This was one of those “Shall I, Shan’t I?” days. The weather forecast given was one of heavy rains together with a yellow wind warning. Hmmmm. The layby car parking facility was not overcrowded with the usual number of enthusiastic Ramblers, eagerly looking forward to a novel walk across the beautiful West Sussex countryside. Obviously the main attitude of those intrepid Ramblers that did show was primarily along the lines of “What the heck! – let’s see what it’s like when I get there!”
Four of us set out along the Serpent Trail in what can only be described as quite surprisingly mild weather – no rain, and with very little wind. Had the Met Office got its forecast wrong? Was this another conspiracy theory designed to keep people off the streets, and footpaths, of our neck of the woods?
Off we set, down The Serpent Trail, along what was still, despite the recent rain over the previous week, a firm path. We caught haunting images of mist still trapped in the trees higher up the slopes. Crossing Milland Road onto a decidedly not marshy Iping Marsh, followed by an even less marshy Stedham Marsh, it began to look, weather-wise, as if we would be enjoying our coffee stop at the top of Woolbeding Common, taking in the panorama on offer, in comfort. We watched the rain clouds to the west marching towards us as we finished off our refreshments, prompting the donning of our waterproofs. The wind by now had begun to pick up a little, but still nothing resembling what we had been led to believe.
Passing between the two serpent statues, still on The Serpent Trail, which we followed for another half mile before turning south and downhill towards Pound Common. By now the rain had found us, not the torrential downpour promised, instead more of a regular rain. We met someone out foraging for mushrooms/fungi, who showed us what she had collected in her basket – a single beech boletus so far, and on the lookout for porcini mushrooms. Crossing Woolbeding Lane, heading west, we entered a field with a hedge on our left, to the south, offering us shelter from the wind which was still picking up. Swallows were very much in evidence here, swooping around very close to us, no doubt enjoying the wind. We enjoyed their acrobatics.
A little after crossing Tote Lane, we joined The New Lipchis Way, passing Ash House and its ponds. A woodland trail towards Hammerwood House and into the field where although we did not see the GIANT horses, we did see a couple of their GIANT horseshoes! By now the rain had stopped and the wind had died down. Crossing the field we strode into Iping and St. Mary’s church for lunch.
On exiting the church, we found that the sun had come out, blue skies around, and only enough wind to make flying a kite worthwhile. Off came the waterproofs! Heading oop north along Iping Lane for a short spell before entering a field where mushrooms were in abundance. Crossing the course of a Roman Road, then downhill on Hammer Lane into Hammer Wood, enjoying the sunlight on Hammer Pond. This brought us out onto Cooks Pond Lane, which we immediately turned off to enjoy a final tramp through Wick Wood, before rejoining the track of Green Lane. The wind had again increased, we could hear it in the tall trees above us, whilst enjoying the shelter they provided.
Back to the cars and all in all, a most welcome, enjoyable romp!
Author: Peter Berg
Photography: David Roberts and Claire Cane
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Thirteen intrepid walkers assembled in the St Catherine’s Park and Ride Car Park, all disappointed that the promised facilities were closed! What a start to the walk! Never mind we set off on the walk, beginning with an uphill, steep route to the top of the hill. Claire had mentioned last time we walked in that area that she had never been up the hill – so up the hill we went. Puffing and panting we admired the view from the top before walking back down again.
It was busy along the paths as school holidays had just begun and everyone was out enjoying the balmy weather. Following the River Itchen we made our way to Compton Lock. Here many people come to swim, despite the notice saying no swimming. No-one was in while we were there except a dog which decided to shake himself free of the water over some of our ramblers – well, it did cool them down a little!
Then the route wound its way across the fields to the small, but busy, village of Twyford. On the way we passed the local church which was very large considering the size of the habitation. Emerging into the village we were thankful there was a pelican crossing in the village for us to cross the road safely. A workman strimming the grass at the side of the road stopped to allow us to pass safely and we made our way to the village allotments, which were in very good order. The local cricket ground was being spruced up for a forthcoming match and a pop-up coffee shop was doing good business near the playground.
Continuing on along the path we made our way towards Hensting Farm, turned left towards Owslebury and walked uphill. Energy was beginning to flag, so with the promise of lunch at Owslebury we rambled on. Gratefully finding an area in the village with benches and picnic tables we sank down to rest and eat our food.
