historic and wildlife-rich
This historic, wildlife-rich and panoramic circular walk takes you through the lives of the Bronze Age to evidence of the 1952 floods
Start: Christ Church, Parracombe / Fox and Goose pub
Distance: 10.7km
Time: 3hrs approx.
When I looked up and across from Christ Church, I spotted a distinct mound being grazed by cattle….Holwell Castle it was! A medieval motte and bailey which positions itself high up and in view of down the valley since around 1066…
As I climb out Parracombe towards A39, I found myself crossing the collapsed old Lynton & Barnstaple railway embankment where the 1952 floods engulfed this ginormous structure like a dam…
Crossing carefully, I spend my time ascending from fields to Challacombe Common moorlands passing by stonechat birds, lizards basking in the sun, highland cattle and butterflies dancing between flowers.
Arriving at B3358 – I walked safely for around 1km/0.6miles on this road to the next public footpath, found on the left.
Covering both Challacombe and Parracombe commons, on the return, I skirted by Chapman Barrows – a cluster of burial mounds.
Returning to Parracombe- after zig zagging past Lady’s Well and Churchtown, I arrived at St. Petrocks church (13th century) which is well preserved, and being tall I did have to duck!
My legs took me to the cosy Fox & Goose pub for a local pint and natter…
Author and Image Credits
Liz Cwilewicz
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