Led by Jemima, the North Wessex Downs Farming in Protected Landscape (FiPL) Officer, this walk takes us up to Fosbury Iron Age Hillfort, where we will be able to enjoy the far-reaching views over the North Wessex Downs and discuss the settlement.
We will walk past areas that have recently had scrub removed to restore the chalk downland and allow conservation grazing.
There will be a chance to discuss farming techniques, with a quick stop to look at the soil in a highly intensive arable rotation and compare it to soil found in permanent pasture.
There are multiple bird seed/pollen nectar mixes, many of which should be in flower. The Estate’s diversification into both game and clay shooting will also be explained and how that helps with the overall conservation across the estate.
Walk leader/organisation: Jemima Sellwood, North Wessex Downs National Landscape
This walk is now full but click ‘book now’ to join the waiting list.
Walk information
- Booking: Free – Booking essential – 16 places
- Distance & approximate duration: 4 miles (6.4 km) – 3 hours
- Difficulty: Fairly strenuous (challenging, steep gradients, rough terrain).
- Accessibility: Suitable for older children (12+). Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult (see useful information). Not suitable for wheelchairs or prams/pushchairs.
- Dogs: No dogs.
- Refreshments: Bring snacks and drinks as needed. Walkers are welcome to stay and enjoy their own picnics at the farm after the walk (bring a blanket/chair). There are no places to purchase refreshments on the route (see below).
- Toilets: There are toilets available at the yard on arrival and at the end of the walk.
- Meeting point: Hippenscombe Farm, Fosbury, Marlborough, SN8 3NW. What3Words: glosses.socialite.sprouted. OS grid reference: SU 310 561. Google Maps.
- Public transport: None available.
- Parking: Free private parking for the event only at Hippenscombe Farm, SN8 3NW.
For general booking information, health and safety advice, terms and conditions please see our useful information page.
Further information
Refreshments and toilets can be found at The George Inn in Vernham Dean, less than 5 minutes’ drive from the meeting point.
The Farming in Protected Landscapes Programme seeks to provide investment in protected landscapes to help deliver outcomes for the environment, people and places by working in partnership with farmers.
