Paths & Ponds
Simon & Noelin’s (and Carl’s) Saturday Ramble 3rd January
On a cold, but clear, day 20 ramblers gathered at the Abbey Stadium and Leisure Centre. A fantastic turnout for the first ramble of the New Year.
After introducing our guest leaders, Simon and Noelin, to the group along with guest John, we then headed out past the remains of Bordesley Abbey and its ancient fish ponds before reaching Arrow Valley Lake. Here many of the group took advantage of the visitor centre cafe for a hot drink. Our route then circled back towards Beoley Mill and Needle Forge Mill.
All through the walk Simon gave an insight into how the River Arrow has shaped the landscape and the industry in the area. The monks at Bordesley Abbey had altered the course of the river to create fish ponds, mill ponds and storage ponds which were a form of medieval ‘battery’ that provided power when water levels were low.
It is also amazing how walker friendly the area is. Well surfaced paths and a large number of under and over passes, it is rare that you actually need to cross a road.
Many thanks to Simon and Noelin for showcasing their area to us.
Carl, Simon & Noelin
6.5 miles.
Severn Stoke, Worcestershire
Hazel and Paul’s Midweek Ramble – 10 January
The River Severn was in flood, so it was decided to partly change the route. We left the car park at the Rose and Crown Inn, at Severn Stoke on a chilly January morning.
After a short walk on the A38, we passed Severn Bank – a former lodge for fishing parties, on the Earl of Coventry’s Croome estate. We then crossed over the main road towards the Panorama Tower, built by the 6th Earl.
Having met up with Rachel and Geoff in perfect time, we continued the rest of the route walking up through Knight’s Hill and Birch Green. We were then joined by Wendy, Pauline, Mike and Val for a great lunch at the Rose and Crown.
Hazel & Paul
6.5 miles
Muddy Boots & Merry Hearts (Not to mention the wind & rain!)
Geoff and Rachel’s Short Ramble – 21 January
26 intrepid ERC members met in the wind and rain at the Butchers Arms, Mickleton. The first field we crossed tested stamina and humour as boots became heavier and heavier and conditions became slippier and slippier..
After crossing the GWR line between Honeybourne and Mickleton, underfoot became a little easier. On the way, glimpses of Burnt Norton could be seen in the mist. The Manor was originally called Norton House, a mansion which was burnt down by its owner in 1741. It was rebuilt and named Burnt Norton. T.S Elliot was a frequent visitor here, where the house and gardens inspired him to write a poem called Burnt Norton.
Underfoot became soggy, but less muddy as we climbed Dairy Hill to a coffee stop under some shelter from a few trees.
Half way along Furze Lane, we stopped to be told we were directly above the tunnel on the GWR London to Worcester line. Here, Carl told us the story of The Battle Of Mickleton. This has been called ‘the site of the last pitched battle between two private armies on UK soil’ It took place near to this spot in 1851 when Isambard Brunel arrived at the tunnel construction with a gang of navvies, to complete the project quickly. This was opposed by the workers already there and an altercation began. This led to The Riot Act being read to the men. However this didn’t work and fighting continued until 40 police, supported by the Gloucestershire Artillery arrived and eventually the rioting was quelled.
Slipping and squelching our way through Bakers Wood and down to Mickleton, we arrived at The Butchers Arms, where a well deserved lunch was enjoyed.
Geoff & Rachel
6 miles
Cotswold Views
Hazel and Paul’s Sunday Ramble 25 January
Leaving the Black Horse at Birdlip we were soon in open fields with fine views, on our way to the Ebworth Centre which is not only the base for the Cotswold ranger team but has a toilet!!
We then made our way through a muddy but beautiful valley towards Caudle Green. After light refreshments by the tiny River Frome, we continued towards the magnificent Brimpsfield Park and grounds and lakes.
We then climbed slowly back up to Brimpsfield, and eventually back to the Royal George, at Birdlip, where a leisurely meal was enjoyed.
Hazel & Paul
12 miles