River Sources – Toddle Doddle https://toddledoddle.com Find Your Next Adventure Sat, 01 Jun 2024 15:12:10 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 102446132 Begin at the Beginning on the Blackwater Valley Path https://toddledoddle.com/blackwater-valley-path-section-1-rowhill-to-pea-bridge/ https://toddledoddle.com/blackwater-valley-path-section-1-rowhill-to-pea-bridge/#respond Mon, 27 May 2024 18:30:11 +0000 https://toddledoddle.com/rowhill-nature-reserve-aldershot-copy/ Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to Pea Bridge in Aldershot Hampshire

The Blackwater begins in the tranquil Rowhill Nature Reserve and so does the Blackwater Valley Path, which winds with the river, past the source, waterfalls and bridges and out onto the streets of Aldershot and Badshot Lea. 

 

The Blackwater Valley Path

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThe Blackwater Valley Path is 23 miles long, marked by signposts and divided into 12 sections.  

These sections follow the river, are not circular and do not finish where they start.  

 

 

Blackwater Valley Path Section 1: Rowhill Nature Reserve to Pea Bridge 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireSection 1 starts at Rowhill Nature Reserve car park

 

 

 

 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshireand leads you past the boggy source of the Blackwater,

 

 

 

 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshirewhere it then follows the infant river.

 

 

 

 

 

The path leads onto the streets

 

 

 

 

 

and footpaths of Badshot Lea

 

 

 

 

 

and Aldershot.

 

 

 

 

 

Section 1 ends at Pea Bridge, where section 2 begins.

 

 

 

 

 

Rowhill Nature Reserve

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireRowhill Nature Reserve is a captivating nature reserve of ancient woodland with stumps to balance on,

 

 

 

 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshiretrees to climb, hills to explore, bridges to build and places to paddle. 

 

 

 

 

 

The Source of the Blackwater

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThe source of the Blackwater River is a bog marked by an information board.  

 

 

 

 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThere isn’t much to see but the bog trickles into a stream that flows into Stickleback Pond. 

 

 

 

 

The River Blackwater

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThe River Blackwater is a small stream along section 1 

 

 

 

 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshirethat has little waterfalls and spots to splash in.

 

 

 

 

Once you leave the reserve, the river becomes a little wider and deeper and there is no access. 

 

 

 

 

The Paths Along Section 1

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireI found the paths within Rowhill Nature Reserve easy to use and push an all terrain buggy along.

 

 

 

 

The paths through Aldershot from pavements to footpaths.

 

 

 

 

Some of the footpaths were narrow but they were all flat and easy to use.

 

 

 

 

River Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 from Rowhill Nature Reserve to pea Bridge in Aldershot HampshireThere are some road crossings, which you need to cross with care.  Please see the Section 1 route description for full details. 

 

 

 

Would We Go Back?

We really enjoy Rowhill Nature Reserve and visit regularly but for me, the walk beyond the reserve does not add much as you do not really see the river.  I don’t expect to visit this part of section 1 again. 

 

 

Where to Next?

River Blackwater Valley Path Section 2 from Pea Bridge in Aldershot to Shawfields in Ash, SurreyDownstream – Section 2:  Pea Bridge to Shawfields

 

Read More

 

Visit the Blackwater Valley Path website

Visit the Section 1 Route Description

Visit the Rowhill Nature Reserve website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Aldershot
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode for Rowhill Nature Reserve: GU11 3BD
Nearest Postcode for Pea Bridge: GU11 3RD or GU11 3QJ (see below under Parking for details).

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic.
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There is a small car park on Cranmore Lane (GU11 3BD), which can be busy. To park near Pea Bridge you can either park on the road near Tice’s Meadow (GU11 3RD) or park in the car park at Brickfields Country Park (GU11 3QJ) and walk down.
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Kingfishers, birds, badgers, lizards, butterflies and other insects.

