Monthly Photo Competition Winners

We started a monthly photo competition in 2025 to celebrate the joy of rambling. Each month we publish the winners in the H&G monthly E News and on this website. There will be a prize for the best overall photo at the end of the year.

Photos should be taken on an H&G walk. By submitting your photos you are consenting to H&G using the photo for publicity purposes. Let us know if you do not consent.

Photos should include entrant’s name and address and be sent to and address and be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

We walked in the footsteps of Gilbert White on our visit to Selbourne in Hampshire at the end of May 2024

We had a lovely day out exploring the museum and famous gardens of Gilbert White's house and the pretty village of Selborne in Hampshire. We travelled by coach from Henley, arriving in time for coffee. Two walks were on offer, a longer one in the morning exlored Selborne Common and Noar Hill nature reserve with the museum and house visit in the afternoon. Most people however opted for the house, museum and garden visit in the morning and a shorter walk in the nearbty river valley after lunch.

The house and  museum give a fascinating insight into the life and work of this pioneer naturalist as well as lovely walks in the 30 acres garden tht inspired Gilbert White's life and work. The museum also has a very interesting collection of Antarctic exploration exhibits, many of them associated with the heroic Captain Oates who famously sacrificed himself by walking out into the storm in a vain attempt to save the lives of his fellow explorers on Scott's tragic South Pole expedition. 

 

May Day Bluebell Walks and Tea.

 

Undaunted by rain and drizzle, there was the usual good turnout for the three walks from Checkendon village hall on offer on May Day this year. The walks were led by Tony Brown, Susan Maguire and Inge Mikkelsen. Walkers converged on the village hall for a splendid tea at 3.30. We really are spoiled by our wonderful Events Team and the members who make the excellent cakes and savouries for our social events. Thanks to all of you!

 

AGM 2023

It was full house again for our 2023 AGM and social evening with over 70 members gathering in the Christ Church Centre in Henley for a welcoming glass of wine, the AGM, a photo presentation on the year’s events and a sit-down supper. The evening is a great opportunity to hear about what we have done and what we plan for the coming year but also to meet friends old and new and to enjoy a first class home-made supper organised by our Events Team with contributions from many members.

The Chairman’s report had been distributed prior to the meeting so Alie just picked out some highlights and thanked all who had contributed to the success of the Group’s programme this year. Presenting the Treasurer’s report, also sent out prior to the meeting, Peter explained some of the numbers more fully. The group is in a healthy financial position and it was agree to use some of our surplus funds to make a contribution towards another gate to replace a stile. Ray Maguire has agreed to continue to act as our independent examiner. Both reports were accepted unanimously

The 2022/23 committee had all agreed to continue, though Peter Stone (Treasurer) and John case (Footpaths Officer) are looking for people to work with them in the coming year with a view to taking over the posts. The committee are very happy to have two new people offering to join them: Jill Coles as a member and Catherine Ewart as Publicity Officer, a post we have been trying to fill for several years. Welcome Jill and Catherine! Another unanimous vote confirmed the expanded 2023/24 committee member ship and that concluded the official part of the AGM.

Next, Wim presented a statistical report on our walks programme with comparisons from previous years. We have increased the number of our walk leaders and have a very good spread of walks in terms of distance and more walks each month than in other years. Joan provided a photo presentation of what we had done in 2022/23 and a brief look ahead at trips planned for 2024. It is always a pleasure to see how much we have done and how varied have been our walks, trips and social events in the year. We really are a very active group!

Then came supper! We moved to the large hall where tables were set out for a two course supper followed by coffee or tea. Sandra Evans had made delightful floral table decorations cleverly personalised for our group! As in previous years the quality and variety of the food was magnificent and the overall organisation of the supper was superb. Thanks to June and the Events team and to all members who contributed interesting salads and wonderful deserts!

 

Christmas Carol Service Walk and lunch 2023

 

About 50 members attended our Carol Service Day, which has been running now for 24 years!

Although the day was wet and some members chose not to walk, those who did enjoyed one of the three walks on offer led by David, Inge and Susan, that took us to the Chapel in Stoke Row. 

The Chapel has been used several times in recent years as I believe it serves us very well.  The minister, Mark Taylor, is extremely welcoming and certainly seems pleased to see us.  He took the trouble of adding our Ramblers logo to all the pages for the words of the carols which he has on an enormous screen.  Thanks must be given to the organist and to those who agreed to do the readings, Sandra, Judy, Heather, Cyndy and Colin Noades.

From the Chapel most of us walked over to the Rising Sun Pub where we enjoyed a non-traditional Christmas meal in very convivial company.

Christmas Carol Walk and Lunch 2022

Two new venues for our annual Carol Service walk and lunch: Nuffield Church for the service and the Makerspace cafe at Nuffield for the lunch. There was a choice of two walks, (rather wet walks unfortunately) before we all came together in the churh for the service. We then walked across the golf course to the Makerpace cafe where we enjoyed an excellent lunch surrounded by craft made in the workshops there. 

 

Christmas Carol Walk and Lunch 2021

The weather was kind for our walk and outdoor carol service at Stoke Row Chapel on 21 December. We walked in three groups on longer or shorter, moderate paced or leisurely walks from the Rising Sun at Witheridge Hill to the chapel. There we were greeted by Reverend Mark Taylor and organist Wendy Hawkins who were all set up ready for us under a gazebo in the grounds of the chapel. The service of carols and readings followed its traditional course although it was getting a bit cold towards the end!

Following the service the groups made their way through the woods back to the Rising Sun – a new venue for H&G’s Christmas lunch. We had a warm welcome, excellent food and friendly service. Although not everyone who had booked a place felt able to come owing to rising Omicron infections, the 36 who attended were happy that we had not had to cancel yet another event this year as we all enjoyed our day out at the start of the festive season.ervice the groups made their way through the woods back to the Rising Sun – a new venue for H&G’s Christmas lunch. We had a warm welcome, excellent food and friendly service. Although not everyone who had booked a place felt able to come owing to rising Omicron infections, the 36 who attended were happy that we had not had to cancel yet another event this year as we all enjoyed our day out at the start of the festive season.

Other Christmas Walks

We didn't stop with the Christmas Carol Walk! The festive season walks continued with a walk on Christmas Day followed by mulled wine and minced pies round a fire pit in Mair's garden. Heather and Tony  provided the hospitality and festive fare in their garden after a walk on 29 December and June led her traditional walk followed by copious refreshements on 30 December. There was also a long walk on 30 December and a last walk of the year on New Year's Eve. A busy walking, eating and drinking week!

 

Trip to Coniston in the Lake District

H&G's third away trip of 2021

Wet, Wet, Gloriously Sunny, Wet again

That sums up the weather on Henley & Goring’s recent trip to the Lake District! Undeterred, but pretty wet on 4 of the walking days, our party of 29 enjoyed a choice of 3 walks a day during our stay at the HF house at Monks Coniston. We had planned a mix of low level fairly easy walks and leg stretching long ones at higher altitudes. The weather had other plans and low clouds, rain and poor visibility meant a change of route for the higher altitude walks on all but one of the days.

On the day of glorious sunshine and intense blue skies we all walked on the Old Man of Coniston with two of the groups, who had followed different routes up the mountain, meeting at the summit for a lunch time picnic. The third group took a meandering path to Brown Crag summit where they too enjoyed a picnic and light-hearted laughter at silly jokes! Reaching the summit of Coniston Old Man was the highlight of the trip for those who did it. The views were wonderful, bright skies, blue tarns, Morecombe Bay and the Isle of Man in the distance. There were friendly chats along the way with the many other people (and their dogs) climbing the mountain that day which provided additional interest. I think everyone was so happy to be out on a mountain in the sunshine after all the rain that we were all in the best of spirits.

Even on the rainy days were able to do some good walks and enjoy the lower level scenery. Walks included one round Tarn Hows and another from Ambleside to Troutbeck on a day when the sun came out briefly allowing us the luxury of eating our picnic in dry weather with great views over Windermere. The walks in the Grasmere area on the wettest of the days stuck to lower level routes and the planned walk round the Fairfield Horseshoe was postponed. The waterfalls in Easedale were spectacular but the cafés in Grasmere at the end of the walks were very welcome!

On our last walking day one group again attempted the Fairfield Horseshoe but wind, fog and drenching rain led to the sensible decision to turn back at about 2000 feet. They did see a red squirrel on the way back to Ambleside. The short walk group went to Wray castle for a walk in the grounds. The third group did a circular route in Great and Little Langdale with what should have been the best views of the Langdale Pikes. We did see them through breaks in the clouds looking very atmospheric and foreboding.

