9.45 train from Waterloo (9.52 Clapham Junction) to Milford (Surrey), arriving 10.38.
Buy a day return to Haslemere
By rights, the heather should be glorious now, and this walk is the best heather walk I know (though tomorrow's Forest Row walk is also highly recommended...). In particular, Thursley Common just before lunch should be a great purple sea, and the Devil's Punchbowl in the afternoon provide more of the same. The caveat is that the summer's drought may have muted things a bit - or a lot. Mid month I found one of my favourite heaths near Guildford only reasonably good in places. But heather is a tough little plant and perhaps things have perked up as a result of the downpours ten days ago.
The other possible drawback on this walk is its dependence on the Three Horseshoes in Thursley for lunch. It is a lovely pub with fine food and a nice garden, but some years we fail to get into it at all. It would be no harm to book a table if you are going to rely on it.
The National Trust cafe at the Devil's Punchbowl has an unfortunate history of closing early on afternoons when SWC walkers turn up too - for lack of water, staff, tea bags, breathable air or whatever. Otherwise it is a very convenient tea stop, open till 5pm. The very excellent Hemingways tea room in Haslemere keeps the same hours, but the town has pubs, so you will find refreshment of some kind even if you get there later.
In the afternoon, I highly recommend the route which keeps to the lip of the valley, over the original book route, which descends into it. Likewise, do not neglect the option to go to Gibbet Hill towards the end of the walk, with its fine views.
The fastest trains back from Haslemere are at 02 and 30 past the hour, taking 50 minutes to Waterloo. There is also a 14 past, which takes 60 minutes
4 comments:
According to Traveline, this train appears not to exist.
Hi Colin, this train is showing on the traintimes.org website which I use when planning SWC walks. It is usually reliable.
Just checked the train on the National Rail app and it is correct.
As for Traveline, what private griefs they have, alas, I know not that made them do this. They are wise and honourable and will no doubt with reasons answer you…..
#N=15, #W=perfect_sunny_day_with_light_breeze. Twelve off the train and three by other means. The majority explored a way of avoiding the road walk from the station to Milford village centre and the A3, some thought this better but it is still mostly on roads, longer roads, but quieter ones. The heather was in bloom but it has been very dry and some has gone brown rather than purple. Everyone gathered at the Three Horse Shoes some just for a drink before a picnic in the churchyard but most for something to eat. This pub owned by 40 village shareholders is professionally manged, well staffed with a friendly and welcoming team and continues to offer a good choice of excellent food. I understand the punchbowl rim was favored after lunch but two of us had to return to London for a concert so I don't know how the day ended.
Post a Comment