On Sunday 30th November, 22 Ramblers met at Goldwell Park, Newbury for a 9½ mile circular walk. The beautiful blue sky was a welcome bonus after such wet days leading up to the walk.
After a warm welcome to the group by Anne, we set off along a short stretch of The Kennet & Avon Canal which looked stunning in the winter sunshine.
Taking footpaths to the south of Newbury, we headed uphill towards Wash Common where we paused at the site of the 1st Battle of Newbury (1643) to take in the views across the valley to the north. The battle was part of the English Civil War between the Royalists and Parliamentarians. In the distance we could clearly see the ruins of Donnington Castle where the 2nd Battle of Newbury took place the following year.
Carrying on towards Skinners Green we had spectacular views towards the Wayfarers Walk. This was the muddiest part of the walk as we entered fields where cows were present but they showed little interest in us.In the middle of the field there was a ’tree swing’ and Zak very bravely climbed on - it was tricky as the swing was quite high but he managed it well.
We skirted Avery’s Pightle Nature Reserve. This is one of Berkshire's few remaining unspoiled ancient meadows where 137 different species of plants have been recorded. It would be worth another visit in the summer months to see the wild flowers, herbs and grasses.
Passing the All Angels Vineyard we entered Hamstead Park which dates back to the 13th Century. Signs of medieval occupancy can still be seen today with three motte and bailey castles dotted around the estate. In the park we found a suitable spot in the sunshine for our lunch stop and sweet treats!
After lunch we joined the Kennet and Avon Canal once more and headed back in the direction of Newbury. At Guyer’s Lock we left the towpath and took a permissive footpath through Speen Moors. The moors cross the River Kennet and the route took us under the Lambourn Valley Railway bridge which carried the railway from 1898 until 1973. The railway ran between villages from Lamboun to Newbury.
Shortly after leaving Speen Moors we arrived back at our start point where several of us changed out of muddy boots and headed into town for a drink at The Lock Stock and Barrel pub which sits at the edge of the canal and river. Thank you all for joining Anne and I on this walk, it was a very enjoyable day.
Thanks go to Anne and Hazel for leading this walk and to Hazel for writing it up.
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