 

Monks Coniston is an interesting and welcoming place to stay. Once owned by Beatrice Potter it is now owned by the National Trust and hired out to HF holidays. The estate has an interesting history, extensive grounds with lots of interest and a lovely view over lawns to Coniston Lake. The facilities are good, the staff friendly and helpful and the meals are excellent. A large barn houses a skittle alley and we enjoyed a hilarious light-hearted skittles match after dinner one night when the levels of ineptitude among the skittlers made us all laugh out loud. One skittler managed to miss all nine skittles and the next one knocked the back board over!

Overall this was an enjoyable holiday, well organised, high standard of accommodation and the good company in the evenings and the wonderful sunny day on Coniston Old Man more than compensated for the poor weather on the other days. Many thanks to Henley & Goring organisers and walk leaders.

Joan Clark with contributions from Glen Teasdale, Rosemary Burton, Anne Francis and Nick Sunderland.

derland.

 

Trip to Cricket St Thomas

H&G's second away trip of 2021

Based at Cricket St Thomas near Chard, on the Somerset/Dorset boarders, Jeanne and Peter Stone planned and led our group of 15 on a variety of delightful walks into the heart of the surrounding countryside. Walking various ancient drovers’ paths, we traversed hills and dales to be rewarded at every turn with far reaching panoramic views of the magnificent open countryside and wide variety of field crops. This is Thomas Hardy country and the rural landscape and beautiful villages were evocative of scenes from his famous novels.

Being familiar with well maintained gates and footpaths in the Chilterns, watching the techniques employed to navigate obstacles presented by age-old styles in this area proved amusing. Though a bigger challenge arose on the Jubilee trail at Beaminster when the path suddenly disappeared, along with half of the group, in the middle of a maize field 7 foot high! There were cheers of delight when both parties finally emerged at the field edge and the group reunited.

There was a further reunion when former H&G member Bob Ponchaud, now resident in Dorset, together with Sue Haines joined the group to lead the day’s walk. Guiding us along the undulating SW coastal path starting at Golden Cap, the highest point on the South Coast, we lingered to take in the sea views along the Jurassic coastline, before walking to West Bay where we were more than ready for lunch at a café near the quay.

Postponed from May 2020 this short holiday was, for some of us, our first break since 2019.

Many thanks to Jeanne and Peter who organised the trip and planned such delightful walks.

Great week in Scotland for Henley & Goring’s first trip post lockdown!

Scottish hotels opened a week before England and the group took advantage of this to go ahead with their May 2021 trip to Kinlochew, a trip that had been booked long before lockdowns. It was a long way to travel – over 600 miles from Henley – but everyone agreed that it was well worth it for the spectacular scenery, the wonderful walking and the great company. Despite a cold wet spring this year, even the weather was decent. As one group member commented, I didn’t need my thermals or wet weather gear.

Kinlochewe is situated at the head of Loch Maree, regarded by many as the most beautiful loch in Scotland, in the Torridon mountains in the north west of the country. The area is well known for its dramatic mountain scenery with wild spectacular peaks and challenging ridges. On one of these mountains, Beinn Eighe, which rises close to the village, is The National Nature Reserve of Wester Ross, which was designated a UNECO Biosphere Reserve in 2016.

Most of the group of 25 stayed in the Kinlochewe Hotel with others opting for the self-catering chalets or the nearby campsite. There was a choice of three walks most days ranging from a walk round the nearby Ben Eighe National Nature Reserve to long hard walks on high ridges with over 3000 feet of ascent and fabulous views.

The first day’s walking offered a walk in the Nature Reserve with the chance to visit the well- presented Visitors’ Centre and watch the greenfinches and chaffinches scrabbling on the bird feeders. The alternative was an ascent of Meall Ghibhais with good views of Beinn Eighe. Monday’s hard walk up Sgurr na Feartaig involved 3400 of ascent and some narrow ridge walking but the views were fantastic, especially the view over the Isle of Skye. Less energetic members of the group had the option of a gentle walk to Loch an Fasaich and a visit to Attendale gardens. Tuesday offered a choice of walks round Lochs Clair and Coulin, or for those who had not had enough climbing, an ascent of Slioch.

Thursday’s walks in the Glen Torridon area were a highlight for several in the group. The walk up to Triple Buttress on a rocky path with no sound but wind and water led to the magnificent Coire Mhic Fhearchair, regarded as one of the finest corries in Scotland. The sight of the sun coming through the clouds revealing the classic view of the towering Triple Buttress reflected in the waters of the lochan will stay in the memory for a long time. The last day of walking offered a choice of the walks in the Heights of Kinlockewe area or a short high level walk climbing Fionn Bheinn.

The group were asked to comment on what they had enjoyed about the trip and what would stick in their memories. Topping the list were the stunning wilderness scenery, the wonderful sometimes challenging walks and the excellent company of the other walkers. Special moments were recalled – skinny dipping in highland lochs (we have photos to prove it but the dipper was wearing a swimsuit this time), wading through a river – a great adventure (how is that for positive thinking!), hearing cuckoos every day, the bright yellow gorse, good food in the hotel, a special place for breakfast - a riverside seat behind the chalets, games and chatting at chalet evenings.

After the disappointment of having to cancel our trip to the Dolomites for the second year running, this trip to a very different but equalling enthralling mountain area, was much appreciated, especially by members for whom it was the first time away since lockdown.

Here are just a few of the words they used to describe the trip: wonderful, excellent, fabulous amazing, beautiful, fantastic, stunning. I think they enjoyed the trip!

 

AGM 2021 by Zoom

Our AGM and supper is usually a very enjoyable event attended by around 70 members. We meet for pre AGM drinks, move on to the business of the meeting, enjoy a photo powerpoint presentation of highlights of the year and preview of trips we are planning for the coming year, then, the highlight of the evening a super supper organised by our wonderful Events team.This year sadly, no supper!

We were. however, able to cover most of the business by a Zoom meeting set up by our Chairman Alie.  Two members of the committee, member Sally Axler and Liz  Carr, stood down. Alie thanked them for all that they had done for our group. We are sorry to lose them as committee members but hope to still see them on walks. We are happy to welcome a new committee member, Inge Mikkelsen. Inge leads many of our walks and is involved with organising trips.

AGM attenders this year had to provide their own pre-meeting drinks and supper but the business of the meeting and the presentation of the highlights of the year could be and was done on-line. Not the same enjoyable social event but it was good to see many familiar faces who had 'zoomed in' for the occasion. 

 

Swanage 2020.

 

On Sunday 25^th October a group of 19 Henley and Goring Ramblers set off to Swanage for two days of easy walking. Our first destination was Tyneham, a village that was appropriated by the MOD in 1943 to prepare for D Day. Throughout most of the journey down to Tyneham the rain teemed down and there was even a short hail storm, but fortune was on our side and the sun was shining to welcome us when we arrived.

What remains of the village is frozen in time and you can only visit on Sundays as the area is still being used by the military. The villagers were moved out very quickly and genuinely believed that they would be able to return after the war, but sadly, they never did. It is poignant to look at all the photos of the villagers on the very interesting display boards. Most of the village has been destroyed apart from the school room and the church which are still intact but because of covid, both were closed and we could only look through the windows of the school room to see the books the children were using the day they were moved out.  It was all rather sad.

From here we set off for a beautiful walk along part of the Purbeck ridge to Flowers Barrow and Rings Hill, an Iron Age fort. The weather was good, the sun was out and the views of the glorious Jurassic coast were breathtaking. In the late afternoon we set off for our hotel, the Grand Hotel at Swanage, which is at the far end of the sea front. The staff at the hotel had gone out of their way to provide us with all the information we needed in these difficult times and had really made every effort to ensure that our stay was both comfortable and safe. In the dining room, we sat at well distanced tables for two, in the lounge we could sit in well spaced groups of six and it was such a joy to be able to socialise with friends, albeit at a distance. The food was good, the staff were all helpful and obliging and most of the rooms had wonderful views of the Swanage sea front.

On Monday, the original plan was to walk part of the Purbeck way from Swanage to Corfe Castle and to take the train or the bus back. Sadly this proved impossible in the current sad circumstances and instead, we did a circular walk from from Ulwell across the top of the ridge, passing the long barrow and reaching the highest point at Branscombe Hill, and then retraced our steps, relishing the wonderful coastal views as we walked.   It was a bit windy but the sun was kind and other than a very brief shower, it was fine weather all the way. We were back at the hotel by three thirty which gave us time to have an enjoyable potter around Swanage if we so wanted. After another excellent dinner, we relaxed in the hotel lounge for an hour or so before bed.

On Tuesday morning, after we left the hotel we set off for the National Trust car park at Studland for a walk to Old Harry’s Rock and south to Ballard point and back down to north side of the ridge to have lunch at the The Banks arms. In the event this proved impossible – the pub could not accommodate us for lunch and the weather was vile. We managed to get a bit beyond Old Harry’s Rock but the rain was unrelenting and we were being blown off our feet so we took a path through the woodland to get back to the car park, where we said our brief goodbyes.

