Autumn in Stourhead woods

Sat 8 Nov ‘25. DL, JB, CH, JS & Albus

A Wincanton based group this week with Red Leader and Deputy on different duties. JB and DL had come together the previous Wednesday to plan the route and a reconnoitre it with Albus. JS picked the group up on route at the 8am mark and we together headed off for the familiar main NT carpark at Stourhead arriving easily by 8:30 am (free parking due to membership).

Booted up and with appropriate waterproofs we set off down the road towards the Eagle pub at Stourhead. Being damp underfoot and very quiet with no one around which was to all of us felt quite refreshing for Stourhead. After passing under the 'Folly' type overpass bridge we turned right taking the well-known track towards Alfreds Tower over 2 miles away moving generally Northwest. We noticed the Mill Wheel wasn't functioning,but the lake besides us was fairly full. With Albus off lead and JS in charge of dog treats we moved onwards over the cattle grid climbing steadily past Beech Cottage and a distinguished (most in keeping with the beautiful surroundings), Portaloo. At this point JB mentioned that in the mists of time with Ann they considered buying it but not with said Portaloo!

Continuing we encountered a rather disturbed muddy patch of terrain due to some tree felling and coppicing by the NT. After much discussion we couldn't for the life of us think of a reason for such actions. We were now in entering the wood land proper in the vicinity of Convent Bottom. Picking up pace and getting rather warm - resulting in discarding some clothing layers - the gradient increased on the final climb toward Alfred's Tower.

The scenery opened to the grass area, so we had a quick rest, but didn't go to Alfred's Tower as we bore right. After 100 yards we turned right again, heading back towards the Park Hill fort (which was probably bronze age, with at least 2 ditches and bank fortifications). A lot of chat took place about water supply, again and whether this was a temporary or seasonal camp ete. This is still open for discussion for anyone to add their thoughts. Along this trackway Albus enjoyed or ignored several dogs that he met.

About ½ mile SE of Park Hill we turned left, picking up the Stour Valley Way' down a very steep, slippery gradient to Six Wells Bottom and the source of the river Stour. At Lily Pond the autumnal views were outstanding, the water being very still and reflective. Climbing over a steep stile we picked up the opposite slope to Stourhead Park, through the woods, climbing steps and over more stiles. After recovering from the climb, we followed the Stour Vallet Way passing in front of Stourhead House and eventually up to the car park covering a distance of 4.8 miles.

Breakfast was calling and Hillbrush in Mere fitted the bill nicely by providing a delicious one with the usual good service. We all enjoyed a very pleasant morning’s walk.

Guest Editor - Deryck