Past Walks 2006
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January
February
March
April 
May
June
July
August
September
October 
November
December

Local Walk
National Walk
Evening Walk
Weekend Away
Pub Meeting
Other Event

January

Wednesday 4th
Pub Meeting

Sunday 8th
Extra Walk
Ashbourne

Sunday 15th
Local Walk
Fermyn Woods / Brigstock

Friday 20th to
Sunday 22nd

Cheddar Gorge / Mendip Hills

February

Wednesday1st
Pub Meeting

Sunday 5th
Local Walk
Moreton Pinkney

Sunday 12th
Local Walk
Crick

Sunday 19th
Peak District - Dovedale / Manifold Valley

 

March

Wednesday1st
Pub Meeting

3rd to 5th
Minehead

Sunday 12th
Local Walk
Joint with Ivel
Valley under 40s
8 + 5 miles

Sunday 19th
The Cotswolds

10 miles

 

April

Sunday 2nd
Local Walk
Paulspury
5 + 6 miles

Wednesday 5th
Pub Meeting

Sunday 9th
Extra Walk
"Northants Surprise"

Sunday 16th
(Easter Sunday)
Maldon

11 miles

28th to May 1st (Bank Holiday) South Snowdonia

May

Wednesday 3rd Evening Walk
Hackleton
3 miles

Sunday 7th
Local Walk

Summer Leys Nature Reserve
9 miles

Saturday 13th
and Sunday 14th
Waendel Walk

Wednesday 17th
Evening Walk

Eastcote
3.5 miles

Sunday 21st
The Cotswolds

9.5 miles

May (cont.)

Thursday 25th
to Monday 29th
(Bank Holiday) Scotland

Sunday 28th
Extra Walk
Castleton or
Bakewell
10 - 13 miles

June

Saturday 3rd
Annual BBQ

Sunday 4th
Local Walk

Burton Dassett Hills
9 miles

Wednesday 7th
Evening Walk

Yardley Hastings
4 miles

Sunday 11th
Extra Local
Walk
Henley-in-Arden
10 Miles

16th to18th
Camping

Brecon Beacons

June (cont.)

Wednesday 21st
Evening Walk

Mears Ashby

Friday 23rd to Monday 26th
Long Weekend
Chamonix

July

Sunday 2nd
Local Walk
Pitsford Reservoir
Area Campaign Walk

Wednesday 5th Evening Walk
Tiffield

                          

Sunday 16th National Walk Dedham, Essex Split Walk
4 + 5 miles

Wednesday 19th
Evening Walk
Great Doddington

Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd Weekend Away Derbyshire

July (cont)

Sunday 30th Local Walk
Ampthill Park
Figure of 8
6 + 6 miles

August

Wednesday 2nd
Evening Walk

Chapel Brampton

Saturday 5th
Extra Walk
Braunston
8 miles

Sunday 13th
"Fun and Games Day"
Hyde Park
London

Sunday 20th
Extra Walk
Badby
11 miles

Tuesday 22nd
to Tuesday 29th
Summer Trip

Slovenia

August (cont)

Tuesday 22nd Evening Walk Irchester

Sunday 27th National Walk
Grindleford / Hope Valley

September

Sunday 3rd
Joint Walk
Badby
10½ miles

Wednesday 6th
Pub Meet

Sunday 10th
Local Walk

Hellidon
Figure of 8
6 + 5 miles

Friday 15th - Sunday 17th
Weekend Away

Swanage, Dorset

October

Sunday 2nd
National Walk

Shipston-on-Stour

Wednesday 4th
Pub Meet

Sunday 15th
Local Walk
Little Harrowden

Sunday 29th
National Walk

Burrough Hill
Near Melton Mowbray

November

Wednesday 1st
Pub Meet

Friday 10th to Sunday 12th
Weekend Away
North Wales

Sunday 19th
Area AGM

Sunday 26th
Local Walk

Greens Norton
9 Miles

December

Sunday 3rd
National Walk

St Albans

Wednesday 6th
Pub Meet

Sunday 17th
Local Walk

Emberton

Tuesday 26th
Boxing Day

Local Walk
Southwick

January 2006

Wednesday 4th

Pub meeting

Yeoman of England, Wootton. From 8pm.

Meet at the pub to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

Map of pub location

Sunday 8th

Extra Walk

John, Esther and Vicki are going up to Thorpe Cloud close to Ashbourne for a short winter walk and hopefully cream tea afterwards in Ashbourne, anyone is welcome to join us.

The start point will be the Thorpe Cloud car park, Ilam country park, grid reference SK 146 508.

Start time 11am.

Packed lunch and normal walking gear needed.

If car sharing is needed contact Vicki.

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Vicki B leader - contact via mobile until Friday

Sunday 15th

Local Walk

The walk starts at the Country Park Car Park in Fermyn Woods, just outside of Brigstock, south of Corby on the A6116. Grid Ref SP 953 849. Meet at 10.30 as usual.

The car park is Pay & Display - £2 for all day

The walk is about 9.5 miles and is fine for dogs, no stiles etc.

The pub we will stop at is the Kings Head in Wadenhoe, nice garden.

It will be very muddy in places.

You might get to see a Red Kite if you're lucky!

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Rachel Leader

Friday 20th to
Sunday 22nd

Weekend Away

Cheddar Gorge / Mendip Hills

Staying at YHA hostel in Street.

It sleeps 28 so if we get more than 12 it should cost £30 or less for accommodation.

James and Jayne will lead the walks so we only need someone to do the shopping, help cook the breakfast and cook the Sat evening meal (if we don't want to go down the pub)

John is now taking deposits of £10 - as it being just after Christmas there are always lots of people on trips this time of year so book early!!

Hostel Details

Location Map (general location of Street)

Hostel Location Within Street

Contact John if interested

February

Wednesday 1st

Pub meeting

Yeoman of England, Wootton. From 8pm.

