church. (SP5 5DH, SU040253) Broad Chalke, Knowle Hill, Fifield Bavant, Ebble Valley. Steady climb on downland returning along river valley. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX118. Leader: Ken P, 01722 416328 or Mob: 07736 770078

Sun 10 May 2020 10:00 - 9.7 miles/15.6 km - Strenuous MELBURY AND FONTMELL Meet at 09:15: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Fontmell Down NT CP on Blandford- Melbury Abbas Rd (additional parking across road at Compton Abbas Airfield junction). (SP5 5AP, ST886187) Mainly on NT land connecting 3 reserves. Includes steep hillsides and rough walking on access land. Wildlife interest: birds and flowers (certain), butterfly’s dependant on weather). Dogs on leads. Map: EX118. Leaders: Nicky and Alan, 01722 331720 or Mob: 07907 859922.

Tue 12 May 2020 10:00 - 5.4 miles/8.7 km - Moderate MARTIN DOWN - VERNDITCH CHASE - OXDROVE - ROMAN ROAD Starts at 10:00: Martin Down CP (A354), Nature Reserve, take care on exit. (SP5 5RH, SU036200) Woodland track, Bridleway, Oxdrove, Bridleway, Roman Road. Good views, no stiles. Dogs on leads - sheep in field. Pub possible. Map: EX130/OS184. Leader: Mike M, 01722 505325 or Mob: 07833 542920.

Wed 13 May 2020 10:00 - 7.1 miles/11.4 km - Moderate HINDON - EAST KNOYLE - WESSEX RIDGEWAY Starts at 10:00: Hindon High Street on road side near playground. (SP3 6DY, ST912327) This will be a brisk walk, up and down hills, for those who would like to walk rather faster than is usual on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: EX143. Leader: Roger W, 01747 871105 or Mob: 07891 442664.

Thu 14 May 2020 10:00 - 6.5 miles/10.5 km - Moderate

MARTIN DOWN AND ABOUT Starts at 10:00: Sillen Lane CP, Martin. (SP6 3LP, SU057191) Hills, paths, tracks and views. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: EX118. Leaders: Elaine and Alison, 01722 320302 or Mob: 07786 396303.

Sun 17 May 2020 10:15 - 9.5 miles/15.3 km - Moderate LOCKERLEY AREA - THREE CHURCHES WALK Meet at 09:30: Salt Lane Car Park, Salisbury. Starts at 10:15: Lockerley Green - park round the Green (SO51 0JN, SU291266) Fields, woods, some stiles and three churches. Dogs on Leads. Map: EX131. Contact: John H, 07866 979498.

Tue 19 May 2020 10:00 - 5.5 miles/8.8 km - Leisurely NEW FOREST CIRCULAR - APPLESLADE BOTTOM AND MOCKBEGGER Starts at 10:00: Appleslade Bottom NF CP (look out for RV signs) (BH24 3QT, SU184092) Leisurely Spring stroll up and over the New Forest's Ibsley Common with extensive views. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: OL22. Leaders: John and Sue, 01722 328507 or Mob: 07941 453641.

Wed 20 May 2020 10:00 - 4.4 miles/7.1 km - Moderate BERWICK ST JAMES - STAPLEFORD CIRCULAR Starts at 10:00: Boot Inn CP or park along village street. (SP3 4TX, SU072394) Berwick St James over downland to Stapleford and then gentle ascent to downs above Stapleford and descent to Berwick St James. Mainly on tracks. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX130. Leaders: Richard and Rose, 01722 742368 or Mob: 07757 450525.

Thu 21 May 2020 10:00 - 5 miles/8.1 km - Moderate IBSLEY - MOCKBEGGAR - SOUTH GORLEY Starts at 10:00: Layby next to Old Beams. Please park near to church if not stopping for lunch. (BH24 3PP, SU149094) A varied walk with lakes, fields and forest tracks and includes one of the best coffee stops that we have on a walk. After coffee we will be taking a completely new route back to Ibsley. Several stiles. Dogs - contact Walk Leader before day of walk. Pub possible. Map: OL22. Leaders: Ian & Christine, 01722 326840 or Mob: 07835 455496.

