1st October 2010

In the Footsteps of Highwaymen & Herders

Historically the route across Yateley Common was used by travellers trying to avoid highwaymen on the main roads. But on Saturday 9th October it serves as the first stretch of a circular walk organised by the Blackwater Valley Walkers’ Link.

Initially the walk crosses the lowland heathland of Yateley Common, an internationally rare and declining habitat. It then picks up the Blackwater Valley Path, following the River Blackwater upstream, and passes through Shepherd Meadows, a wildflower meadow which supports over 600 species of insects, before returning to Yateley Common via Blackwater. 

Covering about five miles the walk provides a perfect opportunity to see some of the contrasting habitats found around Yateley - heathland, riverside, grassland, meadows and woodland. It also give participants an opportunity to find out a little about the history of the area.

Did you know, for example, that Blackwater was once the only place you could cross the River and a meeting point for West Country herders who would stop there with their livestock en route to London?  That during medieval times, the area was regularly used by hunting parties from nearby Chertsey Abbey? That at the turn of the 20th century, the area was used by the Royal Military Academy as a training ground for the British Army, with cadets practising their drawing and map-making skill ? That Shepherd Meadows is named after the famous wildlife artist David Shepherd?

If you would like to join the walk, meet for a 10am start at Gravel Pit car park, Yateley Common off the east bound carriageway of the A30; it should last about 2½ -3 hours. Wet weather clothing and suitable footwear are recommended. The going will be relatively flat, although there are some slopes, areas of uneven ground and steps. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. For more details ring the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership on 01252 331353.

END

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