Walks Programme December 2018 - March 2019

Herefordshire Ramblers

WALKS PROGRAMME DECEMBER 2018 - MARCH 2019

The events in this programme are organised by members of the four groups of the Ramblers in the Herefordshire Area. They are open to everyone including non-members.

All visitors are very welcome. We would hope to eventually welcome you as a Ramblers member.

“The Ramblers encourages walking; protects rights of way; and has campaigned for many years for freedom to roam over uncultivated, open country and defends the beauty of the countryside”.

The Ramblers’ Association is a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales. Company Registration no 4458492. Registered charity in England and Wales no 1093577. Registered Office: 2nd Floor, Camelford House, 87-90 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TW

Printed by: Orphans Press, Leominster, Herefordshire

CONTACT INFORMATION

Herefordshire Ramblers Chairman Arthur Lee 01432 264374 Committee Secretary Eddie Hunt 01432 269104

Footpath Co-ordinator Philip Bauer 01981 500398

Hereford Group Chairman Martin Committee Hebblethwaite 01432 769470 Secretary Arthur Lee 01432 264374 Walks Secretary Mary Howcroft 01432 357766 Footpath Secretary (East) Duncan Smart 01432 265357 Footpath Secretary (West) Philip Bauer 01981 500398 Footpath Secretary (North John Winterfeld 01432 355833 Footpath Secretary Vacant (South) Vacant Membership Secretary

Leadon Vale Group Chairman David Hawkins 01684 574205 Committee Secretary and Membership Secretary Tom Fisher 01886 821544 Footpath Officer Lynn Crowfoot 01531 631088 Walks Secretary Mary Woodage 01684 541071

Mortimer Group Chairman Margaret Panter 01905 426402 Committee Secretary and Membership Secretary Jen Atkins 01568 620138 Footpath Officer Mike Goodwin 01568 616473 Walks Secretary Phil Emes

Ross-on-Wye Group Chairman Martin Shepley 01989 56322 Committee Secretary Liz Reeson 07821 593151 Membership Secretary Trisha Selmes 01989 769050 Footpath Officers Paul Seville Bob Selmes 01989 769050 Walks Secretary Gwen Lynch

Our Walks Programme can be found on the following web pages: www.ramblers.org.uk – www.visitherefordshire.co.uk – www.herefordshireramblers.org.uk

News from Herefordshire Ramblers

We are in the middle of the AGM season. In Hereford Group Al Lacey (whom you may remember has worked for Balfour Beatty) has taken on the role of footpath officer for Hereford South. There is a vacancy in Hereford East. In Mortimer a new committee has been formed: Margaret Panter is the new chair, Jen Atkins is the Secretary and Malcolm Rochefort is footpath officer. We welcome newcomers to these Committees and hope you enjoy your roles.

The Area AGM is on 17 November. Eddie Hunt, who is both secretary and treasurer at the moment would like to relinquish the secretary role, while Tom Fisher would like to step down from publicity so he can concentrate on the new role of 2026 project officer. If you are curious what that involves, come to the AGM to find out!

At the same time as these important internal changes, Balfour Beatty have also seen some changes. Both Mike Walker and Will Steel have left for new posts. We trust that replacements will be in post soon, but we will be monitoring the situation closely.

Mike Goodwin co-ordinates the RA working parties. He says: "A small team of us go out approximately twice a month throughout the county putting up new stiles, repairing cross steps, erecting way marker posts and clearing vegetation along bridleways and footpaths using strimmers and hedge cutters. These jobs are mainly in response to reports by RA members to John Wride, indicating the problems they have found. This year we have put up 9 new stiles, 15 new cross steps and 8 new waymarker posts. Also, we have replaced many new waymarker discs. If you are fit and strong and enjoy working with a team in the fresh ai,r we would be delighted if you would join us in this useful work. Mike Goodwin. [email protected] Tel 01568 616473".

To help Mike in his marvellous work, we need a good supply of reports, so, if you find a problem on a Herefordshire right-of-way do activate the procedure fully described in our last newsletter, email John Wride at [email protected]

OUR WALKS: PLEASE READ THESE IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS

General: As a group member it is your responsibility to follow the leader’s instructions for the benefit of the group as a whole. If you should leave the walk early, please notify the leader. Please do not walk in front of the leader. Keep in single file on all roads. Accidents or incidents that occur during the course of the walk, should be reported to the leader immediately. Persons under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Insurance: All sporting and leisure activities have inherent hazards associated with them and rambling is no exception. In spite of the safety of members always being the paramount concern, accidents will occasionally occur. It is important, therefore, that when entering into the activity, each member appreciates that they have a responsibility to identify the hazards associated with the activity and take all reasonable steps to eliminate or minimise the potential for an accident to arise.

Guidance on grades

 Easy Access: Walks for everyone, including people with conventional wheelchairs and pushchairs, using easy access paths. Comfortable shoes or trainers can be worn. Assistance may be needed to push wheelchairs on some sections.  Easy: Walks for anyone who does not have a mobility difficulty or a specific health problem or is seriously unfit. Suitable for pushchairs if they can be lifted over occasional obstructions. Comfortable shoes or trainers can be worn.  Leisurely: Walks for reasonably fit people with at least a little country walking experience. May include unsurfaced rural paths. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing recommended.  Moderate: Walks for people with country walking experience and a good level of fitness. May include some steep paths and open country. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing essential.  Strenuous: Walks for experienced country walkers with above average fitness level. May include hills and rough country. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing essential.  Technical: Walks for experienced and very fit walkers with additional technical skills. May require scrambling and use of ropes, ice axes and crampons. You must contact the Leader in advance for further details.

