Date: Location: Walk Leader: Participants: Distance: Parking: Lunch: | 26th February 2016 Bramshaw Ray Ray, Clive, Peter, Rob 7.2 miles Forest Car Park Bat and Ball ★★★☆☆ |
We posed for this group photo beside Eyeworth Pond. This was only in the second half of the 19th century by the Schultze Gunpowder Company, an organisation that for many years had premises in the grounds of nearby Eyeworth Lodge. You can read more about this venture at: http://www.newforestexplorersguide.co.uk/heritage/history-in-the-landscape/eyeworth-pond.html |
After a short section in the open at Ashley Cross we came across a small brick structure that was once a post connected with the Ashley Bombing Range. Those interested in the war and the history of this unusual place can find out more at:
http://www.thenewforestguide.co.uk/history/new-forest-explosives/ashley-walk-bombing-range/
or
http://www.new-forest-national-park.com/ashley-range.html
We decided, by a narrow majority, to go back into the woods on the basis it would be shorter and more interesting. By the time we were back at the car park we were wondering if the additional ups and downs had been worthwhile. The woods had certainly provided lots to look at as fairly extensive logging operations had been going on for some time. Why would they fell trees right across the path?
We all agreed that this had turned out to be a great walk on a lovely day but, and you knew there had to be a but....we were all very pleased that we cut out the pale orange diversion that Ray had planned to ensure the walk was not too short. This would have added another 1.2 miles and it looks as if the Leader had had quite enough without that. |