Meet at the pub to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

Map of pub location

Sunday 5th

Local Walk

Figure of 8 starting at 10.30am in Moreton Pinkney in South Northamptonshire.

Meet outside the Church in the village at 10.30am (Grid Ref SP 574 490).

The walk takes in the villages of Sulgrave (as of the Manor fame) and Canons Ashby.

After doing the reccee yesterday I regret to report that the pub in Moreton Pinkney is closed for refurbishment (has been since August 2005) and so won't be available for lunch or the toilets. However I am not going to let this put me off and the walk is still taking place as planned.

The morning loop is 6 miles long, has lots of stiles (and mud) a windmill (not as good as the Turvey one apparently), a disused railway line, a donkey, some chickens and a very nice Post Office Shop in Sulgrave (shuts at 12 on Sundays, sells food) and also a pub in Sulgrave and the Manor of course. As there is no pub at lunch we could stop at the pub at Sulgrave at about 11.30ish (I assume it will be open) for the all important loo stop (it may be advisable to take advantage) and for a drink for those that can't possibly go a full 6 hours without a pint. (I was panicking there for a moment!! - Andy)

If people want to meet up with us for the afternoon then I suppose they will find us huddled in the cold outside a closed pub around 1pm. So if you are planning to turn up for the afternoon walk only then please E-mail Andy in advance to let us know as we don't want to stand around for too long!

The afternoon loop is just under 4 miles and takes in Canons Ashby which is a National Trust Place and should have toilet facilities too but these were closed yesterday (Saturday) as well so don't get your hopes up.

Parking wise as the pub is closed in Moreton Pinkney nobody seemed to mind us parking in the car park at the back but I will leave this up to people's discretion as you never know, In fact I wash my hands of any responsibility on that front.

I would like to apologise for the severe lack of toilet facilities on this walk my mother would be deeply ashamed, there are of course ample bushes. John has said that there is now an invention called a 'SheWee' - but I didn't ask any further.

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area
(Maps show morning start - afternoon is from near PH, by prior arrangement only)

Vikki C leader

Sunday 12th

Local Walk

This walk is organised on behalf of The Vale of Belvoir Ramblers, but we are invited to attend as the leader is Rebecca, who is now a member of our group!

It starts at 10am, meet at the Wheatsheaf pub in Crick.

It will be about 10 miles of fairly easy walking taking in the villages of West Haddon, Winwick, Elkington, and Yelvertoft. Bring a picnic lunch!

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Rebecca leader

Sunday 19th

National Walk

Peak District - Dovedale and the Manifold Valley

A 9 mile walk near Ashbourne in the Peak District going up Dovedale and back down the Manifold Valley.

The route starts by crossing the stepping stones (or bridge if you're not feeling so brave!), past Lovers Leap, Jacobs Ladder (yet another one!) and a number of caves (not sure of the names!) to Milldale.

There is a nice café here for a refreshment stop, serving hot soup and pasties! From here we will head for lunch at a pub in either Alstonefield or Wetton - not sure on what food will be available though so it is recommended to bring sandwiches. The route for the afternoon will take us back down the Manifold Valley past Ilam Hall (a potential tea and toasted tea cake stop!) and then back to the cars.

There will be a few hills (what do you expect in the Peak District!) but nothing too severe and generally it should be quite easy walking.

You normally see people in high heels and skirts walking up Dovedale, but this is not the recommended attire!

Meet 9am at Sixfields outside Frankie & Bennies for car share or 10:30am in the main Dovedale (pay and display) car park (GR SK146 508) which is near the Izaak Walton Hotel. There are toilets here so you will be able to 'take advantage'! The recommended route is M1 to J23, A50 then A515 through Ashbourne and then turn left through Thorpe to Dovedale.

Printer Friendly Walk Details

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Map of Sixfields Car Share Point

Erica leader

March

Wednesday 1st

Pub meeting

The Midway. From 8pm.

Meet at the pub to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

Map of pub location

Friday 3rd to
Sunday 5th

Weekend Away

Minehead

Plan is to walk on the Exmoor coast or in the hills on Sat and the Quantock hills on Sun.

We have booked the whole of a nice independent hostel in Minehead

It's not as far as u think its only 3 1/2 hours drive from Northampton !

Still not convinced ? See these websites -

Minehead

Exmoor

Cost for accommodation should be around £30 each.

Hostel Details

Hostel Website

Hostel Location - 1:2500  Street Map

General location of Minehead

Contact John if interested - Deposit of £10 now required ASAP

Sunday 12th

Local Walk - Figure of 8

Joint Walk, organised by the Ivel Valley Under 40s

Paxton Pits and Diddington (Split walk AKA Figure of 8)

Meet 10am PROMPT at the Visitor Centre in Paxton Pits Country Park. TL196629

8 miles in the morning and 5 miles in the afternoon.

If you want to do just the afternoon, e-mail in advance to arrange to meet up (approx 1.30 - 2 pm).

Jane Fi. of Ivel Valley Leader

Contact Ivel Valley Under 40s with any questions

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Sunday 19th

National Walk

The Cotswolds

A lovely 10 mile walk in the Cotswolds starting from Bourton on the Water and passing through the picturesque villages of Naunton, Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter. There will be a pub stop at the Black Horse in Naunton but it is advisable to bring your own sandwiches. There is also a large selection of tea shops in Bourton to spur you on to the finish!!

(Other attractions in Bourton include a model village, model railway and Birdland - although these may all be shut by the time we finish the walk!)

Meet 9am at Sixfields outside Frankie & Bennies for car share or 10:30am by the war memorial next to the river in the centre of Bourton on the Water and opposite the Old Manse Hotel (GR SP167 207)

There are a couple of very large Pay & Display car parks (which are quite expensive so might be best to car share where possible) or you may find parking on the side streets on entering the village. There is also parking on the main street - strictly first come, first served!

