We had passed this place yesterday on our way back from Welshpool and looked it
up in the National Trust handbook. The main buildings did not open until after
11am so it was perfect to take a stroll around one of the parkland walks. With
Sue's knee status in mind we chose to go around the Purple route, although it
did not go as far as the hill fort, there was plenty to see aroudn it.
Parking the van under the shade of the trees and up to register in. Then along
to the start of the walk - across a field to the big oak tree.
Then on to the tree lined edge of the Fishpool valley. Through a gate and the
beginnings of a drop down to the valley hidden in the trees.
Down in the bottom several paths join up next to an ancient lime kiln - now
grown over with grass.
The path continues along a carriage track yup to the end of the valley where a
sharp turn brough us back on the opposite side of the valley bottom. part way
along we left the carriage track and followed a more rustic path through the
shrubbery.
The path led down to a refurbished pond and sluice, although the bit beyond
still needed to be cleared.
At the side of this pond was a grotto, with views down the valley.
After a while the path merged back onto a wider track in the beech woods as it
contoured the side of the valley.
Then dropping down to another pool, with a bridge over the stream.
This was a larger pool, with views back up the valley from the bridge.
Beside the pool dam was a small building housing a rusting water wheel which we are led to believe used to pump water up to the main house. It is a shame it was not restored, as it would be a suitable exhibit.
The final stretch was along the valley then climbing back up the near side to the car park. Then off to the tea room for some refreshments.
I think I will have to come back here and walk to the hill fort at some time. There is also a "Ghost Tree" walk that looked interesting - going around the old dead but still standing trees.
