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Chepstow
Hill Walking Club

Past Walks

Here is a complete record of all the Chepstow Hill Walking Club's walks since we were formed on 26 April 1977.

We do not have records for the venues of some of the early walks; please email if you do! We are also interested in any photos or further information you can add about past walks

Scroll down the page for 2007/8 walks or use these links to find details for earlier years:

2008 , 2007 , 2006 |  2005 to 2001 |  2000 to 1991  | 1990 to 1977 |


Date


Venue


Comments


Photos


---------- Summer/Autumn 2008 ----------

Sun 14 Dec

Leigh Woods Area

Starting from Leigh Woods on a sunny and calm but cold winter morning we walked through Abbotts Leigh to visit the Green Flag winning site at Abbots Pool. From here we followed footpaths (including part of the Gordano Round) over fields; through woodland and alongside streams to bring us to Pill where we enjoyed lunch on a 12 seater bench on Watchman's Hill.

From Pill we followed the River Avon Trail back towards Bristol before the climb back up through the woods to the car park with a diversion to visit the grotto.

Soon

Sun 09 Nov

Brecon Beacons

Remembrance Sunday Walk

In wet and windy weather 10 members of the club walked from Dolygaer through Cwm Callan across the moorland to Cwar yr Ystrad quarry, then a climb to the summit of Cefn yr Ystrad to place poppies at the memorial cairn that marks the 1940 aircraft crash site of Wellington T2520 where the 6 crew members lost their lives. Lest we Forget

The walk continued via the Trig Point and an inscribed stone then alongside Pontsticill Reservoir back to the start point.

1 to 6

Fri 24 Oct
to
Sun 26 Oct

Boscastle

Coastal walks in Cornwall, based at Boscastle Youth Hostel

The club had not visited Boscastle since before the great flood of August 2004, so with this return visit, we hoped to discover the fate of the whole village, but in particular the Youth Hostel. There were many photographs of the flood and the warden had written an account of that fateful day. To see a photo of a wall of water which had just demolished the building next door to the hostel, pounding through a first floor window made for unforgettable viewing. The fact that there was no loss of life was quite remarkable.

On the Saturday the group of walkers drove to Crackington Haven and set off to walk back to the hostel. The weather was fine, if a little breezy. The coast path at this point is high on the cliffs, but there are many steep ups and downs which made it quite a strenuous walk. The scenery however made up for the effort. The sea was turquoise and because of the stiff breeze, the waves crashed into the base of the cliffs throwing white spray high into the air. Along the way there many highlights including spectacular cliffs of folded rock, natural arches and caves, sightings of seals far below and gulls soaring effortlessly.

Sunday dawned wet and windy but the group set off south from Boscastle towards Tintagel. The coast path here is less strenuous but has the same spectacular cliff scenery. The group visited Lady's Window, which is a natural arch high above the sea. This arch was visited by the group in April 1994. With improving weather, the group enjoyed lunch at the coast before turning inland for the return leg to Boscastle, walking through fields towards St. Nectans's Glen and finally into Boscastle.

1 to 18

Sun 12 Oct

Silent Valley
LNR

On an unusually warm and sunny day for October, the group left the Silent Valley Local Nature Reserve car park and headed for the ridges of Cefn-yr-Arail and Mynydd Carn-y-Cefn.

The route provided extensive views of the site of the once highly productive Ebbw Vale Steelworks now demolished to make way for a new hospital, combined further education college/university and various other developments. The Brecon Beacons could also be identified in the distance, although the view was slightly marred by the mist.

Having completed the ridge walk and with terrific views across the valley of green terraces that were once slag heaps, the group took a route down through a beautiful wooded area where the majority of trees were touched by varying autumnal shades.

After a well-deserved "apple stop" the walk was completed by meandering back through the lovely nature reserve.

1 to 9

Sun 07 Sept

Devauden

After a week of heavy rain and floods in South Wales the venue for this walk was changed from the Neath Waterfalls to a local walk starting from Devauden. A very enjoyable walk, though with plenty of mud and a stream to cross that our leader said he hadn't seen flowing for nearly two years.

We visited three local churches - Kilgwrrwg Chapel; Wolvesnewton Church (coffeebreak) and Llanviangel Tor y Mynydd Church (lunch). In the afternoon we also saw the Hill Fort in Chepstow Park. Many thanks to Jon for organising this alternative walk at such short notice and for the post walk refreshment.

1 to 12

Thur 21 Aug
to
Mon 25 Aug

Snowdonia

The club had a successful long weekend away in Snowdonia.

Based in the delightful ‘Luxury Bunkhouse’ at the Eagles in Penmachno, at the south western corner of the national park, we had four lovely walks over the weekend. Given the poor weather of the preceding week, and the fact that our visit co-incided with the ‘Late Summer’ Bank Holiday, this was better than we expected.

On Friday the party split into two groups, with the larger party (sensibly) opting for a visit to the Obelisk on the Nantlle Ridge, while a smaller (more-foolhardy ?) group tackled the Carneddau from Llyn Ogwen.

