Martley Meanderings
Carl’s Saturday Short – 1 February
On an overcast but dry day, eight ramblers assembled outside St Peters Church, Martley. After admiring an old tree stump that had various animals carved into it we set off following mainly field paths and roads. The ground was muddy underfoot in places but in general not too bad.
Arriving at Prickley Green Farm we passed through a large apple orchid where some varieties appeared to be more popular than others. This was evidenced by some rows have large numbers of apples strewn on the ground while others were clear.
A little further on I got a shout to hold up for a minute. Suzi had lost the sole from one of her boots. She decided to continue with just a thin piece of leather to protect the sole of her foot. Not a word of complaint throughout.
We then had a short water stop before starting the climb up Rodge Hill. Here we started talking to a householder who was a member of the Path-Or-Nones, a group who maintain the footpaths in the area. This particular gentleman was also partly responsible for devising the route we were following, The Martley Circular (look it up).
Another water stop was taken at the top of Rodge Hill which gave some lovely views across the Teme Valley. We Followed the Worcestershire Way along the ridge before it led us down to short stretch of river path along the Teme. It was then mainly country lanes back to our cars.
Afterwards a few of us stopped at the Cob House Country Park for a hot drink and cakes.
Carl
6.5 miles 10.5 km
Wichenford Snowdrop Circular
Hazel and Paul’s Midweek Ramble – 12 February
15 ramblers set out from the Cobb House Fisheries car park at Wichenford near Martley. The day was cold but fine and clear. Our initial route went past the numerous fishing pools which eventually led to a section of the Geopark Way with good views across to the Malvern Hills and Ankerdine. A few poorly maintained stiles hindered our progress a little. After a steep descent through Devil’s Leap we made our way to the coffee stop at the aptly name Hazel’s Cottage. After passing by Candleford Nurseries and their very lively Springer Spaniel dog we arrived back at the Mayfly Café for a very good value lunch.
After lunch we said goodbye to Trevor and Jayne before making our way to Wichenford Dovecote and finally returning to the car park just in time to avoid being locked in.
Overall a very enjoyable walk in excellent company.
Hazel & Paul
a.m. 6 miles p.m. 4.2 miles
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Mike and Val’s Short Ramble – 19 February
7 walkers, not deterred by the weather forecasts of gale force winds and torrential rain, set off in dry weather from the Beckford Arms. The route took us through the small villages of Great and Little Washbourne, and then back through Alderton, by which time, our boots and legs were covered with mud!! From there, we followed the Winchcombe Way all the way to Dumbleton.
Having walked around the base of Dumbleton Hill, the wind was getting stronger, but still no rain, so we kept going, crossing the A46 and made our way to The Star at Ashton under Hill, where roasts and skewers were enjoyed.
After lunch it did start to rain, but not much, so we made it back to the cars along the lanes, through Paris and Beckford, before it soaked through our waterproofs. Well done all.
Hazel & Paul
a.m. 8 miles, p.m. 3 miles