A 20s and 30s Ramblers group.
Step into the past with me as we retrace my very first led walk with the group, way back on February 3rd, 2018 – over five years ago! We'll revisit the charming countryside of Woolhampton, Chapel Row, and Bucklebury, where every lane and woodland tells a story. Join me for a leisurely stroll filled with memories and maybe a few surprises along the way.
Advance booking is not required, but if you plan on attending this walk, please indicate this on Meetup if you can (see Website link), so others can see that there will be plenty of people going.
Pace: gentle.
Walk details
Let's kick things off at Midgham Station. Don't worry if you're a bit disoriented; even the station's name has a history as tangled as the nearby hedgerows. Once we've safely crossed the A4 (watch out for rogue sheep and lost travellers), we'll head towards Upper Woolhampton.
Our first stop: St. Peter's Church, a medieval sanctuary where time stands still. Reflect on life, marvel at the architecture, or just enjoy the tranquillity of this ancient churchyard – the church dates back to the 13th century. Maybe we'll even uncover a few tales from the gravestones – after all, who doesn't love a good ghost story?
Continuing our journey, we'll pass by Douai Abbey, a majestic Benedictine monastery that's seen centuries of contemplation and probably a monk or two wandering the halls. Who knows? You might find enlightenment in unexpected places.
Venture into Greyfield Wood, where nature reigns and the locals include everything from tweeting birds to fluttering butterflies. Keep your eyes peeled for rare species – or at least try not to trip over any enthusiastic squirrels. Remember, wildlife sightings are extra points in our unofficial nature bingo!
This is a 38-acre managed woodland – managed by a local community group from the area. The lease for the wood was purchased in 1995 and is now managed by Greyfield Wood Community Interest Company.
As hunger and thirst beckon, we arrive at Chapel Row. Decision time: the Bladebone pub (a pint and a tale or two from the locals, guaranteed) or the Blackbird Café (for those who prefer cake over conversation – or maybe cake with a side of conversation)? The options are as tantalizing as they are endless.
Through the ancient paths of Bucklebury Common we go, where every tree whispers a story and every deer has a mind of its own. Keep an eye out for mythical creatures and the occasional lost hiker turned amateur cartographer.
We skirt the edges of Channel Wood, where ancient tales blend with the scent of pine and the rustle of leaves. Walk softly – you never know what woodland secrets might stir underfoot.
With hearts and memories full, we'll circle back to Upper Woolhampton, bidding farewell to lanes and landscapes that have seen more than their fair share of tales. Then, a final stroll back to Midgham Station, where every step is a nod to journeys past and adventures yet to come.
For those still thirsty for more (pun intended), The Rowbarge pub awaits just a hop, skip, and a jump over the railway line. It's the perfect place to raise a glass to friendships forged and stories shared.
FYI: Midgham Station, born "Woolhampton" in 1847, underwent an identity crisis in 1873 and emerged as "Midgham". Confusion guaranteed, clarity optional – much like the paths we tread.
Let's make this walk not just a journey through countryside lanes, but a celebration of shared memories and the joy of walking together.
Travel details
By public transport
If you are coming from Reading, take the 11:09am departure, which will arrive at Midgham Station at 11:25am. If you are coming from Newbury, take the 11:12am departure, which will also arrive at 11:22am.
By car
Free parking is available at the station but the car park is quite small! Parking is also available in the local streets near the station if needed.
Notes
Midgham Station