Refreshed we walked out of the village northward in the direction of Winchester. It seemed that the path was forever gaining height – by now we were following the Pilgrim’s Way which we knew would lead us back to the cars. On the way we passed a war memorial to London soldiers who were billeted close by during WW1. Leaving the tall stone cross behind us we skirted round a field and began the final stretch to the cars. Not getting too excited as the path still seemed to be climbing we encountered Winchester Golf Course. There were a few players and thankfully no balls were accidentally sent our way. At last the path began to descend with glorious views over Winchester, it seems that it is a very green city with copious trees everywhere. Over the M3 and down a small side path, the last lap. As we descended we passed a burnt out caravan, two filthy ones that seemed to be lived in and as least five that had been trashed. We wondered how and why they were there. We had no answers. Then there was the car park, the end of a warm 11+ miles and a gentle drive home.
Author and Photographer: Lynne Burge
Additional Photography: David Roberts
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This was based near Juniper Car Park in Queen Elizabeth Country Park on a glorious sunny day. Those who wished to follow Anne on a ramble around the park met in the early afternoon. They walked around the outside of the park, dropping down to the Centre and climbing back up to the top of the park.
In the meantime, those who preferred a quieter afternoon brought their chairs across the grass to a shady patch out of the sun. Eventually around 30 ramblers were grouped together, enjoying each other’s company and looking forward to the food. Everyone had brought a contribution with them – sandwiches, quiches, cheese and pineapple, sausages to just mention a few of the items on the table. This was then supplemented with fruit and cake. What a feast!
Then it was time to cut the cake (which had a photo of the Heath on it) for those who are, or will be, 80 this year. It shows that rambling keeps you young. Five of a potential group of six arranged themselves around the cake as we sang Happy Birthday. It was then distributed to all.
The afternoon meandered on in a relaxed manner, until it was time to pack up and go. To be repeated in some format next year.
Author and Photographer: Lynne Burge
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It was a hot and sunny day for our walk from Fernhurst but thankfully the walk was broken up with stretches of cool woodland which eased things quite considerably.
Setting off from St Margaret’s Church, we crossed the green and headed up lanes and past cornfields towards Lower House Farm. Just past the farm, there were a couple of ponds with masses of waterlilies (almost, but not quite, a scene from a Monet painting!) Some of our party spotted some interesting molluscs in the water but we suspected they may not have been naturally occurring.
Trekking alongside what looked like several horse enclosures and along grassy paths, we passed a vineyard, and then through cool woodland and past an abundant apple orchard, we emerged on to the picturesque Lurgashall village green, where we sat and drank coffee under a big tree overlooking the green. One of our number showed us a very amusing inscription under a tree on the green about a dog called Chudleigh and his antics! He was obviously very beloved by all the locals.
Heading on up the lane and past another beautiful pond, we passed through a dark tunnelled path which emerged on to a field full of yellow ragwort, being munched on by Cinnebar moth caterpillars. We stopped to stroke two small ponies and then continued through several gates and stiles and across fields to eventually head up the field towards Hobstevens Farm. Crossing the road to Quell Road, we reached Quell Common, and after ascending through an overgrown path of ferns and brambles, and passing a pig enclosure where we stopped to admire 3 little porkers, we reached the top where we were afforded a stunning view across the valley. There was a beautiful willow sculpture of a mother horse with its baby foal in one of the fields. We climbed a steep road past Blackdown House (part of the Weyborne Estate) and stopped for lunch in various spots of shade overlooking the expansive view.
The final section of the walk descended through woodland and back to Fernhurst Green. My thanks to everyone who turned up on this hot day!
Author: Fiona El Hasnaoui
Photography: Claire Anderson, David Roberts and Fiona El Hasnaoui
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On a more overcast day than we have had of late, a group of hearty ramblers met at the Cheriton recreation ground, hoping that the threatened rain did not make too much of an appearance (it didn’t, fortunately!) Setting off behind the tennis courts, we took the footpath up the side of a field at the back and on to the lane leading to Hill Houses. Eventually, after passing a small area of woods, we emerged out on to a lovely open area of meadows where we could really stretch our legs and feel the breeze.
Following the clear path straight down and then back up the valley with extensive views, we reached the South Downs Way and followed its path for some distance between rich hedgerows. Finally, we turned onto a wide gravel path which took us to the A31, where we carefully crossed into Little Hampage Wood and stopped for a coffee break under the canopy of many mature trees.
