Mysterious Earthworks (1101)

  • Event Icon
    Start dateMay 22 2024
  • Event Icon
    Time10:00 am
  • Event Icon
    LocationRG4 9 BU
  • Event Icon
    PriceAdults/Seniors/Children aged 8 and over - FREE

A circular walk from Gallowstree Pavillion at Gallowstree Common looking at archaeological features identified by the Chiltern Conservation Board’s airborne laser (Lidar) survey of the Chilterns. An interpretation board at the Pavilion provides the archaeological and historical context of the local Chiltern landscape and nearby hillfort.

Walking along quiet lanes and through woodland that contain ancient sawpits and the site of a reputed Gallows, we visit ancient earthworks, gaining insights into their history. Wyfold Grange, which has more than 1000 years of continuous occupation, is the site of a 12th century monastic grange set within an earthwork enclosure which SOAG has had some success in dating with the help of Oxford University. We will walk via the Victorian Gothic Revival mansion of Wyfold Court to Castle Grove, an iron age hill fort, and finally visit an intriguing undated earthwork enclosure in Old Copse.

Additional information

Toilets are available at Gallowstree Pavillion. You will also be welcome to picnic on picnic tables at the cricket ground, which is bordered by beech woods, at the end of the walk. The playing field is within the AONB.

Accessibility info: The walk includes a mix of quiet lanes and paths through woodlands and fields. The paths, though well trodden, can be rough and very muddy, so good walking boots or shoes (not trainers) are recommended.

Nigel Peters with Jo Morris. South Oxfordshire Archaeological Group. The walk will be led by SOAG members Jo Morris and Nigel Peters, who have both been involved in interpreting the wider archaeological landscape around Wyfold Grange
Gallowstree Pavilion car park at The Hamlet, Gallowstree Common RG4 9BU.
5 miles
Medium walks (4-6 miles)
3h
Moderate (more challenging, for keen/active walkers)
Moderate
14
Yes
Yes
Yes (Older children (over 8) will find the history and archaeological sites interesting )