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Mark leader

April

Sunday 2nd

Local Walk - Figure of 8

Meet at 10.30am in Paulspury at the bench on the corner of Fairfield Road and the High Street, opposite the village school. You can park along the High Street but please be considerate to local residents.

Paulerspury is a village just off the A5 about 3 miles south of Towcester
(OS explorer map 207, grid reference SP 719 455)

In the morning we will walk about 5 miles passing the edge of Whittlebury and Plumpton End before arriving back in Paulerspury at about 12.30pm.

At lunchtime I plan to go to the Barley Mow Public House which is situated on Paulerspury High Street, they do serve food (although I haven't sampled it) or bring a packed lunch, there is a large beer garden.

If you want to do the afternoon walk only, I plan to leave the pub about 1.30pm, we will then walk about 6 miles going through Alderton and Heathencote, we should be back in Paulerspury for about 4.30pm.

Printer Friendly Walk Details

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Jayne leader

Wednesday 5th

Pub meeting

Toby Carvery from 8pm.

Meet at the pub to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

We will also be finalising the New Walks Programme for July to December 2006

Map of pub location

Sunday 9th

Extra Local Walk, by invitation from a member of the Ramblers forum -

"Northants Surprise"

Ok, so what's the surprise? Turn up and you'll find out.

Place - Wadenhoe, North Northants

We aim to meet at 10.15 for a 10.30 kick off which means back to the village for 12.30, out of the pub for 2 and finished by 4ish all being well.

The Walk :

A 12 mile (and not a step further ;o) figure of eight walk taking in two very different aspects of the county. One circuit takes in the bleak uplands of Northants including the National Trusts Lyvden New Beld and the other encapsulates a landscape of Spires and Squires along the Nene Valley.

At no extra expense, I will be giving out a commentary upon items of historical and local interest. As you may surmise some of these will actually be accurate, others should be. A second guide will be coming along to shoot stragglers.

It will no doubt not be a surprise to anyone that the Village linking these two walks contains a fine pub selling the local JHB bitter.

I look forward to making the acquaintance of you and your jolly crew.

Map of meeting point
(park on the left hand side of the road, when facing the village, so as not to annoy the locals :o)

Printer Friendly Walk Details

Leader Ian ("Eccles") of Ramblers Forum fame!

(contact via Andy if necessary)

Sunday 16th
(Easter Sunday)

National Walk

Maldon, Essex

11 - 12 Miles

Virtually flat

See some of historic Maldon and walk along the estuary edge and see wading birds.
Also get to see the sea (technically) on a daywalk! Speedo's optional!!
Pub stop at mid point, in Goldhanger

Best route to Maldon, since its Easter Sunday, is to just go down the M1, round the M25 to Junction 28 then then take the A12 and change to the A414 at Chelmsford.

Meet at 10.30am in Maldon on Upper Plume School car park, free at weekends
(Grid Ref TL 849 067, see maps below).

Or meet at Sixfields, near Frankie and Bennies, for car sharing at 8.30am

Map of Walk Start (Multimap)

PDF Map of central Maldon, showing car parks

Info on Maldon

Aerial Photo

Walk devised by Andy but James and Jayne leaders

Friday 28th to Monday May 1st (Bank Holiday)

Bank Holiday Weekend Away

South Snowdonia

The Saturday walk will be Cadair Idris, Sunday and Monday walks have yet to be planned.

We are hoping to book the same log cabins as we stayed in last time we visited the area, each cabin sleeps 4 or 6 people.

Estimated cost will be about £60 for the 3 nights accommodation.

Two cabins of six booked so far, if there is enough interest it may be possble to book another.

Also those already on the list need to pay James or Jayne the £30 deposit ASAP.

Photos of The Last Trip (including cabins)

James T. and Jayne organisers

Contact Jayne or James T if you are interested and haven't said so yet, or to arrange to pay the deposit.

May

Wednesday 3rd

Evening Walk, followed by pub meet

The White Hart, Hackleton

Meet at 7.30 in the pub car park for a walk of about 3 to 5 miles dependent on light

Large car park (40 cars) large garden, enough seating inside.

London Pride and IPA on hand pull

If you don't want to do the walk, just meet at the pub from about 9pm
to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

Printer Friendly Walk Details

Maps of Walk Start
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

John walk leader

Sunday 7th

Local Walk

Approx distance 9 miles.

Meet at Summer Leys Nature Reserve just off the A509 by Wollaston (grid ref SP 886634) at 10:30

We will then head across country towards Grendon, then cut back towards the River Nene. We then follow the river on the Nene Way towards Cogenhoe. Lunch can either be at a pub in Cogenhoe with a beer or by the river with sandwiches.

We cross the river and head towards Earls Barton (possible 2nd pub stop if feeling thirsty). The Nene Way is rejoined and back to the car park. People can continue round the nature reserve or head home.

There are a number of attractions on route The river, locks, barges, swans and other duck type wildlife, oh and the field of bulls!!

A stunt plane was spotted on the recci but can't be promised!

Shorts rating 96%, clear at the moment but small nettles were noted in areas!

Dog friendly, must be kept on lead in many places but most stiles had dog routes.

Kite and Frisbee potential high, there is a nice area by the river around lunch time.

Hope the weather is good and to see you there.

Sorry its not a figure 8! If someone really wants to join half way round at Cogenhoe I can always run them back at the end, but they would need to let me know.

Printer Friendly Walk Details

Maps of Walk Start
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Siân leader

Saturday 13th
and Sunday 14th

Waendel Walk

26 or 16 mile walk - Members of our group will be going on both days, but it is only necessary to go on one of the days!

