Mileaters on Tour - face a "Testing" time…
We could not have picked better weather for our annual staycation, this time in the charming town of Stockbridge on the beautiful River Test in Hampshire. 22 Mileaters and 3 dogs gathered for 3 days of walks, drinks, fine company, drinks, pub grub, and yes, more drinks.
No sooner had we checked in and we were off on our first walk - 4 1/2 miles downhill from the fine viewpoint of Danebury Hill Fort, along the Test Way and back to our hotel, serenaded by the first Cuckoo of the year, and accompanied by soaring Red Kites.
The second day was even warmer as we set off along the shady old railway track that was the former "Sprat and Winkle" line, then onto a section of the Clarendon Way with a delightful crossing of the River Test. Another Cuckoo, and yet more Red Kites, and many a tuneful Blackcap. The 6 mile circuit concluded by passing former Horsebridge Station, fully restored to its late 19th Century condition, and now a wedding venue. No surprise, there was the "John of Gaunt" Inn waiting to revive us.
Our final walk, after an inauspicious skirting of the water treatment works, followed above the River Anton, into the picturesque village of Wherwell, and then up into the cooling shade of Upping Copse and a glorious display of Bluebells especially for Linda who had joined us from the Netherlands for this very encounter. After a picnic lunch with the 5 mile mark now behind us, we faced a dilemma - an extra 1 ½ miles, or back to the cars and the option of a rehydrating drink right on the banks of our friend the Test at "The Mayfly" Inn ? Which option did we take ? A wonderful spot to finish an enjoyable few days.
Our grateful thanks to Phil who filled in for our tour organiser Nick who was recovering from a knee operation, by leading all the walks and he didn't lose anyone; "I counted them all out and I counted them all back". Nick provided important logistical support by researching the watering holes and could be found at various important junctions, normally where there happened to be a pub.
Finally, congratulations to Martin, Lesley and Lesley P (where was Mark ?) for an outstanding performance in the "Name that Dog" competition.
We are already looking forward to next year's holiday in Exmouth, under the stewardship of Frances and Rollo.
Nick Priddle