Planning trips away is always time consuming and challenging particularly at the moment,  and we are all very grateful to Bruce Brown, who organised the visit, to Brian Maunder And David Morris for planning the walks and to David for leading them. Two days spent walking with friends in a stunning environment and staying is a lovely hotel lifted all our spirits. Thank you to all who ensured that the weekend was such a success. As one member of the group said, it was a real tonic.

Marion Mawdsley

 

 

Great Self Catering Holiday in Pembrokeshire in September 2020

A group of 24 H&G Ramblers enjoyed a great week’s walking on the glorious Pembrokeshire coast in September 2020. We stayed in spacious and well-appointed Ynys Barry cottages, a short walk from Porthgain on the north coast. We ate out at local pubs and restaurants some evenings, and in our cottages at other times.

There was a choice of two walks each day. The Long Walkers (usually 6 or 7 walkers), led by Susan Maguire, did linear walks of 11-12 miles. Aided by judicious placing of cars and Ray's ferrying of drivers, the walks covered most of the wild and remote north coast from Newport (12 miles east of Fishguard) to St. David's Head, and then followed the west coast, finishing at the attractive harbour of Solva for a well-earned drink.  Apart from one morning of heavy rain, weather conditions were good and we were rewarded with magnificent clifftop scenery. Those who did not suffer from vertigo were able to peer over the cliffs to inaccessible rocky beaches to see lots of baby seals with their mothers. The National Parks Warden who accompanied us told us that the seals had just 3 weeks between being born (as empty hot water bottles covered in fur, as he described it) to put on enough weight to be able to survive independently.

Baby seals (not litter!) on a rocky beach in pembrokeshire

Those who opted for the shorter 6-9 miles circular walks (usually 12-15 walkers) found that the slower pace gave us more time to appreciate the stunning coastline, beautiful views, numerous seals and cubs and the wild ponies. The ponies have been reintroduced to try to restore the coastal grassland. On a windy day with coastal mist the turbulent strait between the mainland and Ramsay Island with its complex currents and provided a dramatic, exciting seascape. On two calmer days we finished our walk at the beautiful Whitesands beach for a refreshing swim or paddle and ice cream.

The weather was kind to us with lots of sunshine, sometimes cloudy and windy but never cold and only one wet morning. All of us are very grateful to the main organisers, Cyndy and Peter and to all the walk leaders for providing us with such an enjoyable week.

 

 

H&G walkers on the coastal path in Pembrokeshire

 

La Palma, March 2020

On the 7^th March, 27 walkers from Henley and Goring Ramblers arrived on La Palma (for geophobes that’s one of the Canary Islands 150 miles off the coast of Morocco, not the capital of Majorca!). A very short bus ride brought us to our 4 star hotel, H10 Tamburiente Playa

We had 6 great days walking, led by Alie and Wim, some days with both a hard walk and a slightly easier walk. On the first day we all did the same route. This was a big walk down the central crest in the south of the island. It was a great introduction to the landscape. It started amongst Canary Pines then, after a few miles, followed a dusty route through a blackened volcanic landscape. It was amazing that any vegetation could survive here, but a few small bushes did, as well as some pines.

Most people managed time for a cold beer or similar at the end of the walk before the coach picked us up.

We did another walk in the south, to the lighthouse at the extreme southern tip of the island. We walked across a black volcanic landscape, the scene of the most recent volcanic eruption on the island in 1971. It seemed odd to see the bright green of commercial banana plantations growing out of this seemingly bleak and barren landscape. Our other walks were in the north of the island. Probably the most memorable started with a bus journey where we were split over two 4-wheel drive buses. Maybe we should have known what to expect when we were asked to spread ourselves out evenly between the 2 vehicles. After a short tarmacked journey, we “enjoyed” a bucking-bronco ride for about 30 minutes up a dirt track. Spontaneous clapping for the driver erupted when we finally arrived without any whiplash injuries although one of our number narrowly avoided injury when she was struck by a glancing blow from the first aid box as it fell down from the parcel shelf! The walk followed a slightly vertiginous path along a levada (water channel), which continued through 13 tunnels. Probably the first time many of our head-torches had been used. The final stretch descended though what is called a rainforest, but was very dry when we were there. Again, just enough time for a quick beer before we set off in the bus.

Day 5 took us to the northern tip amongst the telescopes of the international observatory this island is famous for. Both groups had great views out to sea, and into the largest caldera on the island. We’d expected it to be cool at the high point, but a light fleece was the most that was needed.

 

 

In summary, we all had a great time, good food from the hotel buffet, friendly staff, wonderful bus driver, perfect walking weather, always in the low twenties except for the high-level walk near the telescopes.

We had a brief panic just before we left when we heard that Jet2 had turned back flights on the way to Spain, including the Canaries. Our hotel closed a few days after we left, and our walks together that week may be the last for some time. That we had such a good time, makes it doubly special because of this. We can but hope we can all get together again before too long.

Richard Donnelly

 

 

Memorable Moments in Andalucia

Twenty six Henley & Goring Ramblers had a great trip to Andalucia in October 2019. Some of the group went out early and had a couple of days in Malaga, which we found to be a very attractive town and much more interesting than we had expected. The main part of the trip was spent in a small mountain village, Canillas de Albaida in the Tejeda Natural Park some 40 miles north east of Malaga. Most of the group then extended the trip, moving on to Seville for a few days before flying home.

I asked the group to send me their outstanding memories or key moments from the trip. Here they are:

We enjoyed it all – everyone’s company, fun, laughter, swims

Great fun, but please don’t ask me to climb another hill for quite a while!

A week of good fun, good company, laughs and challenges

Malaga – an unexpected treasure; not just a pass through point but a once elegant resort. Beautiful early 20^th century buildings can still be seen if you peep behind the high rise flats. In the cool of the evening the town comes alive with pavement restaurants and locals taking a stroll, everyone from 80 to 8 weeks old. We particularly enjoyed watching the teenagers playing volley ball and football in the canalised bed of the river – still dry in late October.

Boat trips in Malaga and on the Guadalquivir River in Seville

Sitting by the pool listening to the dulcet tones of Colin’s clarinet drifting through the window of our villa.

Walking along the rosemary strewn paths with views across the mountains to the sea.

The walks provided some challenging ascents along small paths through olive groves and orchards of avocado, mango and pomegranate with magnificent views of hillsides stretching down to the Mediterranean 20 miles away. The villages we passed through were very white and very sleepy – maybe it was siesta time. When we arrived in one village at the end of a walk the only person we saw was the barman who served us coffees which we drank outside watched by a circle of 15 or so cats who came along to watch the show!

Or host at the hotel – Andalucia’s answer to Basil Fawlty?

Our host for the week – flamboyant and loud in a series of coloured shirts and Elton John sunglasses.

Our hotel was a converted convent and we ate our some of meals in the village square.

Hair raising drives on narrow twisty mountain roads.

Driving at breakneck speed along hairpin roads and dirt tracks cut into the mountainside. Some of us chose to endure these trips in the brace position with our eyes closed!

.A visit to an old family run local bodega where we sampled so many local wines that we reeled home despite the ample tapas that were provided to soak up the alcohol!

The friendly helpful young lady in the local shop who made our picnic rolls and who spoke perfect English

The Islamic art and architecture and its influence across the region.

Reminders of the Civil War and its aftermath, particularly relevant while we were there as Franco’s remains were exhumed from a huge mausoleum and reburied in a low key grave.

Mass in Seville cathedral

The wonderful variety of the tapas at the cafés and bars in Seville

A great holiday with so many memorable moments!

 The walk up to the castle in Malaga

Walking in themountains in the Tejida natural park 

 

 

Walking in the Buxton Area of Derbyshire

 

The Opera house, Buxton

The Old Hall hotel in the centre of Buxton provided a comfortable and historically interesting base for our 5 days' trip to Derbyshire, superbly organised (as usual) by Susan and Ray Maguire. On arrival day we climbed up to Soloman's Temple a tower on top of a hill with a great view of the town spread out below. On the next 3 days our party of 31 had a choice of 3 different length walks in the hills around Longor, Dales walks and the Goyt Valley. We all came together of the last day for a short walk to the spectacular chasm of Lud's Church and the Roaches. There was something for everyone and most of us left thinking we must go back to the area to further explore the delights of Buxton and the surrounding countryside.everyone and most of us left thinking we must go back to the area to further explore the delights of Buxton and the surrounding countryside.