See Web Site for full details

Contact Vicki ASAP if interested, for meeting arrangements

Wednesday 17th

Evening Walk, followed by pub meet

Meet at the Eastcote Arms for a walk of about 3.5 miles over fairly gentle hills. Then to the pub afterwards.

The pub has a car park, and there seem to be lots of spaces on the road outside (for if the pub owners don't want us all dumping our cars there).

The start is in Eastcote, grid ref SP 680539, start at 7:30. Should be finished by about 9.

If you don't want to do the walk, just meet at the pub from 9pm
to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

Printer Friendly Walk Details

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

James "The Third" walk leader

May (cont)

 

Sunday 21st

National Walk

Circular walk from Winchcombe in the Cotswolds

Hopefully taking in Cleeve Hill and Belas Knap (Prehistoric Burial Mound) and possibly much more!

Meet either 9am at Sixfields or 10.30am at the main long stay car park at Winchcombe. The car park should be easy for anyone to find as it is well signposted. The centre of Winchcombe is basically a T junction and, coming from Northampton, you will be approaching from the top left-hand side of the T and will need to turn right. About 1/2 mile along this road the car par is signposted off to the left. Go along this road and you should see the car park on your left (see map below). Car parking is FREE and there are toilets at the car park.

The walk, by my calculations is about 91/2 miles. From the centre of Winchcombe we skirt the boundary of Sudeley Castle, once home to Henry VIII's sixth and final wife Katherine Parr. We then gradually climb up towards Belas Knap, a Neolithic burial mound.

From Belas Knap we make our way to an abandoned farm (which could be a lunch stop or coffee break spot). It's then onwards to Cleeve Common. Skirting round this vast wide-open space we soon gain panoramic views of the town of Cheltenham and its race course - home every March of the Cheltenham Festival horse race meeting.

We then drop down in height in order to gain a view of the rock formation of Cleeve Cloud hill. This route also allows us to take in The Rising Sun pub (carpeted floor, beer garden at front of pub - did not go in so I don't know how walker friendly they are!). We then gradually rise back up to pass the clubhouse of Cleeve Common Golf Club.

It is then a gradual descent back towards Winchcombe passing through a historic paper mill on our way.

There are various pubs in Winchcombe should you wish to partake before the journey home - however The Rising Sun is the only pub on the route so bringing a packed lunch is advisable.

As Cleeve Common is exposed it's best to have warm (and waterproof) clothing just in case.

Printer Friendly Walk Details

Map Showing Location of Winchcombe

Map Showing Car Park Meeting Point -
It is off Back Lane between points 5 & 6.
N.B. North is to the right hand side on this map!

Bill leader

May (cont)

 

Thursday 25th
to Monday 29th

Bank Holiday Weekend Away

Scotland

Travel up Thursday evening, back late Monday for four full days away, with walks on each day.

The plan is to head to the Glencoe / Bridge of Orchy area and have a go at some of the numerous Munros in the area.

There will be opportunities for people to do less demanding walks but the main plan will be to have several intensive days with between 4,000 ft and 6,000ft of ascent a day and anything up to 12 miles.

Accommodation and trains now booked for those whao are going - unlikely to be space for any more but contact Clive for info. You will need to do your own booking though.

Maps of general area -
Bridge of Orchy
Glencoe

Munro Guide (with photos)

Clive organiser

Sunday 28th

Castleton or Bakewell

Vicki and Rich are organising an extra walk this Sunday.

It will be a Hilly Walk lots of ups and downs, a little bit of training for some of those going to Chamonix.

It will be between 10 -13 miles depending on weather etc.

Anyone who is not going to Scotland and would like to go please contact Vicki as soon as possible.

June

Saturday 3rd

Annual BBQ, AGM and Awards Ceremony

The 4th Annual BBQ will take place on Saturday 3rd June at 7:30pm and will be hosted by Mark.

For those of you that did not attend last year the format is everyone brings something for the BBQ & some (or lots of!) booze and Mark will provide the salads, bread rolls etc... If you would like to volunteer anything else then it will be more than welcome and let us know what you plan to bring.

So that we have some idea of numbers could you please let Mark know if you are planning to come and if you don't know where he lives, you will need to contact him for his address and directions.

For those of you that have had a drink and do not have a lift home, Mark can provide a limited amount of floor space (or grass to pitch a tent complete with ensuite accommodation...well an outside loo!) so let him know if you would like to take advantage of this.

The BBQ will also see our second AGM, which is when we elect the committee.

The positions to be re-elected are -

Chairman

Walks Secretary

Webmaster

Secretary

Treasurer

Social Secretary

Although it is currently expected that the same people as last year will be standing again, other than Vicki who is standing down as social secretary with Rich offering to fill the void, anyone may put themself forward for any of the positions.Contact Andy if you are interested in this, at least two weeks before the AGM

Another feature of the BBQ will be the Annual Awards Ceremony - if anyone has any suggestions for awards, amusing or serious, contact Andy.

Sunday 4th

Post BBQ walk (local)

Burton Dassett Hills Country Park GR394523

Parking is at the park and is £1.50 per car all day.

Meeting at 10.30am at Windmill Hill, as there are a number of small car parks scattered around the park. Windmill Hill is the one which looks like it has half a windmill on top, i.e. a bit short with no sails!

The walk is going to be 9 miles (a suitable distance following the BBQ!)

It takes in some fantastic views of the North Cotswolds and surrounding countryside. The car park is close to Public Conviences so anyone who would like to can 'take advantage'. Also, it is a great place to fly kites, so if you have one bring it along.

Short Friendliness Rating: 99%

Printer Friendly Walk Details

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

James T leader

June (cont)

Wednesday 7th

Evening Walk, followed by pub meet

Meet at the Rose & Crown Pub, Yardley Hastings at 7.30.

This is on the A428 approximately 6 miles SE of Northampton. If coming from Northampton then you want the first left as you approach the village into Northampton Road.

