Bletchingly 1 1/2 - The Whyte Harte

Mud Mud, far from glorious Mud!


Venue: The Whyte Harte, Bletchingly

Walkers: Farty, TB, Hootsmon, Miss Wendy Nohills, 12 Legs and Mrs P. Clat and Lil in Portsmouth (where hopefully there wasn't any mud!). Sal's birthday - Happy Birthday Sal! - so presumably doing birthday things
Distance: About 6 1/2 miles

Time Taken: 2hrs 40 mins

Weather: Cold, cloudy but fortunately not raining

We all gathered promptly at the allotted time and set off sharpish as Farty had to made a swift departure after lunch to see her dermy man. We were all well wrapped up against the cold, especially 8 legs who were sporting their smart winter overcoats - did we detect a tad of straining at the seams of Minnie's?! One too many mince pies?!

Farty quite rightly suggested that all I needed to say about the walk is: Mud, mud, squelch, squelch, slip, slide, more mud, more squelch for 6 1/2 miles - and that just about sums it up!

'Field of Mud'

We set off through the churchyard and the first point of interested we reached was the Old Rectory, the beautiful house used in Sense and Sensibility. Through the gates of the garden we spied what has to be the largest plant pot we've ever seen sitting empty by the outbuildings. If we had that in our garden there wouldn't be much room left for anything else! Onwards through another muddy field where our intrepid Windy started a backward slide down a little slope and ended up with a very muddy posterior! It was a day spent trying to avoid any such mishaps, particularly when we hit the "field of mud". Our hearts sank as we saw what we had to cross but there was nothing for it except to plough on through. The mud just stuck to our boots and weighed us down, and if we stopped you could feel yourself sinking deeper into the mire - lovely!

We passed under the M23 and through Nutfield Marsh where the Inn on the Pond looked good and a possible venue for the future. On the field opposite were 2 rather sad and lonely looking horses who were tethered but came up to say hello. We think they probably belong to members of the "travelling community" - I shall be very pc and use that term rather than the one we used at the time!

When we reached Nutfield itself we followed a path around the back of a housing estate where the woods had been used as dumping ground for all sort of rubbish. How can people do it? Dirty lot! We were comtemplating which path to take when we met a lovely lady with her even more lovely bull terrier who offered to help us. (That's the lady, not the bull terrier!). The dog was very well behaved and very interested in our 8 legs - Minnie did her usual thing of barking from a distance, stopped when the dog came closer but started barking again after she walked on as if to say How brave I am!!

So back on the right track to the village where we had no choice but to do some road walking, but not for too long. We then had a choice of taking the slightly longer way home or to cut it short and head straight back to Bletchingly. In view of the time spent trudging through mud the vote was for the shortest route! so we walked on, into a very dark tunnel under the M23 and up the long hill back to the pub. Despite the gloomy weather there were lovely views as we climbed up the path.

The pub as ever was really welcoming, the food great although it has to be said that the chips aren't a patch on the first time we ate there - TB kept trying them out just to make sure! Minnie was soon zipped up in her designer dog fleece, made by the ever talented Clat, and looked snug as a bug in rug. Poor TB was very long suffering as the conversation turned girlie and all sort of female complaints were aired - he rightly buried his head in the paper to await his fish and chips!

walk's end

 We were finished in good time for Farty to dash off to see her dishy consultant - hope it went well!

Next week TBA so watch out for a text! And good luck with your standby Hootsmon - hope you get something good with loads of notice and don't have to work up!

Christmas jumpers and New Year walks

Firstly, apologies for the lack of photos of the walking - Pete and Val took the photos and are not yet home to be able to send them to me (no, they're not stuck in a snowdrift somewhere, they left us to visit their 2 sons and their families in North London!)

Secondly, thought you might all like to see the wonderful results of the fabulously talented Clatters' knitting challenge! What an absolute masterpiece! Chris was just thrilled (and surprised) when he opened the present and I have to report didn't have the jumper off his back all of Christmas! Clatters, your fame is now spread far and wide as everyone wanted to know where it came from!

Now for the walking . .

Venues: Isfield to Barcombe, and Balcombe Viaduct from Ardingly

Distances: Isfield - about 6 miles, Ardingly about 6 1/2 to 7.

Times taken: Isfield 2 1/2 hrs, Ardingly 3 hrs, including stops

Walkers: Capt & Mrs P, Pete and Val (brother and sister in law)

Weather: Both days cold, damp, but luckily we avoided most showers

On New Year's day we decided the only thing to clear the muzzy heads was to put on the walking boots and head out! We also needed to work off some of those mince pies, christmas pud, brandy butter . . . the list is endless!

