As we set off from Baslow the house named Uphill certainly described the gradient. Acorns, russet apples and rose hips left no doubt either about the season. The sign warning of a bull could have been there for years but nevertheless, all passing walkers made anxious enquiries about sightings. More to everyone’s liking was a young highland cow ensconced in the middle of the path busily cleaning its coat and seemingly happy with human attention. A couple who’d already passed Nelson’s Monument on Birchen Edge looked baffled when we asked if they’d seen three ships. These rock formations are impressive and the name of a different vessel is carved on each.
A short section of the descent to the Robin Hood pub was tricky but having crossed the road, it was then a delightful stroll along a broad grassy path towards Chatsworth. Horseboxes were evident as we got closer and the route took us around the periphery of trials. A row of perfectly groomed ponies with their pint-sized riders stood motionless whilst waiting to be called for judging. Female chaperones in splendid attire could have walked straight onto the set of an appropriate costume drama. Acorns in large quantities are harmful to ponies and cattle. Perhaps it’s not common knowledge that at this time of year pigs in the New Forest are set loose to roam in order to hoover them up.
Helen Royle.