Walk 1699 - Shrawley Wood Circular from Shrawley

     
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This pleasant walk through woodlands and meadows affords pleasant views of lakes, trees and the River Severn. The starting (and finishing point) is the New Inn walker’s car park on the B4196 Holt Heath to Stourport-on-Severn road near Shrawley (Grid ref. SO799663). Having parked, cross the B4196 by the pub and walk along the short lane directly opposite (beware of the traffic). At the end of the lane, enter Shrawley Wood and take the footpath to the left. Follow this path as it turns right and goes downhill, narrowing as it meets a brook. At a leafy spot a park bench provides a pleasant repose on a warm day, next to the ford. Cross the ford on the stepping stones. Caution: the stones can be partly or totally submerged at times and are usually slippery.

After crossing, turn right along a bridlepath and follow a beautiful avenue of trees to the left with fields to the right. The autumn colours here are spectacular in season. Nearing the end of the fence, a stile leads to a bridge re-crossing the brook and a junction of footpaths. A few yards to the left a stile leads to the meadows along the banks of the River Severn. Follow the path to the river bank, passing through two gates. Soon after the second gate the onward path is found via a stile in the fence to the right, going through an overgrown area. The route climbs a little, care should be taken as the ground can be slippery and tree roots present a tripping hazard. Putting the machete away now, the path opens up and reveals the beautiful New Pool on the right. Sadly this is on private land and can only be viewed through the fence! Proceed over a stile into an arable field and follow the fence or hedge right around until reaching Holders Pool and a junction of paths.

Turn right back into the woodland and cross a picturesque bridge with fine iron railings. Emerge into an area with mature deciduous trees and views of the house to the left. Cross two fences, sighting the stiles and markers at each end. Descend to Hayes Pool and then regain Shrawley Wood officially once more. Here there is a choice of short-cut across the fields to the left over a stile (adept use of compass bearings is required to cross the otherwise featureless field) or follow the path to the left of the sign without crossing the fence. If taking the slightly longer route along the path, turn left at the first junction of paths. Both routes emerge at the entrance to the wood. Return to your car (taking care to cross the road) or pop into the New Inn for a little light refreshment!

Suggested Maps

It is recommended you take a map with you when following a walk route. The preferred scale is 1:25000 used by the Explorer series.

	OS Explorer	1:25,000	Sheet 204
	OS Landranger	1:50,000	Sheet 150

Note : If two maps are listed at the same scale then either (a) both are required for full coverage of the route or (b) the route is covered on both maps.

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NOTE - all distances are "as the crow flies"