Rambling On...

Rambling Off Into The Sunset....

2012-01-10T11:22:00.002Z

As will be obvious from the lack of posts, I have not been able to devote much time to this blog in recent months. This will therefore be the last post.

You can keep in touch with the Hampstead Ramblers via their website.

Thanks to those who contributed, and to those who read the posts.

Happy Rambling.

Steve.

Horsley circular

2011-06-22T22:06:00.000+01:00

Jane Rosoux writes...

I attach photographs taken on the Joint Hampstead and Northwest London group 13.5 mile circular walk from Horsley on Sunday, 19th June led by Stephen Bird

[Stephen Bird is pictured Centre].

There were 17 of us in the party and we were fortunate with the weather. Stephen led us on an interesting route which started off by taking us past several 'Lovelace Bridges', which were constructed by the 1st Earl of Lovelace in 1860s in the hilly woods of his estate as part of a network of gently-graded tracks which were laid to facilitate the transport of timber on horse-drawn carts.

The lunch stop was in the very attractive village of Shere, the Parish Church of which is noted for the remains of an Anchoress' cell where Christine Carpenter was immured for several years in the 14th century. She had a squint built into the church wall so that she could see services and she was passed food and drink through the outer wall.

Wealdway- Buxted to Berwick

2011-06-07T21:56:00.001+01:00

Jane Rosoux reports...

I attach photographs taken on my walk along the Wealdway from Buxted to Berwick Station on Saturday, 4th June.

There were 10 in the party at the start (plus a dog)...

and we were fortunate to have good weather for the walk - and dry conditions underfoot - because it ended up as 22.3 miles instead of the intended 20 miles as a result of a combination of navigational errors and footpath diversions.

We were somewhat behind schedule by the time we stopped for lunch at the 'Kings Head', East Hoathly at around 1.50 pm, where one member of the party dropped out, speeded up to some extent between there and Horesbridge Mill (on the northern edge of Hailsham), where a further three participants dropped out, and really pushed up the pace thereafter to arrive at Berwick Station at 7.05 pm.

Despite the distance it was an enjoyable day over gently undulating terrain with attractive villages, good views and mostly good paths.

Bluebells in the Chilterns

2011-05-08T22:32:00.003+01:00

Jane Rosoux reports on last Friday's circular walk in the Chilterns....

"A party of 11 of us set out from Wendover Station on another lovely day and although the bluebells had come out early this year and many were past their best Joe Garver led us through a succession of woods where the bluebells were still putting on a good display....

"And at the lunch stop at 'The White Lion', Buckland Common the picnickers enjoyed an impressive display of buttercups....

[Walk leader Joe Garver, above, in the yellow shirt, in conversation with Angela]

[Wild Garlic was in great profusion too]

[Nearing Wendover at the end of a great day]

.

More Sawbridgeworth Photos

2011-05-07T22:06:00.006+01:00

Hampstead Rambler Heidi Whurr has sent us photographs previously. She sent me a selection just recently, and I have great pleasure in posting her images of the Joint Hampstead and Northwest London walk reported on below.

[All photos copyright Heidi Whurr]
.

Sawbridgeworth Circular

2011-05-03T22:57:00.007+01:00

Jane Rosoux reports on the May day 15 mile circular walk from Sawbridgeworth led by Stephen Bird....

"The weather was excellent and the ground was very dry. There were 11 of us in the party and we enjoyed an interesting walk led at a brisk pace with varied scenery. Our lunch stop was at the ancient village of Hatfield Broad Oak at 'The Cock Inn', which is very near the early medieval church. A highlight of the afternoon was the walk through Hatfield Forest."

Stephen Bird is pictured above left.

.

Kings Langley with the Blind Ramblers.

2011-03-22T21:01:00.023Z

Sunday saw Michael Way leading the now annual joint walk with Hampstead Group and the London Blind Ramblers. Michael's report follows...

"Excellent walk with the ever-expanding London Blind Ramblers – nearly 7-mile circular from Kings Langley with a picnic and a pint stop at the lovely green at Chipperfield...

Photo: Michael Way.

" Steve clocked us in at just under 2-1/2 miles an hour which was great

"As usual, London Midland did us proud with a last minute shortage of over-time drivers. So only a train an hour. The cafes at Euston did well out of us

"As to numbers, 8 (including a guest) from Hampstead, 17 from the Blind Ramblers (including several sighted people fortunately). That makes 25.

Michael is at far right.
Photo: Steve Ripley.

Peter and his Guide Dog Dexter..
Photo: Steve Ripley.

Photo: Michael Way.

"Next year, same route (by popular demand) March 25th 2012"

.

Tattenham Corner

2011-02-28T23:13:00.000Z

Jane Rosoux writes...
"I attach photographs taken on last Sunday's ramble from Tattenham Corner.The leader, Jerry O'Connor led a party of 12 on a circuitous, but attractive, route

"across Epsom Racecourse and then across the M25 onto the North Downs to our lunch stop at 'The Cock Inn' at Headley, somewhat later than planned because the going was very wet and slippery. Those who did not go into the pub ate their sandwiches in the church porch and were glad of the shelter because the morning sunshine was replaced by overcast skies and persistent rain. I fell full length in the mud and got covered with the stuff from head to foot

"but even those who managed to stay upright ended up with very muddy trouser legs.

"Instead of returning to Tattenham Corner we finished the walk at Tadworth Station, but despite having only covered 15 miles the conditions underfoot were such that it felt like 18 miles!

Best wishes,
Jane
.

West Hornden Circular

2011-01-30T15:41:00.003Z

"I attach photographs taken on Stephen Bird's circular walk from West Hornden on Sunday, 30th January.

"Six of us went on the walk and were fortunate that the weather was dry. The lunch stop was at Herongate, at the 'Green Man' and the distance covered was 12 miles.

"I am afraid that none of the photographs are very interesting - the skies were very overcast for most of the day and the vegetation lacked colour.

"Although we returned to West Hornden Station before 4.00 pm and had hoped to get home at a reasonably early hour it was not to be because damaged overhead cables meant that there were no trains at all on the line for nearly two hours and when a train did finally arrive it turned round at Barking, leaving us to stand around on a chilly platform for another lengthy period.

"Such is life...."

Lewes Circular

2011-01-29T15:31:00.003Z

I attach photographs taken on Clare Kirkbride's circular walk from Lewes on Saturday, 29th January.

Six of us went on the walk and were fortunate that the weather was dry. Engineering works and a rail replacement bus service between Three Bridges and Haywards Heath meant that only three participants were with Clare at the start but two others joined the party at Glynde where we had an early lunch stop at the 'Trevor Arms'. We also had a tea stop at Rodmell, at 'The Abergavenny Arms' and, in between, had a look at the wall paintings in Southease Church. Once back in Lewes, and in fading light, Clare showed Tokiko and me the remains of the Priory of St Pancras, which were fascinating. In the end the distance we covered was around 13 miles.

London Parks in the Snow...

2011-01-19T20:37:00.008Z

Earlier last year I published some Photographs by Stella Stocker. I have pleasure in showing some more this year! These photos were actually taken on December the 19th, on a walk through London Parks, Primrose Hill and Hampstead Heath, as Stella says, "with massive snow".

All the above images are copyright Stella Stocker.

Chesham to Rickmansworth

2011-01-16T15:13:00.005Z

Jane Rosoux Reports...
" I attach photographs taken on Jerry O'Connor's walk from Chesham to Rickmansworth on Sunday, 16th January.

"Ten of us went on the walk and were fortunate that the weather was largely dry. The lunch stop was at Flaunden, at the 'Green Dragon' and the distance covered was 16.5 miles."

Tonbridge to Ashurst. The Wealdway.

2011-01-15T15:03:00.004Z

Jane Rosoux reports:
"I attach photographs taken on my walk along the Wealdway from Tonbridge to Ashurst on Saturday, 15th January.

"Six of us went on the walk and were fortunate that the weather was dry, although it was fairly slippery underfoot from rain the previous week, which slowed our progress. The lunch stop was at Speldhurst, at the 'Green Dragon', and the distance covered was 11 miles.

"The skies were very overcast and the vegetation lacked colour, although some of the buildings we passed were attractive."

Guildford Circular

2010-12-07T22:15:00.009Z

Jane Rosoux writes

"I attach photographs taken on Sunday's 10.5 mile circular walk from Guildford led by Barbara Luke from which to make a selection for the Rambling On blog. As you see the snow had largely disappeared and what was left was fairly slushy and not as slippery as Barbara had feared.

"But there was still enough snow to be fairly scenic and the weather was quite good - cold and dry with sunny intervals. The trains were running to a special timetable in order to ensure that they were in the correct places for Monday morning but three of us caught the 09.30 (the one specified in the programme) and enjoyed a smooth, trouble-free journey.

"Those who decided not to join us missed an enjoyable walk over varied and attractive terrain with a lunch stop at Chilworth, where we warmed up at the hospitable Percy Arms. There were four trains an hour back to London and after looking at the market stalls on the bridge near the station we caught a fast train at 16.05."

.

AGM and Mystery Walk

2010-11-23T21:14:00.015Z

Last Saturday saw two dozen Ramblers convening in Kentish Town for our 27th Annual General Meeting...

Coffee and croissants fuelled some lively debate...

and the meeting was followed by a Mystery Walk through Kentish Town, Hampstead Heath, Highgate, Highgate Wood and then Alexandra Palace.

The walk finished at Turnpike Lane as the light was failing fast.

Many Thanks from all of us to Maija and Margaret for organising the food and drink and to Jane for leading the walk.

Magical Mystery Tour......

2010-11-16T22:31:00.003Z

All Hampstead Group members are reminded that our group Annual General Meeting is this Saturday.

Coffee and croissants will be served beforehand. Then after the AGM business, we will embark on a mystery walk. This will be average paced, less than ten miles, and will have a lunch stop where food can be bought.

The AGM will be held on Saturday, 20th November, at 11 a.m.