Sun 24 May 2020 10:00 - 8.5 miles/13.7 km - Moderate HENGISTBURY HEAD Meet at 09:00: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Park along side of park in Ledbury Road (BH23 3LB, SZ175922) Short boat trip (fare is required), walk over Hengistbury Head, visitors centre and priory. Assistance dogs only. Maps: EX195/OL22. Leader: Richard, 01722 411120 or Mob: 07595 271868.

Tue 26 May 2020 10:00 - 5.5 miles/8.8 km - Moderate COOMBE BISSETT - - FAULSTON Starts at 10:00: Fox and Goose CP at far end. (SP5 4LG, SU108264) Tracks, gentle hills, river valley circular walk. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX130. Leader: Rob R, 01722 238671 or Mob: 07554 873839.

Thu 28 May 2020 10:00 - 7 miles/11.3 km - Strenuous STOURPAINE - CHILD OKEFORD - HILL FORTS CIRCULAR Starts at 10:00: Parking at The White Horse Inn if lunching or in village. Car sharing advised. (DT11 8TA, ST861094) Several steep ascents/descents and broken ground on mostly NT Nature Reserve land. Exposed with panoramic views over classic chalk downland with river walk. Dogs on leads. Pub possible. Map: EX118. Leader: Rod, 01722 341078 or Mob: 07732 160425.

Sun 31 May 2020 10:00 - 8 miles/12.9 km - Moderate MILLERS FORD - HATCHET GREEN - AVON VALLEY PATH Meet at 09:20: Salt Lane Car Park. Starts at 10:00: Car park off Roger Penny Way just before the bend. Nearest location Cunningham Bottom. (The car park is fairly small so please share lifts is possible). (SP6 2QY, SU195167) Open heathland, forest, ford crossings and country lanes. Dogs: contact walk leader before day of walk. . Map: OL22. Leader: Cathie, Mob: 07751 466342.

NOTES FROM THE CHAIR Following a very wet autumn, I hope this new programme of walks will take place in drier conditions. The mud could hardly get any worse. There have been suggestions that the food industry should provide information on labels telling us how much exercise will be needed to burn off the calories contained. This could provide guidance as we choose our post-walk lunch. Tuesday Walk Leaders seem to be less willing to book a pub for lunch after the walk. If this is made explicit in the programme entry, walkers can make their own arrangements in advance, personally I think it would be a pity if the habit died altogether but, for frequent walkers, staying for lunch can become expensive. Still on the subject of eating: following our excellent New Year lunch at the White Hart, our next social event is a Skittles & Supper evening on Friday, 24th April at the Silver Plough in Pitton. Strangely enough this sport has little to do with fitness, accuracy or hand-eye coordination; the least sporty people can emerge victorious, so come and give it a go. Details will be available, late February, from Social Secretary Leslie Shaw on [email protected]. Many thanks to Leslie for planning the evening and to Pat for organising the White Hart lunch. Doing a seating plan for 86 people is no mean feat.

Anne Maryon-Davies CONTACTS - OFFICERS 2019

TITLE NAME TEL. E-MAIL Chair Anne Maryon 01747 873171 [email protected] Davies 07787 505585 Secretary Gill Sherry 01722 336642 [email protected] Treasurer Jean Gillard 01722 411120 [email protected] 07967 938494 Programme Ian Beaver 01722 326840 [email protected] Planners 07835 455496 Liz Penn 01980 610979 [email protected] 07768 621058 Membership Sec. Jennifer Day 01747 853384 [email protected] 07970 113467 Public Relations Richard Manchee 01722 742368 [email protected] 07757 450525 Footpath Norman Martin 01725 511989 [email protected] Secretaries 07776 076363 and Heavy Gang Graham Read 01722 710796 [email protected] 07759 538986 Social Secretaries Pat Mackenzie 01722 710243 [email protected] 07821 645063 Leslie Shaw 01722 710568 [email protected] 07745 891800 Area Member Phil Hutchins 01722 325814 [email protected] 07831 379129

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