Walking around Ashwell doesn’t involve any mountaineering. A reasonably fit person of any age could comfortably manage a trip outside the village. That doesn’t mean that it will be boring. The open countryside is only gently undulating, but even after the very modest climbs possible around here you will see big skies and broad views.
Look out for the red kites hanging on the wind or having a tussle with marauding crows. Listen to the breeze and the skylark’s almost comically manic song. It’s the perfect opportunity to get away from it all.
Which direction?
There are eight walks in this guide, falling into three clear categories:
West over Newnham Hill.
Click here for walk no.1
Click here for walk no.2
Click here for walk no.3
Northwards including one long-ish stroll to Guilden Morden.
Click here for walk no.4
Click here for walk no.5
Click here for walk no.6
Two eastwards that include a section along Ashwell Street.
Click here for walk no.7
Click here for walk no.8
Each walk has its own character and they vary in length from just six to eleven kilometres (3¾ to 7 miles). They all start and finish at St. Mary’s Church, ideal for both people who live here and visitors. Each walk is a stand-alone item, so if you read them all together you will notice some repetition.
You will enjoy your outing from Ashwell more with a map. There is a good 1:16000 scale one on sale at the café/gift shop ‘Rhubarb & Mustard’.
There is also an attractive and handy booklet of walks by David Short that covers similar (but not the same) ground, available for a modest sum from the village Museum in Swan Street.
And a well-earned treat afterwards...
Normally it would be possible to round off an outing with a restorative drink and bite to eat at one of Ashwell’s three pubs. Alternatively, you could try something at the café ‘Rhubarb and Mustard’, a swift thirst quencher from the General Store or a bite from Days the Bakery. During the summertime, tea and home-made cake would be on offer at the Parish Rooms too.
At the time of writing we are still coping with Covid 19 regulations. Take heart!You may still find some of these options available.
Thoughts and comments
If you would like to send us a message or have any observations, we would welcome an email:
Councillor Norton Mahy
Ashwell Parish Council
info@ashwell.gov.uk