Information Written: May 2024

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Section 1 of the Blackwater Valley Path from Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot to Pea Bridge in Aldershot is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
3.0
Sending
User Rating 4 (1 vote)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/blackwater-valley-path-section-1-rowhill-to-pea-bridge/feed/ 0 77668 Follow the Blackwater to Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire https://toddledoddle.com/the-blackwater-valley-path-overview/ https://toddledoddle.com/the-blackwater-valley-path-overview/#respond Mon, 27 May 2024 18:00:12 +0000 https://toddledoddle.com/blackwater-valley-path-section-1-rowhill-to-pea-bridge-copy/ Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire River 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Blackwater and Blackwater Valley Path Section 2 at Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area in North Town in Aldershot, Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 2 from Pea Bridge in Aldershot to Shawfields in Ash, Surrey River Blackwater and Blackwater Valley Path Section 2 at Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area in North Town in Aldershot, Hampshire River Blackwater at Rowan Field in Ash, Surrey and Blackwater Valley Path Section 2 Pea Bridge to Shawfields River Blackwater at Rowan Field in Ash, Surrey and Blackwater Valley Path Section 2 Pea Bridge to Shawfields River Blackwater at Lakeside Nature Reserve, Ash Vale, Surrey on the Blackwater Valley Path Section 3: Shawfields to Hollybush Pits River Blackwater at Lakeside Nature Reserve, Ash Vale, Surrey on the Blackwater Valley Path Section 3: Shawfields to Hollybush Pits River Blackwater at Lakeside Nature Reserve, Ash Vale, Surrey on the Blackwater Valley Path Section 3: Shawfields to Hollybush Pits Blackwater Valley Path Section 3 Shawfields to Hollybush Pits Blackwater Valley Path Section 3 Shawfields to Hollybush Pits Blackwater Valley Path Section 3 Shawfields to Hollybush Pits River Blackwater at Lakeside Nature Reserve, Ash Vale, Surrey on the Blackwater Valley Path Section 3: Shawfields to Hollybush Pits Blackwater Valley Path Section 4 Hollybush Pits to Coleford Bridge River Blackwater at Farnborough, Hampshire and Blackwater Valley Path Section 4 Hollybush Pits to Coleford Bridge River Blackwater at Farnborough, Hampshire and Blackwater Valley Path Section 4 Hollybush Pits to Coleford Bridge River Blackwater at Farnborough, Hampshire and Blackwater Valley Path Section 4 Hollybush Pits to Coleford Bridge River Blackwater at Farnborough, Hampshire and Blackwater Valley Path Section 4 Hollybush Pits to Coleford Bridge Blackwater Valley Path Section 5 Coleford Bridge to M3 Bridge Blackwater Valley Path Section 5 Coleford Bridge to M3 Bridge River Blackwater at Farnborough, Hampshire and Blackwater Valley Path Section 5 Coleford Bridge to M3 Bridge Blackwater Valley Path Section 5 Coleford Bridge to M3 Bridge Blackwater Valley Path Section 5 Coleford Bridge to M3 Bridge River Blackwater at Hawley Meadows, Camberley, Surrey and Blackwater Valley Path Section 6 M3 Bridge to Blackwater Park River Blackwater at Hawley Meadows, Camberley, Surrey and Blackwater Valley Path Section 6 M3 Bridge to Blackwater Park River Blackwater at Hawley Meadows, Camberley, Surrey and Blackwater Valley Path Section 6 M3 Bridge to Blackwater Park River Blackwater at Hawley Meadows, Camberley, Surrey and Blackwater Valley Path Section 6 M3 Bridge to Blackwater Park River Blackwater at Hawley Meadows, Camberley, Surrey and Blackwater Valley Path Section 6 M3 Bridge to Blackwater Park River Blackwater at Hawley Meadows, Camberley, Surrey and Blackwater Valley Path Section 6 M3 Bridge to Blackwater Park River Blackwater on Section 7 of the Blackwater Valley Path at Shepherd Meadows, Sandhurst River Blackwater on Section 7 of the Blackwater Valley Path at Shepherd Meadows, Sandhurst River Blackwater on Section 7 of the Blackwater Valley Path at Shepherd Meadows, Sandhurst

The Blackwater Valley Path follows the River Blackwater from its boggy source in Aldershot to its end at the River Loddon in Swallowfield, near Reading. Along the way are meadows, nature reserves and woodland, as well as the occasional play area.  

