West Bergholt Old Church – Fordham – West Bergholt
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West Bergholt is a village some three miles from Colchester, the oldest recorded town in Great Britain. The walk starts at the Old Church and follows farm tracks and paths through fields and paddocks. There are beautiful views. The walk takes you to Fordham and on the way you will see the usual farm animals, horses and if you are lucky, deer. Part of the walk is along the Essex Way, a long-distance path from Harwich to Epping and you will walk alongside the River Colne. You will go through Hillhouse Wood which is maintained by the Woodland Trust and Friends of Hillhouse Wood. In late spring the wood is covered in bluebells and wild garlic and is very popular with visitors, who come from miles just to see the bluebells. Part of the walk is called the Joe Firman Walk. Mr Firman is a local naturalist and often leads birdwatching groups in Hillhouse Wood and surrounding area.
The Old Church is maintained by the Church Conservation Trust and occasionally in the summer the church is open. However, at other times if you wish to go into the church, there is a notice on the door advising where the key may be obtained.
In West Bergholt there are two pubs, The White Hart and The Queen's Head, plus a fish restaurant, The Red Herring (a little more expensive), so refreshment is close to hand. There is also a supermarket, convenience store and chemist.
As you approach Waymark 9 you will see Fordham Church and in front of it a 'pink' building which is the local pub. Unfortunately the pub is not always open at lunchtimes.
England - East England - Essex - Countryside
Features
Birds, Church, Flowers, Food Shop, Good for Kids, Great Views, Mostly Flat, Nature Trail, Pub, Public Transport, Restaurant, River, Wildlife, Woodland