Discover the Delights of Pond Dipping, Rowan Field, Ash
Rowan Field is unusual – a nature reserve split in half by the A331. On the other side of the dual carriageway is Shawfields, an area of ancient meadow.
Rowan Field
Rowan Field has open grassland
the Blackwater River running along one edge.
The field also has benches, a small seating area and a path around the outside.
The A331
The A331 dual carriageway splits Rowan Field in two so there is a continuous rumble of traffic.
These two parts of the field are joined by a footbridge, which we enjoyed crossing to watch the traffic whizz underneath.
Shawfields
On the other side of the dual carriageway is Shawfields.
Other Things to Try
From Rowan Field you can try three different places – two are play areas and the other is a walk along the River Blackwater.
Shawfield Recreation Ground
To find Shawfield Recreation Ground from Rowan Field, walk down Shawfield Lane and turn left onto the unsurfaced road on your left.
Follow this road until you come to a little path on your right. This will take you to Shawfield Rec.
Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area
To find Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area from Rowan Field, turn left and walk up the bridge over the dual carriageway.
At the end of the bridge, turn left and when you read the field, cross to the right. Ivy Road is on the other side of the river.
The Blackwater Valley Path
You could also have a walk along the Blackwater Valley Path.
Section 2 of the Blackwater Valley Path runs past Rowan Field and is surfaced so you can cycle and scooter too.
The Paths
The path around Rowan Field and also Shawfield is not surfaced and can be muddy.
The field can also be muddy and boggy in places so you may need wellies when you visit.
Parking
There are two car parks you can use. The first is on Shawfield Lane in Ash (GU12 6QY) but it was chained shut when we visited.
There are a couple of spaces near the gate and you could also try to park on Shawfield Lane itself.
The second car park is at Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area (GU12 4XG), which has several spaces.
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Further Information
Nearest Town: Ash, near Aldershot
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU12 6QY or GU12 4XG (see above for parking details)
Opens: Daily
Cost: Free
Where to Eat: Bring a picnic.
Facilities: Picnic table.
How Long We Spent There: 1 hour
Buggies: Buggy friendly
Parking: There are two car parks you can use – please see above.
Cost of Parking: Free
Wildlife You Might See: Ducks and other birds, butterflies and other insects.
Information Written: March 2017
Information Checked: May 2024
Ratings
Our visit to Rowan Field in Ash, near Aldershot, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.
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