We were due to do this walk in June, but the local countryside wardens thought that nesting birds and a pack of Basset Hounds would be unlikely to co-exist. So in the hope that global warming does not encourage our feathered friends to set up home early this year, local walk leader Mike Chapman is happy to organise this one (that's him, the distinguished gentleman on the right). It's in his back yard so we shouldn't get lost.(In case of need ring him on 01395 225281) And also he promises there will be only "low hills", so those who moaned about some of the wee hills we happen across in Somerset can rest easy this time.
Meet 10.30am (bring something to eat en route)
Directions from M5:
Turn off at junction 30 signposted Exmouth A376 and Seaton/Sidmouth (A3052). Take the 3rd exit off the next roundabout at Clyst St Mary, signposted Exmouth (A376). Keep in the left hand lane of this dual carriageway and take the first exit off the next roundabout at Clyst St George, signposted Woodbury (B3179). After approx 2 miles you will reach the village of Woodbury. Carry straight on at the crossroads, exiting the village for another 2 miles or so to 'Four Firs'. (Photo on right). Proceed straight across the crossroads, signposted Bicton Park. You will find the large car park immediately to your right.
Directions from A30 East to West:
Bypass Honiton. You will find the turn off for Exmouth (B3180) after approx 6 miles. Just follow this road for about 4 miles and you will find the Halfway House Inn. Turn left then immediately right, continuing along the B3180 toward Exmouth/Budleigh Salterton. After approx 2 1/2 miles you will pass through the prominent 'Woodbury Castle' wood. 'Four Firs' is just under a mile or so further. Turn left at crossroads signposted Bicton Park. Car park is immediately to your right.
Directions from A3052 Lyme Regis/Seaton:
The Halfway House Inn is approx 2½ miles past the village of Newton Poppleford. Turn left just before the Inn and follow instructions as above.
The walk itself:
Woodbury Common is a large area of heathland that borders the north-east fringe of Exmouth. We shall circumnavigate the southern area, a distance of 5 miles or so, which affords a little more protection from the elements with excellent bridle paths and tracks over and through varied terrain and woods. There are no sheep to worry about and only the odd gradient. For those with young hounds there will be an opportunity to cut back on a shorter walk. All in all, great fun for the pack. If they are are lucky, they may pick up the scent of a Royal Marine hiding in a bush. No worry folks for he has been there for years, having fallen asleep and missed the transport back to the Commando Training Centre nearby. Unlike previous walks there is no cafe immediately nearby for sustenance on completion of the walk, so please use your initiative to pack the appropriate quantity of sandwiches and titbits (Note there are two pubs in Woodbury 2 miles distant). Knowing the group well I can't see this as much of a problem...!
See you there (please let me know).
Photo 4
Photo 5: see the sea? |
