3rd November 2005

Hog’s Back Hidden Treasures

If you’ve only ever seen the area around the Hog’s Back from a car, as you travel along the A31, then you’re missing some wonderful countryside. Because although you can enjoy some fantastic views from the Hog’s Back as you drive east or west,  , it’s only when you get out of the car and explore the area on foot that you can really appreciate the many natural delights.

Join Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership on Thursday 10th November and discover the area’s many paths and country lanes, the local villages, woodland  and open spaces. Starting at Aldershot Park the walk follows the Blackwater Valley Path alongside Tongham Pool – a popular site for birds – before passing under the A331. Turning into Tongham Community Wood – once part of a much larger woodland but now managed by Tongham Wood Improvement Group for the benefit of the local community – the route continues through the site then on through the southern end of Tongham itself and past the famous Hog’s Back Brewery. Passing under the A31, the path descends away from the main road and the accompanying traffic noise to the relative tranquillity of the area’s country lanes and surrounding woodland.

The route follows the North Down Way for a short distance, continuing along various country paths around Runfold before crossing back over the A31.  Take some time to enjoy the open vistas before walking into Badshot Lea itself, rejoining the Blackwater Valley Pathand returning to Aldershot Park.

The walk covers around six miles and is mainly flat although there are some slopes and it may be muddy and uneven in places so please wear suitable clothing and footwear, it should take about three hours.  Anyone is welcome, just meet at  Aldershot Park car park off Guildford Road, Aldershot for an 10am start on Thursday 10th November . Booking is unnecessary. Children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult.

This is one of the 12 walks featured in a new book called Blackwater Valley Circular Walks available for £4 including p&p from the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership, Ash Lock Cottage, Government Road, Aldershot GU11 2PS. For more details about the walk or the book, ring 01252 331353.

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For more information contact:
Christine Reeves, Visitor Promotions Officer on 01252 331353.

Notes

The Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership (BVCP) is funded by the County, 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.