Nantlle Ridge – from Rhyd Ddu station up to Y Garn, round the ridge, out to the obelisk, back down round the edge of the forest, and back through the woods to the cars.

Carneddau – follow Afon Lloer into the cwm, then up to Pen yr Ole, on to Carnedd Dafydd, thence to Carnedd Llewelyn and Pen yr Helgi Du. Then follow the ridge down cross the A5 and follow the old road until it rejoins the A5.

On Saturday we all ascended Moel Siabod. Starting from a car park on the A5, we had lovely views of the Cyfyng falls on the river before crossing over the bridge to start our ascent up through the old Rhos slate quarry, then to llyn y Foel and the lovely scramble up the ridge to the summit of Carnedd Moel Siabod. Unfortunately some low wispy cloud obscured the views over Snowdon itself, but the lunchtime acrobatic mountain biker display on the trig point at lunchtime was most impressive. Our gentle descent along the main ridge brought us back through pleasant woodland, along the river back to the start point – unfortunately enduring light showers for the last half hour or so.

Sunday’s journey took us to the Northern edge of the park, via the Llanberis pass, for the round of Moel Elio. The day was windy, but when out of the wind and looking across to the sun-dappled Glyders, it gave the impression of a much warmer day. Parking at the end of a metalled road (as clearly shown on the map, but not so obviously metalled on the ground), we took coffee just below the final climb to Moel Elio, and lunch part way around the ridge. The (Snowdon) train-spotters amongst us were able to enjoy an extended apple stop as we watched the trains scampering up and down the track. Pete’s Eats provided a welcome cup of tea and a filling meal, after our day’s walk and a bonus film show was viewed at the Snowdon Mountain Railway terminus.

Having completed our allotted number of 4 high level walks and bearing in mind the low cloud and high wind, we opted for a shorter, low level walk on Monday. Starting from Dolwyddelan we walked south, parallel to Sarn Helen, towards the in-spate Afon Maesgwm waterfall, and then climbed up through the trees (which provided a sheltered coffee stop) to what should have been a lovely view across to Snowdon and Moel Siabod. Sadly the very low cloud restricted the distant views, but still allowed us to see the lovely Lledr valley. Sadly there were no trains while we were at the unexpectedly named Roman Bridge station, although we did see one as we walked on to our lunch stop at Dolwyddelan castle. After lunch, a short stroll brought us back to the cars and a short drive then brought us back into the bustling centre of Betws, for another well deserved Tea shop visit. Fortunately the chocolate cake was as good as it looked and it sustained us through the totally unnecessary delays on the A5 caused by a single set of badly-timed traffic lights.

Fri
1 to 18

 

Sat
1 to 15

 

Sun
1 to 9

 

Mon
1 to 4

Sun 03 Aug

South Cotswolds

Starting from the small village of Cold Ashton this was a relatively gentle walk through the lovely valleys just north of Bath. Having started with a long down hill stretch into St Catherine's Valley the steepest climb of the day brought us up on to Charmy Down Airfield for lunch. Having admired the display of wildflowers on the old runway we descended to Monkwood Reservoir before climbing back towards the Manor House and the village. The weather was ideal for walking with only a few spots of rain and a cool breeze, though it was a bit wet underfoot in places.

1 to 9

Sun 06 July

Gower

The heavy rain that stopped the BBQ was still falling when we met in Chepstow, and it was still coming down when we returned. BUT on the Gower we had a wonderful walk with lots of sunshine and not a drop of rain. Starting from Oxwich Bay our morning walk inland brought us to the beach within sight of Port Eynon for lunch in the sun with rocks giving shelter from the breeze. After a coastal walk back to Oxwich were able to enjoy ice-cream sitting on the sand.

1 to 6

Sat 05 July

St Briavels

The annual CHWC walk and BBQ - or at least it would have been if the rain hadn't been so heavy!
Instead a very enjoyable indoor social evening.

None


---------- Winter/Spring 2008 ----------

Sun 15 June

Camarthen Fan

A slight variation on another old favourite.

The limited numbers meant that the select few that were on this walk were able to detour slightly from the 'normal' route and spend a little time searching for aircraft wrecks and Stone Circles - as well as enjoying some slightly (!) extended refreshment breaks. We completed the circuit of LLyn y Fan Fach, returning via the trig point on Fan Brycheiniog.

The only consequence of our leisurely day (and an extended apple-stop, relaxing to the gently rippling wave blowing across Llyn y Fan Fawr) was the slightly late return to the cars just before 6.

1 to 11

Fri 6 Jun
to
Sun 8 Jun

Derbyshire

A return visit to the Peak District, staying at Bretton Youth Hostel, last visited in September 2005.

A large group enjoyed the similar walks to our previous visit, but in considerably improved weather. The two walks, from Ladybower Reservoir and Baslow respectively provided plenty of opportunity for (optional) scrambling on the rocks, grazing of knees and elbows, and sun-burning of arms and legs.

