Walks from Downley

On these pages you will find some suggestions for walks from Downley.  They are walks I have done frequently and, in many cases, have also taken others.  We have enjoyed them and have encountered no unusual difficulties.  Frequent challenges (such as high likelihood of mud, steeper-than-usual slopes, animals etc) have been noted but there may well be challenges that become apparent to you that I haven’t mentioned.  Apologies, but herein is the first disclaimer – I’m not a walk writer and have done this purely to assist those less familiar with our countryside to widen their walking routes and enjoyment at time of Covid-19. 

In suggesting routes I take no responsibility for their suitability for you and your family.  All walkers must take personal responsibility for their own abilities and safety at all times.

I’d also suggest decent walking shoes for most of them – the slightest bit of rain around here makes the chalky mud and tree roots very slippery, and more rain always results in churned up mud in our woods as they are heavily used by horses, bikes and walkers.  Flint stones on paths are uneven and easy to turn ankles.  As spring and summer progress, the nettles, brambles and other undergrowth will begin to crowd some paths meaning you may want to cover lower legs.

These are my written walk route suggestions but many are inspired by walks I have done as part of Simply Walk group – many thanks to this wonderful free leisure walking group and full credit goes to all leaders.

If you have feedback on these walks or would like to suggest other less-well-known routes to widen the selection please contact me via walks@downley.org and I will endeavour to amend or add new walks in a similar format.

regards

Melanie Ashton

Walks