We are the Blackheath Ramblers. We offer long walks in the Home Counties and beyond, using public transport. We also offer shorter urban walks on Sundays.
Meet OVERTON station, Hampshire, 9.47 (Waterloo 8.50, Clapham Jn 8.57).
A 14-mile circular walk across undulating arable country, crossing Caesar's Belt, that encloses the Roman Road from Silchester to Old Sarum, and on up the great chalk escarpment to Watership Down, with stunning 20-mile views towards the Thames and Berkshire Downs, by the beech hangar of Cannon Avenue.
Then along the Gallops and Wayfarers Walk to Hannington for a picnic lunch (pub not currently open - please ensure you have sufficient water & refreshments for the full walk).
Returning to Overton via North Oakley and the Harroway, England's oldest road, a prehistoric 6000-year-old trading route. An adaptation of Somerville's 100 Best Walks.
(NB: There is an overlap of about one-third between this walk and the longer Watership Down walk talking place later in the programme)
General notes on Blackheath Walks
Lunchtimes: Where walk descriptions stipulate a picnic/packed lunch, all walkers are asked to bring one with them. In such cases any lunchtime pub or café visit will be for drinks only. Lunch stops of this kind will last typically for 40-45 minutes, at the leader’s discretion. If, on the other hand, the option of lunch at a pub or café is offered, the duration will usually be about one hour.
Pre-booking is not required for Blackheath Ramblers walks unless indicated otherwise.
Starting times: Leaders do their best to adhere to the train times set out in the programme. However, the National Rail website publishes train timetables only 12 weeks in advance, and engineering work at weekends sometimes causes changes to departure and arrival times. So, even if travelling by car, please check train times with National Rail (0345 748 4950) / www.nationalrail.co.uk) before travelling.
Starting times will not be delayed unless absolutely necessary.
Safety: Please be aware that you take part in all Ramblers walks at your own risk.
Dogs: Some walks are unsuitable for dogs; please check with the leader before bringing one.
Blackheath Ramblers website: http://www.blackheathramblers.org.uk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/blackram
Overton Railway Station, Hampshire