 

The Blackwater Valley Path

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThe Blackwater Valley Path is 23 miles long, marked by signposts and divided into 12 sections.  

These sections follow the river, are not circular and do not finish where they start.  

 

 

The Twelve Sections

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in HampshireSection 1:  Rowhill Nature Reserve to Pea Bridge

 

 

 

 

River Blackwater Valley Path Section 2 from Pea Bridge in Aldershot to Shawfields in Ash, SurreySection 2:  Pea Bridge to Shawfields

 

 

 

 

Ash Aqueduct, Basingstoke Canal and the Blackwater Valley Path Section 3 Shawfields to Hollybush PitsSection 3:  Shawfields to Hollybush Pits

 

 

 

 

Blackwater Valley Path Section 4 Hollybush Pits to Colefield BridgeSection 4:  Hollybush Pits to Coleford Bridge

 

 

 

 

Blackwater Valley Path Section 5 Coleford Bridge to M3 BridgeSection 5:  Coleford Bridge to the M3 Bridge

 

 

 

 

River Blackwater at Hawley Meadows, Camberley, Surrey and Blackwater Valley Path Section 6 M3 Bridge to Blackwater ParkSection 6:  M3 Bridge to Blackwater Park

 

 

 

 

 

Section 7:  Blackwater Park to Sandhurst Station

Section 8:  Sandhurst Station to Grove Lake

Section 9:  Grove Lake to Longwater Road

Section 10:  Longwater Road to Eversley Bridge

Section 11:  Eversley Bridge to Jouldings Lane

Section 12:  Jouldings Lane to Swallowfield

 

The Paths

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireMost of the paths are flat and easy to walk along.

 

 

 

 

Some stretches can be muddy after wet weather. 

 

 

 

 

Other areas can be narrow

 

 

 

 

or lined with stinging nettles.  

 

 

 

 

Blackwater Valley Path Section 4 Hollybush Pits to Colefield BridgeSome run next to the A331 dual carriageway.

 

 

 

 

Blackwater Valley Path Section 3 Shawfields to Hollybush PitsOthers involve crossing roads.  Please do this with care. 

 

 

 

 

Multi-User Surfaces

Blackwater River, Lakeside Nature Reserve, Ash Vale, SurreySections 2 to 5 have a hardened surface suitable for multi-users, including wheelchairs, bikes and pushchairs. 

 

 

 

 

Cycling

Blackwater Valley Path, Aldershot Park and Play Areas in Aldershot, HampshireCycling is permitted between Sections 2 and Blackwater Park, which is about halfway along Section 6.  

 

 

 

 

Scooters

I have scooted from Section 2 to the start of Section 6 but would not do it again as the surfaces can be too uneven for little wheels. 

 

 

 

 

The A331 Blackwater Valley Relief Road

Rowan Field in Ash, SurreyThe A331 was built along the River Blackwater and Sections 2 to 5 of the path run alongside this dual carriageway.  

 

 

 

These stretches can be very noisy and have an industrial feel.

 

 

 

 

 

Blackwater Valley Countryside Trust

Rowan Field in Ash, SurreyThe Blackwater Valley Countryside Trust look after and protect the natural environment of the Blackwater Valley.  

 

 

 

Rowan Field in Ash, SurreyTheir website has useful information and also full details of the Black Water Valley Path.

 

Read More

 

Visit the Black Water Valley Path website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Various depending on which section you visit. Please see the individual sections for full details.  
County: Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire
Nearest Postcode: Varies depending on which section you visit.  Please see the individual sections for full details. 

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic or stop along the way.
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There:  Usually a couple of hours on one section. 
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: Various depending on which section you visit. Please see the individual sections for full details.  
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Kingfishers, birds, badgers, lizards, ducks, Canada geese, swans, coots, moorhens, butterflies and other insects.

Information Written: May 2024

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

The Blackwater Valley Path has too many sections to be able to summarise all 23 miles accurately.  Instead, please see the 12 sections for individual summaries. 