Venue: St. Patrick's Primary School, Holmes Road, Kentish Town, NW5 3AH

Hope you can make it....

Gravesend Circular

2010-11-16T22:12:00.008Z

I take pleasure in passing on this report from Michael Way, who co-led this walk with Olga Way last Sunday.

"Ten of us including members from Finchley, Amersham and Richmond,braved a
quite ghastly day for the 7 - 1/2 Thames-side walk from Gravesend on Sunday Nov 14.

"It started drizzly, brightened a little at lunchtime, then poured down all
afternoon . Everyone seemed to enjoy it, even the lady in shoes.

"Picture 1 shows some of us at Gravesend Pier, the oldest wrought-iron pier
in the world;

"Pictures 2 and 3 are at the 19th century fort on the Thames built
(successfully) to keep Napoleon out....

"and Picture 4, some graceful scenes as
we clamber over a fallen tree completely blocking the path...

"I have reported it it (with this picture) to Kent County Council.

"There are by the way lots of trains to Gravesend and back on Sundays.

"Michael and Olga Way".

Many Thanks Michael

Christ's Hospital to Pulborough

2010-11-10T17:39:00.001Z

Jane Rosoux writes...
"I attach photographs taken on Sunday's 12-mile walk along the West Sussex Literary Trail from Christ's Hospital to Pulborough led by Gill Henderson.

"The weather was good and our party of 10 enjoyed attractive scenery and good autumn colours, particularly after our lunch stop, which was at the Blue Idol, Coolham, a Quaker Meeting House established by William Penn."

.

Borough Green to Tonbridge

2010-11-08T17:13:00.005Z

Jane Rosoux writes...

"I attach photographs taken on Saturday's 14-mile walk along the Wealdway from Borough green to Tonbridge from which you can make a selection for the Rambling On blog.

" Larger versions of the better photographs have been uploaded to the Web Album, which can be found at http://picasaweb.google.com/104912253965949195193/

"Four of us enjoyed autumn sunshine and colours on a varied walk with a lunch stop at the attractive village of West Peckham.

Many Thanks as always to Jane for the report and the excellent pictures.

Hampstead Ramblers enjoy the Autumn colours

2010-11-03T23:19:00.004Z

I recently received these photos from Stella Stocker, taken last Sunday in the Dorking Area. Many thanks Stella.

All such contributions will be gratefully received.

.

Guildford Circular

2010-10-18T22:40:00.002+01:00

I attach photographs taken on Sunday's circular walk from Guildford led by Gary and Eladia Cleary from which you can make a selection for the Rambling On blog. As on Saturday the weather was very good and a party of 15

(including members of the North West London Group) was taken along a delightful route past St Martha's Church, with its excellent views, to Aldbury for our lunch stop where some of us picnicked outside the church and others went to the pub.

In the afternoon we walked through heathland to join the River Wey navigation near St Catherine's Lock. Whilst walking along the towpath we were passed twice by a steam-powered boat called 'Grace'.

Three of us climbed up St Catherine's Hill to see the chapel and enjoy the views but we arrived back at Guildford Station all too soon.

.

Hampden Park Circular

2010-10-17T22:07:00.002+01:00

Jane Rosoux writes

"I attach photographs taken on Saturday's walk from Hampden Park from which you can make a selection for the Rambling On blog.

"The weather was lovely and a party of eight set out from Hampden Park Station led by Clare Kirkbride. Because of a recent burst sewer beneath the section of the Cuckoo Trail Clare had been planning to use she had to make last-minute changes to the route but it did not spoil a delightful day out on the expansive marshland of the Pevensey Levels. We enjoyed the sights of huntsmen and hounds returning from a morning's hunting

,

"a scarecrow (a relatively uncommon sight these days)

"and the distant sight of the main Herstmonceaux observatory.

"Instead of returning to Hampden Park, we ended the walk at Polegate Station tired but happy."

Many Thanks Jane.

.

Enfield Lock via Epping Forest to Chingford

2010-10-03T18:33:00.026+01:00

After the deluge of the last few days Sunday dawned with clear patches of blue sky and NO RAIN!

Of course, nothing runs perfectly. I awoke at 5.30 this morning to discover that the Victoria Line was suspended. I duly took the Tube Replacement bus to Tottenham Hale only to be confronted by every Rambler's most persistent nightmare....

Some people had obviously been waiting for quite a while...

Sometimes I think there is a conspiracy against travelling at the weekend. As things worked out I arrived at the start of the walk by another train and only 3 or 4 minutes behind schedule.

Sadly I suspect the train problems and weather combined had deterred most walkers. Hardy only had two of us on his walk, though at least it ensured we kept to the brisk pace advertised.

Early on we encountered some horses which had obviously shrunk in the rain...

We managed to avoid the perils of flying Golf balls...

and Fly Agaric hallucinations...

The highlight was the atmospheric stockade of Loughton Camp....

[The Intrepid Trio at Loughton Camp. From Left,Hardy, Selinda and myself.]

We headed into the West alongside Connaught Water, happy with nine miles walked and the sunshine breaking out once more. Many thanks Hardy.

UPDATE: 10.30 p.m. Hardy has sent me the following message:

"I reconnoitred the walk from Enfield Lock to Chingford 6 times before I decided on the exact route and finally led it. The first half is through fields, over a few hills and the flood-plain of River Lee. The second part through Epping Forest is glorious, especially the section through Loughton Camp.

The weather was not as glorious as the views and Train cancellations must also have put some people off, but it was disappointing that only two other people turned up. I would have been happier if there had been more walkers benefitting from my labour of love."

.

2010-09-15T20:18:00.011+01:00

I attach photographs taken on Wednesday's 12 mile walk from Tring to Berkhamstead led by Pat Hully from which to make a selection for your blog.

[Pat is pictured below].

There were 11 of us in the party

and the weather was quite good although cooler than of late. The sun even came out during our ascent of Ivinghoe Beacon, which enhanced the views.

Best wishes,
Jane

Cherry Tree Wood to Gillespie Park

2010-09-13T20:55:00.029+01:00

Yesterday I had the enjoyable task of leading a walk of my own.
It was a fine sunny day, and I was lucky enough to have my wife Angela helping me.

23 other Ramblers joined us for a walk through North London's ancient woodlands and nature reserves.

I'm wittering on at the left in this photo. I always try and give my walking groups some background on the areas we walk through.

We went through Highgate and Queen's Woods. As always, we found some quirky artworks in the latter.

I think these tea bag chains are a comment on our wasteful consumer lifestyles. Either that or they are just chains of used teabags...

We moved on to the Parkland Walk, a linear Nature Reserve created from a disused railway line.

This is the group going through the remains of Crouch End station platforms.

We said hello to the Spriggan again....

The Spriggan is an elf or pixie, known for causing mischief and stealing children. The Spriggan sculpture is by Marilyn Collins. Click Here for more info on her work.

We went through Finsbury Park and then onwards to Gillespie Park Nature Reserve...

Pictured above are Henriette and Angela, with Mollie the Labradoodle; all heading to Gillespie Park with the Emirates Stadium in the distance.

We arrived at Gillespie park after 5 leisurely miles. The Ecology Centre was celebrating it's 23rd anniversary. There was delicious organic food, homemade jams and chutneys, not to forget

Morris Men!!!

I leave you with a group photo I took.

Thanks to everyone who came and made the walk so enjoyable.

Especial thanks to Jane Rosoux for all the other photos above.

.

Saxon Shore Way: Swale to Gillingham

2010-09-13T12:56:00.001+01:00

Jane Rosoux writes...

"I attach photographs taken on Saturday's 16-mile walk along the Saxon Shore Way fro Swale to Gillingham from which you make a selection for the Rambling On blog.

A small party of six left Swale Station, of which I was the only Hampstead Group member. The weather at the start of the walk was dry and warm but fairly cloudy and windy. However, the sun came out later and the wind abated and it turned out to be a very pleasant day.

The 7-mile morning walk to our lunch stop at Lower Halstow was mainly along sea walls and over marshland with very little signs of human habitation.

We were astonished by the number of rabbits we saw running to their burrows when they heard us coming. 'The Three Tuns' pub served good, very reasonably-priced, food and the church also served refreshments so if we had not brought packed lunches we would not have gone hungry!

Two of the party dropped out at Lower Halstow but the remaining four of us enjoyed further attractive coastal walking and also a number of orchards full of small trees laden with a variety of apples and plums. Beyond Rainham we encountered increasing numbers of people enjoying a day out and when we came to the Riverside Country Park on the outskirts of Gillingham we enjoyed a refreshing cup of tea!"

Chipstead to Coulsdon South

2010-09-09T17:46:00.003+01:00

Jane Reports....

"I attach photographs taken on Wednesday's 10 mile walk from Chipstead to Coulsdon South via Banstead Woods, Hooley and Farthing Down from which you can make a selection for the Rambling On blog.

There were six of us in the party...

... and we were fortunate that the weather was dry and warm, albeit somewhat cloudy

... although it started to rain almost immediately the walk ended!"

.

Caterham Circular

2010-09-08T20:46:00.009+01:00

I attach photographs taken on Saturday's circular walk from Caterham, which was joint with the North West London Group. Our party of 13 were very fortunate with the weather, which was warm and largely dry, albeit somewhat overcast for most of the day.

The leader, Jerry O'Connor, led us along an attractive route via Tandridge, where we had our lunch stop at the 'Barley Mow' pub, at a good pace.

[Jerry O'Connor making a new friend above..]

We returned to Caterham Station very soon after 5.00, having covered 17 miles at 3 mph, excluding stops.

Many Thanks Jane, for both photos and report.

.

Witley circular via Dunsfold

2010-08-31T20:40:00.002+01:00

Jane Rosoux reports....

"I attach photographs taken on Sunday's 11 mile circular walk from Witley Station via Dunsfold led by Barbara Luke from which to make a selection for the Rambling On blog.

[Barbara is pictured above, checking her map].

