THE weather was kind when 16 members of the Westbury Walkers set out from the outskirts of Warminster on Sunday 8th August for an 8-mile walk led by Jan McCann and Paddy Yerburgh.
Apart from one short shower almost at the end of the walk, the predictions of thunder storms fortunately did not come true.
The walk would take the group over two Iron age hill forts – Battlesbury and Scratchbury.
Following a farm road northwards past Home Farm, the route took the group over the railway bridge then across the field below Battlesbury before the long climb up to the top of the hill.
From there the group descended then crossed over the army road to Middle Hill. After a short drinks stop some members climbed up over the top of the hill whilst the rest took the more gentle route around the base. There was then a short but steep climb up Scratchbury Hill and around the rampart to join a path leading to Cotley Down.
The fields were still full of uncut wheat and barley which was starting to look past its best unfortunately as the route took the walkers across the Down and through trees to an east facing slope where they enjoyed a leisurely lunch stop. They were rewarded with an appearance by the sun.
They then retraced their steps as far as a small tumuli and then started a long descent southwards to the Cotley roundabout. Having crossed safely they then took a path across fields to Norton Bavant and passing Norton Bavant Manor continued on to Watery Lane which they followed as far at the Bishopstrow playing fields and church. Following a footpath northwards and over the River Wylye they were soon back on to the B3414 where cars were parked.
All felt it was a lovely walk with splendid views of the fine country we are fortunate to live in.
Report by Paddy Yerburgh.
