26th August 2011

Round Lakes and Ridges

Join the Blackwater Valley Walker’s Link on Wednesday 14th September for a pleasant circular walk taking in the River Blackwater, Finchampstead Ridges and the lakes, woods and countryside in-between.

About 35 years ago the site now known as Moor Green Lakes, where the walk begins, was mainly rough pasture used for grazing horses and cattle. Then in 1976 and for the next six years the area was used for gravel extraction before being restored to the nature reserve found there today. In fact Moor Green Lakes nature reserve is the premier birding site in the Blackwater Valley and a haven for wildfowl and wading birds – over 200 species of bird have been recorded in the area since 1977 – and this walk offers plenty of opportunity to do some bird spotting.

From Moor Green Lakes, the walk follows the Blackwater Valley Path before passing Horseshoe Lakes then, after a steady climb uphill away from the lakes, the walk passes through Finchampstead Ridges. This area belongs to the National Trust and was one of their earliest acquisitions purchased by public subscription in 1913 for £3,000.

If you are interested in joining the walk meet for a 10am start at Moor Green Lakes car park, Lower Sandhurst Road, Berkshire GU47 8JW,  grid ref: SU 805 627. The walk covers about four miles and will last about two hours. You are advised to wear wet weather clothing and suitable footwear, as parts of the route could be muddy, and be prepared to climb over a few stiles. Any children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult and dogs must be kept on a lead. For more details ring 01252 331353.

This walk is organised by the BV Walkers’ Link, which aims to keep members informed about the walks and walking groups in the Blackwater Valley area whilst regularly providing advice and encouragement about walking. 

END

 More about the BV Walker’s Link  >>>

For further information contact:
Christine Reeves, Visitor Promotions Officer on 01252 331353.
Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership, Ash Lock Cottage, Government Road, Aldershot GU11 2PS.

NOTES

• Moor Green Lakes Nature Reserve is an important habitat for wildlife. It covers 90 acres (36 hectares) and comprises three lakes with gravel islands and beaches and a number of scrapes that attract a wide variety of wildfowl and wading birds: over 200 species of bird have been recorded in the area since 1977. The Reserve was opened in 1993 following the careful restoration of gravel workings and is owned by CEMEX and managed by the Moor Green Lakes Group with the help of the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership.   More about Moor Green Lakes  >>>
• The Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership (BVCP) is funded by the County, Borough, District and Parish Councils along the River Blackwater. It works to promote community action in conservation and recreation and to protect the Valley for the enjoyment and well being of the whole community.
• Members of the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership are: Hampshire County Council, Surrey County Council; the Borough, District, Town and  Parish Councils of Ash, Blackwater & Hawley, Farnham, Finchampstead, Guildford, Hart, Rushmoor, Sandhurst, Surrey Heath, Wokingham and Yateley.