The walk will be around 4 miles taking in Castle Ashby. We should be back to the pub around 9pm to 9:30pm if you just wish to join us for a drink.

If you don't want to do the walk, just meet at the pub afterwards to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

Maps of pub / walk start
Local Area
Relative to Northampton

Mark walk leader

Sunday 11th

Extra walk - with the West Midlands Group

Henley-in-Arden - Warwicks (very pretty market town) 10.30 start.

Straightforward 10 mile walk taking in the Heart of England Way and the Stratford-upon-Avon canal with pub stop around halfway (excellent pub).

Henley's famous ice cream (fabulous) and teashops/pubs at the end.

Start at the old cross outside Lloyds TSB on Henley in Arden high street.

Would love to have anyone from the Northants group join us

Leaders Nigel and Sue

Maps walk start -
Local Area (not necessarily exact)
Relative To Nearby Towns

Friday 16th to
Sunday 18th

Weekend Away

Camping

Brecon Beacons

We will be going to the Brecon Beacons and camping at a place called Pencilli Castle campsite. For those not entirely sure about the camping idea the site is very pleasant - and has won toilet of the year (!) (Wales) and campsite of the year for numerous years. All the showers and toilet blocks are VERY clean - so clean infact I took my shoes off when I went in the shower block the first night so as not to get the floor dirty!

On the first day we will take the bus (£2.50) to the Storey Arms and walk from here up Corn du, Pen-y-fan, Cribyn and Fan-y-big. (No jokes please!) It's quite hilly but hey, these are the Brecon Beacons! We will walk back into the campsite.

Dinner will be at the local pub.

On the Sunday we will travel to the Ystradfellte area and walk along the river Mellte. There are some stunning waterfalls along here and the chance to pop your head in Porth y Ogof - a cave with one of the largest entrances in the world. (may have made that up - but it's the biggest in this country

As last years camping trip people will need to provide their own food for breakfast and lunch on the Sat and Sun.

Best to eat on way down on Fri.

Erica organiser

June (cont)

Wednesday 21st

Evening Walk, followed by pub meet

A 4 mile walk from Mears Ashby taking in Sywell reservoir. This is similar to one of last year's evening walks, but John does say it is totally different when walked the opposite way round!!

Meet at the Griffin PH, Mears Ashby at 7:30pm for the walk or 9pm to 9:30pm if you just wish to join us for a drink and help Erica celebrate her 30th birthday!!!

Printer Friendly Walk Details

Maps of Walk Start -
Local Area
Relative to Nearby Towns

Leader Mark - was Erica but now she has to work on her birthday!

Friday 23rd to Monday 26th

Chamonix

After our successful trip to Chamonix last June Vicki has decided to run another trip this year .

The trip will be 4 days.

This time it will not only be for hard core walkers, there will be something for everyone!

We plan to base ourselves in the beautiful mountain resort of Chamonix at the foot of Mt Blanc.

Accommodation will range from camping to bed and breakfast ( What each individual prefers ), all to be discussed and arranged at a later date.

We have decided to do day excursions / walks from our base, but there is the option to stay in a mountain hut if people would like to.

1 day on a glacier is also planned for the more adventurous amongst us !

Chamonix has a lot to offer everyone, from sitting at a café watching the world go by to strapping on crampons and having a go at ice climbing !

Once again I would like to book the flights as early as possible, so that we get the best price !

Other ideas ;-

Rock climbing

Paragliding

Day walks

We have plenty of time to discuss all the various options.

Example photos of glacier walking

Flights have already been booked for those who have expressed interest.

Organised by Vicki B

July

Sunday 2nd

Area Rally 2006 - Organised by Northants Area RA

'Use your Footpaths Week'

Pitsford Water - a campaign to link the severed paths around north Pitsford Water.

Walk: 7 miles around north Pitsford Water, by permission of Anglian Water.

Meet: 10.00am at Holcot Village Hall, Back Lane, Holcot (GR SP 79306965). Please park in Moulton Road.

Lunch: Please bring your own food which can be eaten in the Village Hall. There will be a speaker from the RA.

This event is organised by the Area Committee - check their website for latest details

Wednesday 5th

Evening Walk, followed by pub meet

Meet at The George, Tiffield (just north of Towcester, between the A5 and A43),
to start the walk at 7:30.

Walk will be about 3.5 miles, finishing 9 to 9:30 for a drink at the pub.

Grid ref 698519.

It rained so heavily last time I led walk that I had to miss half of it out. So, this covers the other half of that walk, starting from a different village! Interesting things on the way include a goat, some geese, and a folly.

If you don't want to do the walk, just meet at the pub to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

Maps of Walk Start -
Local Area
Relative to Nearby Towns

James III walk leader

Sunday 16th

National Walk

Start at Dedham, Essex at car park. Grid Ref  TM 057 335

Round Flatford Mill - Constable country.

4 miles long in the morning and depending on how we feel we could hire rowing boats in the afternoon or move to Lavenham Suffolk and do a 5 mile walk there.

Plan is to leave Sixfields at 9am and get there at 11am, this is to allow the late risers to go.

Best way is to go A14.

This area comes highly recommended as John's Mum and Dad went at Easter !

Maps of walk start -
Local Area
Relative To Nearby Towns

 John leader

Wednesday 19th

 Evening Walk, followed by pub meet

Meet at 7.30pm at the Stags Head, Great Doddington for an approx 3 mile walk to Summer Leys and back to Great Doddington.

If you don't want to do the walk, just meet at the pub from 9.30pm
to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

Maps of walk start -
Local Area
Relative To Nearby Towns

Vicki B leader

Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd

 Weekend Away

Derbyshire

Underbank Camping Barn in the Peak District.

The camping barn has no bunks but has all the mod cons of a kitchen, showers, toilets and a living area, all you need to bring is a sleeping bag and sleeping mat.

