Viewing galleries from May, 2016
Up Marden, West Marden, Stoughton and back to Up Marden. A cloudy day with sun at the very end of the walk. The hills seemed steeper going back and the excellent lunches at The Hare and Hounds didn't help! A quick look at the 12/13th century church at Up Marden - probably the least spoilt church in southern England. Thanks to Marian and Denis for super photos.
Simon Jenkins, once chairman of the National Trust, wrote "But the Downland churches are different. They weave not neither do they spin, yet there is not a cathedral in England that has their power to move the spirit. ------- The Downland churches have a stronger magic. The unbeliever departs them ill at ease."
Read more here:- Simon Jenkins
Much credit to Denis for going ahead with this walk! The forecast was wet all morning and it did rain much of the time. However the walk was enjoyed by all, with fields full of growing crops and vast areas of woodland heavy with the scent of wild garlic. We also caught sight of at least 40 wild Fallow deer. Lunch was in the Barley Mow in Walderton where we met the new landlady/owner of 4 weeks. Splendid lunch - Rump steak for £8.95 and Venison casserole for £11.25. Can't think where the venison came from!
The University of the Third Age (U3A) movement is a unique and exciting organisation which provides, through its U3As, life-enhancing and life-changing opportunities. Retired and semi-retired people come together and learn together, not for qualifications but for its own reward: the sheer joy of discovery!
Very pleasant weather, which almost dried up the muddy parts! Lunch in The Bluebell, Dockenfield.
Frensham Great Pond originally provided carp for the Bisop of Winchester, but is now a popular home for swimmers, sailors, tench and large 20lb pike. Despite the predators, Frensham Sailing Club has trained many National, European and World Champions.