We are the Portsmouth Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Christopher K.
Come and join a 6 mile walk starting and finishing by The Salmon Leap pub, Totton. The walk will take in the wildlife haven known as Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve, which is a complex of 4 lakes covering some 55 hectares. During the lake section of the walk we will visit a couple of bird hides which offer super views over two smaller lakes where a good variety of birds can be seen. So bring binoculars or similar as we will stop at each for 5 minutes.
Whilst excavating Meadow Lake several Bronze age finds were made dating back to 1500BC including:- 143 stakes some as long as 13ft, identified as part of the earliest bridge in England, the bronze blade of a thrusting sword known as a rapier and wood from a seagoing boat, which would have been used for trading with the French. On the shores we will pass by the frame of a reconstructed Bronze age boat which would have been used for crossing the channel. By one of the boardwalks we will also pass a replica Bronze age roundhouse.
Shortly after leaving the lakes we will walk along the bank of the River Test and one of its tributaries before making our way back to the Salmon Leap Public House.
Bring a hot drink and a light snack as we will stop for refreshments.
Free on street parking is available by the Salmon Leap pub.
The walk is fairly flat, sections are uneven with exposed tree roots and it can be muddy in parts. So ensure that you are sure footed, wear waterproof boots or other suitable footwear as puddles could be encountered in the event of heavy rain falling beforehand. There is a small segment of pavement walking which is adjacent to an industrial estate.
Lunch will be taken at the nearby Broadlands Lakes, Licensed Clubhouse Bar and Cafe(what threewords///adopts.penny.screeches), which is part of a private fishery. They serve good basic pub type food at very reasonable prices. Pre orders for food are needed, so please contact the organiser for a menu if you are planning to stay for lunch. All orders have to be placed by friday 24th April at the latest.
Anyone arriving by train should plan to arrive at Totton Railway Station by 1001hrs at the latest and have informed the organiser that they need collecting. A lift back to the station will also be given.
Opposite the Salmon Leap Public House