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/the-blackwater-valley-path-overview/feed/ 0 77704 Discover the Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill, Aldershot https://toddledoddle.com/rowhill-nature-reserve-aldershot/ https://toddledoddle.com/rowhill-nature-reserve-aldershot/#respond Mon, 27 May 2024 12:29:42 +0000 http://toddledoddle.com/?p=44845 Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path in Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Blackwater Valley Path Section 1 in Hampshire

Rowhill Nature Reserve hides the source of the River Blackwater amongst charismatically named areas like Stickleback Pond, Rhododendron Avenue, Kingfisher Carr, The Brickworks and Chestnut Glade. Can you follow the river to find where it springs from?

 

Rowhill Nature Reserve

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThere are stumps to balance on, trees to climb, hills to explore, bridges to build and places to paddle. 

 

 

 

 

The Source of the Blackwater

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThe River Blackwater is stream-sized

 

 

 

 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshirebut has little waterfalls and spots to paddle in.

 

 

 

 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThe source of the Blackwater River is an area of bog. It is next to the pond and marked with an information board.  

There isn’t much to see but the bog trickles into a stream that flows into… 

 

 

Stickleback Pond

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire…Stickleback Pond, which has a small dam and waterfall. 

 

 

 

 

The River Blackwater

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThe River Blackwater quickly becomes stream-sized

 

 

 

 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshireand has little waterfalls and spots to paddle in.

 

 

 

 

Den Building

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThe paths wind through deciduous woodland with a spot for den building…

 

 

 

 

 

Rhododendron Avenue

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, Hampshire…and along Rhododendron Avenue before coming to a tranquil meadow and field surrounded by trees.

 

 

 

 

The Paths 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireI found the paths easy to use and push an all terrain buggy along. There are paths that are narrow in places but they were all just ok for my narrow double buggy.

 

 

 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThere are two paths from the car park on Cranmore Lane:

 

 

 

 

 

1. The Blackwater Valley Path

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThe Blackwater Valley Path starts at the end of the car park near the white house and meanders through the reserve staying close to the River Blackwater.

 

 

 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThis is Section 1 of the Blackwater Valley Path and is not a circular path and follows the river out of the reserve at Parkland Grove.

 

 

 

 

2. The Nature Trail

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThis is about 1.5 miles long and is marked by a series of posts, starting at the field centre (the wooden building next to the car park).

This is a circular path and begins and ends at the car park on Cranmore Lane.

 

 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireThis trail leads up over steps and a steep hill but these can be avoided if you follow the Blackwater Valley Path to the source of the River Blackwater, where the two paths meet up.

 

 

 

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireA copy of the nature trail can be found on the Rowhill Nature Reserve website, which marks the steps and an easy access, special needs path that can be accessed from Parkland Grove (GU9 9HA).

 

 

 

50 Things to Do

Source of the River Blackwater at Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot, HampshireYou could also tackle the 50 Things to Do at Rowhill Copse sheet the reserve have put together.  

How many can you complete?

Read More

 

Visit the Rowhill Nature Reserve website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Aldershot
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: GU11 3BD

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic.
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There is a small car park on Cranmore Lane (GU11 3BD). This can be busy.
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Kingfishers, birds, badgers, lizards, butterflies and other insects.

Information Written: April 2017
Information Checked: May 2024

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
5.0
Sending
User Rating 4 (1 vote)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/rowhill-nature-reserve-aldershot/feed/ 0 44845 Paddle and Play in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton https://toddledoddle.com/flood-meadows/ https://toddledoddle.com/flood-meadows/#respond Wed, 15 Jun 2022 19:00:10 +0000 http://toddledoddle.com/?p=24639 Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire The Source of the Northern Branch of the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Brick Kiln Lane, The Source of the Northern Branch of the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire The Source of the Northern Branch of the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Brick Kiln Lane, The Source of the Northern Branch of the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire Brick Kiln Lane, The Source of the Northern Branch of the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshire

Flood Meadows hides a beautiful surprise – nestled away behind the trees is the young River Wey. Here the river is so near to its northern source that the water is shallow and slow-flowing and offers a shady place to splash, paddle and pond dip. 