The farm itself has a tea room and icecream parlour and it is only half a mile from the pub.

Tim has suggested some very nice local walks and he should know as he is from down the road!

All the info is on the YHA website

Location Map

Organised by John

Sunday 30th

Local Walk

A figure of 8 walk starting from the historic Ampthill Park (TL024382). There is plenty of free parking. Meet at 10.30am in the car park for the morning half or all day, or at 1:30pm in the park, near Katherine's Cross, for the afternoon only.

Ampthill Park was a royal hunting park, visited by Henry VIII. There are great views here looking across the Marston Vale to Bedford and beyond.

The morning walk is 6 miles long, walking along the Greensand Ridge through the woods to Millbrook and Lidlington. We pass by the Millbrook proving grounds, fingers crossed we may see an exotic car driving round, or 4x4's attempting the "1 in 1" gradient. We return back to have a picnic lunch in the park.

The afternoon walk is also 6 miles long, this time we walk along the Greensand Ridge in the opposite direction to the ruins of Houghton House (currently being restored), through the King's Wood nature reserve to the village of Houghton Conquest. We return passing the rather grand Ampthill Park House.

There will be a pub stop at Houghton Conquest in the afternoon. Fingers crossed, there may be an ice cream van at the finish.

Maps of walk start -
Local Area
Relative To Nearby Towns

Tim leader

August

Wednesday 2nd

Evening Walk, followed by pub meet

Starting outside the Spencer Arms pub at Chapel Brampton, a scenic 3.5 mile walk going to nearby Church Brampton, then through the fields and back along beside an old railway track.

There looks to be plenty of parking in the village, and the pub is obvious if you drive in on the A5199 from Northampton.

Meet at 7.30 at the pub for the walk, or if you don't want to do the walk, just meet at the pub from 9.00 - 9.30 to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

Maps of walk start -
Local Area
Relative To Nearby Towns

James III walk leader

Saturday 5th

 Extra Walk - By invitation of West Midlands Walking Group

Note this is a Saturday!

Braunston and Ashby St Ledgers.

10.30 start. Easy 8 miles.

Pleasant west Northants countryside with a busy canal junction and passing one of the secret meeting places of the Gunpowder Plot.

Start point - by the church in Braunston, on a side road off the A45 - Coventry to Daventry road

Andy Page of WMWG walk leader

See WMWG Website for latest details

Contact Via Sue if necessary

Sunday 13th

Not a walk, but a "Fun and Games Day" in Hyde Park !!!!!

This follows the London Pub Crawl the day before and since some of you may not feel like doing much after the alcohol, we are having a fun day!

Anyone who would like to join us meet at 11 am at the Lido cafe, Hyde Park

These are the details -

The Lido Café:
Location: South side of the Serpentine, near the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain.

With stunning views along The Serpentine and a large alfresco dining area, the Lido is a great place to get refreshed and watch the world go by. The restaurant is licensed for alcohol; facilities include toilets, baby change, high chairs, newspapers, and outdoor seating.

What we actually do after meeting in the cafe will depend on how everyone feels, however there are various options - game of rounders / short walk / picnic etc - or including swimming in the lido, so bring your speedos !!

Grid Ref  TQ 271 800

Location Map

Hyde Park Website

Sunday 20th

Extra Walk - By invitation of West Midlands Walking Group

Badby. 10.30 start.

Straightforward 11 miles.

Taking in a couple of villages. Possible pub stop.

Start point - Meet at the post office on the village green in Badby, park in the surrounding streets.

Badby is off the A361.

Ian Wilkinson of WMWG walk leader

See WMWG Website for latest details

Contact Via Sue if necessary

Tuesday 22nd to Tuesday 29th

Week Long Trip

Slovenia

Organised by Andy

Tuesday 22nd

The last evening walk of the season !!

Please note that this is a TUESDAY, not a Wednesday.

Meet 7.30 Carpenters Arms, Irchester, for a short walk across the fields to Irchester country park, a lap around the park and back to the pub. Approx 3 miles.

There is also the opportunity for Frisbee throwing in the park.

If it has been raining the fields could be muddy.

Please note that there are two pubs in the village, this one is opposite the church.

Plenty of parking in the street outside the church.

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Jenni leader

Sunday 27th

National Walk

Meet Grindleford train Station 10.30, Grid Ref - SK 250788, for a walk very similar to Clive's last year.

10 - 12 miles, pub stop around about lunch time, there will be a few small hills.

Fantastic views of the Hope Valley.

Grindleford Station > Padley Gorge > Stanage Edge > Froggat Edge > Curbar Edge > Grindleford Station > Tea and Cakes.

Meet 8.30 am at Sixfields, near Frankie and Bennies, for car share. Jon C and Esther will be there.

Please note Vicki will meet you in Grindleford.

There are toilets at Grindleford station, but please note you will need to buy a coffee before they will let you use them!!

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Please let Vicki know if you plan to go.

Vicki B + Esther + Jon C joint leaders !

September

Sunday 3rd

Joint walk with Peterborough Younger Walkers

Meet outside Badby Church (limited parking), map/grid ref. 206/SP560588 at 10:00.

Walk via Fawsley Park, Preston Capes and Everdon and return via Newnham along the Nene Way.

17km (10½ miles).

Paul B (of Peterborough Younger Walkers) leader.

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Wednesday 6th

Monthly pub meeting

(no walk as it is now getting dark too soon!)

The Stag's Head, Great Doddington.

Meet at the pub from 8pm to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

Maps of pub location -
Local Area
Relative To Nearby Towns

Sunday 10th

Local Walk

Walk starts at Hellidon SW of Daventry (Grid Ref SP 518 580).

Meet outside the Red Lion pub at 10.30.

Figure of 8, 11 miles long - 6 in the morning and 5 in the afternoon.

