Hurcott Woods - a quick and easy walk

I sometimes read articles in the foodie press criticising farmed fish. What they forget is that fish have been "farmed" in Britain since the 11th Century - so not much good getting steamed up about it now!

This walk is round an old site once used as a fishery: Hurcott Woods. Not marked on the map as a footpath,  I discovered it by (happy) accident 

It's also the site of a fitness trail. Though I saw one runner and 8 dog walkers!

There's a public car park, and then the trail goes through the gate...

... alongside this pool (former fishpond)

There are fitness trail markers at various points with suggested exercises. I resisted their ideas - but did wish they knew how to spell "calf".

The ponds are full of fallen trees 

The path is very easy to follow. There are several, but the one running round the edge of the reserve is the nicest. 

More wetland

 Part of the path runs along a field edge...

...but you can look into the pinewood area, with nothing growing underneath

Autumn colours finally on display after a slow November so far

This is asparagus, growing in very straight lines

Back to the pond and the car park.

Walk details: There is parking at both end of the reserve, but the Hurcott end is the best. Just follow the paths round the outside of the reserve. Distance 2 miles. A slight climb, and some mud, but basically an easy but enjoyable walk.