Lymington and Hurst Castle
20 people attending
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A walk through the beautiful historic town of Lymington, across the old salt pans to Hurst Spit and then along to Hurst Castle. Lunch will be on the beach and then you can choose your option:
- Option 1: We'll walk the spit and look at the fort. Total distance for the walk will be 14 miles
- Option 2: We'll stay on the beach after lunch, for a swim or sunbathing, and rejoin the main group for the walk back. Total distance for the walk will be 12.2 miles.
Lymington with its Georgian architecture, is a busy and bustling place. The salt pans running from the town through to Hurst spit, were active until the 19th century and are still very much in evidence today. Now an ornithologists' delight, particularly at this time of year with the migrating birds coming through.
Hurst Castle was built on a spit running out into The Solent to protect the western entrance of the Solent. Built by Henry VIII in 1544 and used up until fairly recent times. During the Civil War, Charles I was imprisoned here before being executed. It is one of the best-preserved forts of Henry VIII left.
Route: https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/935138/Lymington-Hurst-castle-and-salt-pans
Dogs - this route is really not suitable
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All pictures are courtesy of Geograph and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence. geograph-333907-by-gillian-thomas.jpg, geograph-2676320-by-mike-smith.jpg, geograph-037160-by-c-d-uglow.jpg, geograph-169114-by-peter-facey.jpg
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 in summer to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
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!
Suncream: a high-factor for high summer as the walk is exposed, offering little shade.
Swimwear and towel: if you wish!
Food & drink
Please bring your packed lunches and water as we will not be passing any shops once outside Lymington.