Transport/Car Parking: Think green, try and car share. If you require a lift, contact the walk leader who may be able to organise a lift for you. Don’t leave valuables in your car in full view of thieves, and remember to lock your car. Protect against theft or vandalism. Walk leaders should provide details of bus times etc. The pick up point for Ross Group – WRCP = Wilton Road Car Park (parking fee £1 all day).

Notes: For a full days walk bring a packed lunch = BPL - and plenty to drink. For a half days walk bring a mid-morning refreshment = BMMR.

Dogs: Dogs are allowed on walks unless it states “registered assistance dogs only” in the walk details. If you wish to bring a dog, please contact the Walk leader beforehand. 4

Special Events - December 2018 to March 2019

HEREFORDSHIRE AREA RAMBLERS WEEK-END AWAY 2019 - Broadhaven (north) YHA hostel on the West Pembrokeshire coast has been booked for our exclusive use from Sun 8 Sept until Tues 10 Sept 2019. There are still places available. For further details contact John Winterfeld, either by e-mail or telephone - [email protected] or 01432 355833.

HEREFORD GROUP CHRISTMAS MEAL – will be on Saturday 8 December 2018 at the Aylestone Court Hotel, 2 Aylestone Hill, HR1 1HS. There is an excellent varied menu. 3 courses £25.95 and 2 courses £20.95. For further details and to book ring Lynne 07792 010227 or Mary 07854 068214 before Monday 3 December. Please send your cheque made payable to “Hereford Group of the RA”.

HEREFORD GROUP “POSH TEA” – we are having “Posh Tea” on Wednesday 16 January in beautiful surroundings at Foyles of Glasbury, a lovely boutique hotel in the centre of the village. Tea on this special occasion includes a selection of sandwiches, cakes and scones, with tea or coffee. Cost £15.95. Join us for a 7 mile walk at 10.00 or just come for tea at 15.00. Please book and pay with Lynne 07792 010227 or Mary 07854 068214 by Saturday 12 January. Cheques payable to Hereford Group of the RA.

HEREFORD GROUP – MAP READING COURSES - We are hoping to run some map reading courses soon, one for beginners covering reading a map and planning a route, and the other more advanced covering compass work and using a GPS. If you would be interested please contact me giving some detail of what you would like to learn. [email protected] or phone 07854 068214.

Regular Events

 2nd Tuesdays of each month – HEREFORD GROUP PUB QUIZ, CHAT & CURRY at The Victory pub, St. Owen’s Street, Hereford at 20.00. Members of all groups welcome to come for a drink, chat and the pub quiz, followed by curry, rice and chips. £2.50 per person. No advance booking needed, just turn up and help form a table. Dates are in the programme. Contact: Martin and Anthea 01432 769470 or 07583 048409.

 1st and 3rd Thursdays in the month at 10.30. HEREFORD GROUP MORNING “WALK and TALK”. Dates will be shown in the programme. Map Ref. Exp189/SO 518412. There will be a variety of walks starting at 10:30 from the reception at the Point4 (part of the Royal National College for the Blind) in Venn’s Lane, Hereford, HR1 1DT). They are fully inclusive to ALL, including Ramblers members, Walking for Health participants, Carers etc. So, come and try our walks and share with us how we can tailor them to meet your needs! Bus users can use the 81A and 77 services. Please check the current timetables to find suitable times and bus stops. Enquiries to Arthur Lee 01432 264374 or Mary Howcroft 01432 357766

 HEREFORD GROUP - TEA SHOP WALKS The aim of the teashop walks is to put some “pennies” back into the local shops and communities in places where we have enjoyed their countryside and, usually, have been allowed free parking. If you join in on a Tea Shop Walk, it is expected that you buy cake and tea at the end. Lynne 01432 271769 and Mary 01432 357766. 5

Herefordshire Area Walks Programme December 2018 to March 2019

All members and non-members are welcome to walk with any Group.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Date: Saturday 1 December Mortimer Group Level: Moderate A steep pull up and over Harley’s Distance: 7.5 miles Mountain following the Herefordshire Meeting Place St Michael’s Church, Lingen Trail, rewarded by lovely views on a clear Map/Grid Ref: Exp201/SO 364672 day. Across Lime Brook valley and Time: 10.00 through Down’s Wood to re-join the Trail Leader: Eileen back to Lingen. BPL. Contact: 01432 830569

MISTLETOE IN TENBURY WELLS Date: Saturday 1 December Leadon Vale Group Level: Moderate Enjoy a walk in the Tenbury area with time Distance: 7 miles afterwards to visit the Mistletoe Fair. BPL. Meeting Place CP by Swimming Pool off B4204 Map/Grid Ref: Exp203/SO 597684 Time: 10.00 Leader: Mary Contact: 01684 541071

