Farnham short walk on 15th March 2023

With the long walkers storming all the hills around Fernhurst, Kathryn and Geoff led those feeling a bit less energetic on a very pleasant stroll in Farnham. After parking near the cricket club in the shadow of Farnham Castle, we walked down to see the famous Blind Bishops steps, supposedly dating from the early part on the 16th C to help the then blind bishop find his way up to the Castle.  The castle was originally built in 1138 and was a favoured residence for the Bishops of Winchester. We then walked back up the hill to take St Swithun's Way, the approximate route to take for Winchester. The area is an interesting mix of wood and farmland, with plenty of sheep to be seen. We had a welcome break at Lower Old Park before soon leaving St Swithun's Way and  took a path south towards Dippenhall. After crossing Crondall Lane we climbed up through fields to find an excellent view over Farnham Town. Our route back to the town was a bit slippery in places but we all survived although our boots were much heavier than when we had originally started out! Passing the Alms Houses we entered the Nelsons Arms where we were well looked after and with some hilarious conversation concerning  the perennial guessing/remembering game that anyone over 50 can enjoy. After lunch we regained the Castle grounds and climbed back up to our parked cars. The walk was around 5 miles.

Miguel did test the steps and the description is absolutely correct!

Checking every step

Walking back beyond the steps

St Swithin's Way

Coffee stop - and no bishops spotted en route

Climbing the hill to get the view of the town

It'll take some magic to get that Harry Potter horse cover clean again

Appaloosa horse - the breed is apparently prone to congenital stationary night blindness. Perhaps they just fall asleep?!

Dodging the hawthorn

It must be along here somewhere

Castle Street, with the Nelson Inn just beyond those Alms Houses

Just checking out the requirements to get a lodging

Ah - so let's walk on by, and quickly!  (Definition of impotent --  1. inability to take effective action; helplessness.)

Effective action now taken, so no problems getting our lunch.

This heads in the direction of Ceasars Camp, an Iron/Bronze Age fortification, once part of the Farnham Park Estate

Probably a little less than 5 miles

• ← Funtington walk on 1st March 2023
• Fernhurst long walk 15th March 2023 →