The weather was good and the party of ten enjoyed a varied and interesting walk.

Dunsfold, where we had our lunch stop, was a particularly attractive village and we were fortunate to glimpse displays of military planes from the nearby Wings and Wheels airshow.

Many thanks Jane.

.

In search of the Black Poplar...

2010-08-31T20:18:00.000+01:00

Michael and Olga Way sent me this report....

"14 people braved horrendous travel arrangements on Bank Holiday Monday for Joe Garver's 10-mile stroll round the Vale of Aylesbury from Wendover.

"It finished with a cream tea at St Mary's Church, Weston Turville, and a walk along the Wendover arm of the Grand Union canal back to the station.

"As a newcomer from Hammersmith and Fulman group commented -- ''At last I've met the legendary Joe Garver.'' [Joe is above in the yellow jacket].

"For travel enthusiasts, it took us 3 trains to get there, via Princes Risborough and Aylesbury. Others caught a selection of buses. Lovely sunny day"

Michael and Olga Way

Hertford East Circular

2010-08-28T22:27:00.024+01:00

A gloriously warm and sunny day contrasted with the weather of the last few days for Michael and Olga Way's walk.

Despite severe Tube disruptions no less than Thirteen walkers joined Michael for an interesting and enjoyable Ramble around Hertford East.

[Michael and Olga are 3rd and 4th from the left above].

Among the walkers were a visitor from Carolina in the United States, and a walker new to Rambling. Yet again a Short (6 miles) walk on a Saturday proved exceedingly popular.

Early on in the walk we crossed over a weir where an intrepid canoist was demonstrating his skills to a rapt audience...

Fairy rings were much in evidence...

We picnicked in the glorious sunshine on the banks of the River Lea...

In the afternoon we reached Scott's Grotto.
Built in the 18th Century English Heritage describe it as "the finest grotto in the country." The chambers and passageways are decorated with thousands of seashells, coloured glass and flints..

[The entrance to Scott's Grotto].

I managed to find our leader despite the darkness!...

We even managed to fit in a quick drink in Ware.

Everyone had a great day. With views like this, how could we not?

.

Capital Ring - Boston Manor to South Kenton

2010-08-27T21:04:00.002+01:00

Jane Rosoux reports....

"I attach photographs taken on last Wednesday's walk along the Capital Ring from Boston Manor to South Kenton led by Susan Holman, which completed the circuit of the walker's North and South Circular roads.

"The weather was not brilliant and I was very late at the start and did not catch up with the other four members of the party until the Horsenden Hill Visitor Centre where they were on the point of restarting after a picnic lunch.

"Despite the rain all enjoyed what is one of the most attractive sections of the Capital Ring."

.

Mill Hill East to Mill Hill Broadway

2010-08-13T22:02:00.001+01:00

Below is a selection of photos taken by Jane Rosoux on last Wednesday's walk from Mill Hill East to Mill Hill Broadway led by Ann Timlett.

Ann Timlett leading the way.

Ann led thirteen of us along an interesting but attractive route.

The lunch stop was at the Gate public house....

.

Vanguard Way 2 - Oxted to Forest Row

2010-08-09T22:48:00.000+01:00

Jane Rosoux writes...

"There were five of us in the party, including the leader, Henriette Van Zaelen, and on leaving Oxted Station we quickly reached the point on the north side of the M25 at which we had left the Vanguard Way on the first leg from East Croydon on the 18th July. On reaching Limpsfield Chart after having walked a little over 5 miles we had a short stop at St Andrew's Church ....

"We then continued another 5 miles to our planned lunch stop at Haxted Mill, a restored water mill on a tributory of the River Eden...

"Rested and refreshed we continued south and it was not long before we arrived at the moated Starborough Castle. The route description from there was confusing but we rejoined the Vanguard Way after a detour past New Barns Farm and were soon passing Dry Hill Reservoir.

"From that point there would still have been more than 4 miles to walk to Forest Row from where we had been intending to catch a bus to East Grinstead, with its hourly train service to London. But as it was getting late and we had already walked over 15 miles we decided to leave the Vanguard Way at that point, cut out the bus journey, and head for Dormans Station, 3 miles away.

"We arrived back in London tired but glad we had done the walk.

Many Thanks Jane...

.

Wendover Circular

2010-07-31T18:34:00.000+01:00

The 30th July walk was a departure for Hampstead, taking place on a Friday. Jane reports as follows...

"Once again we were fortunate with the weather and Joe had devised another very interesting route. There were 15 in the party - excellent for a [weekday] walk. We started off by following the ancient Ridgeway Path southeast to Barn Wood...

"then northeast towards Wendover Woods where we then headed northwest to Dancers End Nature Reserve, where we had a short stop...

[Joe is centre left in the blue shirt]

"....before making our way to the Cafe in the Woods for lunch. Not surpringly, it was a hive of activity. In the afternoon we headed towards Halton and then followed the Wendover Arm of the Grand Union Canal back to Wendover. It was very attractive with lots of reeds and other vegetation and it would be a great pity if the plans to reinstate it as an operational canal ever came to fruition.

.

Leatherhead Circular

2010-07-27T18:08:00.000+01:00

"There were 9 in the party led by Jerry O'Connor and the weather was dry, warm and sunny for the most part.

[Jerry is 4th from the left].

"The route we followed involved hardly any road walking and took us through Norbury Park to a very busy Polesden Lacey, where we had a short stop. We then continued south across Ranmore Common and through the Wotton Estate to Friday Street where we ate our sandwiches beside the lake and then had drinks in the 'Stephen Langton' which, like Polesden Lacey, was abuzz with people.

"Our return route to Leatherhead was slightly to the east of but just as attractive as the morning route, finishing with a short stretch beside the River Mole. We had covered just under 22 miles in 6 hours 35 minutes, tired but happy."

Thank you Jane for the photos and report.

[I noticed from the photos how much common ragwort there was on the route, as can be seen in the photo above.]

Finally I couldn't resist featuring this fellow, i don't think he is a rambler....

.

Vanguard Way 1 - East Croydon to Oxted

2010-07-20T23:20:00.009+01:00

Jane Rosoux writes:
"I attach photographs taken on last Sunday's walk from East Croydon to Oxted led by Henriette Van Zaelen.

"There were 11 in the party and the weather was good.

[Henriette is front right, with blue cap].

"Most of the route followed the Vanguard Way and we stopped for lunch at 'The Bull' pub, Chelsham. As we continued southward and left London behind the scenery became more rural and soon we were on the the North Downs escarpment with the M25 below us and Oxted beyond.

"Rather than follow the Vanguard Way east from this point and then have to double back to Oxted Station, Henriette led us along short stretches of the North Downs Way and Greensand Way to the outskirts of Oxted.

"At that point we had covered 12.5 miles.

From there most of the party headed straight to the station, a further mile or so, whilst two of us retraced our steps to the North Downs Way and then followed an attractive 7-mile route via Marden Park to Caterham Station."

Many thanks to Jane for the report and photos.

Finally, Jane has sent a photo of an unusual bird she spotted on the walk....

Any identifications will be warmly welcomed!

.

Bayford Circular

2010-07-13T11:52:00.000+01:00

"Last Sunday a party of 6 enjoyed a very pleasant 10-mile circular ramble from Bayford led by Hardy Samsami. Much of it was through woodland, notably Broxbourne Wood, which provided welcome shade from the hot sun.

"Our lunch stop was a picnic in a grassy clearing."

Hardy is pictured (left) above.

Walk report and photos by Jane Rosoux.

.

Wealdway 1: Gravesend to Borough Green

2010-07-12T15:33:00.002+01:00

"There were 8 of us on Saturday's ramble along the Wealdway from Gravesend to Borough Green. Although the weather was hot it was bearable.

"We started by having a look at the statue of Princess Pocahuntas near the ferry terminal and the start of the Wealdway.

"However, instead of following the official route out of Gravesend along the busy A227 we took a quieter but slighly longer route via a B-road to join the Wealdway near Field Court.

"From there we were in very pleasant countryside following a well-waymarked trail, which was easy going.

"After 11 miles or so and around 3 hours 45 minutes we diverted to Harvel for lunch, where some picnicked whilst others enjoyed pub food at the 'Amazon and Tiger'. Soon after lunch we crossed the Pilgrim's Way then had a brief stop at Coldrum Long Barrow, from where we had good views of the North Downs away to the east. When we reached Wrotham Heath we decided to follow the Wealdway a little further to the south before heading west to Borough Green Station, which we reached at 5.45 pm after covering 19 miles in around 6 hours 30 minutes (excluding an hour for the lunch stop)."

Thanks to Jane for leading the walk, and sending me the walk report and the photos.

.

Christ's Hospital to Horsham

2010-07-05T22:16:00.000+01:00

Jane Rosoux writes...

"I attach photographs taken on today's 10 mile walk along the West Sussex Literary Trail from Christ's Hospital to Horsham led by Gill Henderson. There were eight in the party and the weather was very good.

The route took us past Itchingfield Church

....... with its Priest's House in its grounds....

Slinfold Church had been the intended lunch stop but we arrived too early - at 11.30 am. So we continued to Strood Green School where we picnicked in its extensive grounds. After lunch our route took us through a deer park and Warnham Estate, with a glimpse of Warnham Place in the distance. All too soon we were walking through the popular Horsham Park and the Carfax on our way to The Shelley Fountain...

Nearby was the fascinating Horsham Heritage Sundial

where the party split with some going for an earlier train whilst the rest of us enjoyed iced coffees.

The West Sussex Literary Trail (55 miles from Horsham to Chichester Cathedral) looked fascinating and Gill Henderson has offered to lead the rest of it for the Hampstead Group in 10-mile sections, one section per programme on Saturdays. She has also offered to lead most of the Serpent Trail, a 64-mile circuitous trail between Haslemere and Petersfield which links up heathland areas and is very scenic, for the group in 10-mile sections, one section per programme on Sundays.