SOUTH FROM FERNBANK Date: Saturday 1 December Ross Group Level: Moderate We head south over Chase Hill and Howle Distance: 10.5 Miles Hill as far as Lodgegrove Brook. Returning Meeting Place Fernbank Road CP (a junction of through Cinderberry, Penyard and Eastfield Road and Walford Road) Merrivale woods along a more easterly Map/Grid Ref: Exp189/SO 598231 route. Undulating with 7 small hills +/- Time: 10.00 1800 feet. BPL. Leader: Martin Shepley Contact: 07876 664545 or 01989 563022

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 4 December Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or Distance: 4 - 5 Miles Trisha 01989 769050

TEA SHOP WALK FROM KINNERSLEY ARMS Date: Wednesday 5 December Hereford Group Level: Moderate Turn right off A438 at Letton – if road Distance: 8 miles flooded go via Credenhill on A480 turning Meeting Place Kinnersley Arms, HR3 6QA left near Sarnesfield and again at Map/Grid Ref: Exp201/SO 340487 Kinnersley. Leisurely pace seeing nature Time: 10.00 reserves, castles, common and church. Leader: Lynne and Mary Easy but some mud. On return everyone Contact: 01432 271769 or 357766 is expected to buy cake and tea. BPL.

MORNING WALK AND TALK FROM POINT 4, VENNS LANE, HEREFORD. Date: Thursday 6 December Hereford Group Level: Leisurely Park at the Point4, Venns Lane, Hereford. Distance: 4 miles These walks are first and third weeks Meeting Place Reception at the Point 4 monthly. We walk to Aylestone Park , Map/Grid Ref: Exp189/SO 518412 Lugg Meadows, Tupsley, River Wye or Time: 10.30 Holmer. Short steep slopes, stiles or Leader: Mary H muddy patches. Bring mid-morning snack. Contact: 01432 357766 Refreshments at Point4 optional.

HEREFORD GROUP CHRISTMAS MEAL Date: Saturday 8 December All members and friends welcome Meeting Place Aylestone Court Hotel HR1 1HS Some parking at hotel at bottom of Map/Grid Ref: Exp202/SO 517404 Aylestone Hill. Three courses £25.95; two Time: 12.30 to eat at 13.00 courses £20.95. Ring for details. Book and Contacts: Lynne 07792 010227 or Mary pay by Monday 3 December. Cheques 07854 068214 payable to Hereford Group of the RA.

A GOLD MINE OR JUST THE HOPE? Date: Saturday 8 December Ross Group Level: Moderate Secluded woods and pastures around Distance: 7.5 miles Hope Mansell with some beautiful views Meeting Place Park end-on at the wide forest and – yes – an actual (maybe) gold mine! entrance at the sharp bend on the BPL. North side of the minor road between Mitcheldean church and Drybrook Map/Grid Ref: OL14/SO 655180 Time: 10.00 (WRCP 09.20) Leader: Bob S Contact: 07985 044735 or 01989 769050

BUS WALK – CREDENHILL TO WELLINGTON Date: Sunday 9 December Hereford Group Level: Moderate Catch the 71 bus at 09.15 at the City bus Distance: 7 miles station. Walk via Tillington, Badnage Hill Meeting Place Hereford City Bus Station (by and Wood, calling at renovated Pub in Tesco) Wellington for optional drinks or teas. Map/Grid Ref: Exp202/SO 507401 Catch the 492 bus from Wellington Turn Time: 09.15 at 14.57 arriving at Tesco 15.17. BPL. Leader: John A.W. Contact: 01432 355833 or 07779 508204

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 11 December Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or Distance: 4 - 5 Miles Trisha 01989 769050

PUB QUIZ, CHAT AND CURRY – EVENING OUT - Tuesday 11 December Meeting Place Victory Pub, St Owen’s Street, Hereford Group – all members and Hereford friends welcome Time: 20.00 Come for a drink and the pub quiz, Contact: Martin and Anthea followed by Curry - £2.50 per person. 01432 769470 or 07583 048409 Just turn up and help form a table.

KINGTON AND HERGEST Date: Saturday 15 December Mortimer Group Level: Moderate A stroll through Kington, visiting St Mary’s Distance: 6.5 miles Church and the parkland of Hergest Croft. Meeting Place Mill Street CP, Kington (fee) Then a steady uphill walk along Hergest Map/Grid Ref: Exp201/SO 296565 Ridge and part of Offa’s Dyke Path, with Time: 10.00 extensive views from the top. Back via Leader: Eileen Castle Twts and Park Wood. BPL. Contact: 01432 830569

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 18 December Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or 4 - 5 miles Trisha 01989 769050

COLWALL CIRCULAR WALK Date: Wednesday 19 December Leadon Vale Group Level: Moderate Enjoy a winter walk on hopefully fairly dry Distance: 5 miles paths before returning for optional Meeting Place Colwall Station coffee/lunch. BMMR. Map/Grid Ref: Exp190/SO 757425 Time: 10.15 Leader: Mary Contact: 01684 541071

MORNING WALK AND TALK FROM THE POINT 4, VENNS LANE, HEREFORD. Date: Thursday 20 December Hereford Group Level/Distance Leisurely/4 miles Walks are first and third weeks monthly. Meeting Place At the Point 4, at 10.30 Walk to Lugg Meadows, Tupsley , Wye or Leader: Ring Mary H. 01432 357766 Holmer. Some short slopes, stiles, mud.

