This is a lovely shot walk starting in the village of Eartham. It crosses the National Trust’s Slindon Estate, circling The Nore Hill Folly and taking in some interesting ancient woodland.
It was a beautiful Autumn day when we hiked this National Trust advertised trail. Bright skies and vibrant leaves. An uplifting environment to take our minds of the impending Lockdown.2.
We parked RoLo in the road outside the Great Ballard School, not wanting to deprive customers of the George Inn of a space. The pub was busy with people who were presumably having a the last pub lunch before the strictures of lockdown come into effect. We were tempted to book a table, as the pub look great and the aromas from the kitchen appetising.
This is a pretty easy route to follow – the map is vey clear. And, this being the National Trust, the paths were very clearly marked. After a slight climb through farmland, and a circumference of a very large field the walk enters a bridleway which meanders between the Birch trees in an ancient woodland. These woods have been well managed, there is plenty of light penetrating the canopy giving a feeling of a vast, light cathedral. At the right time of year the woods are resplendent with bluebells. Locally it’s a well known and visited site. These woods are regenerating naturally after the devastation of the Great Storm of 1987.
At around the halfway point we spent a little time enjoying the extensive views from Nore Hill Folly. This was built in 1814 for the Countess of Newburgh’s picnic parties. There’s a really well sited seat next to the folly. It would have been enjoyable to sit there and take in the view. Unfortunately a couple of people were there already, presumably holding a Countess of Newburgh tribute picnic. There’s an amazing view, the Halnaker Windmill can be seen in the distance. Interesting fact – the building featured on a first day cover/postage stamp in 2006.
From this point there’s a tree arched drovers trail, woods and then back across farmland.