Roach Valley Way: Rochford to Hockley

2010-06-28T16:46:00.002+01:00

"There were only four of us on the walk but we were blessed with perfect weather - sunny but not too hot.

"The going for the most part was easy and we made good speed to the lunch stop at Pagglesham Churchend, where we arrived at 12.30, having covered the first 7.5 miles in less than 2.5 hours. There we had our picnics in the churchyard then headed for the particularly attractive marshland near Lion Creek, which is now a nature reserve.

"From there we walked along the top of the embankment beside the River Crouch for 2.5 miles, wading through long, rough vegetation, which was hard going and slowed our pace, before at last arriving at Upper Raypitts Farm, where we headed north along field paths to Canewdon and a much-need drink. After a few problems route finding we arrived at Hockley Station at around 5.45 pm, having covered nearly 20 miles in around 6.5 hours of walking". Jane Rosoux, who kindly led the walk and provided both report and photography.

.

Coulsdon South Circular

2010-06-27T22:57:00.004+01:00

The last Sunday of June saw Caryn Mackenzie lead a 9 mile walk from Coulsdon via Farthing Down and Happy Valley. Coulsdon Common itself is rich in wild flowers and birds.

The weather was perfect...

Chaldon Church has been featured in this blog before...

Inside is a fascinating Medieval mural...

The area has some picture postcard type cottages...

I love the faded grandure of this opium poppy...

.

Thanks to Stella Stocker for the photos, which remain her copyright used by permission. Thanks also to Caryn for sending them on.

.

Hampstead Heath Circular

2010-06-23T16:25:00.004+01:00

"Monday 21st June (midsummer's day) saw 14 walkers join Robin Midwinter for a celebratory stroll across the Heath.

"The walk followed an interesting route round Hampstead Heath.

[Robin Midwinter]

"Robin had also planned to lead us through the Kenwood Estate but by the time we got there we found all the gates closed and he had to make last-minute adjustments to the route and shorten it slighly to 4.5 miles. At the end some of us enjoyed a refreshing drink in 'The Flask Tavern'

Jane Rosoux"

.

Wild Orchids in the Chiltern Hills

2010-06-22T16:44:00.006+01:00

Jane Rosoux reports:

This Hampstead group walk was led by Joe Garver on Sunday the 20th of June.

[Joe is centre, with stick].

"There were only nine of us on the walk but those who were put off by the engineering works, which affected both the Metropolitan Line and Chiltern Railways, missed a delighful 11 mile walk.

"We had good views, pretty villages and plenty of orchids and other wild flowers, not to mention a Roman snail, a Small Tortoiseshell butterfly and a Five-Spot Burnet moth.

"The walk included a half hour lunch stop at 'The Red Lion', Whiteleaf village".

.

Oxted Circular Via Westerham

2010-06-17T15:55:00.005+01:00

Here are some photos from Sunday's joint Hampstead Group / North West London Group circular walk from Oxted led by Stephen Bird.

There were seventeen of us on the walk, which was led by Stephen Bird and was very scenic and blessed with good weather.

The walk was 13 miles in all. Don't worry about the photo below - nobody had fallen in!

.

Capital Ring Section 4 Falconwood to Crystal Palace

2010-06-04T17:05:00.004+01:00

I attach photographs taken on Wednesday, 2nd June when Susan Holman led a party of 12 along the Capital Ring from Falconwood Station to Crystal Palace Station.

[Susan is centre, in green].

The weather was good and the 11 miles were covered at a brisk pace. The lunch stop was at the cafe at Beckenham Place Park. The walk finished with a brief tour of some of the attractions of Crystal Palace Park.

Jane Rosoux: Photos and Words.

Ore to Hastings

2010-05-30T17:40:00.001+01:00

I attach photographs taken on the Hampstead Group 20 mile ramble from Ore to Hastings on Saturday, 29th May led by Clare Kirkbride.

[Clare is 2nd left].

There were only 5 in the party, possibly because of the long journey and a bad weather forecast, although in the event although there was some rain it was not too bad. The route we took was along the Saxon Shore Way to Fairlight Glen but avoiding the steep ups and downs in the Fire Hills. We then followed the Royal Millitary Canal to Winchelsea, stopping for lunch at the 'New Inn', and returned to Hastings via the 1066 Country Walk, stopping for tea at 'The Plough' at Westfield.

It was a strenuous but enjoyable day.

.

Goring to Midgham

2010-05-17T22:02:00.000+01:00

Jane Rosoux writes...

A party of eight of us enjoyed a 14 mile scenic walk through countryside which is hardly ever visited by the Hampstead Group or, indeed, by other London groups.

As you can see our route took us past picturesque buildings and through farmland and woodland at their most colourful, with yellow oil-seed rape and pale green barley in the fields and extensive displays of bluebells and white campion, some intermixed, as well as other flowers, in the many woodlands and along the field edges.

>

On arriving at Midgham Station we had been planning to have a quick drink at a nearby pub whilst waiting for a train but Tim's timing was so perfect that we were able to board a train almost immediately.

Nutfield Circular via Outwood

2010-05-17T21:30:00.018+01:00

Yesterday saw 9 ramblers joining Michael and Olga Way for an 8 1/2 mile walk in wonderful Surrey countryside.

[Michael is above, second left].

Although the day was somewhat overcast at first, the weather cleared and the rain held off.

[Surrey countryside at its best...]

We walked through a fine mixture of farmland and woodland. It was a day for tradition. We passed sheep dog trials...

And there was a cricket game taking place on the pitch at Outwood...

The focus of the walk was the windmill at Outwood, the oldest working post mill in the country. You can find out more by going to the link here

[Olga is pictured centre, in the pink top.]

The lunch stop included a quick drink in the 17th century Bell Inn, where the group were treated to a sighting of theatrical royalty in the form of Dame Judi Dench, a local resident.

There were plenty of wild flowers to be seen...

This is Lesser Stitchwort.

Even the local animals were friendly...

.

Balcombe Circular

2010-05-14T23:04:00.001+01:00

Jane reports from Wednesday's 12 mile circular walk led by Pat Hully...

"A party of seven of us enjoyed a walk through very attractive countryside and the many wild flowers we saw even included some early orchids...

as well as dandelions, bugles...

blubells and wild garlic...

Our morning route followed quiet footpaths past Little and Great Strudgate Farms and Chiddingly Farm to the picturesque village of West Hoathly for lunch.

We then followed the High Weald Landscape Trail to the eastern shore of Ardingly Reservoir where a flotilla of sailing dinghies added dashes of colour to the revervoir's waters....

Upon reaching Balcombe Mill we had a short, sharp climb out of the valley and found ourselves back at Balcombe Station all too soon."

.

Princes Risborough circular

2010-05-10T23:02:00.017+01:00

Yesterday nine of us joined June Craig for a brisk 12 mile walk around some fine Chiltern countryside.

[June is pictured above, extreme right.]

Despite a profusion of signposts June led us unerringly through fields and beech woods.

In the beech hangers wild garlic and native bluebells still carpeted the ground.

The lunchtime pub had a most unusual water feature in the duckpond...

Everyone had an enjoyable day. Well, almost everyone-

We got back to the station 5 minutes before our train. Sadly it wasn't the one we saw earlier in the afternoon, but you can't win 'em all....

.

Capital Ring Section 3 - West Ham to Falconwood

2010-05-06T21:13:00.001+01:00

Jane Rosoux reports...

"I attach photographs taken on Wednesday's 12 mile walk along the Capital Ring from West Ham to Falconwood led by Susan Holman. The weather was not too bad and nine joined Susan...

[Susan Holman is second left above.]

It was an interesting and varied route which followed a section of the Greenway...

...then turned south through Beckton District Park in which a tree trail is being established...

The walk passed the Royal Albert Dock, Galleons Reach and the end of the runway at London City airport...

Going south, we crossed the Thames at Woolwich, then via Sevendroog Castle

before reaching the welcome cafe at Oxleas Meadow from which, on a clear day, there is an extensive view across south-east London.

From there the route wound through the ancient Oxleas Wood to the end of this section at Falconwood Station."

.

Chesham circular

2010-05-04T21:36:00.013+01:00

Hampstead Ramblers trod boldly into May with two walks in two days.

On Saturday Gary and Eladia Cleary led a 10 mile walk around Chesham, the first of two walks in the Chilterns this weekend.

Jane Rosoux sent some images from both...

There were 9 walkers in total.

We saw some colourful hedges...

And the historic church in Little Missenden, with its mediaeval frescoes, didn't disappoint...

There was plenty of rain but spirits weren't dampened! The rivers were full though...

Many Thanks to Jane Rosoux for the photos and reports...

.

Wendover Circular Bluebell Walk

2010-05-03T20:36:00.000+01:00

Despite Heavy overnight rain which continued into the morning, 13 people joined Joe Garver for a 13.5 mile walk in search of bluebells. Jane Rosoux sent us these photographs.

[Joe Garver is on the extreme right.]

The route was ingeniously planned and took in many bluebell woods...

By the end of the day, even the sun broke through!

.

Tring to Berkhamsted

2010-04-26T21:22:00.017+01:00

On Sunday Maija Roberts led eight Hampstead members on a 10 mile walk from Tring to Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire.

The weather was showery to start with but improved gradually through the day.

Wood Anemone was in bloom.

The walk covered some hilly terrain...

We stopped for a quick cuppa by the canal at the strangely named Cow Roast.

Apparently the area was originally called Cow Rest, and was in fact a staging post for the cattle drovers coming down from the Midlands to the London markets.

Cattle were not the only animals around- we passed a llama farm en route...

The high point (literally) was at the Bridgewater Monument just above Aldbury...

We all made it to the station a couple of minutes before the train. Many thanks to Maija for an enjoyable walk in some varied terrain.

.

Haddenham to Aylesbury

2010-04-25T21:42:00.000+01:00

Jane Rosoux writes...

