The Buddleia Path is Back!

There is an unloved stretch of local public footpath that just wants a chance... 

The first part of this local walk is well-loved and well-used. As you head out from Ellis Drive or Brunel Close at the Station, following a lovely field-edge path with the railway to your right, the field reaches a point where it meets a small copse. 

Most people walk the loop of the field or turn back the way they came; few venture further as the Buddleia Path emerges ahead! 

Usually, this is a fair and sensible decision, as unless you've brought a machete or brush cutter, you won't be going anywhere up that path. But! - once again and with sterling support from our local countryside ranger, Andy Dawson, and his team of merry volunteers, the buddleia path has been cleared and is easy and open to access. 

Take those brave steps further north, keep the railway line to your right, and you'll be rewarded with amazing precipitous views down to the railway cutting and tunnels with the oil refinery directly opposite you. Carry on to the top, and you may catch a glimpse of orchids at the corner, and hear the A303 running west. At this point you can return the way you came, or walk carefully along the roadside edge for a few yards before ducking back into the verges and leaning over the railway tunnel brick wall peaks, for a view stretching right the way down the line towards Winchester. Carry on, and turn right as you bear alongside the Overton Road, but still walking in grassy, tree-lined verges, and you'll have made the full Buddleia Loop, as you head back towards the Station. 

Give it a Go! 

And BIG thanks to Andy and the team who cleared it this Spring, as the Before-and-After pics show.