 

 

Sheep’s Head Way

H&G Ramblers trip to Ireland Diary

14^th – 20^th July 2019

Organisers Alie and Wim

Day 1	Our group of 17 people arrived at Bridge View House by various means of transport: car ferry and flights by Aer Lingus and Ryanair to Cork. The timing was perfect. Jim, our driver was waiting at Cork to take us to Kilcrohane. We sorted out the rooms, ate a lovely meal and a few us went to Eileen’s pub to sample the Irish Music Group and have a draught Guinness. Alie and Wim, the excellent leaders gave a rundown of the week.
Day 2	At breakfast time we assembled promptly at 8 am to have a lovely Irish breakfast and left by coach to Bantry. After a quick look around in the sunshine, the group divided. Some went over the top to Glenlough, the other group took a shorter route to Rooska. An excellent bit of communication by Alie and Wim had our small coach arriving and heading us for home promptly. A lovely sunny evening followed. * Of the day, seafood chowder.
Day 3	Now that we had our menu choices arranged in our head, we had a change of menu, more delicious ??? The weather forecast for later in the week caused a change in itinerary. We all set off by coach for the lighthouse loop. Glorious sunshine, nice scenery and again a perfectly timed pickup by our driver. Norma and Dawn braved the sea at the local pier, avoiding the orange jelly fish. * Of the day, Chris’ rice pudding.
Day 4	Rain We all left at 9:30 am kitted out for approaching rain. Destination: Ahakista and Glanlough, for return to Ahakista. The group doing the long walk got off first and headed to Glanlough, following the Sheep Head’s way. The other group headed through the moors, where the yellow marker posts proved invaluable in the mist. The clouds parted and they had lovely views, ably led by Sally on the ridge. In the evening a pre-Edinburgh fringe play came to the village hall and half the group attended. Mixed reviews!
Day 5	This day saw 4 of the group heading to Bantry on the community bus, where they oversaw the delivery of all the pensioner shopping and narrowly escaped a trip to Lidl. The weather improved and both walking groups had clear views and at the end, a café stop.
Day 6	The last walking day centred around the hotel. The shorter walkers were dropped off by bus and walked home. The group doing the longer walk left from the hotel and did a big loop up to the high parts and back along the coast. The weather was quite poor at some stages, but brightened up at the end. It was especially lovely by the coast where we saw some swans.
	As an overview this was a lovely week. Mary the landlady and her family did everything they could to please us . The coach driver was great. The locals were friendly and good fun and our leaders Alie and Wim were excellent. A good week. Norma Queralt

 

Trip to Lincolnshire Wolds by H&G Ramblers

Lincolnshire flat? Well, yes – except for the geological anomaly known as the Wolds -  a gently rising range of hills running N-S to the east of the county. Without too much uphill effort, the views enjoyed from the level ridge walks are spectacular, the huge towers of Lincoln Cathedral being a landmark on the horizon from 20 miles away.

More than 30 H&G Ramblers enjoyed an excellent five day break from 3^rd to 7^th of June, staying at the comfortable Kenwick Park Hotel just south of Louth. There was a great variety of walks on offer, from an afternoon walk on arrival day to a morning walk on departure day. Each of the other days had three walk options from short (5m-ish), to medium (8m-ish) and long (13m-ish), so the group was well served by the well-organised leaders Sally Axler, who also has the credit for organising the whole trip, Graham Godwin and the inexhaustible Alie Hagedoorn, who also did the walk planning. The walks used sections of the Viking Way, the Meridian Trail and the Tennyson Trail. A highlight on the Viking Way is the Ramblers’ Church at Walesby. This ancient church hosts an annual ramblers’ service each Trinity Sunday. A modern addition to the mediaeval interior is a stained glad window depicting Christ with 20^thcentury walkers and cyclists.

We made a special visit  to the small and historic town of Horncastle, where we were given a very informative guided walk around the town by Mr Horncastle himself – Bob Wayne, on behalf of the local Walkers are Welcome group.

The local food options available in the independent food shops of Louth are also an attraction, and I can recommend the local cheeses and the delicious Lincolnshire Plum Bread.

 

 

 

Self catering caravan walking holiday in Cornwall

Great week in Cornwall for the 15 H&G members who enjoyed a self catering week with some camping others in luxury caravans on a site near Coverack. We had wall to wall sunshine all week, fantastic coastal scenery, good walking but a cold wind from the east made getting up the steep inclines had work at times!Great week in Cornwall for the 15 H&G members who enjoyed a self catering week with some camping others in luxury caravans on a site near Coverack. We had wall to wall sunshine all week, fantastic coastal scenery, good walking but a cold wind from the east made getting up the steep inclines had work at times!

 

Bluebells All the Way on May Day Walks

Bluebell walks on May Day, then tea and home-made cakes in Greys Green Village Hall – what’s not to like? Well, just under 100 people thought it a good way to spend the day as they joined one of the four walks organised by Henley & Goring Ramblers on Monday.

Walkers came from the local area and farther afield, Oxford, Benson, Maidenhead, and Newbury, to take part in walks that ranged from 9 miles at a moderate pace to a 2.8. family-friendly walk with activities for children on the way. A 5 miles moderate paced walk and a 4 miles leisurely paced walk completed the choices for walkers. All the walks took us through the bluebell carpeted woods that are such a joy at this time of year in our area.

The walkers all came back together in the mid-afternoon for a wonderful spread of home-made cakes and tea organised by Henley & Goring Ramblers’ Events Team.

 

Palladian Way

We have been walking this route from Stowe on the Wold to Bath over the winter weekends in 2018/19. Some of the walks were done as day trips, other with overnight stays. Numbers have varied from weekend to weekend but have mostly been around the 20 mark. For the final weekend when we reached Bath in wonderful weather we were 24. 

Above: just a few of the H&G Ramblers who reached Bath in the sunshineat the end of the Palladian Way in March 2019.

 

Our first London Christmas Lights Trip December 2018

 

 

 

Middleton in Teesdale

 

Eland Ramble: 6-10 June 2018

In 1890 the needy City Council of Birmingham acquired seventy square miles of mid-Wales to collect rainwater to supply their rapidly expanding city. By 1904 they had skillfully built four dams to collect the water and seventy miles of pipeline, tunnels and culverts to transfer the water by gravity to serve the population and industrial heart of Birmingham. Delayed by two world wars they later built an impressive fifth dam higher up on the river Claerwen to supplement the system which was inaugurated by Her Majesty the Queen in 1952 as her first public engagement after becoming the monarch.

 Looking down on two of the upper reservoirs in the Elan Valley

 

 A byproduct of their efforts was to create a wonderful area of natural beauty and ecology with plants, birds and wildlife which has remained largely unspoilt for over a century. The area was chosen for its geology and because its average annual rainfall is 70 inches, approximately twice the national average. The thirty H&G Ramblers arriving in Rhayader in bright sunshine would never have imagined that as we set off for a six mile circular walk through fields, woods and beside streams to the west of the town centre.

Later we moved on to the Elan Valley Lodge, our base for the stay providing excellent food and accommodation. The lodge had been built as the school for the newly constructed village for workers needed for the maintenance of the dams in 1904. The school closed in 1974 as the population dwindled but had been purchased and restored in 1984 as an activity centre providing ensuite accommodation, good home cooked meals and very pleasant welcoming staff.

Each day we were offered a choice of a six or twelve mile walks visiting all the dams over the five days. Fortunately the sun shone for four out of the five days providing stunning vistas of green fields, hills and woodland. Wild flowers were in abundance. On the first we walked south from the Lodge through woods and open pasture flanking Caban-coch Reservoir before continuing along the south side of the Claerwen River to the foot of the Claerwen Dam where we ate our picnic lunches. A Peregrine Falcon was possibly sighted along with curlew, osprey, buzzards, red kites and many others. Dippers abounded on the rivers.

Fortified by lunch we climbed the steep embankment of the dam for magnificent views of the reservoir to the north and the valley to the south.

Returning across Craig Fawr and into Coel Coed (Wood) tired walkers were inspired by the sight of a lonely ice-cream van waiting at Garreg-ddu Dam only to be deflated when it drove away two minutes before our arrival. The short walkers got there in time and enjoyed very welcome ice creams. That evening we were challenged by a devilish quiz set by Alan Reeves which took the whole holiday to unravel.

Low cloud dominated the third day as we walked north to Esgair Penygarreg where we all had to imagine the fantastic view we would have enjoyed if it had not been blanked out by drizzle.The fourth day was another bright sunny one. We were driven to Penygarreg Dam. We walked up the old construction railway track to Craig Goch Dam and then north-east across open mountainside before turning south-east towards Rhayader and home along tracks winding through woodland and pasture full of wild flowers, passing Laura Ashley’s former house on the way.

