Walk on 28th July Compton

Anne Swatman's report

9 walkers met at the carpark next to the Withies.

Weather was set fair and the underfoot conditions were ideal!.

We took a slightly different route to the usual one and turned up to the left up some steps at the start of the footpath towards Watts Gallery!. We took some time to enjoy the views over the paddocks and spotted a rider on horseback who was highlighted against the skyline!.

The route continued between fields on a narrow path but soon opened up to allow the walkers to chat and enjoy seeing the horses in the rather bare looking paddocks. We were treated to an exhibition of showjumping in an arena next to the footpath!. 

Onwards to the road leading to Watts Gallery where our coffee and comfort break was taken.

After our rest we took the opportunity to visit the beautiful Chapel designed by Mary Watts who was the wife of George Watts the artist who founded the gallery. The graveyard was also visited and the beautiful benches which are under the cover of the arched patio building provided John an opportunity to 'school' us on the woodwork techniques used in their design.

We admired the lovely gardens of the properties along the road through the village of Compton.

The Church of St. Nicholas was unfortunately closed as there were works being completed.

We had a very brief history of the church and enjoyed working out the sundial which was used to inform times for services.

The route back was across the green in front of the houses and then along the footpath across Compton Common and back to our carpark.

JR HR FB AS RD LF MC DG CG walkers.