GORLEY COMMON AND THE AVON VALLEY

We will be exploring the marginal settlements on the western edge of the New Forest and then make our way down to the water meadows of the Avon Valley. We will encounter a selection of animals along the way including pigs, sheep, cows, chickens, horses and donkeys. After passing through querky Fordingbridge we will pick up the Avon Valley Path and cross the river at the lovely Bicton Mill.

The going is fairly easy with good paths and tracks and some lanes. There are 10 stiles, but they are well maintained and easy to negotiate. There is a soggy bit at a place called Ditchend(!) so boots rather than walking shoes now. The very last section is a bit steeper up a track for the last 100 metres.

Bring refreshments for a half way coffee stop.