The Bakewell pudding, served in the Barrel Inn, had to be sampled to be believed - a request has already been made for another return in the not-too-distant future.

A wonderful weekend, enjoyed by all who were able to join us.

1 to 17

Sun 25 May

Cotswolds

The forecast was for heavy rain for most of the day - we got heavy rain for most of the day!

Despite the forecast 11 walkers braved the weather and the Cotswold mud and enjoyed a walk linking the picturesque Cotswold villages of Upper & Lower Slaughter and Naunton. Between the villages the weather did lift enough to see some views across the hills. Lunch was had sheltering at the Naunton Dovecote and the Old Mill Tea Rooms provided some very welcome refreshment at the end of the walk.

1 to 7

Thur 17 Apr
to
Mon 21 Apr

Lake District

The backpacking trip to the Lake District was extremely popular, with 21 people walking between the chosen hostels. Because of the numbers, we offered a choice of routes on each day:

Friday: Grasmere (Thorney How) to Elterwater: Both parties climbed up Sour Milk Gill to Easedale Tarn and on towards Sargeant Man where the routes split. The more adventurous party climbed went on to High Raise (with its lonely trig point), and then returned to the Langdale Pikes via Thunacar Knott. Lunch was taken near the top of Harrison Stickle. After a brief ascent of Pike of Stickle, the group descended into Langdale Valley and thence into Elterwater. Meanwhile, the main party had visited Stickle Tarn and Old Dungeon Ghyll. A small band ventured out to visit the Britannia pub in the evening.

Saturday: Elterwater to Coniston Coppermines - the whole group went over Slater's Bridge, and then the routes diverged - one party took the direct ascent of Wetherlam, and straight down to the hostel, while the other group slowly climbed Wet Side Edge to Swirl How, and thence to Wetherlam via Prison Bands. The early arrivals had time to visit the Coniston Brewery pub, while the late finishers sampled a range of bottled beers.

Sunday: Coniston Coppermines to Coniston Holly How: The longer walk involved a direct ascent of the Old Man, and then a descent via Goat Water, on towards Coniston Water, and a walk along the lakeside. The shorter walk climbed up past Lever's water, Prison Bands, Swirl How and along the entire ridge to the Old Man. The group then climbed Dow Crag, to look down on Goat Water and Blind tarn, before descending along the Walna Scar Road back into Coniston village where tea and cakes were available on one side of the road, and Broken Legs and Old Man ale available in the Bull. Naturally (with donations to the local Mountain Rescue team) we all had a Broken Leg Ale.

Monday: Coniston to Grasmere: Those wanting an early finish took the scenic low-level route via Tarn Hows, Skelwith Bridge and Loughrigg, while the remainder found a route over Yew Pike, Furness Fells, Tilberthwaite Gill, Dry Cove Bottom, back over Slater Bridge, around Elterwater, and over Brigstone Moss.

A thoroughly enjoyable weekend was had by all.

1 to 12

Sun 13 Apr

Black Mountains

The mountain forecast predicted snow, hail, strong winds and thunder. Nevertheless the group set off from a car park at the foot of the Cats Back to cross the Olchon Valley and climb up onto the Hatterrall Ridge. We then walked along the Offa's Dyke path to Hay Bluff where a single handglider entertained us over lunch. We enjoyed brief sunny spells at the coffee and lunch breaks and fine views of the hail showers as they approached. As we walked back along the Cats Back the showers became somewhat continuous but hail bounces off and we returned to the cars relatively dry.

1 to 4

Fri 14 Mar
to
Sun 16 Mar

Mid Wales

Staying in Llys Ednowain Hostel at Trawsfynydd this was another great weekend away. 21 of us walked the Northern Rhinog ridge on the Saturday in increasingly wet conditions as the morning showers became steady afternoon rain. We visited Foel Penolau & Moel Ysgyfarnogod before decending descending down Bwlch Gwylim. The afternoon rugby result led to there being a fantastic and very Welsh atmosphere in the pub in the evening.

On Sunday the rain stopped while we were eating breakfast and we enjoyed the sunshine as we walked from Graigddu-Isaf to Llyn Du & Rhinog Fawr before descending to Bwlch Drws Ardudwy. There was a cold wind but we managed to find sheltered spots for our breaks on a most enjoyable walk.

1 to 12

Sun 09 Mar

Malverns

On a sunny day with a cold wind the group set out from Hollybush at the South of the Malvern Hills to walk via Berrow Down to Little Malvern, where they admired the topiary and formal gardens at The Court then visited the remains of the Priory. A short piece of road walking brought them to the church where Elgar and his family are buried.

The route then climbed through woods to Black Hill with a lovely view of Worcester Beacon and the northern ridge. The group then climbed to the extensive hill fort on British Camp where they were able to find shelter from the cold wind in the ramparts and enjoyed their lunch and the 180 degree view. Afterward the route followed the ridge over Hangmans Hill, through Gullet Wood to the prominent Obelisk in Eastnor Deer Park, then over Midsummer Hill back to the start point.

