The weather forecast looked good on the Thursday before Westbury Walkers walk on the following Sunday, 8th March.
On the Sunday, a group of 10 members of Westbury Walkers, led by David Brown, set off on a seven mile walk which would normally offer stunning views from the top of the two Iron age hill forts – Battlesbury and Scratchbury near Warminster. However, as you’ll know, weather forecasts change and, on the Sunday, there was low cloud and mist which meant that visibility was very limited and the expected views were well hidden.
The walk followed a farm road northwards past Home Farm with the route taking the group over the railway bridge then across the field below Battlesbury before the long climb up to the top of the hill nearly 700 metres above sea level.
From there the group descended to, and then crossed, the army road to Middle Hill. After a short drink stop on the top of the hill, we descended once again leading to a short but steep climb up Scratchbury Hill. From there it was a flattish walk to join a path leading to Cotley Down and then down to Cotley roundabout.
The route to Norton Bavant across the flat fields was much easier than our three hill climbs and we took a small detour so that we could stop for lunch at the local church. Avoiding the well-named Watery Lane, we joined Mill Lane passing by some lovely old buildings and on past the Bishopstrow playing fields and church. Following a footpath northward and over the River Wylye, we were soon back on to the B3414 where our cars were parked.
Although the views were missing, it was a good walk over some very historic sites and two lovely villages.
For further information about future walks with Westbury Walkers please contact Judy at westbury.walkers.uk@gmail.com
Report by David Brown
