Midhurst Footpath Companions
Walking in Sussex, Hampshire and Surrey.

Stedham walk on 11th January 2023

The year has certainly got off to a wet start.  Pauline's walk was mostly on sandy terrain but that didn't mean we didn't have to do some puddle jumping. After meeting in Stedham at the Hamilton Arms we set off to cross the A272 to reach Stedham Commom where we joined the Serpent Trail for a short distance. We left the Serpent trail where it crosses a Roman Road - however, the lack of chariots meant we were quite oblivious to this piece of history. Fitzhall Heath and Plantation were followed by Fitzhall itself, which consists of 2 or 3 cottages in amongst some farmland. Shortly after we passed the remains of a giant sandpit, not visible at all but in any case we were busy navigating a long stretch of waterlogged path, fortunately bordered by some dense rhododendron with dry tunnels amongst the foliage. Our route then meandered through the Severals before crossing the A272 once again and then onto the Polo Field constructed by Kerry Packer. Through the village and we were once again at the Hamilton Arms where we enjoyed some very good Thai food.

Setting out

Stedham Common proved challenging in places

Luckily this wasn't the path

Some boots are made for walking, especially wellingtons!

Fitzhall Heath

Thank goodness, no water here.

Coffee stop, let's find some biscuits

A Rother contributory needed crossing

Splendid effort to get a good spot for a shot

But not a good spot for a swim

The Warren proved even more testing for those of a shorter stature

"What's going on down there?"

What is it?

Probably an Earthball and very poisonous!

Nothing poisonous in here - back in The Hamilton Arms

Nice carrot - far too nice to eat.

About 5 miles.

Recent galleries

History

2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
1997