1 to 8

Sun 10 Feb

Brecon Beacons

Starting from Llangynidir Village Hall on a sunny frosty morning this was a fantastic walk. As the day went on the sunshine made it feel like summer; there were some magnificent views over the hills. Looking at the vapour trails overhead we wondered why anyone would want to travel abroad when there is such scenery and wonderful weather at home.

1 to 7

Sun 13 Jan

Black Mountains

Undaunted by the less-than-inspiring weather forecast, and by the after-effects of the social evening the night before, we set off from the phone box at Pontyspig. While the main party headed off along the ridge, a small group of rebels checked out the hill fort on Gaer. We were all reunited by the time coffee was taken in the lee of a convenient wall, listening to the wind roaring through the bare branches of a solitary oak tree. We continued our route to the giant cairn on Garn-Wen and on to the picturesquely named "Pile of Stones". A left turn, followed by another brought us down into the sheltered confines of a wooded copse, and the well-hidden traces of the former nature trail which in turn provided a sheltered spot for lunch.

After lunch and some ascending forestry tracks, we detoured into the lovely little church at Partishow, and then crossed a couple of soggy and muddy fields to return to the cars, with some light rain for about the last 15 minutes - enough to dampen the waterproofs, without giving them the opportunity to prove their worth.

1 to 5


---------- Summer/Autumn 2007 ----------

Sun 09 Dec

Nowhere

Cancelled due to severe weather warning - this is only the second time we have cancellled a walk, we won't make a habit of it!

None

Sun 11 Nov

Carreg Goch,
Black Mountain

A Remembrance Sunday walk to a wartime aircraft wreck on Carreg Goch in the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Starting from the car park at Craig-y-nos the rain showers cleared as we climbed out of the valley. We observed 2 minutes silence at 11am just before a coffee stop amongst some rocks that gave shelter from the cold wind. We then continued our climb to the crash site of Wellington MF509 which crashed here on 20 Nov 1944. This was our first visit to this site since November 2002. On the way we passed a red sandstone 'erratic' that had been left amongst the limestone by a glacier.

In the afternoon we 'bagged' a trig point on Cribarth before returning to the cars for the drive home.

1 to 10

Fri 19 Oct
to
Sun 21 Oct

Pembrokeshire

Coastal walks based at Newport Youth Hostel.

On Saturday we drove to the campsite at Poppit Sands and walked back along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path to the hostel. It was a lovely clear and bright day, warming up as the day went on. We enjoyed stopping to see some seals below us on a couple of occasions and watched a peregrine perched on the cliffs whilst we ate our lunch. The car drivers retuned to collect the cars before joining the group just in time for our meal at the Golden Lion. The food was excellent and some members of the group stayed on to enjoy live music and dancing into the early hours.

On Sunday we walked from the hostel up onto the hills overlooking the bay and our previous day's walk. We walked over Mynydd Carningli (Rock of Angels), Mynydd Caregog and Mynydd Dinas before returning to the hostel via the coastal path. The weather was again kind to us, although it was noticeably warmer on the coastal path !

1 to 11

Sun 07 Oct

Cotswolds

On a fine autumn day, 11 walkers left the car park at Chedworth Roman Villa on a walk through the Cotswold countryside.

Leaving Chedworth Wood behind, Chedworth village could be seen on the opposite side of the valley. Following the River Coln brought the walkers out to the very busy main road, The Fosse Way. Walking on the Monarch’s Way and passing through farmland, hidden valleys and woodland brought them out at the very pretty village of Hampnett. Joining the Macmillan Way, the walkers passed through more picture-perfect villages finally reaching Chedworth Wood and the Villa once more.

1 to 7

Thur 13 Sept
to
Mon 17 Sept

Yorkshire Dales

A long weekend with 14 members staying at Hawes YH in beautiful Wensleydale.

The first day’s walk started in Swaledale in the village of Muker after a short drive over the high moorland. Swaledale is quintessential Yorkshire with its stone walls and barns. After a walk down the dale, we struck up over the wild moors with much evidence of old lead mines and workings. We then dropped down into Keld, a crossroads of the Coast to Coast Walk and The Penine Way. Following the Penine Way for a short way, we walked back into Muker.

The second day’s walk was a linear one over Wild Boar Fell. Starting near Garsdale Head we crossed the Settle to Carlisle railway line to ascend the slopes of Swarth Fell and Swarth Fell Pike, before reaching the high point of the day, Wild Boar Fell. On the summit there is a curious collection of stone cairns, some six feet tall. Unfortunately, the mist descended whilst we were on the summit but after lunch and as we descended, the sky cleared and sun came out. We could see extensive views over the Lake District, The Howgill Fells and the Penines. We descended to Uther Pendragon’s Castle and the end of the walk.

Sunday dawned wet and with high winds, so the decision was made to walk from Clapham to see the Norber Erratics, a large area of huge sandstone boulders which had been left by glaciers in the last Ice Age on the limestone rocks of the area. The wet and windy weather had been left behind so we enjoyed a walk at low level under Ingleborough through ancient green lanes and stunning limestone pavements. Unfortunately, the rain caught up with us and it was a very wet end to the walk.