Suitably refreshed, we continued on the path, snaking past nettles and fallen trees through a gate with pastureland to our left, again with lovely views. Going through a couple of large metal gates, we turned right past a large farmyard and continued on a grassy path, climbing up through Hampage Wood. Passing a logging area and a radio antennae mast, we turned off left at a well hidden signpost and continued on a rather overgrown path for some distance. This later turned into a sunken and stony path running in a strip of woodland which slowed us down as it was not particularly easy to navigate.
Continuing over a lane, we finally emerged at the River Itchen on the Itchen Way. We crossed two bridges over the clear waters, with some fish being spotted. A wild meadow full of yellow flag blooms took us past a herd of grazing cows out on to a lane which led us back over another bridge – we now had water on both sides.
Crossing back over the river, we emerged past the Bush Inn, at Ovington, and walked up to St Peter’s Church for our lunch break.
After our well-earned rest, we followed the ancient wall of Ovington House out of the village and turned up through some trees and past fields of barley, almost blue in colour, as the path gradually rose with good views. We then re-crossed the A31 and began the descent to Tichborne. As you descend the hill, you can see the church of St Andrew up on the hill to your right. Unfortunately, the church was locked, which was a pity as the author had visited on a recce day and found it very interesting – high wooden box pews in the puritan style with Jacobean carving, and a side chapel which is a rare example of a Catholic chapel within a pre-Reformation church.
We continued through pretty Tichborne with its many thatched cottages and followed the road around until we reached Sevington Farm, where we turned right up a lane and crossed a couple of fields until we finally emerged back at Hill Houses, and the path back to the car park.
Author: Fiona El Hasnaoui
Photography: Clare McCullough, Rose Field, David Roberts and Fiona El Hasnaoui
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Six intrepid ramblers gathered outside South Harting where we walked along the South Downs with the woods on our right.
We passed along a rocky footpath until emerging in the village of Treyford. Walking up the hill we met a local resident who informed us that his house was previously owned by Paul Maze, an Anglo-French impressionist painter, who was the official painter for Queen Elizabeth’s coronation. He was also a close friend of Winston Churchill who visited Treyford where they painted together.
Walking up the hill we went along the downs until we reached a farm. We went along the road until crossing over a bridge up the steep hill to Elsted. From here we could see the man-made reservoir.
Passing through The Three Horseshoes we stopped at the village hall for the coffee stop with glorious views overlooking the South Downs.
After our break we crossed a field and went down through the woods. Arriving in a clearing we followed the signed footpath alongside a farm until emerging on the road to East Harting. We walked through this lovely village and back down to our cars to complete a lovely walk.
Author: David Roberts
Photography: David Roberts and Claire Anderson
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Petersfield Ramblers complete their convivial journey around Mary’s Crescent
With 39 miles of the Mary’s Crescent walk ‘in the bag’, the Ramblers were keen to complete their journey – a Downland exploration of Medieval churches dedicated to St Mary – by walking from Chilgrove to Chichester Cathedral. It promised to be a warm day for this final 12 mile section, which would include the 500 foot climb to the top of St Roche’s Hill and its Iron Age hill fort ‘The Trundle’.
Our group of twelve fine walkers assembled in the theatre car park in Chichester, before squeezing into four cars for the return drive to Chilgrove and the start of the walk. The route followed undulating rural roads for the first mile to Staple Ash Farm. Once again we paused frequently to admire the abundance of roadside flowers and blossoming hedgerow trees. A couple of houses offered wisteria teeming with racemes of purple flowers. A stunning red horse-chestnut attracted the photographers in our midst, as did an unusual, pink-tinged hawthorn. And, of course, frothy white cow parsley was everywhere.
Leaving the tarmac, our footpath across Stapleash Down was bookended by two large chalk balls, part of Andy Goldsworthy’s ‘sculpture’ of 14 chalk stones – placed at intervals along a 5 mile route that links West Dean with the South Downs Way. The balls were intended to sink and erode away – but remain very visible after 22 years. Having gained height, there were lovely far-reaching views across the Downs.
With the sun getting stronger we took a familiar footpath along the edge of the wooded West Dean estate. Huge stacks of logs evidenced commercial logging activity – as did the decimated landscape behind a thin margin of untouched landscape.
