6th May
We’ve parked in front of the village hall at Greys Green and, as we leave the car park, we’re clocked by a villager from inside…clearly there’s going to be an event today. We make a hasty escape before anyone can catch up with us.
Tucked away on the high ground above Henley, this sleepy corner of The Chilterns is largely undisturbed by the 21st Century. Today’s walk is mostly a ‘walk in the woods’ and the first of the year in which Nature has shaken off the last of winter’s tentacles. The over-whelming colour is green..bright, luminous, ‘hurt-your-eyes’ green. Suddenly the beech trees are fully decked and the morning sun dials up the colours to full volume. That said, the northerly wind is intent on reminding us not to get too carried away.
It may be tucked away but there are plenty of people who also know…today the paths are a steady stream of mountain bikers and dog walkers, particularly as we make our way through wooded valley from Satwell to Peppard Common. We’re not the only ones determined to make the most of the public holiday.
From Rotherfield Peppard our route takes us through Crowsley Park Woods, Rotherfield Peppard and the woods above Lower Assendon. There are plenty of bluebells left, but to tell the truth, I think they’ve already passed their best. In the final loop to the car we trudge through Greys Court. At last an opportunity to use our National Trust membership cards! We offer to flourish them but no one is interested. We’ve obviously not the correct age bracket to raise suspicion, although Sue assures me I’m dreaming.
A really enjoyable 8.1m walk, and probably even better at the height of summer when the wooded shade will offer some relief. Perhaps we’ll be back…
Greys Green picture gallery (more pictures on Flickr):
Distance: 8.1 miles ; Difficulty: Easy
Pstcode for Satnav: RG9 4QG
Greys Green walk profile
Where Angells Tread! 