The last day’s walk was another linear over The Calf, the highest point of the Howgills. At the start of the walk Cautley Spout looms at the head of the valley. The Spout is one of the highest waterfalls in England, but does not fall in a single span. The walk took us up by the side of the Spout and by the streams that feed it. A short pull up took us to The Calf where views over the Lake District, The Pennines running into Scotland and even Blackpool Tower were enjoyed. After lunch a high level ridge walk took us over a few of the many summits in the Howgills before descending into Sedbergh.

1 to 12

Sun 09 Sept

Neath Waterfalls

These waterfalls have have made regular appearances in the club's walk programme from the early days. Despite the longer than normal drive from Chepstow there is always a good turn out for what is always a very enjoyable walk. As you can see from the photographs this Sunday was no exception.

1 to 7

Sun 12 Aug

Blackdown Hills

The original plan was a circular walk starting from the Wellington Monument, however the reconnoitre the previous day encountered a number of obstacles to the proposed route. So, after assembling at the National Trust car park, we began the day with a brief detour to look at the obelisk (which is currently closed to the public) and then drove off to the start of the main walk.

From the (free) car park in Milverton, we headed off in a Westerly direction before leaving the roads to follow a lane towards our coffee-stop near Lower Lovelynch. The rest gave us some time to hack away at the nettles and brambles around a gate, the first of many such minor delays. Unfortunately, a number of stiles were so overgrown that we were forced to find alternative routes out of fields onto the roads !

From Bindon Farm, we headed towards Langford Budville, with its attractive church, where lunch was taken. After lunch, we followed the West Deane Way through Runnington and along the course of the former Grand Western Canal, through Tone, before crossing the river Tone on an impressive bridge - apparently in the middle of nowhere, but almost certainly related to the impressive Nynehead Court. More fields - including one of fully-grown corn, and a quick look through a fence to view a small aircraft neatly parked at the end of a grass strip left across another harvest field - and a late apple-stop, followed by another overgrown path brought us back into Milverton.

Unfortunately, the slightly late end to the walk, combined with the forced relocation of the walk (such that it was entirely in Somerset), combined to result in the absence of a Devon Cream Tea at the end of the walk :-(

1 to 9

Sun 08 July

Wye Valley

Following the twists and turns of the Wye Valley from Chepstow Leisure Centre we had some magnificent views of the river. Much of the morning's walk followed the paths laid out in the Piercfield estate by Valentine Morris in the 1700s. A short diversion allowed us to look at the ruins of Piercefield House. A heavy shower just before we climbed the steps to Wyndcliff and Eagle's Nest was the only wet spell on an otherwise dry day. Having visited two trees planted in memory of past members of the club, we returned through fields and a range of different stiles.

1 to 6

Sat 07 July

Avon Valley

The annual CHWC walk and BBQ.

A short walk including Bristol's best wildlife site at Troopers Hill Local Nature Reserve which looked magnificent with the heather in full bloom. We then walked down to the River Avon and followed the river through Conham before climbing the deer path to Dundrige Park. An evening BBQ included watching several hot-air balloons passing overhead.

1


---------- Winter/Spring 2007 ----------

Fri 15 Jun
to
Sun 17 Jun

Dartmoor

A celebration of the club's first 30 years.

We booked the Dartmoor Expedition Centre near Widecombe for the weekend which also coincided with the 50th birthday of one of our regular walkers.

Saturday brought ideal walking weather as we set off from the centre with the birthday girl wearing a cake on her head. The walk included a wide range of scenery including some 'gerts' that were the remains of tin mining. Lunchtime excitement was the removal of a tick from the leg of one of our party - something you should always be on the look out for in this type of country.

Saturday night celebration included a wonderful meal with contributions from many of the party and three cakes. Some of the photos of the evening may appear at the our New Year Party, but not on the web!

The threatened heavy showers again stayed away on the Sunday for a walk that included Haytor Rocks, Smallacombe Rocks (coffee), Greator Rocks, Bonehill Rocks (lunch), Top Tor, Pil Tor, Tunhill Rocks, Rippon Tor & Saddle Tor. We also walked along part of the Templar Way on an old granite tramway. At lunchtime we saw a practice session for a bike trials championship with some very skilled riders on mountain bikes without saddles.

1 to 19

Sun 10 June

Brecon Beacons

Starting from the Storey Arms car park in sunshine, we headed off in a westerly direction. Gradually climbing and bearing round to the north, under the shade of a lonely cloud, we soon arrived at the top of the cliffs of Craig Cerrig-gleisiad.

After coffee and a discussion about the location of the Blackdown Hills, we continued our journey to the summit trig point of Fan Frynych, and then descended into the lovely hidden valley of Nant Cwm-du. Here another short rest gave time for a search for Peregrine Falcons, sadly unrewarded, before we reached the surprisingly bendy Roman road.