"I attach a selection of the photographs I took on my ramble from Haddenham & Thame Parkway to Aylesbury.

It was a lovely day on Saturday, albeit somewhat hazy, and six of us spent an enjoyable 16 miles walking through picture-postcard villages, such as Long Crendon, and attractive farmland in the Vale of Aylesbury.

The oil-seed rape was in full flower,

the National Trust Courthouse at Long Crendon opened as we were passing,

the hawthorn bushes were covered in blossom,

orchids, dandelions and lesser celandines were amongst other wild flowers in bloom.

And whilst we waited at Aylesbury for our train back to London we were able to enjoy very good value tea, coffee and cakes courtesy of Morrisons!"

Many thanks to Jane for leading the walking, reporting and photographing it!

.

Chorleywood Circular

2010-04-13T20:43:00.001+01:00

Gabriel Newfield led this walk for Hampstead Ramblers. Jane Rosoux reports...

"I attach photographs I took on today's 14.5 mile circular ramble from Chorleywood led by Gabriel Newfield from which to make a selection for the Rambling On blog.

There were 14 in the party and the weather was good.

[Gabriel is fourth from the left.]

We passed the picturesque Sarratt Church...

shortly after the service had ended. After a brief stop in the woods we followed good paths across rolling farmland and then the Twelve Apostles Pond...

... - the twelve apostles were twelve trees but they are well past their prime.

'The Windmill' pub at Chipperfield was our lunch stop. Nearby was a pond where the surrounding vegetation had been cut back leaving a fine display of lesser celandine.

In the afternoon we continued to pass many fields of horses (I cannot recall seeing a single farm animal!) and we returned to Chorleywood via the Chess valley and its extensive watercress beds."

.

Capital Ring Section 2 - Highgate to West Ham

2010-04-12T16:22:00.001+01:00

Jane Rosoux writes...

"I attach some photographs taken on yesterday's 12 mile walk along the Capital Ring from Highgate to West Ham led by Susan Holman from which to select a few for the Rambling On blog. 13 people joined Susan on the walk, which was a very good turnout for a midweek walk, despite the weather not being very good with light rain for much of the time. The route was very interesting and took us along the Parkland Walk...

... past Stoke Newington Library and through Abney Park Cemetery...

to lunch at Springfield Park. It then followed the River Lea Navigation past Walthamstow Marshes to the Olympic Stadium site and the Greenway (Northern Outfall Sewer Embankment)...

... which seems to be a lot less green now that much of the vegetation has been removed and replaced by a broad strip of tarmac and concrete more suitable for cyclists than leisure walkers!

However, the "View Tube" near Pudding Mill Lane Station, at the point where the Greenway is crossed by the railway line at surface level, was quite interesting and further on near Abbey Mills Pumping Station there was an unusual sundial embedded in the tarmac.

The walk ended all too soon and we look forward to the next section next month."

.

Lewes Circular

2010-04-09T15:57:00.001+01:00

Jane Rosoux reports on Clare Kirkbride's 20 mile circular walk around Lewes...

"There were 11 in the party at the start, 9 of whom did the full distance.

[Clare Kirkbride 2nd left]

We were very lucky with the weather, which was dry with some sun but quite breezy. Clare had chosen an attractive route with plenty of excellent views and also selected a good spot for our picnic lunch where some gorse bushes were so effective as a wind break that it felt positively warm.

[A rare picture of Jane Rosoux, 2nd left]

Although it was muddy in places we made such good speed that some of the party managed to catch the 4.50 pm train back. The rest of us enjoyed a brief tour of some of the attractions of Lewes, including the horse pond and the castle,...

...which dates from 1066. Towards the end of the walk we passed the Pioneer V8 car shown below...

...a local man returning from exercising his Barbary falcon...

... and a bare-chested canoist on the river Ouse..."

As usual the reports are greatly appreciated.

.

An Alternative Means of Travel......

2010-04-03T17:05:00.003+01:00

Lindsey Purchall provides an appropriately Easter-themed blog post today...

"I went on the very enjoyable ‘St. Albans to Markyate’ walk on Saturday, ably led by Elizabeth Parsons, who, among other achievements, guided us faultlessly, entertained us with numerous engaging stories, and not least got us to the Redbournbury Water Mill before the bakery shop shut.

It was in this establishment, as I purchased a pair of freshly baked spicy wholemeal hot cross buns, that the serving lady addressed me thus:

“Where are you walking today?”

“We’ve come from St. Albans and we are going on to Markyate”.

“How do you get from here to Markyate?”

I was about to reply circumspectly that I wasn’t quite sure but had every faith in our leader, when she went on with a very puzzled expression:

“I mean, I know how to get there by car, but...”

And then as though light suddenly dawned:

“Oh! I suppose there are footpaths!”

It occurred to me that there must be a substantial proportion of the population of the United Kingdom who have utterly no concept of how to travel around other than by car.

We have a mountain to climb here to wean people off their petrol dependency, and start reducing pollution levels.

At least in London there are some active campaigns to encourage people to walk and cycle more, but of course it is much more difficult in rural areas where it can be dangerous to use either method of transport on narrow lanes.

I like to think that perhaps there is one person at the mill who might think about finding some local footpaths to walk when not surrounded by delicious mounds of crusty bread and teacakes."

Thanks Lindsey, and I would like to wish everyone a very Happy Easter.

Steve.
.

Kings Langley Circular with the London Blind Ramblers

2010-03-31T15:48:00.001+01:00

Saturday March 20th saw members of the Hampstead Ramblers joining up with the peripatetic and ever-cheerful London Blind Ramblers.

We were ably led by Michael Way, pictured centre, below.

Although conditions were showery at first, the rain cleared and everyone enjoyed a fine day.

Dexter the guide dog especially enjoyed a chance to run free and let his human be guided by us for a change!...

Michael writes…

“Thanks to all Hampstead group members who helped out on Saturday March 20th with our annual walk with the London Blind Ramblers' Group -- this year a circular from Kings Langley with a stop at Chipperfield. There were record numbers -- 21 of us in all, and it all went very well.

Best regards Michael Way”

.

Pulborough Circular via Fittleworth

2010-03-31T15:06:00.001+01:00

I attach some ofthe photographs I took. There were six of us including the leader Gill Henderson...

Forecast rain did not materialise and we even had some glimpses of the sun. Gill led us along a very attractive 11 mile route with good views, partly along the Serpent Trail over the heathland of the Western Weald where we stopped for an early picnic lunch. The highlight of the walk was drifts of wild yellow daffodils in full flower amongst recently-coppiced birch woodland...

but we also saw white wood anemonies...

and yellow primroses....

Spring has sprung at last."

Many thanks as always to Jane Rosoux for her report and photography.

.

The Ghosts of Hampstead and Highgate

2010-03-26T14:48:00.000Z

Jane Rosoux reports...

"I attach the photographs I took on Wednesday's 7 mile 'Ghosts of Hampstead and Highgate' walk. There were 10 of us at the start, several of whom were not regular walkers.

When we reached Hampstead Village many were much more fascinated by the old buildings and quaint streets than the locations of the 'ghosts'. Nevertheless, we eventually made it to the 'Spaniards Inn' where some of us had lunch whilst others had picnics or went on to the Kenwood House cafe. We continued with the planned route after lunch, although not everyone could muster the energy to go up to the Tumulus, and most made it to Highgate, albeit somewhat later than I had led them to expect!"

Many Thanks Jane.

.

Capital Ring Section 1 - South Kenton to Highgate

2010-03-18T22:51:00.001Z

On Wednesday the 10th of March Susan Holman started off on her planned series of walks around the Capital Ring, 75 miles of footpaths through parks,open spaces, canal sides and rivers.

Susan is in purple, centre rear of the photo.

The majority of this first leg is through parkland, although the Welsh Harp offers some watery variation.

Susan will be leading the next section on Wednesday 7th April 2010.

.

Tring Circular around the Ashridge Estate.

2010-03-18T13:50:00.003Z

Jane Rosoux writes.....

"I attach the photographs I took on Saturday's Hampstead Ramblers' walk from Tring mainly along the Ashridge Estate Boundary Trail.

Although the weather was cloudier and chillier than forecast it was quite pleasant - dry with some sunny spells. A party of 10 started out from Tring Station around 10.10 am...

...and, upon reaching the Ashridge Visitor Centre near the Bridgewater Monument, we set off anticlockwise along the Boundary Trail, which had been established in 1995 to celebrate the National Trust's Centenary.

The waymarking was generous....

The going underfoot was good and the route took us through attractive woodland, farmland and chalk downland with good views...

...The day concluded when 7 of us continued up to Gallows Hill and Ivinghoe Beacon

where the views were enhanced by the late afternoon sun and as we followed The Ridgeway Path back to Tring Station we had glimpses of a fine sunset through the trees...

We just made the 5.56 train back to London with 2 minutes to spare! All present were very pleased with the 18 mile Boundary Trail and would be happy to do it again, perhaps in late autumn when the leaves are turning."

Thank You Jane.

.

Five Peaks Walk

2010-02-28T22:08:00.000Z

Jane Rosoux writes....

"I attach a few photographs of the Tumulus on Hampstead Heath, the Alexandra Palace section of the Parkland Walk and Alexandra Palace itself for your Rambling On blog.

These were all passed on Robin Midwinter's walk from Regent's Park Station to Alexandra Palace Station on Saturday, 27th February. The morning was overcast and drizzly and not good for photography. It was also very wet and muddy underfoot as a result of the rain on Friday and overnight.

Nevertheless, Robin had 9 other participants at one time or another. He led a convoluted route which went via Regent's Park and Primrose Hill to enter Hampstead Heath near Gospel Oak Station.

[The Tumulus, probably a Neolithic burial mound...]