FRIDAY 21 DECEMBER – START OF WINTER WALKING FESTIVAL

LINEAR WALK – KINGTON TO LYONSHALL Date: Saturday 22 December Hereford Group Level: Moderate Catch 461 bus (Wyevale 09.17, Weobley Distance: 7.5 miles 09.40). Walk from Kington via Elsdon, Meeting Place Hereford Railway Station bus stop Holme Marsh, Offa’s Dyke and Lyonshall Map/Grid Ref: Exp189 /SO 515405 to the Cattle Shed at Penrhos Court for Time: 08.55 optional teas. Return 14.55 arriving Leader: John A.W. Hereford 15.52. BPL. Contact: 01432 355833 or 07779 508204

MALVERN TOWN AND UP TO THE HILLS Date: Saturday 22 December Leadon Vale Group Level: Moderate From the station, through Priory Park, Distance: 5 miles Rose Bank Gardens, up 99 steps to the Meeting Place Great Malvern Station Hills. St Anne’s Well for a coffee stop, Map/Grid Ref: Exp190/SO 783457 then back passing interesting places. Time: 10.15 (09.39 train from Hereford) Leader: David H Contact: 01684 574205

BRINGSTY COMMON Date: Thursday 27 December Leadon Vale Group Level: Easy A gentle stroll over Bringsty Common & Distance: 3 miles back to the pub for a drink. Meeting Place Live & Let Live, Bringsty Map/Grid Ref: Exp202/SO 700545 Time: 10.30 Leader: Tom Contact: 01886 821544

BREINTON CIRCULAR Date: Friday 28 December Hereford Group Level: Moderate Park at far end of Wyevale Garden Centre Distance: 6.5 miles car park. Walk down quiet tracks, lanes Meeting Place Far end of Wyevale GC car park and footpaths to Breinton and along the Map/Grid Ref: Exp202/SO 472415 river Wye. Optional tea at Wyevale at Time: 11.00 late start end. BPL. Leader: Mo Contact: 01432 350516

STOCKTON AND KIMBOLTON Date: Saturday 29 December Mortimer Group Level: Moderate Permission to park at pub (open for Distance: 6.5 miles seasonal celebrations on return). A green Meeting Place Stockton Cross Inn Car Park lane, tracks and field edges. Kimbolton Map/Grid Ref: Exp203/SO 519613 Church, Bache Camp, returning on part of Time: 10.00 the Herefordshire Trail. BPL. Leader: Jen Contact: 01568 620138 or 07725 832159

FIGURE OF 8 FROM REDBROOK TO PENALLT AND THE KYMIN Date: Saturday 29 December Ross Group Level: Moderate Park in either of the two car parks on the Distance: 5 or 10 miles right coming from Monmouth and meet Meeting Place Redbrook Car Park (fee £1 or£1.50) in the middle. After walking along the Map/Grid Ref: OL14/SO 536102 Wye Valley, the path climbs through Time: 10.00 (WRCP 09.00 ) woodland to the viewpoint at Penallt Leader: Barbara Church. The afternoon begins with a Contact: 07845 466101 or 01989 762363 gentle walk before a more energetic climb to the Kymin. BPL.

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 1 January Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or 4 - 5 miles Trisha 01989 769050

MORNING WALK AND TALK FROM THE POINT 4, VENNS LANE, HEREFORD. Date: Thursday 3 January Hereford Group Level/Distance Leisurely/4 miles Walks are first and third weeks monthly. Meeting Place At the Point 4, at 10.30 Walk to Lugg Meadows, Tupsley , Wye or Leader: Ring Mary H. 01432 357766 Holmer. Some short slopes, stiles, mud.

LEADON VALE SOCIAL Date: Saturday 5 January Leadon Vale Group Level: Moderate We climb up the Herefordshire Beacon Distance: 6 miles and return via Colwall. Then enjoy a Meeting Place Wellington Inn, Colwall WR13 6HW celebratory lunch at the pub. BMMR. Map/Grid Ref: Exp190/SO 743400 Time: 10.00 Leader: Tom Contact: 01886 821544

BISHOPSWOOD AND HOWLE HILL Date: Saturday 5 January Ross Group Level: Moderate A hilly and scenic circuit of the beautiful Distance: 9 miles woods and farmland east of the River Meeting Place Public Car Park at Bishopswood Wye towards Ruardean, Hope Mansell Canoe Launch (on B4234 Ross to and Ross. BPL. Lydbrook Road just beyond Kerne Bridge) Map/Grid Ref: OL14/SO 581188 Time: 10.00 (WRCP 09.30) Leader: Bob S Contact: 07985 044735 or 01989 769050

SUNDAY 6 JANUARY 2019 – LAST DAY OF WINTER WALKING FESTIVAL

BUS WALK. CLEHONGER TO HEREFORD Date: Sunday 6 January Hereford Group Level: Leisurely Catch 39A Hay Ho! bus at 10.15 (also Distance: 6 miles stops at Country Bus Station, Broad St., Meeting Place Hereford Railway Station Tesco Belmont) to Clehonger for a Map/Grid Ref: Exp189/SO 515405 leisurely walk back into Hereford via Old Time: 10.10 Clehonger and through a landscape which Leader: Les will be totally changed if the bypass is Contact: 01584 877588 built. Back in Hereford for about 14.00. BPL.

