Red kites Galore in the Chilterns
Dogs are very welcome at the events I organise, please take responsibility for your pet.
Starting from Watlington, this circular walk takes in some fine beech woodland in the Chilterns before descending back to Watlington via Watlington hill. You can be assured to spot dozens of Red kites along the way.
This is a good day's walking and will start from the car park at Watlington hill road. After the initial climb of the Chilterns escarpment, it then leads into possibly the most remote, tranquil and unspoilt area of the Chilterns, with secluded valleys and isolated hamlets and villages.
We then take a popular path back to Watlington Hill which boasts far-reaching views of the Chilterns escarpment and the Oxford Vale. To the south, you'll see beech and ash woodland that cloaks the slopes of the nearby hills.
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.
Suncream: essential to prevent sunburn.
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
Please bring water.
For the food, we are likely to eat at the pub The Crown Inn in Pishill (a 15th century former Coaching Inn with thatched barn).
More info nearer the date of the event.