North of Shotover: Stanton St John countryside
5 people attending
15 places left
Dogs are very welcome at the events I organise, please take responsibility for your pet.
Starting from the easily accessible Thornhill Park & Ride, this walk is part of a former royal forest and will transport you to a countryside idyll of rural tranquillity.
We will pass through countryside, Forest Hill and the attractive stone village of Stanton St John. Much of Stanton St John is owned by New College, Oxford University - the college arms even feature on the unusual village sign! The village is the birthplace of John White, who founded the Massachusetts Company, which sent settlers to start the new colony in America. He was one of the Pilgrim Fathers and chief founder of the colony of Massachusetts.
From there we then head toward Beckley and will pass Woodperry House, a beautiful Georgian house built in 1728–31 for a London banker, John Morse. The house is built in a very grand style which is approached along a formal avenue, through magnificent iron gates bearing the emblems and arms of John Morse.
We will then carry on toward Beckley where we might stop at the community owned pub "The Abingdon Arms" before heading back to Barton via Elsfield.
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.
Sunglasses: 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.