There are no facilities here so bring everything you need. 

 

Flood Meadows

Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, HampshireFlood Meadows has 15 acres of fields, flowers and mature trees.

 

 

 

 

Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, HampshireIt also has a peaceful path that winds along the northern branch of the River Wey,

 

 

 

 

Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshireunder the trees,

 

 

 

 

 

Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, Hampshireand over a pond.

 

 

 

 

 

Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, HampshireThis was originally water-cress beds and is now home to frogs, newts, snails and lots of water birds.

 

 

 

 

The River Wey

The Source of the Northern Branch of the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, HampshireThe River Wey has two branches – the northern and the southern branch.

The source of the northern branch is just a short walk from Flood Meadows.

 

 

 

The Wey Walk

The Wey Walk, Flood Meadows, Alton, HampshireThis is a signposted 1.75 mile walk that starts at King’s Pond and follows the River Wey through Alton to its source.

A copy of the Wey Walk leaflet can be found on the Walk Alton website. 

 

 

 

To the Source!

Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, HampshireYou can walk to the source of the northern branch of the River Wey by following the Wey Walk signs through Flood Meadows and on to its main gateway.

 

 

 

Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, HampshireWhen you join Basingstoke Road, turn right and walk down the pavement to the corner.

 

 

 

 

Brick Kiln Lane, The Source of the Northern Branch of the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, HampshireThe Source of the north branch of the River Wey is in the field opposite you.

 

 

 

 

The Source of the Northern Branch of the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, HampshireIf you follow the path to the end of the field, there are some drainage pipes, which were dry when we visited.

 

 

 

Brick Kiln Lane, The Source of the Northern Branch of the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, HampshireThe field was too overgrown to see where the River Wey springs out of the ground but you might have a better view in the winter when everything has died back. 

 

 

 

Bring Everything You Need

Paddling in the River Wey at Flood Meadows, Alton, HampshireThere are fields where you can have a picnic but there are no other facilities so be sure to bring everything else you need. 

 

Read More

 

Visit the Flood Meadows website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Alton
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: GU34 1HR

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic. 
Facilities: Picnic table.

How Long We Spent There: About three hours.
Buggies: Buggy friendly.

Parking: There is a small car park with a few parking spaces at the end of Tanhouse Lane (GU34 1HR). You can also try parking on Basingstoke Road (GU34 1QA) by the main entrance to Flood Meadows or in one of the main Alton car parks. 
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Insects, birds, lots of water birds, fish and other pond life.

Information Written: August 2016
Information Checked: June 2022

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Flood Meadows in Alton is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
4.5
Sending
User Rating 0 (0 votes)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/flood-meadows/feed/ 0 24639 Enter a ‘Living Work of Art’ at Stourhead, Wincanton https://toddledoddle.com/stourhead-national-trust-warminster/ https://toddledoddle.com/stourhead-national-trust-warminster/#respond Sat, 05 May 2018 10:34:14 +0000 https://toddledoddle.com/thursley-common-and-moat-pond-thursley-copy-2/ Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, Wiltshire Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, Wiltshire Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, Wiltshire Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, Wiltshire Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, Wiltshire Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, Wiltshire Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, Wiltshire Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, Wiltshire Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, Wiltshire Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, Wiltshire Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, Wiltshire Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, Wiltshire

When you walk around the lake at Stourhead it doesn’t take long to realise why it was once described as, ‘…a living work of art.’ From almost any location you could be gazing at a well-composed painting. 

 

Landscape Gardens

Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, WiltshireYou find your eyes skipping between the sweeping lawns, contrasting trees, beautiful blue-green lake and unusual stone features. It’s a spectacular combination. 

 

 

 

Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, WiltshireThe gardens are punctuated by stone features, including bridges, temples, a rock arch, a dam and a grotto.

 

 

 

Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, WiltshireYou may recognise The Temple of Apollo as the location for Mr Darcy’s first proposal to Lizzie in the 2005 film of Pride and Prejudice.

 

 

 

The Grotto

Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, WiltshireMy children loved exploring the Grotto.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stourhead (National Trust), Warminster, WiltshireWe discovered two statues, one of which is said to be the source of the River Stour. 