We set off on one of our favourite local walks (almost the one I did with Miss Nohills and Polly Possibly, but backwards this time if you see what I mean!). It's very flat (especially designed for Miss Nohills) and pretty and follows the course of the river Ouse for much of the walk. Surprisingly, it wasn't that muddy apart from having to plough across one very sticky claggy field. Being New Year's Day there were loads of walkers out, mostly big family groups with dogs and none looking very ramblerish! We decided not to stop at the pub (the Anchor at Barcombe) as it has recently changed hands and all the reports we've heard are not good, so moved swifly on and drank instead in the best local hostelry - chez us! Much cheaper and no-one has to drive home. En route home we passed the scene of our eventful cow dunking and fortunately this time the field was devoid of cows - think they must have learned their lesson and are keeping well away from the river!

Pete and Val were keen to see Balcombe viaduct, so on Tuesday (4th) we set off for Ardingly. We parked in the village close to the church and headed off down Church road towards Balcombe reservoir. I fell in love with most of the houses on this road and have decided that if ever we move - this is where it'll be! Despite the gloomy weather the view from the top of the field was just stunning and there were flocks of Canada geese flying overhead before landing in the water. Walking around the lake we came across a beautiful young black lab taking his owner for a walk and he was so excited to see us he managed to cover all our jackets in his muddy paws! We forgave him as he was so adorable . . I then began to recognise parts of the walk from previous RARA outings - however, Capt P and bro in law had as usual taken over the map reading (once a pilot and teacher, always a pilot and teacher . . .!) so Val and I did our usual thing and carried on gassing while the boys lead the way.

The field to the viaduct was incredibly muddy so we squelched our way across feeling as if we were carrying lead in our boots! However, much ooing and aahhing under the arches and everyone was suitably impressed. We then carried on retracing previous walks (mostly) and stopped 2/3rds of way round for a little 'brew-up' with sandwiches and cake! How civilised! Mind you, once we stopped it became b....y cold so we were soon back on the road. We rejoined our original tracks back at the reservoir and headed off up the long hill to Ardingly.

The walk was voted the best so far for us locally- lovely views and scenery, interesting as it has both flat and hilly bits, the reservoir, viaduct, trains, water, views - we'll do it again in the spring or summer.

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and a belated Happy New Year!

See you tomorrow!

Reigate Hill I

Legs 11 - or, Happy New year 2011!!!

Tuesday 4th January

Walkers: Farty, T.B. who is back in his Steve Carter vet mode, 12 Legs, Lil and Clat

Trish is in the Balcombes - relatively speaking - gettit?, Windy is on a road somewhere, returning her sister, and Registrara is working, as is Sally and Hoots.

Find of the walk: a dog lead

Distance: 8 miles, or a smidgeon off it

Weather: damp, dank, misty-fog, with trickling sun later on, and quite cold.

Well, we needed to kick-start the year with a good long walk, and what better than this one? After a few false starts - which included Chris returning to her car, we finally made it onto the view point - and what fantastic views - ha ha ha.

We met a lot of dogs and walkers, which is not the norm for us - why hasn't everyone gone back to work? they've had long enough off! Quite a few horses out and about too, so much activity in the world of four legs.

No maps required today which is just as well, as underfoot it was very muddy and slippy in parts. We headed on through Margery Wood - or wouldn't she? and over the M25 towards Walton Heath. Nothing of note to mention here, except more walkers and more dawgs. Over the motorway once more , followed by the nasty steep hill downwards, and care was taken , especially with Sue's knee, but we managed without mishap.

Good walking followed, and further on we ventured, keeping a respectable pace, and lots of chatting. The final upward hill is a long and fairly steep one, so Clat was very grateful to Chris for pushing her along - and soon the car park was in sight.

After a quick rub down - ooo matron, we jumped into our cars and headed for the Sportsman in Mogador, which is a very friendly and welcoming pub, even for the dogs, on the carpeted floor too. The food and service got top marks, and we left, feeling satisfied, albeit a little weary, ready for our next adventure.

So, folks, next Tuesday 11th we meet at Bletchingley, and that will definitely be a legs 11 on 11th - see ya xxxxxx

Walton Heath - The Duke's Head

Shoe Me The Way To Go Home (supplied by Lil) 

Tuesday 14th December

Walkers: Farty, T.B., Windy, Lil and Clat. Everyone else has commitments and stuff.