[....Certainly the oldest man-made feature on the Heath]

He then went via Parliament Hill, the Tumulus, Viaduct Pond, the Vale of Health Pond, Whitestone Pond, West Heath (the Pergola was closed for repairs) and Golders Hill Park. Lunch was taken at 'The Old Bull and Bush'. After lunch he crossed Sandy Heath to the 'Spaniards Inn', entered Kenwood by Ikin Gate and left it by Millfield Gate then went along Fitzroy Park to Highgate and through Highgate Wood to the Parkland Walk...

...then via Alexandra Palace, where a motorbike show was taking place, to Alexandra Palace Station.

[Robin Midwinter, the walk leader, on the Parkland Walk.]

The total distance was around 11 miles."

Many Thanks to Jane for the report and the photos.

.

Haywards Heath Circular

2010-02-23T20:41:00.000Z

Jane Rosoux Reports

"I attach photographs taken yesterday on the 18 mile circular walk from Haywards Heath led by Clare Kirkbride.

Seven of us set out from Haywards Heath Station around 9.10 am. There should have been an eighth member of the party but he missed the train from Victoria Station because of problems with his ticket. We headed north and were soon in open country. There were still traces of frost on the ground and the sky was almost cloudless.

There was also virtually no wind to ruffle the water of Ardingly Reservoir, parts of which was covered by a thin layer of ice. As we skirted round the north bank of the reservoir we passed a lone fisherman and several swans. We then headed west through Balcombe towards our lunch stop at Handcross / Nymans.

On the way we went along an 'unadopted' road and passed aerials disguised as trees...

and signs on a telegraph pole warning of unusual wildlife!...

By then the sky had begun to cloud over but on our return to Haywards Heath, which was largely via the High Weald Landscape Trail, we passed through the very attractive villages of Bolney (where we admired the interesting architecture) and Cuckfield (where we stopped for refreshments). Although there had been no hills to speak of most of the paths were very muddy and we arrived back at Haywards Heath Station at 5.35 pm tired but happy."

Many thanks Jane.

.

A Midwinter Walk

2010-02-11T21:56:00.000Z

Jane Rosoux writes...

"Unfortunately, I noticed too late that the batteries have gone in my camera and I was unable to take any photographs of Robin Midwinter's circular walk from Golders Green on Wednesday. There were 10 participants and Robin led us on a circuitous walk across Hampstead Heath Extension to Hampstead Garden Suburb and Big Wood then via a different part of the Extension to Spaniards Road to enter Kenwood by Ikin Gate.

"From there he went to the source of the River Fleet (or rather Highgate brook) and followed the brook to Parliament Hill Fields. From there he went via Parliament Hill to Whitestone Pond then down to the Bull and Bush / Golders Hill Park cafe for the lunch stop after 6 miles.

"After lunch there was just a mile to go. We went through the Hill Garden to the Pergola (which was closed for repairs) then through Golders Hill Park back to Golders Green Station.

"The weather was cold and there were a few flakes of snow so for your blog I attach some photographs of Hampstead Heath and Kenwood which I took on the 6th January 2010..."

Polegate to Seaford

2010-01-31T23:44:00.000Z

Jane Rosoux writes.. "I attach photographs which I took on today's joint Hampstead / South Bank / Hammersmith, Fulham and Wandsworth Group walk from Polegate to Seaford led by Clare Kirkbride. A party of 26 set out from Polegate at 10.15 am, including participants from the Kensington, Chelsea and Westminster, Brentwood and North West London Groups as well as three who were not Ramblers' Association members.

The day was cold but dry and started off sunny but gradually clouded over. In the morning we followed the 1066 Country Walk to Jevington and then the South Downs Way to Alfriston for the lunch stop.

After lunch we departed from the route in the programme and climbed up on the ridge to the north of Seaford before dropping down to Bishopstone where there was a converted tithe barn...

...and an old church with a sundial above the porch...

After negotiating an unusual stile...

...and passing through Bishopstone Station we walked along Seaford front and arrived at Seaford Station at around 4.20 pm, having covered 14 miles at around 3 mph."

Thank You Jane.

.

Box Hill to Leatherhead

2010-01-25T21:15:00.002Z

Yesterday Michael Way lead a walk from Box Hill and Westhumble to Leatherhead. Accompanying Michael were 17 ramblers...

The meltwater and rain combined to produce some rather muddy terrain, and you can see how swollen the River Mole appears...

Many thanks to Rambler Ros Sweetman for the photos. You can find more of her pictures on her Flickr account, by clicking here.

.

Twyford to Henley Linear

2010-01-21T09:39:00.013Z

Last Saturday saw six of us accompanying Tim Johnson on a linear walk through newly accessible parts of the Thames Path.

Tim is pictured above (third from left).

There was still a fair amount of snow and ice on the ground.

But it was the meltwater which caused us problems. The photo below is of a ford...

Click on the photo to enlarge and you will see the ford is under 4 feet of water!

I am glad to report that we all managed to stay dry and warm for an enjoyable walk which included visits to two excellent hostelries en route.

I close by thanking Keith Hodgson for all the photos in this report. The landscape looked stunning, as you can see from the final two photos below.

.

Richmond Circular, Saturday January 9th.

2010-01-14T20:29:00.000Z

This image looks peaceful enough, a quiet walk on a winter's day....

But Look behind!!...

As Jane Rosoux reports....

"There were more than 60 people at the start of Saturday's 10 mile circular walk from Richmond Station which was joint with the Metropolitan Walkers and led by Clare Wadd.

Nearly half were members of the Hampstead and other geographical groups, many of whom had been attracted to this walk because their intended walk this weekend had been cancelled.

The weather was bright but cold and the conditions underfoot quite icy but all kept up a quite a good pace through Richmond Park and onto the Thames near Kingston where we stopped briefly to eat our sandwiches. The pace speeded-up slightly after lunch and after passing three intrepid canoists and the frozen-up Hampton Lock...

we soon arrived at 'The White Cross' pub near the end of the walk where some of us had a refeshing drink whilst warming-up...

In the event the length of the walk and the terrain were just right for the conditions."

The Photos above are by Jane. One of our other Hampstead members is Lindsey, and she makes her Rambling On... debut with this photograph, a lovely study of a frozen Lake in Richmond Park...

Many Thanks to both of you. All photos and walk reports are very gratefully received.

.

Tracing the River Fleet from Temple to Hampstead

2010-01-05T16:29:00.002Z

Jane Rosoux writes..."A party of more than 40 set out from Temple Station on Sunday at 10.40 a.m. and enjoyed bright but cold conditions.

"The point under Blackfriars road bridge at which the Fleet flows into the Thames was pointed out and, shortly afterwards, the Golden Boy of Pye Corner...

.
"We soon passed Barts Hospital...

...."then Smithfield Market, and then followed an interesting route to St Pancras Old Church via small streets and alleys (passing the lady shown below high up on a wall)...

"...and through St Pancras Station where we visited the well-appointed (free) toilets. The image below was taken at St Pancras Old Church.

"We then walked up St Pancras Way to the 'Constitution' pub beside Regent's Canal

"By the time we arrived at the Talacre Square Community Sports Centre / 'Prince of Wales' pub at 12.45 pm, which were over half way, we were ready for lunch and those of us who brought our food found convenient tables and chairs at first floor level. Unfortunately, a few who ordered food from the snack bar were still waiting to be served by the time the rest of us were ready to leave at around 1.35 pm but the party still numbered over 30.

"We passed through estates of fine houses and other buildings on the way to the lowest of the existing Hampstead ponds. We then followed the Hampstead brook to its source

"before climbing up to the Vale of Health, Cannon Place and Well Passage to arrive at the site of the medicinal well which was developed into Hampstead Spa

"After reaching Hampstead Station, having covered around 7.5 miles, a few of us walked another 2 miles to Golders Green Station via Hampstead Parish Church where the artist John Constable and John Harrison of longitude fame are buried..."

Many Thanks as usual Jane. It should be noted that Jane had only come back from our New Year trip the day before leading this one!

.

New Year Break in Bungay

2010-01-04T21:01:00.001Z

A group of sixteen Hampstead Ramblers joined together on a walking holiday in the latter days of December. The holiday was organised by Annie Lynn, and the walks were led by Carole Swithern. In all we covered some 30 + miles over 3 days.

We stayed at "Quiet Waters"

As the sign might imply, ramblers are not their usual clientele, but the welcome we received was absolutely top class. The accommodation was bright and cheerful, and the staff really pushed the boat out. Home-made cakes and tea awaited us on our return, and the evening dinners were made with local ingredients; a lot of the veg we ate had actually been grown in their extensive gardens.

The weather was very cold from the outset, and by New Year's Eve it had started to snow. We all enjoyed a walk in the countryside around Bungay itself on January 1st.

Our first day of walking saw us down at the coast, in Southwold. One village had really gone to town on their Christmas decorations...

A little further on we passed an alms-house with this motto on display...

Our route took us through Benacre, a nature reserve...

Melt-water from snow further North had raised the water levels considerably, and flooded boardwalks led a few of us to get wet feet.

Most of us managed a smile nevertheless...

Our second day of walking found us doing a circular walk around Framlingham Castle. Insert PICTURE.

Our last day of walking was the First of January. A crisp blanket of snow greeted us for our first walk of the year...

The high water levels in this part of East Anglia again proved problematic. A footbridge on our route had been rendered unusable due to floodwater. We spent quite a while wondering how to get across here without wading in a fast flowing river.

In the end we managed to scramble onto the bridge from the side after approaching it along an island. We all managed to get across, and the only thing that got wet was a hat dropped by one of our party. The photo below gives an idea of the gap we had to negotiate...

We had to be flexible about route planning; this was where one of the footpaths led - normally a field, but not today...

We all had a great time, and our games of Jenga in the evenings kept us all on our toes -- and sometimes on our knees too!

I close with a group photo by the real log fire and the biggest Christmas tree I have ever been privileged to share... Thank again to Annie (first on the left) and Carole (right front), and everyone who made the trip enjoyable. Here's to many happy walks in 2010.

Happy New Year to all!

.

Island Gardens to Waterloo

2009-10-23T16:58:00.001+01:00

Jane Rosoux reports...

