WINSHAM WALKERS - 01 Oct 2026 Walk by David Lester

A group of 8 walkers gathered at the war memorial in the village for this month’s 6.0 mile circular walk to Thorncombe and back which was led as part of the WinFest celebrations in the village. The weather was mild and dry throughout, with the exception of a brief, light shower near the end.

From the war memorial we walked a short distance along Western Way and cut along the short footpath to the area near the burial ground. From here we walked several field paths to emerge onto the lane in Ammerham. Turning left we walked a short distance along the lane, crossing over the rail bridge, before cutting left into the field adjacent to the river. We walked the length of this field to the road near the Forde Abbey entrance where we were joined by 2 more of our regular walkers. We crossed the lane and took the footpath skirting the boundary of the Forde Abbey estate and continuing to the area of the old quarry, walking around the edge of the quarry to the lane near Westmill Cottages. We crossed the lane and followed the diagonal path across the next few fields and on to Parkway lane which we followed into the field at its end taking the field path to emerge onto the road at Horseshoe Road. After a brief stretch of road walk we turned through another field path, where we had magnificent views of Winsham in the distance, and into woodland, cutting through the woods and out onto field paths to arrive at the top of Gribb View on the outskirts of Thorncombe.

From here we walked down then length of Gribb View and into the sunken path, Blind Lane, opposite, following this slightly overgrown path for a while before reaching a field gate. We entered the field and followed the foot paths through several more fields, passing through a field of cows (and a huge bull) taking the downhill path to reach the river Synderford in the valley bottom, crossing the river twice by substantial footbridges we then walked through the trees to Shedrick Bridge. We crossed the lane here and followed the low meadow path alongside the river Synderford to reach the Bere Farm complex. We made our way through the farm complex and out onto the B3162 passing under the rail bridge and over the river bridge before turning right into Wynards Lane. We followed Wynards Lane and then Court Street and Church Street to return to the centre of the village.

The next walk will be on Thursday 5th November 2026. Any newcomers, not currently on my mailing list, and wishing to join future walks are welcome to contact me on the number below for details.

Dave Lester

07960 916334