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On a scorching hot day, 13 adults, 2 children and 1 dog set off from Hambledon Village up a steep road. Dead ahead was an even steeper hill. Fortunately, we would not be taking this path! The climb lasted almost 5 minutes, and I wondered if I would be ostracised for starting on such a steep, gradual hill. Luckily I wasn't, and the walkers proceeded on past a farm, and through a field of two foot tall stubble, which did not make for easy walking. In the distance was another farm, where the true country smells were almost overpowering, especially on such a hot day. Lunch was taken at the Bat and Ball, where a cricket match was just starting. No wickets, but several good strokes were seen by the batsmen determined to make a good start. Leaving the pub, the route followed the circular route of the Wayfarer's Way, heading down into Hambledon, via the vineyard. We rested at the church, allowing some walkers the opportunity to visit the church, while the rest then headed back to their cars. David Palmer This was intended as a Childrens ramble to Manor Farm Country Park for them to see the farm animals. We met at Bursledon Station car park, "seven of us large children", no small, plus two dogs. It was a warm dry day as we set off across the busy A27 and on to the peaceful riverside walk alongside the Hamble through fields and woods. The outward walk was quite short, only two miles so we reached the farm in less than an hour, some had brought a picnic but Ruby and I decided to have a cream tea at the farm café, very nice it was too. The return leg was a bit longer about 2½ miles but it was very pleasant riverside and field walking. Nutmeg and her new friend Brandy seemed to be really enjoying themselves rushing around keeping us all together. A few of us decided to finish the walk at the Jolly Sailor public house, the one of "Howards Way" fame, remember the TV series. Christine Culley |
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page last updated 1 OCTOBER 2000 |
