Mileaters Powerstock Walk
We were blessed with terrific walking weather for this 5 mile testing jaunt around the hills above Powerstock. Eight intrepid set off on a walk following some less well trod paths (for “less well trod” read overgrown and not at all clear).
From the Marquis of Lorne we made our way down past the old water mill and straight up the steep side of Powerstock castle. The site of the mott and bailey are still very clear and we learned about it being known as the Winter Palace of King Athelstan (no evidence) and that there were several records of King John being in attendance on many occasions, specifically 25th August 1205 and 8th Sept 1207 using “Poorstock Castle” as a hunting lodge as the area was one of the many deer forests reserved for the king.
From there we walked along the Kings Lane and through “The Bloody Gate” (as in “Close…”) and across the old Dorch to Bridport railway line (see picture), climbing to the hill above the Boden Estate. The rest of the walk was hidden valleys and steep climbs finishing through the picturesque and architecturally intriguing Powerstock. This was a challenging walk and the last hill up to the pub nearly finished us off but I counted them all out and counted them all back again. And all were smiling at the end. We walked for around 2 hours 20 mins plus a 20 min walk and a stop to pet the donkeys… (don`t ask).
Tom Webb
Tibbs Hollow walk
A group of 17 walkers plus 2 dogs set off in good walking weather, dry and a gentle breeze for an approximate five mile walk starting at Tibbs Hollow car park in Frampton. We headed off downhill to the valley bottom where the river Frome flows, passing the site of a medieval village now merely bumps in a small field occupied by some friendly goats. We walked along a cycle route through the pretty village of Notton towards Cruxton where we joined the Macmillan Way, following it up a steepish hill towards Notton Hill Barn. A coffee stop soon afterwards allowed us to recover from the climb whilst also admiring the far reaching views.
Leaving the Macmillan Way we headed down towards Longlands Farm, walking single file across a maize field, with the leaders disappearing from view - as the photo caption says – spot the Mileaters! At Longlands Farm we had a roll call to make sure no one was left in the maize. Two snoring pigs in a field beside the road were seen but disappointingly completely ignored those who walked over to say ‘hello’. Then we walked down the road to the car park.
Spot the Mileaters!
Our lunch was booked at The Chalk & Cheese in Maiden Newton. However, on arrival, we found an apologetic notice on the door telling us that due to illness they had to close. Not a pub with no beer but no pub! With a large group of people hanging around on the corner of the road a decision was needed so Gerald ‘phoned the Saxon Arms in Stratton, they had room for us all – disaster was avoided! Off we went where the excellent staff served us lunch plus a beer or two which was enjoyed sitting outside in the sunshine.
Rosie & Gerald Duke
Sydling St Nicholas walk
It was a gloomy, drizzly morning. A group of 11 walkers were due to set out for a 5 1/2 mile walk around Sydling St Nicholas. But one couple had failed to appear on time and a decision was taken to go without them. We parked in the pretty village of Sydling and made the long, slow ascent up to the Ridge. Suddenly two small figures appeared far below. Our lost walkers had caught up and found us. Quite a feat as they didnt know the walk. They had overslept and good manners prevents us from naming them. Our full complement reached the beautiful long stretch of the Ridge with far reaching views which even the weather could not spoil. A coffee break near the famous Turning Point crossroads of five ancient tracks set us thinking of all those who have passed through over millenia. A pleasant ramble back downhill past fields of standing barley and wildflower meadows eventually brought us back to Sydling. A short drive to the comforts of the Saxon Arms and delicious lunch. Linda led and Sue at rear shut the gates - quite a lot of them - Good teamwork!
Linda Scott and Sue Shephard
Colin and Jo’s Mileaters Walk Friday 2nd August
13 intrepid Mileaters took to the hills above Compton Valence on a glorious summer’s day. With barely a cloud in the sky – just a few horseflies. The major uphill was done and dusted at the beginning of the walk heading north. Once up on top of the downs the views were spectacular in all directions (unless we were walking too close to the back of someone!) A loop round took us to Notton Hill Barn where we borrowed someone’s lawn too sit and have coffee and snacks.
From there we headed to Longlands Farm and back along Compton Bottom. A brief stop at the hollow ash tree, on the Parish Boundary, where the photo was taken. The ancient ash is at least 15 feet around the base, almost completely rotted or hollow in the middle, but still boasts new growth around the rim. Old trees such as this are fed by the rotting wood in the middle and give themselves a new lease of life.
Then we continued to Compton Valence where we had a picnic lunch at the church! Splendid!
Colin and Jo
Mileaters Walk 19th July 2024
The first early tongue in cheek communications regarding the walk suggested that a backup day would be unnecessary as the planned day would be extremely hot and sunny. And so it turned out. Too hot for some, particularly that first stretch from Stratton towards Crete Hill where there is no shade and the sun merciless.
However the track soon levelled off and there were no deserters, by the time we reached Jackmans Cross and the coffee stop everyone was in brighter mood.
The walk was splendid with fine views over Charminster Down, lots of chat and good humour.
Lunch was a picnic on the green at Stratton, and since we were near our cars we could indulge ourselves with chairs, gaining some shade from the Sycamore trees.
A very good group of Mileaters who had a splendid morning walk of around 5.5 miles.
Sue and Stuart Nuttall