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 8 January Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or 4 – 5 miles Trisha 01989 769050

PUB QUIZ, CHAT AND CURRY – EVENING OUT - Tuesday 8 January Meeting Place Victory Pub, St Owen’s Street Hereford Group – all members and Hereford friends welcome. Come for a drink and Time: 20.00 the pub quiz, followed by Curry - £2.50 Contact: Martin and Anthea per person. Just turn up and help form a 01432 769470 or 07583048409 table.

WEST MALVERN AND MATHON Date: Saturday 12 January Mortimer Group Level: Moderate A walk over North Hill then out through Distance: 7 miles the hills and valleys to the west of the Meeting Place Park on B4232, West Malvern Malvern ridge. Returning via Cockshot Road, opposite St James’ Church Hill and Mathon. Lots of lovely views. Map/Grid Ref: Exp190/SO 764462 Time: 10.00 Leader: Margaret Contact: 01905 426402

LLANFOIST AND THE BLORENGE – BIRD’S EYE VIEW OF ABERGAVENNY Date: Saturday 12 January Ross Group Level: Moderate/Strenuous We start with a long, steep climb up the Distance: 7.5 miles Llanfoist tramway and continue upwards Meeting Place Llanfoist Crossing Car Park on a stony track to Keeper’s Pond. Map/Grid Ref: OL13/SO 285133 Return through the wooded slopes of Time: 10.00 (WRCP 09.00) The Punchbowl then along the Brecon Leader: Heather and Sally and Monmouthshire Canal. Enjoy Contact: 07919 606856 or 07773 686089 panoramic views of Abergavenny, South Wales Valley and further afield, weather permitting! Some road walking. BPL.

“POSH TEA” WALK FROM FOYLES OF GLASBURY Date: Wednesday 16 January Hereford Group Level: Moderate “Posh Tea” in beautiful surroundings. Distance: 7 miles Turn off A438 at Glasbury onto B4350. Meeting Place Park at Foyles in Glasbury Foyles is on the right. Tea includes Map/Grid Ref: OL13/ SO 175392 sandwiches, cakes and scones, with tea or Time: 10.00 or 15.00 for just Tea coffee. Cost £15.95. Join the walk or just Leader: Lynne and Mary come for tea. Book and pay by Sat 12 Jan. Contact: 07792 010227 or 07854 068214 Cheques to “Hereford Group of the RA”. BPL – only a small one!

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 15 January Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or 4 – 5 miles Trisha 01989 769050

MORNING WALK IN LEDBURY Date: Wednesday 16 January Leadon Vale Group Level: Moderate To include Dog Wood, Bradlow Knoll and Distance: 5 miles Frith Wood. Optional coffee/lunch on Meeting Place Market House, Ledbury return. BMMR. Map/Grid Ref: Exp190/SO 712377 Time: 10.00 Leader: Mary Contact: 01684 541071

MORNING WALK AND TALK FROM THE POINT 4, VENNS LANE, HEREFORD. Date: Thursday 17 January Hereford Group Level/Distance Leisurely/4 miles Walks are first and third weeks monthly. Meeting Place At the Point 4, at 10.30. Walk to Lugg Meadows, Tupsley , Wye or Leader: Ring Mary H. 01432 357766 Holmer. Some short slopes, stiles, mud.

HANBURY WITH CANALSIDE WALK Date: Saturday 19 January Leadon Vale Group Level: Moderate Walk along the Droitwich Canal to Distance: 7 miles Hanbury Wharf and on to walk on the Meeting Place Gateway Park on B4090 (fee £2) Worcester and Birmingham Canal before Map/Grid Ref: Exp204/915631 turning inland to Hanbury Church and Time: 10.00 Hanbury Hall and then rejoin the canal. Leader: David H BPL. Contact: 01684 574205

CATBROOK PROWL Date: Saturday 19 January Ross Group Level: Moderate Park in the large lay-by opposite the Distance: 7.5 miles Catbrook Memorial Hall. A pretty walk Meeting Place Catbrook Memorial Hall through Ninewells Wood, Cicelyford, Map/Grid Ref: OL14/SO 509030 Hygga Dingle and Trelleck Grange. Easy Time: 10.00 (WRCP 09.00) tracks and quiet roads. A moderate uphill Leader: Mark section of about 400m towards the end. Contact: 01989 567914 Some stiles. BPL. Registered assistance dogs only

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 22 January Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or 4 – 5 miles Trisha 01989 769050

YARPOLE, CROFT AND BIRCHER Date: Saturday 26 January Mortimer Group Level: Moderate Fishpool Valley, Croft and Bircher Distance: 7 miles Common. Forest tracks and part of the Meeting Place Bell Inn, Green lane, Yarpole Mortimer Trail. Lovely views from the Map/Grid Ref: Exp203/SO 468649 common on a fine day. BPL. Time: 10.00 Leader: Jen Contact: 01568 620138 or 07725 832159

