Stourhead and White Sheet Hill
9 people attending
16 places left
Catch the splendid winter sun this weekend with a walk on the high ground on the edge of Wiltshire. This figure of eight route takes in some beautiful far reaching views within the Stourhead estate.As we pass close by the start half way around, it would be an ideal event for a new member or someone who would prefer a shorter walk.
Stourhead is a 1,072-hectare estate at the source of the River Stour near Mere, with a world famous gardens and grounds. Our route takes us around parts of the estate through ancient forests, but entry to the formal gardens isn't necessary.
Whitesheet Hill, within an area of outstanding natural beauty is one of the most westerly areas of downland in Britain and noted for its chalky farmland which contains a rich variety of rare and protected fauna and flora. The hill is also the site of a neolithic causeway camp and barrows; and an Iron Age hill fort. The Roman road which runs along the hill was at one time the main route through the Selwood Forest. The hill is part of the Stourhead estate and has been in the ownership of the National Trust since 1946.
Nearby Mere is one of Wiltshire's pretty villages having a market cross and various ancient and picturesque buildings
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking, trainers are OK if the ground is dry and there’s little chance of rain
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
Food & drink
Bring a packed lunch or buy one from the cafe on arrival. We won't be passing anywhere to buy food and drink.