Our lunch hour (!) unfortunately allowed the storm clouds to gather, and we experienced a short, sharp, shower - which eased off again as we started our climb up the nose of Fan Frynych. We soon turned off the track to head south and eventually reach the main road by some picnic tables - what better place could there be for an apple stop? We then dashed across the road in the gap between the motor-cycles and descended into the valley opposite to reach the Taff Trail which brought us back to the cars.

1 to 10

Sun 06 May

Cotswolds

Starting from the picturesque Cotswold village of Snowshill, we followed a 20km walk through beautiful, and interestingly named, countryside: Shippy Plantation, Beechy Bank, Pig Trough, Jackdaw's Castle and Cutsdean with its pretty little church. After weeks of dry weather the notorious Cotswold mud was absent, which meant that we arrived back at the cars without the need for a major boot-cleaning exercise!

1 to 6

Fri 20 Apr
to
Tue 24 Apr

Peak District

A four day backpacking trip through the heart of the White Peak area of the Peak District.

Staying at four luxurious hostels, we left the National Trust luxury of Ilam hall and followed the Dove Valley and Tissington Trail to reach Long Dale and Gratton Dale, before following the river Bradford into Youlgreave.

Our accommodation in Youlgreave was the recently refurbished former Co-operative store, where we occupied "Ladies Underwear" and "Haberdashery" (whatever that is!). Our evening meal was generally agreed to be the best (and largest !) of the trip. Our route from Youlgreave to Ravenstor followed sections of the River Lathkill and then followed the River Wye (the other one !) through Monsal Dale, the Monsal trail and then through Miller's Dale to reach the isolated Ravenstor Youth Hostel from Belamy's ridge.

After a night with the hostel to ourselves, we crossed back over the Wye and climbed up through Priestcliffe Lees to reach the weekend's high point at Sough Top, where some convenient walls around a reservoir provided some welcome coffee-time shelter from the wind. After a few more stiles, we reached the Midshires Way cycle trail and thence the High Peak Trail, where a convenient bridge provided lunch-time shelter from the persistent, if light, rain. In the afternoon, some more stiles were negotiated en-route to Hartington where we had time to investigate the local stores (but sadly not the pub). After a refreshing break for "window-shopping" we climbed the hill to Hartington Hall, our destination for the night. The flagship hostel delivered all that was expected and the Hartington Ale (from a local brewer, unfortunately not brewed on the premises !) went down well - as did the red wine.

From Hartington, we followed the river Dove down through Wolfscote Dale, where the first coffee-stop of the day was taken. At Milldale, the group took advantage of the shop and various ice-creams, pasties, pies, teas and coffees were purchased. A further twenty minutes later, halfway down Dove Dale, the official lunch stop was taken opposite Ilam Rock. Fully refreshed after lunch, the group traversed the base of Ilam rock and then began an interesting climb up to the top of the valley, providing lovely views over Tissington Spires. A short while later, we sighted the Ilam Hall Country Park, and car park, and then completed the 45 mile circuit - before "popping into the National Trust tea-rooms" in advance of our return journeys....

1 to 18

Sun 15 Apr

Black Mountains

A repeat of a classic walk in the Black Mountains. Starting from Llanthony Priory, we climbed up on to the Hatterall Ridge to follow the Offa's Dyke path in lovely sunshine. We then descended into the valley passing the Capel-y-ffin churches.

After lunch in continuing warm sunshine, we completed the climb to our second trig point of the day on Bal Mawr, and then descended back to the cars just as the heavens opened with a heavy thunderstorm.

1 to 6

Fri 23 Mar
to
Sun 25 Mar

Mid Wales

Staying at Corris Hostel this was a really memorable weekend with fantastic walks on Cader Idris and Tarren Hendre for a record 25 walkers. The weekend started with an evening meal in the Slaters Arms in Corris, which must surely be one of the friendliest pubs in Britain and was able to provide us all with an evening meal at very short notice; the beer was good too.

Saturday's ascent of Cader was made under brilliant blue skies to give us magnificent views of the mountain and across Wales. Sunday had a cold wind but also plenty of sunshine. Starting from Dolgoch Falls we climbed over Tarren Hendre and then down through the woods and remains of slate quarries to catch the 3pm train from Nant Gwernol on the Talyllyn Railway back to our start point travelling in our reserved carriage. A half hour stop at Abergynolwyn allowed us to have a very welcome cup of tea.

1 to 20

Sun 11 Mar

Gower

Some glorious spring sunshine as we explored the area around Three Cliff Bay. We visited Pennard Castle, Parc le Breos Burial Chamber and the site of the first Babtist Church in Wales. A good mixture of coastal walking and wonderful wooded valleys inland. All this, great company and a cream tea to finish the day - what better way is there to spend a Sunday?

1 to 7

Sun 11 Feb

Mendips

Starting from the same car park at Axbridge that we used last April we headed first onto the Somerset Levels and alongside Cheddar Yeo before climbing up to Crooks Peak. We then walked across Wavering Down and through Kings Wood. A loop over Shute Shelve Hill brought us through the edge of Sidcot and on to the Strawberry Line. We followed this through the tunnel that we had walked over in Kings Wood to return to the cars.
A great day, dry apart from an early shower and although there was a cold wind on the top of the hills the afternoon sunshine was quite warm.