Parking is a bit limited but there should be enough for 10 cars on the grass verge outside the pub. DON'T PARK IN PUB CAR PARK!! Would be a good idea to car share where possible.

As it is a figure of 8 people can leave and join at lunch which will be at the pub. They serve food but John didn't get to see the menu.

Anyone wishing to join us in the afternoon should get to the pub at 1pm. If we are not there we should not be long - get yourself and the walk leader a drink and wait for us in the garden.

Highlights of the walk include a windmill and a priory.

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

John leader

Friday 15th to Sunday 17th

Weekend away

Andy's 40th Birthday Extravaganza !!

Based at the Swanage Auberge - bunkhouse at Swanage, in Dorset

Space for up to 14 people, but now considered to be fully booked with 12, on the advice of the bunkhouse to give a bit of breathing space !

The bunkhouse has separate rooms with bunk beds (not just a floor like some places!) and a kitchen and showers etc. so really it is more like a hostel.

Price is £14 per person per night,which includes breakfast (coffee and cereal). There will be a slight supplement as we are 12 rather than 14.

The location will allow for some excellent coastal walking along the south west coastal path, followed of course by the chance to swim in the sea!

The plan for Saturday is to head along the coast to the south of Swanage, to Chapman's Pool and then back to Worth Matravers which reportedly has an excellent pub ! Then return to Swanage either back along the coast again or we could go via two more pubs in Langton Matravers !!

As the Saturday is Andy's 40th birthday, part of the plan is also to celebrate this in suitable style on Saturday night. This will start with a meal the bunkhouse - they do what sounds like a very good alpine style evening meal.

On the Sunday the plan is for a steam train ride to Corfe Castle and walk back into Swanage through the Purbeck Hills (at least I think they are part of the Purbeck Hills) - approximately the walk shown in This Link

Other "lighter" options for Sunday are a steam train to Corfe Castle, have a look at the castle and train back to Swanage, or another walk along the coast, this time heading north, including more time on the beach / sea in Swanage or nearby, if weather permits. There is a nudist beach nearby at Studland, which we will encounter if we walk far enough north ! (Not planning to take full advantage myself, but the option is there!!). Also chance to see / visit Brownsea Island but this would make the walk a bit long if we start from Swanage.

Swanage is 168 miles from Northampton (similar distance to Cadair Idris or Brecon Beacons) and should take 3 hours 20 mins driving at legal speeds (assuming no traffic on M25!) (or there are quicker / less busy routes available)

The bunkhouse is now booked for 14, deposit is £14 per person. If you are booked on this and have not yet paid, please Contact Andy ASAP and arrange to send a cheque (deposit already paid to hostel).

On the advice of the hostel, and apparent lack of interest from anyone else, I have decided to cap the numbers at 12, which may result in a slight surcharge.

Map of Swanage - showing areas we will walk (South West Coast Path)

Guide to the Isle of Purbeck

Swanage Auberge Website

Organised by Andy

Editors Note:

As many of you will be aware, Andy was not able to attend his own 40th birthday event. The weekend went ahead as a "normal" weekend.

Details above have been left as a historical record of what was planned.

October

Sunday 2nd

National Walk

Walk will start at Shipston on Stour, going via Todenham and Stretton-on-Fosse.

Meet at the car park opposite the Old Mill pub in Shipston, which is FREE.

It is over the bridge on your right as you come from Banbury (which is the way everyone will probably go).Grid Ref SP 259 405.

Walk is approx 7.9 miles. It takes in two pubs (which incidentally do REAL Ales for those that like that sort of thing) I figure we will have time for a stop in both.

Also for those that like a NICE cup of Tea there is an offer of refreshments (and toilet) at my parents house after the walk.

We do also pass a small REAL ALE Brewery and some gift shops although when I asked yesterday they said the brewery would be closed.

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Vikki C leader

Wednesday 4th

Pub meeting

Toby Carvery from 8pm.

Meet at the pub to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

We will also be finalising the new walks programme for January to June 2007

Anyone wanting to lead a walk should come to this meeting and get their name down. If you want to lead a walk but can't come e-mail Andy with the date you would like to lead.

Map of pub location

Sunday 15th

Local Walk

Walk will be starting from the church at Little Harrowden. Grid Ref SP 871 716. Meet at 10.30.

We will go across the fields to Pytchley and then onwards to Isham (with a panoramic view of Weetabix!) before completing the circuit back to LH.

I believe that this is about 5 1/2 to 6 miles. If there is sufficient light we can also do another circular walk from LH to Great Harrowden and back (the latter is one of the Northamptonshire pub walks) in the afternoon. The latter walk is 4 1/2 miles.

There are pubs at Pytchley, Isham and Little Harrowden itself. There is also a shop in Isham which was open the last time I did this walk on a Sunday afternoon about two months ago (early July).

Parking will have to be by the road side in LH.

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Bill leader

Sunday 29th

National Walk

Meet at Burrough Hill Country Park, near Melton Mowbray, at 10.30am (Grid Ref SK 765 115).

Or meet at Sixfields (Northampton) at 9.20am to share lifts.

Costs £1.50 to park, lots of room.

Walk is 9.25 miles across rolling countryside with a pub stop at Somerby.

Info on Burrough Hill Country Park

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

John leader

November

Wednesday 1st

Pub meeting

Toby Carvery from 8pm.

Meet at the pub to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

Map of pub location

Friday 10th to Sunday 12th

Weekend Away

John has found what looks like a very nice hostel between Corwen and Betws-Y-Coed on the A5, a bit further in Wales than first planned but there are some great walks in the area. Should take 3 hours 20 mins from Northampton (Sixfields). Grid Ref SH 930 503.

8 beds have been provisionally booked so if you wish to go send John your money now - £10 deposit, should cost no more than £30 for bed breakfast and packed lunch. ( 3 or 4 definites already known about will get first priority)

Sat dinner will be in one of the local pubs, 4 in a 4 mile radius.