"I attach a few photographs taken on Sunday's 7 mile walk along the Gerald Colton Way Extension from Island Gardens to Waterloo led by Robin Midwinter. Disappointingly there were only four present at the start. It is possible that others were put off by engineering works on the DLR and on other lines but they missed an interesting walk in good weather which had brought out the crowds.

Robin started off along the Thames Path then headed for Mudchute Farm before making for Canary Wharf by an indirect route.

He then headed for The Thames, passing the statue (pictured below)

to follow the North Bank Thames Path to Wapping and the lunch stop at the 'Town of Ramsgate'.

Here I joined the party to make it five, having set out too late, gone to Canary Wharf and then wrongly guessed the route between there and Island Gardens. We crossed to the South Bank of The Thames via Tower Bridge...

The final image shows a skeleton sitting on a wall - perhaps getting ready to jump on Hallowe'en?"

.

Eastbourne Circular

2009-10-20T16:19:00.001+01:00

Jane Rosoux reports...

"A party of 12 set out on Saturday for the 20 mile walk from Eastbourne on a slightly chilly but bright day. We were rewarded by fine views of Beachy Head, the Seven Sisters, the Cuckmere Valley and Seaford Head in the distance.

Not all were experienced walkers and one dropped out at the halfway point at Exceat where we stopped for lunch. The afternoon saw a change of scenery with a section of the Friston Forest, Litlington village and then a climb up to Lullington Heath National Nature Reserve. After welcome refreshments at Jevington we got back to Eastbourne Station at around 5.15 pm."

Jane kindly took and sent the following photos...

Clare Kirkbride (third from left), led the walk.

Hampstead Heath Autumn Ramble, 7th October

2009-10-11T20:43:00.011+01:00

Hampstead Stalwart Robin Midwinter led a mid-week walk around the Heath last week.

There was a party of twelve, pictured below. Robin is on the extreme left.

The early autumn colours were stunning... I leave you with some views, taken by Jane Rosoux...

.

Wivelsfield Circular

2009-09-27T19:57:00.011+01:00

The walk started at around 9.20 am with a party of five - Clare, the leader, Patrick, Michele, me and a new member of the RA - and the Hampstead Group - who had not been on a led ramble before but walked a lot as part of his job as a postman. Unfortunately, after a very short distance he found the pace rather challenging and with the prospect of another 19+ miles agreed that his best option was to turn back.

[left-to-right, Jane, Clare and Michele.]

The weather was dry and warm but very hazy. The ground was very dry and firm underfoot and one notable feature of the walk was the numerous stiles we encountered. Many of them were small versions of the ladder type:

Our route also took us through fields containing free-range hens

llamas (or alpacas?)

and also many juicy blackberries

The most strenuous part of the walk was a stiffish climb up to Ditchling Beacon. From there we followed the South Downs Way to Blackcap then had a steep descent through woodland before reaching the 'Half Moon' at Plumpton for our lunch stop. Our return route to Wivelsfield took us past Plumpton racecourse and the Polish war memorial adjoining 'The Plough' at Plumpton

We stopped at 'The Cock Inn', Wivelsfield Green for a refreshing drink and arrived back at Wivelsfield Station at 5.23 pm just as the London-bound train was pulling in to the platform - excellent timing. We had walked 21 miles at an average speed of 3.5 mph whilst on the move (3.2 mph if only the lunch and 'tea' stops totalling 65 minutes are excluded).

[Report by Jane Rosoux, with many thanks....]

.

East Finchley to Finsbury Park, A surprisingly green walk.

2009-09-12T17:47:00.024+01:00

This is the Fiftieth post to Rambling On..., the Hampstead Ramblers' Blog. It is total coincidence, but it happens to be about a walk that I led this morning, (with kind assistance from my wife, Angela).

Angela and me, photo courtesy of the Legal Eagle.

The walk was a short one, some four miles long and taken at an easy pace. I am pleased to say that the party comprised a very creditable 18 Humans and one dog, Molly, owned by Hampstead stalwart June Craig. It goes to show that there is a demand for walks of all lengths, and that Saturdays can be as popular as Sundays.

We started the walk from East Finchley Tube Station, crossing the road to enter Cherry Tree Wood. The archer at the top of the tube was setting his aim eastwards, and so did we.

As you can see the sky was blue and the weather was warm and sunny. I'm sure this was a factor in making so many people decide to come along.

The route proceeded into Highgate Wood, where we stopped off for a browse in the visitor centre. After we left, we passed the children's play area, where we noticed a stunning totem pole depicting the wildlife to be found in the wood.

I suspect you have to be Very quiet to see the bears!

Crossing over into the Ancient Forest and Nature Reserve that is Queen's Wood, we called in at the Cafe. This is a little gem hidden in North London. There is always elegant music playing, the coffee is good and the blueberry and polenta cake is scrumptious. We took a look round the organic garden at the back. They have a selection of fruit and vegetables growing there, they make their own compost and plant feed, and they even have a bee hive! (perhaps for the bears?).

Some of the other wildlife spotted included a wild cat...

And a warning notice about a dangerous new species, the Lesser Spotted Jogger, (Latin name Lycra trainus).

(Click the photo to enlarge, as you can with all the pictures above).

The party going through Queen's Wood.

At Highgate we joined the Parkland Walk, the old disused railway line which is now a Nature Reserve. It runs for over two miles down to Finsbury Park.

At the end of the walk ten of us enjoyed a coffee at the park cafe. A big thank you to everyone who attended, including members from Richmond and South Bank Ramblers.

.

Rochford Circular

2009-09-09T22:46:00.013+01:00

Ten Ramblers joined Walk Leader Jane Rosoux on the South coast near Southend last Sunday.

As we moved out to the coast the countryside ...

gave way to a more bleak, windswept landscape...

Our walk was planned to be 15 miles long,

though some navigational difficulties led to us walking 17!

History, both ancient and modern, surrounded us. We walked through the site of the court of King Canute, Canewdon.

The village lock-up would have been used to detain miscreants overnight until they could be transported to the county jail.

This pill box was part of the coastal defences from the second World War.

The low-lying, flood-prone estuary land even led some of the local farmers to build structures on stilts....

Finally, we were all puzzled as to what the crop was in this picture. Any suggestions or ideas? Just click on "comments" below right and share your thoughts.

.

Bramble Ramble

2009-09-02T21:35:00.019+01:00

Last Sunday saw Maija Roberts leading 11 other Ramblers on a 9 mile circular walk around Balcombe in West Sussex.

The Blackberry bushes around Ardingly reservoir were incredibly tempting, and we actually stopped for a Bramble break!

There were some kingfishers about too...

Lunch was taken at St. Peter's churchyard in Ardingly. We received a wonderful welcome, all of us being offered a hot drink. The parishioners even lifted up the mats in the nave to show us the memorial brasses below...

This couple had 18 children, 10 sons and 8 daughters!

The stained glass was splendid too

The afternoon found us having tea at Wakehurst Place, where we spotted this handsome stag...

I end this post with a group photograph with a message for all motorists...

Walk Leader Maija is pictured above 5th from left.

.

Circular Walk - Westminster via Greenwich

2009-08-25T10:45:00.002+01:00

Last Sunday Hampstead member Patrick Tso Led a 17 mile walk along the banks of the Thames.

(Patrick is centre above).

Patrick kept up a fast pace, averaging nearly four miles an hour.

Ramblers normally walk above ground, but this walk gave the opportunity to go under, in fact under the Thames itself, as the group took the Foot Tunnel under the river at Greenwich.

The weather was perfect, warm and sunny.

There were 33 at the start, predominantly from the Long Distance Walkers' Association London Group but also including 4 from the Ramblers Hampstead Group, 2 from Kensington Chelsea and Westminster Group and several from South Bank Group.

[Photos and report by Jane Rosoux, with thanks.]

.

Windsor Circular - The Magnificent Seven!

2009-08-23T18:51:00.017+01:00

I have been a member of the Hampstead Ramblers for a year now. This Saturday I celebrated by leading my first Walk, a twelve-mile circular walk from Windsor and Eton Riverside Station.

The conditions were ideal, warm and sunny but with a refreshing breeze.

The route saw us walking along the Thames Path.

After three miles we stopped for a short tea break at Old Windsor Lock.

(I'm far left, checking the map.)[Photo J. Rosoux]

We walked through Runnymede, up to the John F Kennedy Memorial, (Pictured below)...

[Photo J. Rosoux]

then up through Savill Gardens to the Copper Horse Statue

[Photo J. Rosoux]

...and the long walk to the Castle itself...

[Photo J. Rosoux]

Lunch was taken at Englefield Green, where we were lucky enough to see a game of cricket, and most of us enjoyed a glass at the Barley Mow by the green.

I have to thank Richmond Group member Pat for taking the photo below.

Pictured above, with Windsor Castle at top left, Jane Rosoux, Me, Fielding (a member all the way from Virginia, U.S.A.), Gill, Angela and David.

.

25th Anniversary Picnic and Walk.

2009-08-04T22:36:00.020+01:00

Last Saturday saw 14 ramblers gather below the Stone of Free Speech on Parliament Hill, Hampstead Heath. We had a picnic, then moved off for a quick circumnavigation of our parent Heath.

Both picnic and walk were organised by John Rogers, pictured above third from left.

En route we managed to stop for some culture, in this case a sculpture by Barbara Hepworth.

The birdwatchers amongst us enjoyed seeing a Grey Heron..

The view from the Pergola was impressive too.. This is the Herb Garden.

The photos above were all taken by Jane Rosoux, doughty Walks Organiser for the Hampstead Group and photographer extraordinaire. Because she takes so many photographs she very rarely appears in one. So, to celebrate I offer you Jane not once but twice.

She is seen below in action,

And in this group photo, showing the Ramblers taking in the view over London from atop Kite Hill...

