29th September
Looking back, it was almost exactly 13 months ago that we were here last and, although not so warm, it’s just as sunny. The paths across the Estate are busy…we’re not the only ones enjoying the autumn sun. As we cross Berryend Plantation we meet an early morning photographer on his way home. Enormous camera lens slung from his hip, he was out at 5am this morning, hoping for wildlife pictures in the early mist. He has left disappointed this morning but I suspect his standards are higher than ours!
At Brickground Plantation we turn west and head towards the entrance of the Safari Park. More early risers…a gaggle of families gather excitedly at the gates, waiting for 10am opening. We skirt the edge of the park, catching sight of rhinos, giraffes and elephants (who needs to pay?!) before looping through Dean Hills Woods and finally, leave the Estate by Horsepool Lane. No tea stop today, Honeysuckle and Roses are busy elsewhere so we press on for Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands. To be honest, this is the least enjoyable part of the walk. We spent too much time skirting the bottom of gardens and alleys between houses, a re-design is in order, but the spectacular weather is sufficiently distracting to prevent too much moaning.
Up on the high ground of Aspley Heath it’s clear where Woburn Sands gets it name…we shuffle and scuff our way back towards Woburn. As we arrive back in the car park it’s almost lunchtime and the the morning’s gone already…a good sign that this was a thoroughly enjoyable 10.1 mile walk.
Woburn Sands picture gallery (more pictures on Flickr):
Distance: 10.1 miles ; Difficulty: Easy
Coordinates for Satnav: MK17 9PG
Woburn Sands walk profile
Where Angells Tread! 