The croissant walk from Crowthorne, 9.5 miles, easy/moderate

A repeat of last year’s circular 9.5 mile walk from Crowthorne station passing through a variety of woodland, farmland and lakes (this time also actually including croissants!)

Booking is required for this walk, via the form here.

Pace: medium.

Walk details

After the success of last year’s walk I am repeating the croissant walk from Crowthorne (named after the shape of the plotted route). Following last year’s complaints, this walk does now also includes croissants (although note my stock is fairly limited so I suggest you don’t attend purely based upon the prospect of a probably squashed croissant!)

Starting from Crowthorne station the walk will initially take us alongside the railway line, through Ambarrow Hill woodland and Moor Green lake nature reserve where there is the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife. After crossing farmland (where we may encounter a friendly horse) and passing through several wooded areas we will arrive in Finchampstead where we will eat our picnics on the grass opposite St James Church. After lunch there will hopefully be the opportunity for a quick drink in the Queens Oak pub.

Refreshed, we will continue across some fields before eventually arriving at Finchampstead Ridges. We will weave through woodland managed by the National Trust before passing through Simons Wood. I have not been able find out who Simon was or how he had a wood named after him however Simon Woods (born 7 January 1980) is an English actor and writer best known for his role as Octavian in Season 2 of the British-American television series Rome and the 2005 Pride & Prejudice as Charles Bingley). We will pass Heath pond and continue along Heath Ride past the Heritage Family Naturist Club before eventually returning back to Crowthorne Station.

Although relatively flat there are a few undulations and the path in areas is uneven. There may be some muddy areas depending on the recent weather although this one may not be as muddy as Mortimer!

Travel details

By public transport

Train from Reading departing 10:41 arriving 10:56. Return trains run on the hour.

By car

Parking is available at Crowthorne Station for £2. Alternatively parking is available on residential streets in the area and is free (subject to parking legally of course).

Notes

• If you or someone else from your household has COVID-19 symptoms, please do not attend.
• Please bring a packed lunch and a drink.
• It might be muddy – please wear suitable footwear.
• Please feel free to contact the leader with queries about the walk, or if you are delayed on the day.