Details of walks still to be worked out but lots of great options virtually on the doorstep of the hostel.

Location Maps -
Local Area
Relative to Nearby Towns

Hostel Website

Please Contact John ASAP and he will send details for sending money.

Sunday 19th

The Northamptonshire Area AGM

The AGM is at 3pm at Weedon Bec Village Hall, West Street, Weedon (Grid Ref SP626593).

The Daventry Group, who are kindly hosting this year's AGM, have arranged 2 walks before the AGM, both starting from the village hall.

One will start at 8.30am and will be 10 miles; a packed lunch is required and the walk leader will be Brian Davies.

The second walk will start at 11.45am and will be 5 or 6 miles; the walk leader is Sally Pearson.

The speaker at the AGM itself will be Kevin Matthews.

Kevin, aged 30, is a member of the RA Board of Trustees and has been an active RA member since 1989. He is a member of the Advisory Panel on Walk Leading and Navigation. He formed the Notts and Derby Group for younger members in 1997 and has subsequently helped many other Areas to form similar groups. He is particularly interested in the modernisation of the RA and recruiting members from a wider section of the community. He also organises the annual "Big Event", now known as "HikeFest".

Members of our group are encouraged to attend, particularly as Kevin is the speaker as this should prove interesting to us and could result in a lively discussion!

Maps of AGM Location / Walks Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Sunday 26th

Local Walk

Meet at 10.30am at Greens Norton playing fields, there is a car park here or you can park opposite in Calvert Road near the primary school.

Greens Norton is a village about 2 miles from Towcester, take the road off the A5/A43 roundabout going past Towcestrians rugby club, the playing field is on the right hand side as you enter the village.

N.B. If you are travelling from the South, please note that the M1 will be closed, between Junctions 9 and 11, until 10am on the morning of this walk!

The walk is approximately 9 miles going through the villages of Blakesley and Bradden before returning to Greens Norton. I plan to stop in Blakesley for lunch, so please bring a packed lunch. We will also stop at the Bartholomew Arms in Blakesley for a drink (they serve a range of real ales, wines and soft drinks)

I am giving this walk a short friendliness rating of minus 10, as James got severely stung when we reckied it recently (recently being July) so hopefully by November you should be safe to wear shorts if you really want to! Just don't blame me if you get frost bite on your knees!

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Jayne leader

December

Sunday 3rd

National Walk

St Albans

A semi-urban walk starting from St Albans City Station and taking in many historic features of this ancient city, as well as the surrounding countryside,  in a 9.5 miles circular tour.

There is a pub at the mid point of the walk there is also the possibility of many pubs in St Albans before, during and after the walk! (But please note this is a walk and not a pub crawl, so we won't visit them all!!)

The walk is taken from "Walking Britain" see it on This Link

Meet at St Albans City station at 10.30, or outside the ticket barriers at Bedford Station at 9.35 for the 9.50 direct train (which arrives at St Albans at 10.27).

You need to meet outside the barriers as there is an offer for 4 for tickets the price of 2, so don't buy your ticket until you have joined up with a group of 4. Full fare is £10.30.

There are also trains / buses from other destinations -

Northampton depart 8.10 (bus) > Milton Keynes arrive 8.55 > (then as below)

Milton Keynes depart 9:20 (bus) > Luton arrive 10:05 > Luton depart 10:14 > St Albans arrive 10:27

Wellingborough depart 9.29 > Luton arrive 10.08 > Luton depart 10.14 > St Albans arrive 10.27

There are later trains from Luton, we will wait for the one arriving at 10.33 for those who may have missed the fairly tight connections but if you are planning to come on one of the journeys with connections it is advisable to e-mail walk leader Andy in advance so we know you are coming.

Travelling by car is not really recommended but if you do you could park at the station and meet us there or use central St Albans car parks and meet by the tourist information in Market Place, at around 10.50am, as there is little of interest between the station and the city centre (except Cotswold outdoor shop!). Tourist Info is a big white building with classical columns, standing on its own, right in the middle of the market - you can't miss it! Just in case you do it is shown on the far left hand side of the local area map linked to below. Again, best to e-mail Andy if you are taking this option.

There appear to be adequate trains / buses back to all starting points well after the walk will have ended. But you are recommended to check your own journey details on thetrainline.com or elsewhere.

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

Location Map of Bedford Station

Timetables - Bedford to St Albans   St Albans to Bedford

Walk Details on Walking Britain

Reviews Of Mid-Point Pub

Andy leader

Wednesday 6th

Monthly pub meeting

The Stag's Head, Great Doddington.

Meet at the pub from 8pm to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.

Maps of pub location -
Local Area
Relative To Nearby Towns

Sunday 17th

Local Walk

We will meet at the war memorial in Emberton at 10.30am (Grid Ref SP 886 495).

You can park in the country park or in the village (considerately of course.)

We will walk to Sherrington (the birth place of Mark Wallace!) where we will lunch before returning to Emberton.

About five miles in the morning and 4 in the afternoon. Pretty straightforward really!

If anyone fancies only half the walk, with prior arrangement we could pick people up in Sherrington at 10.10am and they could walk to their cars there.

It's nice and flat!

Maps of Walk Start -
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Local Area

Erica leader

Tuesday 26th

Local Boxing Day Walk

Meet at 11.00am at Main St Southwick (TL 017 920) for an 8.6 mile walk.

The walk takes in Southwick Hall, the village of Cotterstock with its hall and mill, and the ancient market town of Oundle with its public school (V Hogworts). Here we will find our lunchtime pub, The Ship, which is listed in the Good Beer Guide, before heading back via Short Wood Nature Reserve.

Part of the "Festival of Winter Walks"

Maps of Walk Start -
Relative To Nearby Towns
Local Area

John leader

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