KEMPLEY COURT TO LEDDINGTON Date: Saturday 26 January Ross Group Level: Moderate A walk from Kempley Court through Distance: 10 miles meadows and brooks via Dymock to Meeting Place St Mary’s Church, Kempley Court Leddington. The walk passes the houses (don’t confuse with Kempley rented by the poets Robert Frost and church which is several miles Edward Thomas in 1914, before returning away) to Kempley Court with a chance to visit Map/Grid Ref: OL14/ SO 670312 the Norman church of St Mary’s with its Time: 10.00 (WRCP 09.20) famous medieval wall paintings. BPL. Leader: Ian Contact: 07892 812999

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 29 January Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or 4 – 5 miles Trisha 01989 769050

BUS WALK: NORTON TO PRESTEIGNE VIA OFFA’S DYKE PATH Date: Saturday February 2 Hereford Group Level: Moderate/Strenuous Bus walk from Norton to Presteigne. Distance: 8.5 miles Catch 461 bus at 09.00, then 41 bus from Meeting Place Hereford Rail Station bus stop Kington at 10.10. Walk via Old Impton, (or Country Bus Station, Offa’s Dyke Path and Thorn. Catch bus Maylord Orchards or stops on back from Presteigne at 16.30, then from route to Kington and Norton) Kington at 17.10, arrives Hereford 18.07. Map/Grid Ref: Exp189/SO 515405 Registered Assistance Dogs only. BPL. Time: 08.55 Leader: Mike Ledlie Contact: 01432 270018

OYSTER HILL Date: Saturday 2 February Leadon Vale Group Level: Moderate Enjoy the tranquil countryside and fine Distance: 7.5 miles views from Noverings to Oyster Hill and Meeting Place Bosbury Church back via the Herefordshire Trail. BPL. Map/Grid Ref: Exp202/SO 695434 Time: 10.00 Leader: Tom Contact: 01886 821544

WOOLHOPE CIRCULAR Date: Saturday 2 February Ross Group Level: Moderate A walk from Woolhope village centre over Distance: 8 miles Marcle Ridge visiting Sollers Hope and Meeting Place Woolhope Village Hall then through Lea and Paget’s Wood and Map/Grid Ref: EXP189/SO 611358 back to Woolhope. Some woodland and Time: 10.00 (WRCP 09.20) otherwise glorious Herefordshire Leader: Ian countryside with excellent views. BPL. Contact: 07892 812999

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 5 February Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or 4 – 5 miles Trisha 01989 769050

TEASHOP WALK FROM HEREFORD Date: Wednesday 6 February Hereford Group Level: Moderate Meet outside the Cathedral at the end of Distance: 8 miles Broad Street. Wintery walk from Meeting Place Hereford Cathedral main door Hereford towards Clehonger, route Map/Grid Ref: Exp202/SO 509398 depending on weather. Easy but some Time: 10.00 mud. On return everyone is expected to Leader: Lynne and Mary buy cake and tea at the Koffie Pot in Contact: 07792 010227 or 07854 068214 Gwynne Street. BPL.

MORNING WALK AND TALK FROM THE POINT 4, VENNS LANE, HEREFORD Date: Thursday 7 February Hereford Group Level/Distance Leisurely/4 miles Walks are first and third weeks monthly. Meeting Place At the Point 4, at 10.30. Walk to Lugg Meadows, Tupsley , Wye or Leader: Ring Mary H. 01432 357766 Holmer. Some short slopes, stiles, mud.

TITLEY CIRCULAR Date: Saturday 9 February Mortimer Group Level: Moderate Walk to Rushock, The Bower and Green Distance: 8 miles Lane Farm. BPL. Meeting Place Lay-by in the centre of Titley Map/Grid Ref: Exp201/SO 331601 Time: 10.00 Leader: Jo Contact: 07498 489028

CHURCHAM TO THE SEVERN Date: Saturday 9 February Ross Group Level: Moderate Mostly flat walk in a pretty area to Distance: 7.5 miles Minsterworth along the river and back Meeting Place Churcham church car park up to the church. BPL Map/Grid Ref: OL14/SO 769182 Time: 10.00 (WRCP 09.15) Leader: Mary Contact: 01989 565888

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 12 February Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or 4 – 5 miles Trisha 01989 769050

PUB QUIZ, CHAT AND CURRY – EVENING OUT - Tuesday 12 February Meeting Place Victory Pub, Hereford Group – all members and St Owen’s Street, Hereford friends welcome Time: 20.00 Come for a drink and the pub quiz, Contact: Martin and Anthea followed by Curry - £2.50 per person. 01432 769470 or 07583 048409 Just turn up and help form a table.

WELLAND FIT WE HOPE Date: Saturday 16 February Leadon Vale Group Level: Moderate Walk down narrow lanes, open fields, and Distance: 5 miles a section of Castlemorton Common. Meeting Place Patch of ground north of Welland Robin Hood awaits you! BMMR. Court off A4104 to Upton Map/Grid Ref: Exp190/SO 812395 Time: 10.00 Leader: David H Contact: 01684 574205

TRELLACH TO CWMCARFAN Date: Saturday 16 February Ross Group Level: Moderate Coming from Monmouth on B4293, pass Distance: 7.5 miles through Trellech and past the Lion Inn. Meeting Place CP by Trellech Methodist Church Small car park is on left just before road Map/Grid Ref: OL14/SO 501053 bends sharp right. Walking along easy Time: 10.00 (WRCP 09.00 ) tracks, paths and quiet lanes we head Leader: Mark for Croes Robert Wood and then up to Contact: 01989 567914 the church at Cwmcarfan. Circling back through woodlands of Perth Hir, Loysey and Westmeadow. Three moderate uphill sections, several stiles. BPL. Registered assistance dogs only.