It was time for a coffee break. Whilst a few of us were keen to lap up the sunshine, the majority preferred shade. Generous offerings of biscuits and sweets were enjoyed by all !
Moving on, there was no way to escape the sun: for a mile we traversed open arable fields before reaching Colworth Farm. Swathes of yellow Crosswort lined our path, along with clumps of Comfrey.
Much appreciated shade from overhanging trees made walking more pleasant on the descent into Singleton. We stopped to admire a huge ash tree and to discuss the colour of the dainty Speedwell flowers at our feet: blue or purple? We compromised on mauve! Then we crossed a dismantled railway on a grassy bridge with impressive, renovated brickwork.
Singleton proved a veritable playgroup for some of our members! There was skipping through sprinklers on the cricket pitch, riding a decaying tractor and swinging on a tyre disguised as a horse! Perhaps it was the effects of the sun! The light-hearted mood was enhanced by a sign in the middle of the village indicating the direction and distance to the local pubs.
Sobriety restored we made our way to the first St Mary’s church of the day. Singleton church’s tower originates from the 11th century though much of the building is dated to early 13th century.
Rested, we were ready for the big climb up to the Trundle hill fort – with its trig point and modern-day mobile masts. On the way up, Goodwood racecourse and grandstand were passed on our left and at the top the 360 expansive views were admired – while little planes flew overhead from the nearby airfield. Lunch was overdue, so we found some shade just off the exposed hilltop before starting our descent via the long, straight Chalkpit Lane. Enroute were fields of buttercups and emergent elderflowers and ox-eye daisies.
Feeling quite warm from the early afternoon sun, we were glad to find cool in the St Mary’s church in East Lavant. The nave of this flint and rubble built church is 12th century with the tower added in 1671. Notable inside were two Medieval tombs embedded in the floor.
After following Fordwater Road for a short distance we crossed meadows and the River Lavant before reaching Summersdale in the north of Chichester. A mile of pavement walking took us into Oaklands Park and down to the remarkable Festival Theatre – where many of us had enjoyed performances over the years.
Pausing to drop off bags in our parked cars, we continued on down North Street – our journey not yet complete. Mary’s Crescent ends at Lady Chapel, behind the main altar in Chichester Cathedral. With so much to distract us as we strolled the length of this magnificent, 950 year old cathedral, our progress was slow but full of interest. Discretely placing a full-stop at the end of our 51 mile walk was a bronze statue of Mary and Child beside the altar in the Lady Chapel.
But of course we weren’t finished yet: time to celebrate! Returning to the White Horse in Chilgrove, over teas, coffees, beers and wine we reminisced about our wonderful adventure – and greatly appreciated our resident poet’s reading of his latest ode to our Mary’s Crescent walk.
Author: Sandy Arpino
Photographer: Sandy Arpino
THE ST MARY’S CRESCENT PILGRIMAGE by David Roberts
We started our pilgrimage from Portchester Castle 15 strong
Making our way along the shore in the sunshine
The rippling waves of the sea like shimmering diamonds
Until we reached the beautiful St Mary’s church
Striding past the crematorium along a rocky footpath
Up Portsdown hill via Fort Nelson where mini chocolate eggs were enjoyed
Dispensed by our group leader the remarkably well organised and upbeat Sandy
While admiring the stunning panoramic views over the South Downs
Moving down the hill to the coffee stop at Boarhunt church
There the group sat in the grounds admiring the beautiful flowers and trees
Afterwards we made our way along the Meon Valley Trail
With beautiful celandines, bluebells, violets and primroses along the way
To lunch overlooking the magnificent Wickham church
There were three Clare’s in the group, two without an I and one with, which can make things confusing.
Fair- haired Claire is the fantasist of the group dreaming of a world of peace and harmony where Portsmouth football club learn to play decent football.
