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We are the Southwold (Yate) Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Setting off from the quaintly named village of Norton Malreward, we will climb up to the ancient hill fort of Maes Hill before heading for North Wick to descend on the Three Peaks Walk towards Chew Magna and on to lunch in the churchyard Stanton Drew. We then follow the 2 Rivers Walk River back towards Pensford before climbing back to the start point.
There are 2 main ascents, the first, up to and then over Maes Hill, is quite steep, but you can walk round rather than over the hill itself, if preferred. The later ascent is longer but the gradient is less steep. There is one longish descent through grassy fields.
The walk is mainly on footpaths and tracks, but there are a few stretches of road walking to provide a break from expected muddy bits. There are 6 stiles on the route, all towards the end
Weather permitting, there should be good views over the valley to the Mendips and I always like the stretch along the River on the way back.
Sunset is 16.15 on the day, so I expect the pace to be brisk. There are no public toilets or refreshment available directly on the route, though in extremis, we can detour to Chew Magna or Pensford. There is a toilet in the church at Stanford Drew, our Lunch stop. Bring food and drink for the day.
There is a garden centre within a mile of the starting point for tea and cake afterwards to celebrate the New year
Norton Malreward is off the A37 just as you leave Whitchurch. Turn right by the playground onto Norton Lane; after about 1.3 miles turn left onto Church Road and park near the top.
