Midhurst Footpath Companions
Walking in Sussex, Hampshire and Surrey.

Hawkley walk on 4th January 2023

Conditions were damp underfoot in places but the weather was good for Jay's amble around Hawkley. The walk started out heading roughly north to reach Standfast Lane and then on to the scattered houses of Empshott (in the fifteenth century it was ascertained by an inquisition taken in 1428 that Empshott was one of the Hampshire parishes in which there were not ten in-habitants holding houses Feud. Aids, ii, 342 - nothing much has changed since then!). The old church there, the Church of the Holy Rood dates from 12th century and has had many rebuilds ever since. It is unusual in having a leaded glass belltower and inside are two bells dating from 1627 and 1897. After having a drinks break in the churchyard we walked on to the Hangers Way in the shadow of Noah Hill before turning south to return to Hawkley village. An enjoyable lunch followed in the Hawkley Inn. The walk was just below 5.1/2 miles.

Starting out.

Maybe a little water still around?

This is very pleasant

Just a small river to navigate

Balancing does tone up muscles, or so they say.....

More balancing

Aha, a road at last

"I know what you're doing!"

Well worth a visit

Nice place for a rest

Even nicer inside - the leaning pillars are not just a trick of photography!

Magnificent bell tower, volunteer window cleaners always welcome..

"Now, please all smile at the camera"

"Pssst - any good tips for the 3.30 at Epsom?"

Everyone loves a well behaved Shetland pony

Even in winter, blossoms are happening

Hawkley Church with an unusual  Rhenish helm spire, more common on the continent.

Moose looking down on hungry walkers

Food now on the way!

About 5.1/4 miles

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