1 to 7

Sun 07 Jan

Wye Valley

A small group braved the weather for a local walk in the Wye Valley/Forest of Dean.

Starting from the delightful Alms Houses opposite "the Cathedral of the Forest" in Newland, we slithered across some rain-soaked fields to join the Offa's Dyke Path, which brought us to the Naval Temple and Round House on the Kymin - where we sheltered for coffee. Next we descended through woodland to pass the Near Harkening Rocks and Suck Stone before climbing back to Staunton and returning to Newlands.

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---------- Summer/Autumn 2006 ----------

Sun 17 Dec

North
of Bath

Great weather, cold but sunshine and blue skies most of the way. Starting from Bathampton, we walked up St Catherine's valley; past St Catherine's Court and then Monkswood Reservoir and then over Charmy Down Airfield before climbing up on Solsbury Hill where as it was just starting to get dark we could see the city lights.

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Sun 12 Nov

Black Mountains

For our Remembrance Sunday walk we again visited the site of a Second World War aircraft crash.

This year it was the site where Flying Fortress 42-5903 (Ascend Charlie) struck a ridge close to Pen Twyn Mawr in the Black Mountains. Our eleven walkers reached the site at 11.00am and observed 2 minutes silence after placing our poppies on the memorial.

On a windy and sometimes wet Sunday we then continued our walk over the wonderful open country, finding shelter behind some trees for lunch. There was some sunshine in the afternoon as we returned to our cars through a very picturesque valley.

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Fri 27 Oct
to
Sun 29 Oct

Dorset Coast

19 walkers had a very enjoyable weekend, based at Lulworth Cove Youth Hostel.

It was very mild for the time of year, and stayed dry for both days. On Saturday we walked from the hostel and visited Durdle Door as well as Lulworth Cove, both part of the Dorset Coast World Heritage Site. The steepest climb of the day came at the end with a 120m flight of steps on the range walks east of Lulworth. The excellent hostel meal and a few glasses of wine were very welcome in the evening.

On Sunday we drove to Abbotsbury to walk inland to Hardy's Monument and then to St Catherine's Chapel before exploring Chesil Bank. The highlight was the excellent cream tea at The Old School House Tea Garden.

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Sun 22 Oct

Mendips

Heavy rain all day was the forecast, it wasn't quite right, there were times when it was hardly raining at all. 11 hardy souls set off from Burrington Combe for a cicular walk through mixed Mendip scenery including Velvet Bottom Nature Reserve.

The cream tea in the warmth of the Burrington at the end of the walk was very welcome.

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Sun 24 Sept

Black Mountains

A slight change to the usual routes in the Black Mountains. The route took in Mynydd Troed, Mynydd Langorse and Pen Tir, giving lovely views over Llangorse Lake. Due to time constraints, and other inexplicable reasons, the leaders of the route carried out the reconnoitre of the route on the Saturday, and spent the night in a small tent near to the trig point on Mynydd Troed. The night was enlivened by a heavy downpour, accompanied by thunder, lightening and strong winds. The morning views as the intrepid leaders returned to their car to drive to the official start point were beautiful.

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Thur 14 Sept
to
Mon 18 Sept

Lake District

An adventurous 4 day program based at Wastwater YH, Wasdale.

Friday - Gloroious weather as we climbed up Scafell Pike using a slight variant of the Piers Gill route. This brought us out on to the Corridor route and gave excellent views back over Great Gable. From Scafell Pike, we went across to Scafell, up the notorious Lord’s Rake, and then down a very steep descent back to Wasdale Head.

Saturday - Parking (again) at Wasdale Head, we followed the tourist trail up to Sty Head pass, where the party split, half going directly up to Great Gable, while those whose knees had recovered followed the climbers traverse, and after a diversion to Napes Needle, and the Dress Circle, we climbed up Little Hell Gate to the summit of Gable. At this point the mist descended, and map and compass were used to locate the path to Beck head pass (where the mist briefly lifted to reveal the route up to Kirk Fell). The mist returned, and we descended back to Wasdale Head….

Sunday - True Lakeland weather returned, cooler, windy, wet and misty. Undeterred, we returned to Wasdale Head, and climbed to Black Sail Pass, where the part split into three. One Group tackled Kirk Fell in the mist, the sensible group bypassed Kirk Fell towards Beck Head and back down the previous ascent. The adventurous ones continued with the programmed walk, and climbed Pillar via Robinson’s Cairn. Views were somewhat restricted, and the new waterproof maps proved their value (as did some excellent navigation in really nasty conditions). Yewbarrow was bypassed.

Monday - Departing Wasdale, we drove to Ravenglass and, leaving the cars at the station, we went up and over Muncaster Fell, returning by miniature train.