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 19 February Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 4 – 5 miles or Trisha 01989 769050

FARMERS ARMS, WELLINGTON HEATH Date: Wednesday 20 February Leadon Vale Group Level: Moderate Walk to Coddington and back, fields, Distance: 5 miles hills, lanes, stiles and mud. Optional Meeting Place Farmers Arms, Wellington Heath coffee/lunch afterwards. BMMR. Map/Grid Ref: Exp190/SO 712403 Time: 10.00 Leader: Isobel Contact: 01531 635139

MORNING WALK AND TALK FROM THE POINT 4, VENNS LANE, HEREFORD Date: Thursday 21 February Hereford Group Level/Distance Leisurely/4 miles Walks are first and third weeks Meeting Place At the Point 4, at 10.30. monthly. Walk to Lugg Meadows, Leader: Ring Mary H. 01432 357766 Tupsley , Wye or Holmer. Some short slopes, stiles, mud.

BUS FROM GOODRICH TO MONMOUTH AND WALK BACK Date: Saturday 23 February Ross Group Level: Moderate Park on the road called Newmills Hill (off Distance: 10 miles B4229), then make a five minute walk up Meeting Place Cross Keys Inn, Goodrich HR9 the hill and along the footpath to Cross 6JB. (Stop for 34 bus) Keys Inn. Bus from Goodrich to Map/Grid Ref: OL14/SO 562186 for parking Monmouth walking back via the Kymin SO 567190 for bus stop and Symonds Yat Rock. The walk Time: 09.00 (WRCP 08.40) includes varied woodland, the Wye NOTE EARLY START Valley and some energetic climbing to Leader: Barbara the Kymin, near Harkening Rock and Contact: 07845 466101 or 01989 762363 Symonds Yat Rock. BPL.

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 26 February Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or Trisha 01989 769050

VIEWS FROM MARCLE RIDGE Date: Saturday 2 March Hereford Group Level: Moderate Herefordshire Trail, Kynaston, Much Distance: 7.5 miles Marcle, Three Choirs Way. Great Views. Meeting Place Marcle Ridge CP (parking limited) Steady climb on return route. BPL. Map/Grid Ref: Exp189/SO 630346 Time: 10.00 Leader: Mike Goodwin Contact: 01568 616473 or 07414 219102

BLACK MOUNTAINS Date: Saturday 2 March Leadon Vale Group Level: Strenuous We ferry everyone to the foot of Twmpa, Distance: 11 miles which we climb, then Rhos Dirion, Meeting Place Stone Circle CP on Hay Blacksmiths Anvil, Capel y Ffin, Darren mountain road Lwyd and Twmpa. Warm clothing Map/Grid Ref: OL13/SO 240373 essential. Be ready for poor weather. Time: 10.00 BPL. Leader: Tom Contact: 01886 821544

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 5 March Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or 4 – 5 miles Trisha 01989 769050

TEASHOP WALK FROM ABERGAVENNY Date: Wednesday 6 March Hereford Group Level: Moderate Meet at Bus Station car park in Cross Distance: 7.5 miles Street (fee). Walk along meadows by the Meeting Place Bus Station car park (fee) Usk, through the Golf Course, cross the Map/Grid Ref: OL13/SO 301139 Canal and go round the woods. Return Time: 10.00 along Canal and through Llanfoist. On Leaders: Lynne and Mary H return, everyone is expected to buy cake Contacts: 01432 271769 or 357766 and tea at Cwtch Café in Cross St. BPL.

MORNING WALK AND TALK FROM THE POINT 4, VENNS LANE, HEREFORD Date: Thursday 7 March Hereford Group Level/Distance Leisurely/4 miles Walks are first and third weeks monthly. Meeting Place At the Point 4, at 10.30. Walk to Lugg Meadows, Tupsley , Wye or Leader: Ring Mary H. 01432 357766 Holmer. Some short slopes, stiles, mud.

MAMBLE AMBLE Date: Saturday 9 March Mortimer Group Level: Moderate Field and tracks north of Mamble. No Distance: 8 miles major hills but plenty of footbridges Meeting Place Lay-by on A456 traversing streams and the River Rea. Map/Grid Ref: Exp218/SO 686713 BPL. Time: 10.00 Leader: Jen Contact: 01568 620138 or 07725 832159

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 12 March Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or 4 – 5 miles Trisha 01989 769050

PUB QUIZ, CHAT AND CURRY – EVENING OUT - Tuesday 12 March Meeting Place Victory Pub, St Owen’s Street Hereford Group – all members and Hereford friends welcome Time: 20.00 Come for a drink and the pub quiz, Contact: Martin and Anthea followed by Curry - £2.50 per person. 01432 769470 or 07583048409 Just turn up and help form a table.