(Left to Right, Annie Lynn, Paula Bento, John Rogers, Robin Midwinter, Penny Taylor, Angela Reilly-Ripley and Jane Rosoux.)

To round the day's events off, we even bumped into an open air wedding...

We ended the day by raising a glass to the next 25 years at the Bull and Last.

Cheers!

.

Wendover Circular via Great Missenden

2009-07-27T17:08:00.001+01:00

Today's walk was led by Gabriel Newfield. Gabriel was accompanied by eleven human ramblers and two dogs, Tess and Pupa (pronounced Poohpah). As always on a ramble with dogs, the advantages of having four legs were obvious, with both canines literally running rings around the rest of us. I always find the bounding (boundless?) enthusiasm of dogs rather inspiring on a walk; they never want to stop.

This is a rare shot of Pupa actually standing still. Her human is on the far Right. If you look carefully you can also see Tess, the tan and white dog in the middle right, next to her owner Harriet. Walk Leader Gabriel is wearing the blue Kepi, right background.

I often describe the Chilterns as Hampstead Ramblers' home turf. This farm certainly does nothing to dispel that idea..

Some of the route certainly encouraged us to use some corny puns...

An a maizeing route!

.

Hampstead Ramblers 25th Anniversary Walk

2009-07-26T16:29:00.002+01:00

Friday the 24th of July saw another of the events held to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Hampstead Group. This short walk led by Robin Midwinter, from Woodside Park to Totteridge, both stations on the Northern Line, was a re-creation of the first walk ever taken by the Hampstead Group back in 1984.

Jane Rosoux reports...

"12 of us set out from Woodside Park Station soon after 7.00 pm.

There had been recent showers which no doubt deterred other potential participants but there was no rain during the walk and there were even glimpses of the sun.

Robin had devised a route as close as he could to Gerald Colton's original and by the time we arrived at 'The Orange Tree' pub for a celebratory drink two hours later we had covered around 5 miles and had been intoduced to many of the most attractive areas of Totteridge. We were also fortunate to pass a cricket match in progress and to see a quite impressive sunset."

.

Mortimer Circular via Silchester.

2009-07-18T18:14:00.001+01:00

A midweek walk through the far Roman Empire led by Will George. Jane Rosoux writes...

"There were four of us including the leader, Will George. The morning route took us across fields where the crops included dried peas, past Burghfield and through plantations (mainly conifers) When we arrived at the Oval Pond we stopped for lunch and Will George and Olga Way had a swim.

The water was iron-rich...

After lunch the showers became heavier and more frequent but we eventually arrived at the ruins of Silchester (Calleva Atrebatum). We were impressed by the state of preservation of the outer wall

and by the variety of mosses growing on it. There was an interesting postbox near the amphitheatre

and an unusually-shaped spire on Stratfield Mortimer church...

The whole walk took around four hours excluding the swim / lunch stop and we walked around 10 miles."

Many Thanks to Jane.

.

Rickmansworth to Amersham, Gerald Colton Way Part 5

2009-07-16T08:25:00.008+01:00

Last Saturday's walk was led by June Craig.

I am pleased to include a selection of photographs by a new contributor to this blog, Hampstead Group member Heidi.

June is seen below, fourth from the left. Heidi is on the far right.

Any ideas as to what breed these fine looking pigs are?

We look forward to receiving more photo's from Heidi.

All contributions are welcome, photos or reports, and you don't need to be a Hampstead Member.

.

Gerald Colton Way 4, Radlett to Rickmansworth

2009-07-10T19:03:00.001+01:00

Jane Rosoux writes...

"I attach photographs which I took on today's walk along Section 4 of the Gerald Colton Way from Radlett to Rickmansworth. A party of seven set out from Radlett Station at around 10.15 am, including two members of the North West London Group and one from the South Bank Group.

Once we had left the built-up area we were delighted to walk past fields of white-flowered flax plants.

The fields of ripening oats and hay meadows which we subsequently passed through seemed very dull in comparison, probably because the farmers had been all too efficient at eradicating the wild flowers which would have added splashes of colour.

Our route took us past Letchmore Heath, Stanmore Common and across Bentley Priory Open Space and we finally arrived at our lunch stop at 'The Case is Altered' public house, Harrow Weald Common after 2 1/2 hours. There we were blessed with excellent views from the adjoining car park, including Harrow Hill in the near distance.

After lunch we went through Grim's Dyke Open Space

and crossed Grim's Dyke Golf Course before arriving at the bridge over the railway line near Hatch End Station where two more left the party (the first had dropped out near the entrance to Bentley Priory).

Two further members dropped out near Pinner Hill Golf Course leaving two of us to complete the least interesting part of the walk, through Oxhey Woods, past Hampermill Lake, then a long stretch along the Ebury Way, eventually passing lakes formed from gravel-digging and crossing the Grand Union Canal at Batchworth Lock

before entering Rickmansworth and arriving at the station at 5.00 pm just in time to catch a fast train back to London. We covered just over 16 miles in around 5 hours 40 minutes, excluding the lunch stop, at an average speed, including other stops, of 2.82 mph."

.

Higham Circular, 4th July

2009-07-08T18:36:00.003+01:00

Jane Rosoux writes..

"I attach the photographs I took on the circular walk from Higham, Kent on Saturday led by Will George. There were eight in the party, including one each from the South Bank, Bromley and North East London Groups. We started off by heading north to the Saxon Shore Way and then following it via Cliffe Fort (on the opposite bank of The Thames to Coalhouse Fort, Tilbury) to Cliffe, a village situated on a low chalk escarpment on the Hoo peninsular overlooking the Thames marshes, where some of the party had a welcome drink at 'The Six Bells'. In the afternoon we returned to Higham Station through woods and across farmland where we had some some nice views. The total distance was around 13 miles. It was a lovely day although a might humid."

.

20 Mile Circular around Lewes, Sunday June 21st

2009-06-30T20:59:00.004+01:00

On Sunday June 21st at 10.00 am a party of 11 set out from Lewes on a 20-mile, fast-paced walk ably led by Jerry O'Connor. It included Richard and Tessa Clark who were going on their last ramble with the Hampstead Group before emigrating permanently to New Zealand (second and third from left below).

The weather was dry and the temperature was ideal - warm but not too hot. Although it was fairly cloudy we were soon rewarded by good views as we climbed Mount Caburn. On the way Richard pointed out pyramid orchids

Later on we had the pleasure of seeing massed poppies

After dropping down to Glynde we had another stiff climb onto Beddingham Hill where we joined the South Downs Way which, unfortunately, is popular with cyclists...

By that time Richard and Tessa were feeling the pace and were struggling to keep up with the rest of the party and, unfortunately, the last we saw of them was at the Blackcap Hill car park, which was busy with hangliders' vehicles. From there we descended along a straight, open path to our lunch stop at Denton where some of the party slaked their thirst at the 'Flying Fish'. After a 50 minute break we continued to Newhaven, crossed the River Ouse

and walked along the embankment to Piddinghoe. Upon reaching Telscombe we climbed back up to the South Downs Way passing through lovely countryside and saw the Seven Sisters in the distance...

Near the point where we left the South Downs Way to drop down to Kingston near Lewes medieval terracing was clearly visible...

The final photograph shows Kingston and Lewes in the distance...

We arrived back at Lewes Station at around 5.30 pm, in good time to catch the 17.44 to Victoria via Brighton. We had walked 20.7 miles in 5 hours 55 minutes, excluding breaks, at an average speed of 3.5 mph.

(All text and photos from Jane Rosoux, with many thanks.)

[Edit. On the 23rd of June I received some photos sent by Patrick Tso. I reproduce one below with Patrick's kind permission. Jane Rosoux is rarely photographed, but Patrick managed to catch her during a breather on this walk. Walk Leader Jerry O'Connor is first left, Jane Second left...]

.

Amersham Circular via Little Missenden

2009-06-20T18:57:00.016+01:00

Today's walk was led by Robin Midwinter, and took a seven mile circular route through the Misbourne Hills of the Chilterns.

Rail replacement buses covered the missing link from Rickmansworth to Amersham on the Metropolitan Line. Work on the lines has been an all too frequent irritation for Hampstead and all the other London Rambler's Groups over the last few months.. Nevertheless there were 12 walkers to join Robin, although one was unwell and stopped after a short distance.

The day started overcast...

But the skies soon cleared to give some good views...

The poppies were worthy of an impressionist painter...

Even in the relatively popular walking area of the Chilterns a group can still find "the road less travelled"....

Some scenes had an almost Japanese beauty...

Animals featured strongly. Most of the group had excellent views of a group of three Red Kites in the afternoon. One day I will stop getting so excited when I see them that I will capture one in a photo.

Our lunch stop was at the Red Lion in Little Missenden. There aren't many other pubs with a pond in the beer garden. I was tucking into a very nice hot sausage sandwich and a bowl of excellent chips when I felt a strong nudge on my lower leg...

I looked under the table to see Mr Daffy watching my sarnie...

We also had a narrow escape from a particularly vicious-looking dog...

At the end of an enjoyable day some of the party stopped off at the Amersham church fete, while the rest of us paused to enjoy one last view before heading through the woods for the bus to start our journey home. Robin Midwinter is second from the right...

.

Tadworth Circular.

2009-06-16T22:06:00.020+01:00

There were 14 of us on Sunday for a twelve mile circular walk around the North Downs near Boxhill.

The walk was led unnerringly by Stephen Bird, pictured below...

Despite the heat, in the high seventies (showing my age here) we kept a pace near to three miles an hour for the first few miles.

Near Mogador (very Tolkien-sounding!) we paused for a quick breather near a Coal Post (see here for an explanatory link).

We had some stunning views...

Later in the day we were to become very familiar with the hill at the top of the photo below.

A couple of us got seperated for a while after stopping for a chat and a photo of one of the locals...

The walk was described as "hilly" with good reason. Perhaps these pictures will convey exactly how steep it was in parts...

I'm certain that quite a few of us knew we had been on a walk the day after!!

.