On the fringes of the Cotswolds and Wychwood forest: From Charlbury to Blenheim Park
11 people attending
14 places left
We will start from Charlbury Station and take a stroll through the village before heading east towards Woodstock. We will enter the grounds of the Blenheim Palace estate via the western public pathway. A circular walk will take in the best features of the grounds including the lake and landscapes which are amongst the greatest works of Capability Brown, the Column of Victory, and views of Blenheim Palace. We may spot a few of the 60 middle age oaks (900 years old) surveyed on the grounds, some of which measuring an impressive 9 metres in diameter.
We will return from the grounds back to Charlbury station in time to catch the train back to Oxford and beyond (15:40, 16:40, 17:09, 18:38). If time we may detour to a local pub to make the most of the afternoon.
What to bring
For your comfort and safety please be prepared for the anticipated weather and the terrain of the walk - keep in mind the following:
Boots: Hiking boots that are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support, are important as soon as you encounter any mud. Cross trainers may suffice in good weather and flat routes.
Socks: Proper walking socks keep your feet dry, and help prevent blisters.
Walking Trousers: (ideally water resistant) will be more comfortable than Jeans which are heavy and cold when wet. From April to October shorts are usually a better bet.
Waterproof Over-Trousers: essential in any significant rainfall. Breathable ones are best.
Layered clothing: allows you to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature. E.g. a base layer or a cotton T-Shirt; a mid layer like a micro fleece, or a rugby type thick shirt, and in cooler weather an outer layer consisting of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece.
Waterproof Jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather. You get what you pay for with these. Breathable fabrics are advisable.
Hat: essential both in mid winter to preserve heat and in summer to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
Gloves: essential in frosty weather.
Small Rucksack: One that is comfortable to wear is essential so that you can use your arms freely. Place valuables in water proof bags inside.
Sunglassses: April- Sept: comfortable sunglasses enhance your pleasure and keep insects out of the eye
Water: even in winter one can loose a litre or more of fluid by perspiration. If you fail to make this up you'll get dehydrated which can lead to headaches and other problems. A hydration bladder is easier to use than bottled water, but higher maintenance.
Food: a packed lunch will be required unless otherwise stated. In addition carry energy bars or similar to counter 'sugar lows'.
Medicines: If you have allergies, are diabetic, or have minor ailments don't forget these!
Food & drink
A packed lunch, plenty of water and energy bars are essential today. We will pass near a Co-op in Charlbury then this walk takes you way off the beaten track.