Dark-haired Clare found her true role in life sitting in the stocks playing the victim
Threatening to sue the Petersfield ramblers for compensation as a result of bullying
Grey haired Clare is the wise sage of the group like Gandalf in Lord of the Rings Dispensing tea bread and kindness throughout the land
Gerald was his usual good humoured self his bonhomie cheering everyone along
Lynne as the chairman of the group made sure that everyone was suitably attired
Mandy was cheerful and charming, Helen talkative chatty and amusing
Fiona bought delicious chocolate brownies with Georgia etched on her mind
Jo, as self-contained as ever, took it all in her stride
Not showing any signs of tiredness however long the walks
Peter was the macho-man of the group leaping up hills
And jumping on ropes and swings to show off his athleticism
Tony was perfectly happy provided he wasn’t out of internet range
David dished out chocolate truffles while wondering whether Dulcia’s kind suggestion of a mankini might improve his appearance
Chris was the rock steady back marker making sure no-one was left behind
Slightly sad without the group mascot Pickle by his side
Following lunch we passed under six bridges as we left the Meon Valley Trail
To join the the Wayfarers Walk along the flood plains of the river Meon to Droxford
There we stopped to peruse a second St Mary’s church
Before we walked in the glorious hot sun to the delightful country pub the Baker’s Arms
There we unwound with tea, coffee, chocolate brownies and lemon cheesecake which melted in your mouth
There was a glorious feeling of happiness and contentment after walking the St Mary’s Crescent pilgrimage
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Petersfield Ramblers enjoy a delightful day’s walking on Mary’s Crescent from Buriton to Chilgrove
Having completed half of the Mary’s Crescent walk (from Portchester to Buriton) – and taken a week off to rest – Petersfield Ramblers were ready and keen to undertake the second half. This Downland exploration of Medieval churches dedicated to St Mary would now lead our walkers from Buriton to Chilgrove, then on to Chichester cathedral later in May. With an encouragingly good weather forecast, our group of thirteen rendezvoused in the White Horse car park in Chilgrove. Everyone arrived early and excited chatter was well underway when one ‘kill-joy’ reminded the party that there was a walk to be done! Fortunately this leg of the journey would be shorter at 10.5 miles, though plenty of ups and downs were expected. So – squeezing into four cars – we drove back to Buriton pond to commence the day’s exercise.
Before leaving the pond we admired the impressive clump of Yellow-flag Irises at the water’s edge and the lovely Celtic crosses in the churchyard.
Then it was on to the steep, chalky Milky Way – our first climb of the day. Thankfully the abundance of wild flowers on the banks either side of the path gave us just cause to pause frequently to admire and take photos. The pure white ‘May blossom’ on the Hawthorne was stunning – emitting a beautiful scent that followed us throughout the walk – but even more impressive were the vast swathes of Wild Garlic in full flower, in places interwoven with Yellow Archangel.
With height gained, the views north became ever more splendid, before we turned onto the small, flat rural road leading to Sunwood Farm. This road was spectacularly lined with tall copper beech trees covered in newly-emergent leaves.
Turning right off the road – continuing along a level section of the South Downs Way – we were sustained by more lovely green views across the fields and the delightful pathside wild flowers: yellow Buttercups, dainty Red Campions, endless frothy Cow Parsley and low-level, spreading Bugle / Ajuta reptans.
On reaching the B2146 it was time to spur off the SDW, to drop down to South Harting and its St Mary’s church. The steep descent finally flattened out at the village green with its ‘forest school’ for small children and an impressive parade of horse-chestnut trees in full flower.
Time to explore South Harting church and to take a well-earned coffee break in the churchyard. Though we were all very familiar with the landmark of the large green copper spire of the church, few had seen inside. Many admired the expansive interior and the huge array of colourful, nature-themed tapestry kneelers – and appreciated the facilities!
We found a sun trap on the south-side of the church with ample benches for our coffee break. A very kind member of our group had baked teabread / Irish Barmbrack for us which was delicious. We certainly valued the extra calories needed for our climb out of the village and on to Harting Down.
But first there was one more bit of fun to be had: one of our number was keen to try out the village stocks! In good spirits – with sunshine bathing us – we tackled the 500ft climb, rejoining the SDW, crossing the B2146 and later the B2141. At the top of Harting Down we could look down on the way we had come, with the green church spire now tiny in the distance.
After a short rest we marched across the wide open downs, dropping into Bramshott Bottom before rising gently onto Little Round Down. Here we left the SDW to pass Telegraph House, making our way to little North Marden village and its humble 12th century church.
Adored by the walk leader, this tucked-away church has no electricity and a semi-circular end to its simple chancel – being only one of six churches in England to have this feature.