EWYAS HAROLD, AN OLD TROUT AND DEER Date: Saturday 16 March Ross Group Level: Moderate A walk across fields to Balls Cross with Distance: 7.5 miles views to Garway Hill and the Skirrid. A Meeting Place Ewyas Harold recreation ground descent to the Dulas Brook followed by a Map/Grid Ref: OL13/SO 387288 steep climb before returning via the Time: 10.00 (WRCP 09.10) common. Some stiles including an Leader: Jan awkward one. BPL. Registered Assistance Contact: 01981 580869 or 07497 778763 Dogs only.

BUS WALK - KERRY'S GATE TURN TO POSTON Date: Sunday 17 March Hereford Group Level: Moderate Catch 39A Hay Ho! bus at 10.15 (also Distance: 8 miles stops at Country Bus Station, Broad St., Meeting Place Hereford Railway Station Tesco Belmont). Members from Map/Grid Ref: Exp189/SO515405 elsewhere can park in Kingstone or Time: 10.10 Madley and catch the bus from there. Leader: Phil Walk via Grey Valley, Dore Valley, St Contact: 07849 474903 Margarets, Gilfach, and Great Wood to Poston. Time for tea/drinks at ‘The Mill’ before catching the bus back to Hereford (arriving 18.23). BPL.

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 19 March Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or 4 – 5 miles Trisha 01989 769050

VIEWS OF THE SOUTHERN MALVERNS Date: Wednesday 20 March Leadon Vale Group Level: Moderate Fields, quiet lanes, open common, some Distance: 5 miles stiles. Optional lunch at the Duke of York Meeting Place Duke of York A438, WR13 6JQ on return. BMMR. Map/Grid Ref: Exp190/SO 782355 Time: 10.00 Leader: Lynn Contact: 01531 631088 or 07748 844466

MORNING WALK AND TALK FROM THE POINT 4, VENNS LANE, HEREFORD. Date: Thursday 21March Hereford Group Level/Distance Leisurely/4 miles Walks are first and third weeks monthly. Meeting Place At the Point 4, at 10.30. Walk to Lugg Meadows, Tupsley , Wye or Leader: Ring Mary H. 01432 357766 Holmer. Some short slopes, stiles, mud.

IRON AGE ACONBURY AND ST ANNE’S WELL Date: Saturday 23 March Ross Group Level: Moderate Park in village hall car park or on road by Distance: 10 miles village green. We start through Bolstone Meeting Place Little Dewchurch Village Hall Woods and head north then west skirting HR2 6PN Nether Wood before a steepish climb up Map/Grid Ref: EXP189/SO 533318 to Aconbury Hill fort for lunch. Return Time: 10.00 (WRCP 09.15) through Athelstan’s Wood. Walking is Leader: Mark along good field and wood tracks and Contact: 01989 567014 quiet roads with a beautiful section along an old green lane. Several stiles. BPL. Registered assistance dogs only.

SOUTH OF KNIGHTON ON THE ODP Date: Saturday 23 March Mortimer Group Level: Moderate Along a fine stretch of the Offa’s Dyke Distance: 7.5 miles Path, south to Hawthorn Hill, offering Meeting Place Knighton Cattle Market CP (fee) wide-ranging views. Returning to Map/Grid Ref: Exp201/SO 288723 Knighton on footpaths and lanes parallel Time: 10.00 to the ODP with a woodland path to finish. Leader: Eileen BPL. Contact: 01432 830569

OVER THE MALVERN HILLS AND FAR AWAY REVISITED Date: Sunday 24 March Leadon Vale Group Level: Strenuous There are 4 steep climbs, End Hill, North Distance: 14 miles Hill, Croft Bank and Cockshott Hill. Also Meeting Place Clock Tower, West Malvern visit the Mathon Estate and Elim College Road, B4232 Estate. BPL. Map/Grid Ref: Exp190/SO 770470 Time: 10.00 Leader: David H Contact: 01684 574205

ROSS GROUP MORNING WALK Date: Tuesday 26 March Ross Group Level: Leisurely or Moderate For details contact Sally 07773 686089 or 4 – 5 miles Trisha 01989 769050

BREDWARDINE TO DORSTONE AND BACK Date: Saturday 30 March Hereford Group Level: Moderate We walk up and across fields to Merbach Distance: 7.5 miles Common and Hill with views over River Meeting Place Bredwardine Church Wye, down to Dorstone and its church, Map/Grid Ref: Exp201/SO 333445 back up steeply to Arthur’s Stone and Time: 10.00 then descending to Bredwardine. BPL. Leader: Anthea and Martin Contact: 01432 769470/07578 711559

FIGURE OF 8 WALK IN THE MONNOW VALLEY Date: Saturday 30 March Ross Group Level: Moderate Moderate undulating figure of eight walk Distance: 5 or 10 miles from Skenfrith Castle. Explore varied Meeting Place Park in lay-by on B4521 just parts of the Monnow valley, including before the bridge. Near The some excellent viewpoints. BPL. Bell NP7 8UH Map/Grid Ref: OL13/SO 459203 Time: 10.00 (WRCP 09.15) Leader: Barbara Contact: 07845 466101 or 01989 762363

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