The final day for those who still had the time and energy included a challenging walk in sunshine up the Rhiwnant valley across rough open and in places boggy common land to the impressive cairn at Drygarn Fawr marking the edge of the water authority’s catchment area. Others who liked the idea of a more relaxing walk visited a nature reserve north of Rhayader on the Wye Valley Walk. Both were fitting end to a glorious week organised so well by Alie and Wim Hagerdoorn and administered by Peter Stone. Thank you. We should do it again.

Peter Lloyd

Cyprus in Spring 

The end of April saw a group of 18 embark on our first overseas trip of 2018, ably led by Bruce and Marilyn. We met in Kyrenia in the Turkish republic of Northern Cyprus as some of the group had travelled out early to visit the southern Greek part of the divided island. Although we missed the best of the spring flowers there were still lots around and the weather was glorious (in contrast to the cold and rain in other parts of the Mediterranean such as Italy and Spain!). Most of us even swam in the sea on several occasions!

We started with three nights in the picturesque port of Kyrenia staying in the old town in what Trip Adviser describes as a ‘quirky’ hotel! Our guide was wonderfully knowledgeable treating us to mini lectures on the ecology, history, archaeology, politics and everyday life as we travelled on our bus to the start of the walks. We thought he was teasing us when he told us that our bus had been the Arsenal football team bus, but the Arsenal badge was still proudly in place. It must have been some time ago!

The first walk from Kyrenia took us to the far north west of the island, Cape Kormakitis where we duly photographed ourselves at the start of a long distance route that extends to the extreme north east of the island at Cape Andreas. We did get to this easterly point, but must confess that the bulk of themiles were done on the bus as we transferred to our second hotel in Karpaz. Two hills walks followed with the second involving a steep climb up to St. Hilarion Castle, one of the chain of crusader castles on the spectacular coastal range that runs along the north coast of Cyprus. The ruins of Bellapais Monastery provided a glorious setting for the Kyrenia Music festival and some of us had a wonderful evening watching sunset over the mountains as we ate a lavish fish mezze, then listened to a classical concert in the restored monastery refectory.

 

Our second hotel was a complete contrast – set in a lovely garden in peaceful countryside. We walked along beaches, crossed the Cyprus ‘Panhandle’ from coast to coast, examined ancient monasteries and churches and swam from quiet sandy beaches overlooked by beachside restaurants for the non swimmers! Our last night was a musical evening with Bruce on his guitar and our talented driver on a traditional Cypriot stringed instrument (a Saz), playinging folk music and songs

 

The trip was over for 6 of our party but 12 returned to Kyrenia for another 3 days of sightseeing and a full day boat trip along the coast. Thanks very much to Bruce and Marilyn for organising such an enjoyable trip!

 

  Isle of Wight, April 2018

A group of 36 H&G Ramblers enjoyed a break on the Isle of Wight in April. Based at Norton Grange, a Warner Leisure Hotel overlooking the Solent near the port of Yarmouth, we could choose from 2 or 3 walks each day and depending on the walk chosen were able to visit such Island attractions as Carisbrooke Castle, the Tennyson Trail, Tennyson Down and his monument, Alum Bay and the Needles amongst other places of interest. The weather was reasonably kind to us, the heavy drizzle on our first day giving way to low cloud and a beautiful, sunny day midweek, ideal for those of us enjoying the views over Freshwater Bay.

On Tuesday the long walk started from near Carisbrooke castle. We followed a section of the Tennyson Trail to Freshwater Bay where we cut inland and walked through lanes and muddy fields back to Norton Grange. 

On Wednesday, which was bright and sunny, the long and middle walks followed the same route from south of St Catherine’s Down, with Catherine's’ Oratory (Pepperpot) at 593 ft and further across the downs to the Hoy Monument at 525 ft. The walk took us into the beautiful Wydcombe valley through Stenbury Manor grounds and then ascended the hill to the high point of the island on Stenbury Down. The "short" walkers (led by Graham) did not make the highest point but we still had fabulous views over the countryside. The route back went via Niton with a tea stop for some before heading back to the car park. 

 

On Thursday the long walk started at the lovely village of Brightstone, then followed the southern coast which is renown both for its views and the abundant fossils. Most of the coast path was downland and in many areas the constant erosion was very noticeable as the path has been moved inland. We had lunch at Freshwater Bay before rejoining the Tennyson Trail up to the Tennyson Monument at 482 ft and along the ridge to the Needles. We visited the Battery, now owned by the NT, which was extremely interesting, before descending to Alum Bay where some of us caught the bus back to Norton Grange.  A few intrepid walkers carried on by foot all the way back.

Norton Grange proved to be a very good choice as a base with comfortable accommodation, an excellent menu and the opportunity for the young at heart to show off their dancing skills during the evening entertainment!

 

A sincere thank you to Peter, Susan, Brian and Graham for leading the walks and planning a perfect break - apart from the MUD that is!

 

Shirley Corti and Inge M ikkelsen

 

 December 2017

 

 

We had a lovely day for our annual walk, carol service and Christmas lunch on Tuesday 19 Secember. Around 50 of us met at The Highwayman at Exlade Street for a choice of 3 walks in the Stoke Row area. The carol service was held in the chapel at Stoke Row, a new venue for the group, then we walked back to The Highwayman for an excellent lunch.We had a lovely day for our annual walk, carol service and Christmas lunch on Tuesday 19 Secember. Around 50 of us met at The Highwayman at Exlade Street for a choice of 3 walks in the Stoke Row area. The carol service was held in the chapel at Stoke Row, a new venue for the group, then we walked back to The Highwayman for an excellent lunch.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Quantocks weekend in September

  

The Quantocks are lovely hills with a surprisingly large range of countryside in a small area. A group of 30 H&G Ramblers enjoyed a great long weekend at Combe House Hotel in Holcombe in September. The hotel is at end of the road in a beautiful combe surrounded by steep wooded hills. From the hotel a range of paths lead up to the open hilltops and ridges with wonderful views over the estuary of the River Parrrett to Stackpole, Bridgewater Bay and South Wales in the distance. The area was favoured by poets of the Romantic period. Samuel Coleridge had a cottage nearby at Nether Stowey, which we went to see, and Wordsworth was a frequent visitor to the area.

Despite main organiser and walk leader Susan Maguire being on crutches following an accident, we were still able to enjoy a choice of 3 walks each day as Inge Mikkelsen took over leading Susan’s walks. Ray Maguire and Dave Morris were the other walk leaders. An afternoon walk on the first day took us to the highest point in the Quantocks where we enjoyed the wonderful views. The second day’s walks included the visit to Coleridge’s cottage and also took in open hills and natural forest as we came back along the combe paths to the hotel. Saturday’s walk choice took us up into the hills for more big skies and far reaching views, taking in parts of the Coleridge Way. Sunday’s morning walks included a stretch along the coast which has some fascinating geological features. We came together for an excellent pub lunch before heading home.

Walks weren’t the only things we enjoyed on this trip. Susan had arranged speakers on two of the nights. A Quantock Ranger gave an illustrated presentation on the natural history of the area and two members of the Coleridge society told us about the lives and activities of the poets who had lived and visited the area. Most of us hadn’t realised just how much walking Coleridge did. Hearing how far he walked on a regular basis made our walks seem very mild in comparison! Both speakers answered lots of questions from the interested audience and we went into dinner on each night feeling well informed and well entertained!

Thanks to all the organisers and walk leaders, Susan, Ray, David, Janice, Barbara and Inge.

Susan adds: Although I wasn't able to participate fully in the weekend I had a thoroughly enjoyable time.  I could wave everyone off on walks, welcome them back, join the tea on the lawn outside the hotel and participate fully with the evening's activities.  It was such a pleasure being with a group of people who were enjoying each other's company.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Northumberland in June

 

 

While Henley was sweltering in a heatwave in June, 29 of us were enjoying a week of more mixed weather conditions walking in the Belford area of Northumberland. We stayed at the Bluebell Hotel and walked the spectacular coastline and in the hills of the Northumberland National park.

