When we all clambered on the farm vehicle, kindly lent and operated by Nicholas Buxton of Easneye, and left the centre of Hunsdon passing through woods and past fields gleaming in the late May sunshine, it felt more like a safari than a walking trip. Seeing the countryside fly past (well, at tractor speed) from the seats in the trailer with the wind in our faces it was easy to forget the walk ahead. We took a quick but delightful diversion via the beautiful Stanstead Bury House and St James church and eventually disembarked at Roydon station and set off along the fields starting to wend our way back towards the village.
It was certainly hot but with hats and plenty of water we all managed fine. All dogs who had been promised a walk were left at home in the cool on this occasion. They might have been disappointed but hopefully they can come next time.
After making our way past Briggens along parts of the Harcamlow Way and other tracks including a stop to look at the moving memorial to two pilots who crashed in 1943 we ended up at Newgate House where we were treated to the most incredible refreshments. Under a large, shady tree in their beautiful garden was a table complete with tablecloth groaning with chilled water, fresh lemonade, coffee, tea and home made flapjacks. It was a golden moment to bask in the shade with such delicious fare.
Eventually we dragged ourselves away and onto the final furlong which took us via a boundary stone which marks the parish boundary, where we all stopped and Revd Mark Dunstan said a short prayer for the village. Soon we were back outside the Crown and all went our separate ways with lovely memories of a glorious walk with new friends and faces and a chance to enjoy the wonderful local countryside.
Watch out for next year’s walk. Along with all Open House events, details and booking information can be found on the What’s on page.
