Abberley Hills, Worcestershire. C WALK. (BOOKING ESSENTIAL)

C WALK DESCRIPTION: The walk starts near Abberley village.  After a short section along the lower part of the hills we begin our ascent of the Abberley Hills.  The path rises steadily through the woods on stable wooden steps. We will take this at a modest to slow pace so all will feel comfortable on this climb. The path flattens out as we reach a lane.  Here we follow a brief diversion along a farm track so we can take a morning tea break while enjoying views of the very impressive Abberley School clock tower. Refreshed after our break we finish the climb with the last 50 metres to reach the trig point at the top of Abberley Hill.  From here we pause to enjoy beautiful views of the local hills and further afield. It should be noted at this point that the total height we will have gained to the top is 125 metres (410 feet).  We follow the excellent path which follows the ridge which is open for a short while and then through the trees giving us some tantalizing glimpses of the countryside below.  Part way along the ridge we leave it and descend gradually reaching open countryside leading to our lunch stop at the Manor pub at Abberley Village with the Norman now semi-ruinous St Michael’s church opposite.  There is an enclosure within the ruins to eat our lunches and it’s worth looking at the intact part of the nave if it’s open.  Then we take a circuit of the lanes and field paths in the vicinity of the village passing the later church before heading away from Abberley to follow a route through the countryside to Snead Common where the walk finishes. Distance: 6 miles. Total ascent 1,050 feet. Picnic lunch with pub. Leader Brenda Cameron. The fare is £15.