 

Here are a few of the comments from those who  were there:

There were many highlights on this holiday but

especially memorable were:

• walking the Pilgrims Way across the sands from Lindisfarne and the boat trip to the Farne Islands viewing the seals and the vast colonies of nesting seabirds, including puffins and their chicks. The walk through the Northumberland national park and the views from high ground on the Cheviots of the surrounding countryside were spectacular. The coastal castles were particularly stunning.
• Visiting Lindisfarne and walking back across the sands was magical.
• A lot of walking, we were grateful for the food breaks, thanks to Alie and Wim for the lifts – woof woof! (Reg and Ruby, border collies who came on all the walks)
• Difficult to point to anything specific as the whole holiday was so good!
• The day that sticks in my mind is the trip to Lindisfarne even though we had rain in the morning and I didn’t do the Pilgrim’s Way – a day everyone will remember.
• The walks in the national park were spectacular and so different from the coastal walks.
• Memorable moments for me- watching the dolphins from the beach at Bamburgh, walking barefoot across the sands along the Pilgrim Route, sheltering from the wind in an old sheepfold and listening to a skylark.
• Memorable for me - searching for a "lost" path amidst head high bracken, fallen trees and thick undergrowth but having to turn back.  Peanut wagging her tail in happiness at being with her walking friends. Talking to the locals in the bar after the walks and learning about life in Belford.  Striding out with Wim on a 16 mile walk and feeling the wind in my hair
• I enjoyed it so much. Highlights were walking from Holy Island over the Pilgrims Way and walking on the moors with great views in Northumberland National Park. And the group worked so well together the whole week! Excellent. Zou niet beter kunnen (meaning, Could not be better).... This shows how we mix languages all the time!

 and from everyone: we are so grateful to Alie and Wim for the huge amount of effort they put into making this such a great holiday in every way

Springtime in Sunny Sicily

Early May saw 19 Henley & Goring Ramblers set out on our latest overseas adventure: a walking holiday in Sicily. Our destination was the picturesque historic town of Cefalu, on Sicily’s Tyrrhenian northern coast, where we were ideally placed for excursions into the Madonie Mountains regional park.

Our guide for the first week was the adorable Carmelina Ricciardello, who is Sicilian Experience (www.sicilianexperience.com); we couldn’t have wished for a more capable guide. There are very few footpaths and hiking routes mapped in this part of Sicily, but Carmelina walks hundreds of miles a year in the region and knows all the best routes. Initially we walked some lower level paths to find our feet, but then steadily moved to the higher mountains between 1200 and 1600 m, where we were rewarded with spectacular all round views towards the Aeolian Islands and Mount Etna. Along the way we met some wonderful characters: Julio the goatherd, who demonstrated how to make cheese the traditional way in his hut in the mountains, with lots of tasting at all stages of the process; Mimmo the wine maker and restaurateur, who makes wine for use in his restaurant. Mimmo provided us with one of the most memorable meals of our trip as we sat on the sunny terrace with spectacular views of the sea far below, and, with typical Sicilian hospitality was still offering us another glass of wine when Carmelina dragged us back to our coach! We were treated to a display of traditional falconry skills in the high meadows of the Madonie (by another Mimmo!), and a wonderful refreshment stop in delightful Castelbuono to taste proper Sicilian ice cream and almond pastries.

We had five walking days, doing between 6-8 miles per day with ascents / descents of 400-600m. On our “rest day”, many opted to take the train to Palermo and visit the historic palaces and richly decorated churches. The highlight was the Cathedral of Monreale, where every available surface is decorated with spectacular mosaics depicting biblical tales.

Our week passed all too quickly, and we said an emotional farewell to Carmelina, who had quickly become our friend and had shared with us her passion for Sicilian history and culture. We moved on to Giardini Naxos, in the shadow of Mt Etna, and close to the city of Taormina. Here we continued our activity-packed days with an excellent guided walking tour around historic Taormina, and for many of us, a trip up Mt Etna.

Some of the unexpected experiences: arriving in Cefalu as the Giro d’Italia cycle race approached, meaning that the town centre was closed, and we had to drag our cases the final kilometre to our hotel! And touring Taormina in virtual lockdown ahead of the G7 Summit; almost as many soldiers and police on view as tourists!

We would all like to thank Peter Stone for his organisation and leadership before and throughout the trip (and, on the walks, for the endless supply of mints!)

Tony Godfrey

 

Wye Valley in May 2017

 

We had a great week's walking in the Wye Valley. We were welcomed by members of the Ross-on-Wye 'Walkers are Welcome' group who devised and led our walks programme for the week. They organised and led two varied and interesting walks each day, even providing home made gingerbread or welsh cakes on some of the walks! We re very grateful to them for showing us their lovely area. We hope to be able to return the compliment one day and show them that our Chilterns provide good walking and interesting sights too!

 

Walking the Oxfordshire Way

A group of up to 23 H&G Ramblers have been walking the Oxfordshire Way in stages once a month on Saturdays starting in Bourton on the Water and ending in Henley. We finished on 18 March 2017. Stages varied from 8.3 to 11.5 miles. The walk took us through areas of outstanding natural beauty in the Cotswolds and the Chilterns. We used taxis to get us from where we parked to the start of the walk and different people took on the job of organising transport and refreshments for the different stages. The end of the walk was marked by the 21 who walked the last stage by raising a glass of bubbly on the banks of the Thames at Henley. We then moved on to the Chocolate Theatre Café across the road for well-earned refreshments!

While we have been walking the route we have also been doing our bit to help with path checking and maintenance. Led by Susan Maguire, who has been noting problems and issues for a report on the route, we have been cleaning signs replacing broken signs, clipping vegetation and noting minor problems. Other Oxfordshire groups will be also doing their bit to ensure that the whole length of the Oxfordshire Way is clearly waymarked, minor obstacles cleared and places where more major clearing is needed identified.

Jim Prior, Area Path wardens’ Coordinator, has asked Susan to pass on thanks to the walkers in our group who have wielded their secateurs, wet wipes and hammers to good effect

 

 

Which Way the Wyche Way?

We tackled the Wyche Way over four weekends between October 2016 and March 2017. Waymarking was rather sparse on some sections so Which way the Wyche Way? became a pun too often repeated!

The 79 miles trail starts at Kington on Offa’s Dyke and ends at Broadway Tower in the Cotswolds. We did an extra section in the Cotswolds and finished at Moreton in the Marsh.. We had 20 plus walkers on each of the sections: Kington to Bodenham in October; Bodenham to Great Malvern in November; Great Malvern to Ashton under Hill in February; Ashton under Hill to Moreton in the Marsh in March.

The start of the walk in Kington

 Several of the group took the opportunity of travelling on a Friday and visiting something of interest en route – the Christmas market in Worcester, Tewkesbury Abbey, and various National Trust properties. We usually had longer and shorter versions of the walk so people were dropped off at different starting points and we met up for a pub lunch before walking the last part of each stage together.

 

A high point in the Malverns

The best parts of the trail are the stages in the Malverns and the Cotswolds. Although the sections between Kington and Malvern are not without interest there is a lot of flat farmland to cover and in winter a lot of very sticky mud to plough through! The trail does not follow a natural feature but joins up a number of existing paths and some road sections. It is not always easy to follow. Would I recommend doing the trail? Those in our group who have done Offa’s Dyke, various trails in the Malverns and the Cotswold Way do not think the Wyche Way as a whole measures up to these older trails. It lacks the natural line, continuity and spectacular scenery of Offa’s Dyke and the Malverns and the variety and picture postcard  villages of the Costwolds. However, although it may not be as good as some other trails it was a most enjoyable four weekends for our group.

 

 H&G at the Henley Christmas Market 

For the first time we had a stall at the Henley Christmas Market in December 2016. We ran a competition, 'Guess how far Father Christmas walked!' with a route marked out on a large scale map. There were 65 entries with many close to the answer, which was 37.6 miles.

First prize with a guess of 38 miles was Katerina Vojtechovska from Henley. She won a foldable rucksack. Melanie Grindes from Caversham came a close second with a guess of 37 miles and she won a Ramblers' water bottle. Adam, from Henley, aged 5, and Eva from Binfield, aged 8, jointly won third prize with a guess of 39 miles. Their prizes were reindeer hats. 

Christmas Carol Walk, Service and Lunch

Here we are, gathering before the start of the walk

A choice of two walks, a carol service especially for H&G members at a lovely country church, then a warming winter lunch at a local pub - not a bad way to spend a December day!

Around 40 H&G members (and a few guests) met at The Crown at Pishill for the annual carol service walk, this year in the lovely Stonor valley. We could choose either of two different length and paced walks, both of which led us back to Pishill Church for a traditional readings and carol service. Bruce's solo of 'In the Bleak Midwinter' sounded wonderful in the acoustics of the tiny church and the rest of us joined in for rousing renditions of familiar carols. Lunch, at The Crown, was a warming winter special and, judging by the empty plates, was much appreciated. A good day out! 

AGM November 2016

 

 

Our AGMs are more fun than the average. We held our AGM and social evening in November with almost 60 people attending. We were greeted with a glass of wine before the official business started. We have two new committee members, one taking over as Events Team Coordinator and the other taking over the Footpaths Officer's role. We are grateful for all the work done by the two members who stood down from these roles. Official business over, we saw a picture show of the Rambling Year and trips planned for 2017. Then came a super sit-down supper brilliantly organised by the Events Team. Very enjoyable evening!

 

H&G trip to Alresford, Hampshire October 2016 

On the first morning a group of eighteen of us limbered up on a short, pretty valley walk from Selborne, near to Gilbert White’s Museum, through meadows and ponds, past the Short and Long Lythes, then back for a pub lunch, of course! In the afternoon we were ready to complete our “figure of eight” walk through Selborne Hangar. We had stunning views in the sunshine across the valley, enhanced by the autumnal woodland colours.