Find of the Walk: a black trainer - hence title of blog

Distance: A whopping 91/2 miles

Weather: murky, dull, damp, wet, snowy in parts, very muddy in parts, cold.

Being so few of us we were suited and booted earlier than the norm. and set off over Banstead Heath towards the pond, which was 90% frozen over, and loads of ducks were on the periphery quacking about. Here, we found a road name which was suitable for Windy, so we got her to pose - and now this is the end to references about beds! A workman nearby - who wasn't working (surprise, surprise), offered to move his 'men at work' sign for our photographic shoot - ha ha ha, but Windy carried on with her poses extraordinaire.

Upwards now, through fields and woodlands, a subway under the M25, before reaching Headley, where we had our first break. This did not last long - too cold, and we set off again, passing many horses and ponies, who were dressed in the height of fashion with their Cath Kidston and other, bright and modern coats. A bit of dressage action was also going on - and then a bit of un-dressage action, as the rider took her jacket off.

T.B. is sporting some new eyewear - making a spectacle of himself - and we admired his new look. At various points, we found items of leg gear, starting with the trainer , and then a horse leg-gaiter followed by a hoof guard - what next? Actually, it was the same pair of underpants we had found a few months back - no takers then. We also spotted three deer - the sort with the cream bottoms.

Slightly before this we encountered some hosses on the loose. It appears that they'd managed to knock their field fencing down, and one of the stiles too. The result was that they were then in the footpath proper, and judging by the amounts of poo ,er sorry, rose compost, they had been there for a goodly time. Some manoeuvres were made and we were safely past them.

There followed a very muddy and icy track and no accidents - thankfully.

Back over the M25 and on to Banstead and Walton Heaths. The Sportsman pub was heaving, and we then wondered if our pub would be packed too. However, we had to get there, and the many tracks/paths and deviants meant that a little re-arranging of our route was necessary.

We got there in the end, and were pleased to soon be in the very welcoming atmosphere of one of our fave pubs, which had space for us. The landlady (always partial to a sighting of T.B), was her usual friendly self, and we had a good meal (altho Clat had burnt skin on her jacket - potato that is). We have decided we need to nominate a pub of the year, so we welcome your suggestions please, and the winner will be told, when we next get there.

Talking of next - the walk next Tuesday 21st. Farty and T.B. will be going to Brighton for the Burning of the Clocks event in the evening. They are hoping to get there for 1130 for walking and eating beforehand. Please contact them if you wish to go too. 21st is also the shortest day of the year, so the evenings will be getting lighter from then on - marvellous.

For the rest of us - undecided at the moment, as a walk will depend on people who are 'definites', bearing in mind the way the world seems to descend into chaos and busy-ness at Christmas. Failing this, a walk is planned for 28th - hopefully.

Right, for those we didn't or will not see - our love, thoughts and best wishes to you all for Christmas and the new year. Take care and cheers xxxxxx

Leigh I - The Plough

I'm Having a Leigh Down - read on!

Tuesday 7th December

Walkers: Farty, T.B., Mrs Provincial, Registrara, Lil and Clat. Windy could not make it as she is expecting a mattress - hence title of the walk - ha ha. 12 legs are escorting Mum to the dentist, Hoots has been re-arranged as a result of the snow, and is in Dubai, and Sally must be up there somewhere too.

Find of the walk - a pot of gold

Distance - 7 miles

Weather - fffffffrrrrrreeeeeeezing about -2 most of the way, but it was bright.

We didn't hang about with our pre-departure preparations and made our way down Clayhill lane, which had many icy parts, and eventually turned right and on to snow-covered fields. Fabulous views to behold, bright blue skies, and crisp and crunchy underfoot.

We know this walk well, so maps were not necessary, and after a while , came out onto Flanchford Road, noting a pair of navy blue underpants frozen to a gatepost - good night out or an 'accident'? - we didn't stay to investigate. The footpath then produced our gold, in the shape of golden chocolate coins, which were scattered for our benefit - rich beyond our wildest dreams - about 25p then.

Walking on the roads and footpaths meant conversations came to a halt, as attention was concentrated on not falling over, and none of us did, which was a real achievement. We crossed a snowy tundra and in the distance, spotted a nomadic tribe making their slow and steady progress - towards us it turned out, but they spoke our language and were not taking our route - thank goodness.

Once over Gadbrook Road, we had a quick stop for relief and refreshments, and noticed a walking signpost, standing erect and proud on the landscape. ' The Angel of the South' said T.B., and got his equipment out once more, to take a photo. Here, we had a practice run for Christmas, and did various ha ha ha poses followed by some ho ho ho ones ....................... judge for yourself, dear reader. Clat topped up the cold water bottles with some hot blackcurrant juice from her flask - next week it will be ChoCLAT - more ha ha ha then.