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Sun 20 Aug

Brecon Beacons

The walk covered the Beacons circuit taking in Fan y Big, Cribyn, Pen y Fan, Corn Du and the Craig Fan Ddu ridge taking us back to Lower Neuadd Reservoir and then to the cars.

There were 9 people on the 12 mile walk and we started in reasonable weather. However conditions deteriorated rapidly and we were forced to eat lunch just below the summit of Pen y Fan crouched in the rocks to avoid the wind and rain! The weather improved steadily and we were able to enjoy our apple stop on the banks of the reservoir. The sun finally appeared on the last mile along an attractive bridleway back to the cars. Unfortunately no photographs were taken, but the walk was enjoyed by all the participants.

None.

Sun 09 July

Cotswolds

Setting off from the Roman Villa at Great Witcombe, we had a lovely cool and sheltered day in the Cotswold woodlands around Cranham. Our route took us through Cranham and Sheepscombe, before climbing up to Painswick Hill and back through Popes Wood. After the walk, we were able to get home in time for the World Cup Final (and, the highlights of the final day of Wimbledon). Perfect !

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Sat 08 July

Nr Chepstow

The annual CHWC walk and BBQ.

None


---------- Winter/Spring 2006 ----------

Fri 23 Jun
to
Sun 25 Jun

South Downs

A weekend of glorious summer weather based at Alfriston Youth Hostel.

A short walk on the Friday (for those who's work committments or car problems allowed them to get there early enough) was followed by a self catering meal in the hostel.

Saturday was wall to wall sunshine for a walk from the hostel. This was then followed by a coastal walk on a warm but hazy Sunday, including the Seven Sisters.

Another really enjoyable weekend, suberb views and lots of wild life in a part of the country that many of us had not visited before.

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Sun 11 June

Thames and Severn Canal

On a very hot and sunny Sunday six walkers explored the Thames and Severn Canal and visited the (dry) source of the Thames. This was a route that we last did in February 1998.

A good day for wildlife - orchids in the wood, butterflies and a grass snake.

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Sun 21 May

Not Carmarthen Fan

Due to the very wet weather this walk became a visit to Dan-yr-Ogof caves.

None

Thur 20 Apr
to
Mon 24 Apr

Snowdon

A backpacking trip, staying at a different hostel each night.
Great weather, great walking, in fact it was great there!

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Sun 09 Apr

Somerset

A wonderful Spring walk starting on the Strawberry Line from Axbridge and then climbing to get views across the channel to Cardiff. Coffee at Winscombe station led to discussions about the Battle of Sedgemoor which is mentioned on the timeline on the platform edge. Our apple break was taken in Spring sunshine overlooking the sailing boats on the reservoir.

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Fri 24 Mar
to
Sun 26 Mar

Mid Wales


Another great weekend with 19 walkers staying in a self catering Bunkhouse, for walks in the Elan Valley area.

The weekend started the Friday with a visit to Gigrin Farm to watch the Red Kite feeding. This was amazing to see and is not to be missed if you are in the area. In the evening we had a meal at the Elan Hotel (menu).

Saturday started with sunshine as we walked from Carreg Ddu Reservoir and although there was some drizzle later, the day was much better than forecast, giving us some great views from the moorland above. The evening meal was self catering with contributions from several different people combining with a few bottles of wine to make a really enjoyable evening.

Sunday's early brightness gave way to mist, drizzle and then heavier rain in the afternoon. We climbed to the large stone cairns on Drygarn Fawr, the highest point on the Elenydd, which we had last visited in March 2004 from Dolgoch Youth Hostel. The afternoon rain meant that getting our feet wet crossing a stream near the end of the walk didn't seem to matter and the tea at the Elan Visitor Centre was all the more welcome.

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Sun 05 Mar

Black Mountains

A lovely walk in "White" Mountains
Starting from Capel y Ffin, a steep climb through the snow brought us to the Blacksmith's Anvil. After a sheltered coffee stop below the ridge, with lovely views across the Grwyne Fawr Reservoir to Waun Fach, we continued on to the unnamed trig point where we had superb views of the snow clad Brecon Beacons glistening in the sunshine.
We sheltered for lunch before the climb to Lord Hereford's Knob in bitterly cold wind. Walking back along the ridge, the wind dropped and we had a brief apple stop overlooking the valley before descending to the cars.

Snowy scenes
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Sun 12 Feb

Quantocks

A cloudy but dry and mild day to explore the Quantock Hills. Starting from a very busy car park in Holford we did a circular route with views over the Bristol channel to the north, Exmoor to the west and south towards Wellington, where the monument could just be seen on the skyline.

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Sun 08 Jan

Bryn Arw and Sugarloaf

It is always disappointing when you reach the top only to find that thick mist obscures all the views. This happened twice today, depite promises from one of our leaders that it would be bright and sunny when we got there.
There was a dusting of snow on Bryn Arw and a light covering on Sugarloaf, which together with a very cold and strong wind meant that it was not the place to stop for lunch. Instead we returned through light falling snow and then drizzle to have a late lunch in the cars. It was still though a very enjoyable walk, many thanks to our leader(s).

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