Walk Leader: Julie Constable
Twelve walkers met at the Salt and Malt Cafe, Chew Valley Lake, for today’s walk. The walk started alongside the north, east edge of Chew Valley Lake. There were clear views across the lake. The water glistened a beautiful blue colour in the Spring sunshine.
Leaving the lake, the walk continued through Hollow Brook, ascending Knowle Hill for beautiful views, looking down over Chew Valley Lake and the surrounding countryside.
From Knowle Hill, the walk descended into farm land, along paths, to the beautiful village of Chew Magna. Here, we stopped for refreshments in the shade of a tree.
Leaving Chew Magna, the walk continued through woodland following the River Chew.
Passing Dumpers Cottage, we passed a very tall Redwood tree. The introduction of North American Redwood trees has provided the perfect habitat for the British Treecreeper. The birds make crevices in the bark for roosting and nesting. An information notice on the tree informed us that the trees grow 13-24 inches per year but never surpass 130 metres. The trees stop growing when the highest leaves start dying of thirst due to a plumbing issue.
Leaving the woodland, the walk continued alongside the River Chew back to Chew Valley Lake.
A very enjoyable walk.
Thank you Julie for a great walk – beautiful weather and countryside and lovely company!