We are the Winchester Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
The annual walk around Christchurch Harbour is being held on Thursday 19th September. It is a gentle stroll of 7-8 miles on mostly level ground, other than a climb up and down Hengistbury Head for some long views to the Isle of Wight and the Purbecks.
This year, the walk starts in the car park of the 2 (Two) Riversmeet Leisure Complex (BH23 1HW) in Christchurch and heads west over two branches of the River Avon, past Christchurch Priory and across the River Stour at Tuckton Bridge. We will stop for coffee near Tuckton Tea Rooms, so bring some cash if you want to buy take-away coffee there. The path then turns south-east and follows the Stour Valley Way until close to Hengistbury Head.
The walk is organised for a picnic lunch which will be held on the beach at Mudeford Spit. After lunch, the group will take the ferry to Mudeford Quay (fare of £3.50 cash) and go along street paths to Stanpit Marsh where we may see early migrant birds that stop there before heading south. From Stanpit Marsh, the route returns to the 2 Rivers Meet car park.
If you would like to join Jenny and me for a cup of tea at our Christchurch house after the walk, tell us when you respond. We live only a slight diversion from the path back to the car park at the 2 (Two) Riversmeet Leisure Complex.
Car parking for the walk is behind the leisure complex building. Pass down the RH side of the leisure centre and park along the far line of trees. The cost of parking is £4.60 for up to 12 hours. You can pay by cash, card or app (RingGo or JustPark). You might like to car share, as the distance from Winchester is approximately 30 miles and an hour’s drive.