After a very pleasant evening meal at the Swan Hotel Alresford, and fully rested, we set out the next day for another walk from Exton via Old Winchester Hill, an ancient hill fort. The earliest settlement here was during the Bronze Age about 3,800 years ago. There are supposed to be spectacular views over to the New Forest and the Isle of Wight; sadly on this occasion it was a bit misty so these views will be saved for another visit! The walk concluded with a pub lunch. 

 All in all we had had an excellent trip away, thanks to our effective walk leaders, Brian Maunder and David Morris, and overall organiser Peter Stone. Alresford is fairly close to where we live but many of us had not walked in that area of the countryside before. The area is well worth exploring some more. 

Margaret Boltwood 


White to Dark in Derbyshire

 

Stunning views from Stannage Edge

On a dry and sunny weekend in October a group of 11 ramblers walked the beautiful and varied White to Dark route in the Peak District. The three day walk, organised by H&G, starts at Bakewell and ends at Hope. The trail follows the River Wye to Monsal Head then through the newly opened Headstone Tunnel, across the viaduct and on to Arkwright’s famous Cressbrook Dale Mill and the picturesque village of Litton. 

The second day’s walk goes through Eyam, the famous plague village then over wild moorland landscape to Hathersage. Next, on day 3, comes the climb to Stannage Edge with wonderful all round views before descending to Ladybower reservoir, famous as the site of practice runs by the Dambuster’s squadron. The final climb is up Win Hill with more great views, this time over the Hope Valley, before the descent into the valley and the end of the trail. 

On the trail near Eyam

We can highly recommend this route: just 30 miles of glorious varied countryside with many things of interest on the way. 


Beautiful Bulgaria.

One of several mountain lakes in the Pirin Mountains above Banya that we visited

Twenty three H&G Ramblers left Heathrow early on a cool September morning and landed in Sofia airport in scorching midday sun. Heading away from the airport in high spirits it wasn't long before we spotted something that looked remarkably like our old friend Didcot Power Station rising out of a flat and hazy plain. Had we really just flown across the whole of Europe? All doubts evaporated as we travelled for another two sweltering hours along a brand new, EU branded motorway through an arid landscape with a dramatic backdrop of high purple mountains. 

Visiting the old Turkish bath at Banya not far from our hotel in Bulgaria

 For most of us the priority on reaching our destination was simply to unpack the bathing costume and head straight for the hotel's open air pool for a refreshing cool swim. Refreshing? Cool? Oh no, this pool was filled directly from spring water that gushed out of the hillside at a steady 54 degrees F. It was welcome nonetheless and as the week wore on and the weather cooled a little it was sheer bliss to ease our tired muscles each evening by swimming with friends in this sparklingly clean communal warm bath. Some of us managed a daily breakfast swim too. 

The week unfolded with a variety of walks to suit our various energy levels. Some chose to stroll through pine forests and explore the villages, others took to the high mountains reaching isolated lakes after steep climbs over rocky terrain. One day our guide allowed us to cheat just a little by taking a lengthy chair lift to a high start point. But that too was a challenge; some of us find it difficult enough to slide off a chair lift on skis .... but in walking boots? We need not have worried; a team of burly Bulgarian men were on hand to lift us bodily from our seats and set us back on our feet. Whichever path was chosen, it was spectacular, exhilarating and a journey not only over the ground but also back in time. In the mountains we met shepherds guarding small flocks of sheep or a herd of tinkling cows. On the lower cultivated fields there was barely a tractor to be seen, horses drew the ploughs, and men swung scythes. On the roads our minibus frequently overtook horse drawn carts transporting firewood for the winter and in the villages the bean harvest was spread over hot pavements to dry - a promise of tasty winter soups to come. Life may be hard in the Bulgarian countryside, but there is also fun to be had. Each house had a pergola festooned with grapes destined to be distilled into a strong liquor to help while away those cold winter days. On the hilltops we often came across large barbeque sites with fire pits, benches and tables where the whole village could gather to celebrate a special occasion. These party sites are clearly well used and often incorporate a small colourful church, hand built and skilfully decorated by the villagers.

A walk in the Pirin Mountains. The white tops of the mountains are marble

One of the many sources of interest of the trip was finding out where Bulgaria features in Europe’s past and to see that so much of it remains. Our hotel swimming pool, fed by the warm mineral springs of the valley, is a direct successor to the still standing Turkish and Bulgar bath houses in the village of Banya, The baths are themselves successors of the Roman baths with their vaulted roofs, stone lined pools and wall niches for keeping the bathers’ belongings. Roman emperors loved the region and recent excavations in Sofia when the metro was built have revealed extensive evidence of the prosperity of the province of Thrace. 

The highest peak in the area, Vihren Peak.
One of our group got to the summit

After a week in the mountains we headed back along that brand new motorway to spend a couple of days in the capital Sofia. Soon we were stepping out of our Tardis minibus straight into the twenty first century. Sofia is full of the young people who no longer live in their grandparents’ villages. Like them we swapped forest paths for city streets as we visited the many spectacular churches where every inch of the walls are covered in colourful icons and a thousand candles illuminate the gold leaf. We were visiting this city of young people on a Bulgarian public holiday weekend, so the churches were busy with weddings. Clearly if you get married in a tourist attraction you must tolerate a few extra tourist onlookers. When it comes to buggies and baby clothes the shopping centre offers everything from Prada to New Look. 

Bulgaria is indeed a land of contrasts. It is also a country looking confidently to the future while proudly respecting its past. Sofia is built directly on the site of Serdica, a significant Roman city. Paved streets, houses of all sizes, a town gate, a bath house were uncovered and left in situ next to the metro station, shopping arcades and higher modern street level. As we took a subway to cross under a busy modern street, we were able to walk over the flagstones of a Roman road past the carefully preserved remains of Roman villas. It is a surreal experience to wait for a train in the ultra-modern metro station alongside artefacts unearthed in the building, having just walked past Roman walls on the way down! 

Bulgaria is indeed moving on - it still has mountains to climb, both physically and metaphorically - but onward and upward....... 
Mair Hunt and Ruth Gibson October 2016 


Norfolk Broads trip July 2016

A new member asks to join H&G Ramblers
on their walking and boating trip to Norfolk!

When considering holidays at the beginning of the year, I thought a walking holiday would be a good idea, but I was a bit worried about my level of fitness. When I saw that the Henley & Goring group were organising a trip to the Norfolk Broads and that they still had a single cabin available that seemed like the perfect solution. I was not disappointed. 

The week began ominously with thunder, lightning and hail on the first evening, but from then on we had almost perfect weather. Alie’s planned walks had to be revised as high water levels made it impossible to go under the bridge at Potter Heigham but flexibility was the key, and a quick look at the map and rearrangement of the order of the walks meant that all was still possible. 

The walking was surprisingly varied; some was along reeded river banks, some across agricultural land, some through woodland areas and some along the bracing east coast beaches. Poppies and wild flowers were in abundance and the board walks across swampy areas and nature reserves revealed many different kinds of wild life. We managed to spot some elusive Swallowtail butterflies. 

Thecommodation on the boat was a tight fit for 8 of us but team work proved the key to managing and it helped that we ate out every night. The boat provided a pleasant day’s cruising for those who did not want to walk every day. 

In all a very successful trip; thanks to Alie for organising the walks, Wim for piloting the boat and Peter for having the original idea.
Further walking holidays are definitely on my to-do list now. 
Sarah Axler 


H&G weekend at Dartmouth 

View over the Dart estuary from the path
on the way back from Greenway

Walking along the south west coast, in the sunshine, with good friends is hard to beat! H & G’s long weekend trip to Stoke Fleming near Dartmouth in April certainly met the high expectations of the 32 walkers who were offered a variety of walks led by Susan, Ray and Barbara.

We arrived in the rain at the NT Coleton Fishacre on the first day. Both Ray’s and Susan’s walks took us along the coast with, despite the weather being not the best, spectacular views across the sea. There was time at the end to visit the house (wonderful art deco interiors) and gardens. Barbara’s short walk allowed more time for looking at the house and exploring the spectacular gardens that spill down from the house to the sea. It was a very promising start to the weekend. When we got to the hotel there was time for a swim / sauna / jacuzzi in the hotel’s leisure facility. 

