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Stour Walking Group

We are the Stour Walking Group. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking
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Overview

Join this friendly group on a scenic circular route from Hartest in Suffolk. We will set off from the attractive village green and pass Boxted church and Thurston Hall en route to the pretty village of Hawkedon. From here we make our way to the little-visited hill village of Somerton before dropping back down to Hartest.

The total distance is just under 11 miles. The terrain is gently undulating and, after recent rain, some parts are likely to be muddy. Walking boots are recommended. The pace will be steady in order comfortably to be back in Hartest in full day light.

Meet at 9.45 for a 10am prompt start.

We will have rest stops, including a longer pause for lunch. (Bring your own food and drink.) Toilets (for customers) will be available at lunchtime at the pub in Hawkedon and, at the end of the walk, in the pub on the Hartest village green. There'll be many opportunities in nature along the way as well, of course.

 

Sunday, 4 January 2026
Start time:
9:45 am
Estimated finish time:
3:15 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
17.4km / 10.8mi
Ascent:
240m / 787ft
Type:
circular

Features

  • Refreshments available (Pub/cafe)
  • Toilets available
  • Car parking available
  • Car sharing available
  • Dog friendly
  • Family-Friendly

Starting point

Grid reference:
TL 83389 52466
Nearest postcode:
IP29 4DH
what3words:
pickup.warping.dodging
Start time:
9:45 am

Roadside parking around the village green in Hartest. The rendezvous point will be near the driveway to the Crown pub, as indicated by the location details and map.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking