WILLIAM took his small group of three walkers on behalf of Penarth and District Ramblers on a mid-week ramble up to Bredon Hill which is the largest of the Cotswold Hills that lies totally within the county of Worcestershire, starting from beside the River Avon at Eckington which dates back to Saxon times.

Because of its close proximity to the river it was the site of an ancient ferry crossing until 1440 when a wooden bridge was built, but by 1720 when the bridge could not be maintained a stone bridge with six arches was constructed.

Crossing the bridge into riverside meadows onto part of the long distance Shakespeare’s Way which follows the route Shakespeare would have taken from his home at Stratford-upon-Avon to London they continued to Nafford Weir and Lock, well known in fishing circles.

Heading across the river to the lovely Saxon village of Great Comberton on the northwest corner of Bredon Hill, the local church dedicated to St Michael made an ideal spot for a mid-morning break utilising a bench within the churchyard. Refreshed and moving on through Manor farmyard to join a footpath leading towards Bredon Hill a thought went to AE Houseman who immortalised the area in his collection of poems entitled A Shropshire Lad.

After the long haul and during the last steep climb a sharp rain shower fell but upon reaching the top and pausing for breath after conquering the hill, the rain soon passed and the route led them along the northern escarpment of Bredon Hill with stunning views across the Vale of Evesham.

Carpets of beautiful cowslips paved their way and further on a pause to watch a family of hares enjoying the warm sunshine before tramping on past a majestic beech wood, followed by a steep descent to Ashton-under-Hill which is situated at the eastern end of the hill.

Formerly known as Aesctun, this area has a long association with the Romans and the parish church dedicated to St Barbara who allegedly offers protection against lightning is the oldest surviving building, whilst the village street is almost one mile long and the post office is situated in a 400 year old thatched cottage.

After a pleasant lunch break the group made towards Grafton, a quaint small hamlet which contains a Knights Field, so called because King Edward IV knighted some of his troops there following the Battle of Tewkesbury in 1471.

Leaving behind the beautiful warm Cotswold stone cottages on the southern part of the hill and making towards Overbury Park, a stream in this area provided water for all the former mills, houses and farms for centuries and this is essentially an estate village connected to Overbury Court and Estate, owned by the Holland-Martin family since 1723 with the present building being erected after an Elizabethan manor house that stood there burnt down.

A final steady climb through the park with its huge oak and chestnut trees, past Park Farm led back onto Bredon Hill with views southwards over the Vale of Gloucester towards the Cotswold Hills.

Passing through Sundial Farm and continuing onwards to admire the Banbury Stone Tower, a mid 18th century folly erected for John Parsons, their return journey led downhill past Woollas Hall and farm and across fields of young corn before a tramp along the road back to their start.

On May 26, meet 7pm at Port Road Travel Lodge (old Cwm Cidi) for a four-mile moderate walk at Porthkerry; contact Jan/John on 01446 418514.

On May 28, meet 9am at Cogan Leisure Centre for a nine-mile moderate walk, with a steep climb at the start taking in Llanfoist and Blorenge; contact Clive on 029 2065 4156.

On May 29, meet 8am at Cogan for a trip up to Llanthony Priory for a 20-mile strenuous walk taking in some of the best known Black Mountain peaks, Bal Mawr and Bach, Rhos Dirion, Twmpa, Hay Bluff, the Cat’s Back and Hatterrall Ridge; contact William on 07528 701 952.

On June 2, meet 7pm at Penarth Clifftop car park for a five-mile easy walk taking in Lavernock and Cosmeston; contact Sue J on 029 2070 2901.

Wear suitable clothing, preferably boots and carry waterproofs, food and drinks. Some degree of fitness is required and if you are in any doubt, then please contact the walk leader for advice.

To follow the group please log onto penarthramblers.wordpress.com or Facebook. Programmes and membership advice can be obtained from Pam on 029 2025 5102.