With 8 miles under our belts it was time to stop for lunch. Again we found a nice sun-trap where we consumed food from our rucksacks, supplemented with gorgeous M&S truffles that another generous member had brought. Revitalised we retraced our steps along a footpath affording lovely views right and left: rapeseed fields on one side and vistas of more distant purple / copper beeches on the other.
A further mile and a half across flat fields returned us to Chilgrove with its charming White Horse pub where our cars awaited. But first there was the agreeable task of enjoying coffee and cakes – and more conversation – in the upmarket pub garden. Only then – sweetened by mini biscoff doughnuts – did we set off to our homes, a perfect day completed.
Author: Sandy Arpino
Photographer: Sandy Arpino
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Petersfield Ramblers weather the challenges of walking Mary’s Crescent from Droxford to Buriton
Having completed a most enjoyable day of walking from Portchester Castle to Droxford on Mary’s Crescent in mid-April, a week later Petersfield Ramblers rendezvoused at Buriton Pond for part two of the Downland exploration of Medieval churches dedicated to St Mary. Alas, after heavy overnight rain, the forecast for the day remained damp and overcast. Undaunted, thirteen intrepid walkers were up for the 14 mile challenge. Everyone donned rain gear before setting off in four cars for Droxford, the start of the day’s walk. The car journey involved dynamic navigation around two blocked roads and heavy showers; it was not the best start to our hike. Finally at 09:40 – in light rain – we set off.
Our route led us along the north side of Droxford church (explored the week before), past the Mill House and its water race, under a bridge and back onto the Meon Valley Trail – a disused railway track. Unlike the previous week, there were no colourful flowers lining our path, just damp flattened greenery. Our band of walkers looked equally lacklustre in the rain.
After almost 2 miles of easy walking on the Trail, we met the point where the South Downs Way crossed our path. Here we left the Trail, joining the SDW to head due east To Old Winchester Hill. Although our ascent commenced almost immediately, spirits lifted as the rain ceased and skies lightened. Open views across fields spread north and south as the climb became steeper.
A stunning patch of cowslips caught our eyes, protected by orange fencing; unexpected was the electric shock that the fencing delivered!
After 4 miles of walking we reached the trig point on breezy Old Winchester Hill at 650 feet, surrounded by the impressive earthworks of an ancient hilltop fort. Here we rested with coffee from our rucksacks and the most delicious homemade brownies supplied by a generous member of our group.
Reinvigorated we descended gently, first along the SDW then later on the Monarch’s Way. A short stretch of road walking led to an exceptionally steep slope down a field, full of Freisian cows who – thankfully – paid us no attention. There followed a clear diagonal footpath across a large field, defined by yellowing crops dying from what we assumed was weedkiller; a good way for a farmer to ensure that walkers caused minimal damage to crops.
After a further two miles of relatively flat rambling across rough ground and then between fields, our course turned north alongside the burial ground of the Sustainability Centre. En route we saw more banks of cowslips, clumps of white nettles, bands of wild garlic and even the occasional gorse bush in full flower – but most beautiful were the swathes of bluebells exuding a heady bouquet.
Flagging, we paused for lunch at the Sustainability Centre – some of us enjoying tasty purchases from the Beech Café. Then we resumed our journey using the SDW for the rest of the day, a familiar route for many of us. There were architectural trees to marvel at along the way and colourful beech trees newly in leaf.
Entering Queen Elizabeth Country Park high on Butser Hill, we descended with care to the A3, dipping beneath the road via the underpass and so to the QECP Visitor Centre. Facilities were very welcome! Taking a last opportunity to bolster calories for the final 2 miles, a number of our party bought half-priced lemon drizzle cake at the café. Revived once more we trudged up and over the hill in QECP before relishing the descent past the old chalk pits to Buriton pond.
There was one last task: to pay homage to Buriton’s St Mary’s church originating in the late 12th century. This St Mary’s is large for a village church, having been the mother church for a parish of 6,000 acres, including Petersfield and Sheet until 1886 – when Petersfield expanded with the introduction of the Portsmouth to London railway line. Renowned for its stained glass windows, we especially liked the spring flower arrangements – including daffodils suspended in a lighting ring.
So after a long – but delightful – day’s walking, 13 weary ramblers climbed into their waiting cars and headed for home – via Droxford.