Read More

 

Visit the Stourhead website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Wincanton, near Warminster
County: Wiltshire
Nearest Postcode: BA12 6QD

Adult Cost Range: £15 to £19.99
Child Cost Range: £5 to £9.99
Free if: Under 5 years or for National Trust members.

Opens: Daily but check before you go to make sure everything you want to visit is open.

Where to Eat: The restaurant, the Spread Eagle pub or bring a picnic.
Facilities: Snacks, ice cream, shop, cafe, toilets and accessible toilets.

How Long We Spent There: A full day.
Buggies: Buggy friendly but some of the paths are steep.

Parking: There is a large car park.
Cost of Parking: £4 per day but free for National Trust members. 

Wildlife You Might See: Ducks, swans, birds and insects.

Information Written: May 2018

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Stourhead in Wincanton is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
4.3
Sending
User Rating 0 (0 votes)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/stourhead-national-trust-warminster/feed/ 0 65628 Find the Source of the Mole in Baldhorns Copse, Crawley https://toddledoddle.com/baldhorns-copse-to-the-source-of-the-mole/ https://toddledoddle.com/baldhorns-copse-to-the-source-of-the-mole/#respond Thu, 01 Jun 2017 22:16:41 +0000 http://toddledoddle.com/?p=45158 Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River Mole Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River Mole Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River Mole Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River Mole Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River Mole Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River Mole Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River Mole Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River Mole Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River Mole Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River Mole

Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River MoleWe had no idea what to expect as we cautiously peered through a hole in the trees and down a dark footpath.

We had accepted a challenge to find the source of the River Mole but we hadn’t been able to find anything about it on-line, except that the river rose in Baldhorns Copse in the village of Rusper.

 

The Paths through the Copse

Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River MoleThe footpath was a little muddy at first but quickly dried out and widened into more of a tree-lined avenue.

 

 

 

 

Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River MoleWhen we reached a fork in the footpath we went through the trees…

 

 

 

 

Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River Mole…and came straight out into a meadow full of butterflies 

 

 

 

 

Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River Moleand an intricate flower we later identified as an orchid!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onwards to the Source!

Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River MoleWe explored the meadow and then followed a narrow, bramble-lined path back into the woods.

 

 

 

 

 

The River Mole

Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River MoleAnd it was there that we first saw the Mole, although it was more of a stagnant puddle than a flowing river.

 

 

 

 

A Troll’s Swamp?

Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River Mole“This is definitely a troll’s swamp,” someone said as we walked through the trees.

I was inclined to agree but wasn’t sure why we both sensed that – maybe the boggy mud or maybe the putrid stench.

 

 

The Source of the Mole

We followed the fledgling river upstream.

It narrowed quickly, became a tiny trickle and then disappeared into a hole – the source of the River Mole!

The children were thrilled.

 

 

 

A Second Source…

Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River MoleNext to the source of the Mole was the source of the stench – a stinkhorn, something we’d never seen before.

Two sources for the price of one – a lucky but smelly find!

 

 

Baldhorns Copse

Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River MoleBaldhorns Copse itself is small but fun. We made a den, went bug hunting and played hide and seek.

 

 

 

 

How to Find It

Baldhorns Copse, Rusper - The Source of the River MoleThe footpath starts on Horsham Road near to the junction with Steeres Hill (RH12 4PT).

From the top of Steeres Hill, turn left onto Horsham Road and the footpath is a very short walk away, on the opposite side of the road.

Further down the footpath you come to a fork. Straight on leads to the meadow but via a narrow path. Turning right leads to the source of the Mole and is also an easier way into the meadow.

Read More

 

Visit the Baldhorns Copse website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Rusper
County: West Sussex
Nearest Postcode: RH12 4PT

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic and a blanket. 
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There: About three hours.
Buggies: I used an all-terrain buggy without any problems.

Parking: There is no car park but we parked on a nearby residential road called Steeres Hill (RH12 4PT). 
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Insects and birds.

Information Written: May 2017

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to the source of the River Mole in Baldhorns Copse in Rusper is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
3.0
Sending
User Rating 0 (0 votes)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

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