On the Saturday we could again choose between three walks. Ray’s group took the bus to Townsall then walked the Dart Trail to Dittisham. The views were stunning. Crossing the Dart by ferry to Greenway House, former summer home of Agatha Christie, the group then walked back to Dartmouth on a high level path with spectacular views of the Dart estuary. There was time to explore the town before returning to Stoke Fleming along the coastal path. Susan’s group had a day of walking, river trip and sightseeing. The group walked from the hotel along the coastal path to Dartmouth where there was time to buy delicious hot pasties before catching a boat for the half hour trip up the river to Greenway. The house sits high above the river so the views are wonderful, as are the gardens. The house is filled with personal collections of every kind and it was easy to imagine Hercule Poirot or Miss Marple summing up the latest murder mystery round the fire in the living room. We had a lovely walk following the river back to Kingswear to catch the ferry across to where the bus took us back to our most comfortable hotel in Stoke Fleming. Barbara’s group followed the same route as Susan’s except that they had more time to explore Greenway as they returned to Dartmouth by river boat. 

Sunday arrived with promises of yet more sunny walks, this time west along the coastline. Susan’s group took a taxi to East Portlemouth with its wonderful views across the estuary to Salcombe. The coastal path back towards Dartmouth has lots of ups and downs and is rocky in many places. Ray’s group went by cars to Torcross then walked to Start Point lighthouse and down to the beach for a picnic. Both groups had time to find out about Hallsands, a lost village that disappeared into the sea after the beach was removed to provide material for improving naval facilities in Plymouth. The villagers had a long hard fight to get compensation. At Torcross the Second World War tank in the car park which was dredged up from the sea, is a solemn reminder of the Second World War tragedy at Slapton Sands where over 900 American soldiers lost their lives when German E-boats got among the unprotected landing craft carrying out training for the D-Day landings.

In the evening after an excellent dinner there a talk by local man Barry Morris who had lived in Stoke Fleming all his life. His relaxed style with its mixture of factual information, stories about the area and anecdotes about his family’s background and experiences in the area, made for an enjoyable and interesting after dinner entertainment.

We finished the weekend with everyone heading for Blackpool Sands by longer or shorter routes but all with some short sharp ups and downs as we crossed the steep narrow valleys running down to the sea. We had lunch at the Venus Cafe on the beach front before heading home after a perfect and relaxed break. Many thanks from all of us to organisers Susan, Ray and Barbara! 


Self-catering walking trip in the Brecon Beacons

The ‘Diving Board’, Brecon Beacons

Glebe Barn near Crickhowell is a luxurious converted barn with en suite accommodation for 11 people. We spent a weekend there in March and enjoyed splendid weather and even more splendid walks. Arriving late afternoon on a Friday we soon settled in finding everything we could need in the well-appointed kitchen and enjoyed the comfort of a large sitting and dining area. 
We took full advantage of the fine weather on both Saturday and Sunday to do long walks in the mountains. There was snow on the tops which made for slow going in places as the snow was melting and had puddles of water beneath the deceptively firm surface! Those with gaiters were the sensible ones; others got melting snow in their boots! The open ridges and wonderful views made for memorable walking. The ‘diving board' – a rock jutting out over a drop at the end of a ridge was an obvious place for photos for those who do not suffer from vertigo and the ‘dragon’s back’ provided an exhilarating ridge walk back to the valley. 

We saw a large flock of sheep high on the slopes following what we took to be the shepherd. It turned out that he was just a walker like us. Clearly the sheep liked the look of him. He was hoping they wouldn’t follow him much further – what do you do with a couple of hundred sheep when you get back to your hotel! 

We liked the place and the area so much that we are thinking of organising another trip next year. 



Long distance trails with Henley & Goring group

Spring 2016 saw Henley and Goring group complete the final stages of three long distance trails that we had been walking on a monthly basis for quite some time!

 Thames Path walkers reach the Barrier after 184 miles – only to find the café and visitors’ centre were shut!

The longest at 194 miles, the Thames Path, was started in September 2014; the Roman Way, at 174 miles was also started in 2014, in October. Both these trails were done as day walks once a month. The Cotswold Way, just over 100 miles, was walked over five 2015/16 winter weekends. Some people did every stage but others were able to dip in and out doing as many stages as they wished. Numbers on stages ranged from 6 -16 regulars on the Roman Way and the Thames Path to 20 plus on the Cotswold Way weekends. H&G members made up the majority of the walkers but we were joined by people from other Oxfordshire, Berkshire and London groups for some of the stages. 

Henley and Goring group have done a lot of long distance trails over the years. Walkers take it in turn to organise the stages. This involves checking who wants to walk that stage, arranging transport (public when possible but taxis when in remoter rural areas), finding cafes for end of walk refreshments, finding and booking accommodation for the weekend walks and ensuring that everyone knows the time and place to meet and when they need to bring a picnic. 

The three trails are very different and each has its distinct appeal. Although many of the stretches of the Thames Path are well known to us and the path as a whole had been walked before by some, it is still a wonderful walk full of interest. We did it in 19 sections and found something to enjoy at every stage from the quiet meadows of the infant river and the wide lakes of the Cotswold Water Park, to the swiftly changing urban landscapes of London. There is almost too much to take in – too much history, too many wonderful vistas and buildings, so that the commonest comment from walkers was: We’ll have to come back here so we can see this properly! I think we’ve got ideas for a few more themed walks in the future!

The Cotswold Way is also well known and indeed Henley & Goring have done it before so this time we did it in reverse – from west to east. Despite its familiarity the Cotswold scenery never ceases to delight and the villages to charm. 

Walking the Cotswold Way

 

People may be less familiar with the Roman Way. This trail, described in a book published in 2009 by Oxfordshire rambler, Elaine Steane, is a 174 mile triangular walk on public rights of way following Roman roads through Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Berkshire. The southern corner of the triangle is Silchester (Calleva Atrebatum), the northern corner is Bicester (Alchester) and the western corner is Cirencester (Corinium). The route passes the sites of Roman military forts, villas and bath houses, Donnington Castle, Blenheim Palace and other grand estates, ancient barns, Grims Bank, Iron Age forts, too many historic churches to count, sections of the Thames and Severn and the Kennet and Avon canals, Otmoor Nature Reserve and much more. And that is not counting the flora and fauna – birds, butterflies, ancient trees, flowers, deer - something of interest for everyone. 

So, having completed these 3 routes, did we going to rest on our laurels? No:

We walked The Ridgeway in 10 stages as day walks once a month and have completed several stages of the Oxfordshire Way (67 miles from Bourton on the Water to Henley) in the autumn. For our winter weekend walks we are tackling the Wyche Way, a new long distance path that links two national trails, Offa’s Dyke Path and the Cotswold Way. The walk starts at Kington in Herefordshire and ends at the Broadway Tower in the Cotswolds. We thought we might be running out of long distance walks but Alie, our Chairman, found 11 more routes in the south ranging from 75 to 137 miles for us to choose from. We should be able to keep walking for a few years yet!
Joan Clark.  2016


Henley and Goring Ramblers beat the Big Pathwatch deadline!

Earlier this year Ramblers announced an ambitious project: the biggest campaign ever to protect and improve our glorious paths in England and Wales. The idea was to get volunteers to walk every footpath in the country and report on their state. Volunteers were asked to adopt a grid square on the Ordnance Survey map and, wherever they walked, to use a handy app or use internet to report what they found. It could be a wonky bridge, a locked gate, a flooded path or a fallen tree. Ramblers, working in conjunction with other interested parties (in our case Oxfordshire Council and the Chiltern Society Path Maintenance Volunteers), who would then try to get it fixed. They would also celebrate the wonderful things seen – like a beautiful view or amazing wildlife. The aim is to keep our paths open for everyone to enjoy. A target was set to complete the survey by the end of December.

Henley and Goring Ramblers were allocated 259 grid squares to walk and report on. The last grid square in our area was completed before Christmas!

 Checking the kissing gate paid for by H&G members – no problems for Big Path watch checkers on this path!

485 features were reported in. Some were things needing improvement, such as fallen trees, poor signage and muddy paths. Many more related to beautiful views, benches, places to eat and interesting flora. Henley and Goring Ramblers found that their paths are generally well maintained. They are certainly well loved both by local walkers and by many others who come from far and wide to enjoy them. We are lucky in our area to have wonderful scenery and a rich network of paths which are generally well maintained and signposted. This is largely thanks to volunteer path wardens and the Chiltern Society path maintenance volunteers who work hard all year round to clear paths, replace wobbly stiles with kissing gates and hence enhance access to our lovely countryside.

A big thankyou to all Big Path Watch volunteers

Chantry House lecture: The Miller of Mapledurham

Our lecturer this year was the Miller of Mapledurham who gave us a fascinating insight into the history, restoration and current activities of the Mill.

 The Miller of Mapledurham answers questions after the Chantry House lecture

So interesting was his talk that we arranged a follow-up visit to the Mill in our summer programme (on August 21). We’ll combined the visit with a 5 miles walk from Caversham to the Mill and a boat trip back.