We are the West Berkshire Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Neil L.
A circular walk in the parishes of Goodworth Clatford and Wherwell.
Starting at a small car park adjacent to the South West corner of The Hampshire Golf Course. We set off initially via the village of Goodworth Clatford, a picturesque village located in the beautiful Hampshire countryside with a meandering chalk stream at its heart and home to many historic buildings. The village was changed in WWII, as the school and pub were destroyed by a stray flying bomb.
On well used paths and open fields, we reach Harewood Forest, skirting the Andover Golf Club. Harewood Forest is a large area of woodland providing an excellent habitat for wildlife. We will break for refreshments on the edge of the forest, hopefully enjoying both views and wildlife.
Continuing south we head towards Wherwell village, one of the prettiest villages in the Test Valley, boasting some of the finest timber framed thatched cottages in the county. Situated on the banks of the River Test, it is famous for its trout fishing. Via the line of the old canal, re-used and now a disused railway, we reach Cow Common to cross the River Test.
After a short length of The Test Valley Way, we head north, via good footpaths to cross the old disused railway / canal, to return to Goodworth Clatford.
The underfoot surfaces are generally well maintained paths or tracks, although there is potential for some wet stretches, as we are in part walking in the Test Way flood plain. There are a number of gates and only one stile. Vegetation growth has been prolific, there is the risk of TICKS and nettles / brambles. Many of the tracks through the forest are of a stone / concrete construction, relics of WW2 pre D day troop concentrations.
Ensure you are appropriately equipped - good footwear / waterproofs, insect repellent and sun cream as the weather dictates.
Please bring sufficient personal refreshments for the day.
This walk is limited to 16 participants and you are required to book via the website link by 6pm, Wednesday, 10 September.
A small car park at the junction of the Romsey Road, A3057 and the B3420 Winchester Road. Car sharing would be appreciated.