The snow produces some amazing footprints, and some, in particular, were rather disturbing, as they were the size of an albatross - we must be careful out here. Further along we saw a field of venison. The unsuspecting deer were gently grazing, blissfully unaware of our conversations about redcurrant jelly, dauphinoise spuds, and other niceties to complement the meat.

Wonham Mill came into view, and after years of neglect, it seems that this rather nice spot is to be converted into 'dwellings' (6 flats) - worth keeping an eye on. The albatross footprints continued, and we noticed, with alarm, that the prints were even impressed on the concrete - so they are heavy as well as big , then?

Mrs P just had to have this!

We trekked on through more fields and crossed the river, noting the evidence of some severe flooding , judging by the tidemarks, and debris left behind. It was obvious that round these parts, walkers are getting lost, as the farmer had kindly placed several 'no footpath' signs for us. Luckily, we knew our route, and after more fields, a road, and even more fields, the end was in sight. However in the final field, we had a lucky escape as an enormous pile of steaming straw and poo had landed in our path - we had missed the giant albatross!!! Through the churchyard, where T.B. spotted a tree with a 'face' on its trunk, and out to the cars. No stretching today - we zipped into the pub and had the usual high standard of service and attention, and lots of hot grub to warm us up.

Next walk - well, the jury's out. If you are unable to make next Tuesday 14th, please let us know, and if you are coming, and have a preference, then also let us know. This may be the last one before Christmas - you have been warned !!!!!!

Now, to bore you even further, here is a poem from my book - 'The poetry of Robert Frost'

'STOPPING BY WOODS ON A SNOWY EVENING'

"Whose woods these are I think I know

His house is in the village, though;

He will not see me stopping here

To watch his woods fill up with snow

My little horse must think it queer

To stop without a farmhouse near

Between the woods and frozen lake

The darkest evening of the year

He gives his harness bells a shake

To ask if there is some mistake.

The only other sound's the sweep

Of easy wind and downy flake

The woods are lovely, dark, and deep,

But I have promises to keep,

And miles to go before I sleep,

And miles to go before I sleep."

night night! xxxxx

Banstead Woods, Downlands Project

Here we are again with the livestock!

The shepherdess sees to her flock. Photos of a morning spent trying to park somewhere near the Woods with rain/sleet coming in all the time.Breaking ice on the various water troughs & then trudging back to the car somewhere towards Coulsdon

The Emerys go to town

Venue: Threave House, Isfield to Uckfield

Walkers: Mrs & Capt P!

Weather: Snowy and cold - what else?

Distance: About 5-6 miles

Time taken: 4 hours including an hour's visit to Tesco and bumping (almost literally) into friends

Pluses: Stunningly beautiful winter wonderland

Minuses: Unable to navigate due to white out!

As we woke to over a foot of snow, we decided to get some fresh air and walk across the fields into town (Uckfield) for some supplies. It's a very pretty and relatively easy walk but this time we decided to take another route/shortcut which we were pretty confident with . . BAD mistake! We hadn't realised just how much of the sineage had been obliterated with the snow and also how hard it made it when we realised we had taken the wrong direction and had to trudge back through knee deep snow. It wasn't helped by incorrect and missing signs from the farmers (thank you very much). However, we reckon it only added about half and hour to the time taken into town and it was absolutely beautiful. We were the only mad people out and about so we were walking through virgin snow - just a few deer and bird tracks and some lovely views. It was also so quiet, hardly a sound to be heard.

Having finally made it to town we dived into Tescos where predictably there was very little left on the shelves, but we did at least manage to get a few fresh veggies for our dinner. Loaded up the rucksacks, and set off for home. We then bumped into a number of friends before finally heading off back over the fields. Much easier journey this time as we had our old tracks to follow! However, in the first field we crossed Mrs P managed to take a tumble head first into a snow drift - much laughter from her caring husband! but was soon back on my feet until almost reaching the road to our house when I managed to slide off a snow covered bank and once again ended up in the white stuff! But - I had the last laugh as Alan needed to answer the call of nature and did exactly the same as me - I was, of course, all sympathy . . .

Arrived back home just in time to thaw out and have a restorative glass of chilled vino - brrrr! but most welcome! Cheers!

Hope you've all coped OK with the snow and are not housebound, and fingers crossed it's cleared by Tuesday - hope to see you all then!