Author: Sandy Arpino
Photographer: Sandy Arpino
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Petersfield Ramblers enjoy a delightful first day of walking on Mary’s Crescent
For their Spring 2025 adventure, Petersfield Ramblers decided to walk Mary’s Crescent – a 48 mile arc-shaped route from Portchester to Chichester, linking a number of Medieval churches dedicated to St Mary. The journey – devised by Dr Tim Goulder and described in his excellent book – conveniently segments the route into four day-long walks, each starting and ending at a St Mary’s church. We elected to start in the west at Portchester Castle, completing one segment per week, and so finishing after 4 weeks at Chichester Cathedral.
So, on a Wednesday in mid-April – with a promising weather forecast – 15 participants began the adventure. We gathered in Droxford – the end point of the day’s walking – spread across two car parking areas owing to the limited parking in the village. After managing the complexities of what to take and what to leave behind, four drivers with all the walkers set off for Portchester Castle – leaving behind four cars needed at the end. By 09:15, ahead of schedule, everyone was gathered in the castle car park, eager to be off.
A short, brisk march took us inside the Roman castle walls – reinforced by Henry I – and across the grassy sanctum to our first St Mary’s: Portchester’s priory church. Dedicated around 1150, the church is a shadow of its former self, much having been demolished since its days as a key component of an Augustinian priory.
We loved the community feel of the church with its extensive, volunteer-run tearoom and invitation to four-legged visitors.
It was then time to get some serious walking under our belts. Leaving the castle and its church, we headed west along the windy coast for a mile and a half before turning north through housing. An underpass took us safely ‘across’ a main road and the gentle ascent of Portsdown Hill began. After passing Portchester Crematorium, a rough wooded track guided us to a footbridge over the M27 and onwards, emerging in front of Fort Nelson.
Skirting the fort perimeter, we paused at Nelson’s Column (not the one in London!) for water and mini chocolate eggs. The wind buffeted us again as we hiked across an exposed, newly-planted field, before reaching the shelter of a little lane running due north to Boarhunt church. Being dedicated to St Nicholas, this simple Anglo-Saxon church was not on our official visiting list – but we peeped inside anyway as it looked so delightful! A coffee break in the churchyard – awash with bright celandines – was very welcome.
Refreshed, we briefly joined the Allan King Way along the edge of fields to a complex stile which everyone managed without injury. The next mile took us across another field, over footbridges and between horse paddocks to up-market Bere Farm. Then an incredibly straight north-westerly path led us to the busy A32 on the outskirts of Wickham village. Here we ascended the incline onto the Meon Valley Trail which we followed north for 4 miles – a gentle, level walk. The Meon Valley Trail links West Meon with Wickham along a disused railway track, following part of the Meon Valley. The railway line ran from Fareham to Alton transporting local livestock and agricultural produce – and passengers for a while – from 1903 to 1968.
Shortly after joining the trail we paused for lunch, overlooking impressive Wickham Church, which sits on a large sacred mound and dates back to 1120. Curiously this church is also dedicated to St Nicholas – so not on our agenda!
The walk along the sheltered trail was an absolute delight with spring flowers lining the banks and fresh lime-green leaves emerging on the over-hanging trees. Wild garlic was in flower; white anemones spread across woodland floors, alongside early bluebells; the yellows of swathes of celandines and clumps of dandelions jumped out of the shade; a few dainty violets and soft primroses remained, now past their prime; even the less common native euphorbia stole a prominent spot.
Passing under six bridges, we finally reached the point for leaving the Meon Valley Trail to head along the Wayfarers’ Walk – across meadows – to Droxford.
But before attaining our destination, the River Meon revealed some charms. A pleasant view west from the trail to fields newly carpeted with yellow rapeseed flowers, showed cows taking a paddle in the clear Meon waters. A couple of clumps of golden marsh marigolds drew our attention, whilst at a final footbridge a family with rolled up trousers and nets where fishing in the river, successfully holding a trio of little minnows in a very neon-pink bucket!
In good time – after 13.9 miles – we arrived at Droxford church: hooray, St Mary’s! Finding an unlocked door proved problematic but undaunted we entered via a side entrance to find some beautifully colourful, modern leaded-light windows. Their meaning eluded us; we were too tired.
So it was time to take a short stroll to the Bakers Arms where coffees, teas, beers, brownies and cheescakes were kindly made available. Refreshed, we headed back to our cars via Portchester – and so to home – eager for next week’s adventure.
Author: Sandy Arpino
Photography: Sandy Arpino
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