Beacon Hill, Hampshire Iron Age Fort 15 Mile

Описание: A 15-Mile Hike Around Beacon Hill and Highclere Estate, Hampshire:
The crisp morning air greeted me as I set off on a 15-mile hike around the beautiful landscape of Beacon Hill and Highclere Estate in Hampshire. The sky was clear(ish), and the autumn colours were in full display, with shades of amber, gold, and crimson painting the woodlands and fields. This hike promised not just beautiful scenery but also a satisfying challenge that would culminate in a climb up Beacon Hill.

Starting at the base of the hill, I headed toward a 12th Century Church and then via ancient byways took in the rolling meadows that stretched around Highclere Estate, famous as the filming location for Downton Abbey. As I walked, the stately Highclere Castle came into view in the distance, its towers peeking above the treetops. The trail meandered through lush countryside dotted with ancient oak trees, where the earthy scent of fallen leaves and the soft rustling of the wind accompanied me.

The path then led me into a woodland area, where the ground was a carpet of moss and the dappled sunlight filtered through the canopy above. This section of the trail was serene, with the occasional rustle of wildlife reminding me that I wasn't alone in these woods. Squirrels darted across the path, and I caught a glimpse of a deer quietly observing me before it vanished into the underbrush.

As the miles ticked by, I reached the open fields near the village of Burghclere, where the landscape opened up to expansive views of the North Wessex Downs. The terrain began to rise gradually, hinting at the climb to come. The final stretch of the hike took me back toward Beacon Hill, where its prominent peak awaited.
With a deep breath, I started the ascent up Beacon Hill, its slopes steep but rewarding. The effort was well worth it when I reached the top, where the panoramic views of Hampshire stretched out in every direction. The light breeze at the summit was refreshing, and I felt a deep sense of accomplishment standing at the highest point of my journey.

After setting down my pack, I took out my portable stove and started preparing a burger. The sizzle of the patty on the grill was a welcome sound, and the smell filled the air as I cooked. There was something deeply satisfying about cooking a meal after such a long trek, with the entire county of Hampshire laid out before me. I took a moment to savor the burger, enjoying the perfect blend of flavors against the backdrop of the rolling hills and golden fields.

With my meal finished and energy restored, I set up my drone for a final touch to this adventure. As it lifted off the ground, I watched it soar into the sky, capturing sweeping shots of the landscape. The drone's camera danced over the patchwork of fields, the wooded areas, and the winding trails I had conquered. It circled around the peak of Beacon Hill, capturing the majesty of the countryside from above.

The sight of the sun beginning to dip toward the horizon signaled the end of the day, and I brought the drone back to the ground. I stood there for a moment longer, taking in the tranquility of the evening light on Beacon Hill. This hike had been more than just a physical journey; it was a chance to reconnect with nature, to challenge myself, and to savor life's simple pleasures. With the last glimpse of the sunset casting a golden glow over the landscape, I began my descent, already looking forward to my next adventure in the hills of Hampshire.

Beacon Hill:
Is a prominent hill located near the village of Burghclere, close to Newbury in #Hampshire, England. It is part of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Standing at a height of about 261 meters, it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Highclere Castle:
Is a grand estate located in Hampshire, England. It's a stunning example of Victorian architecture and is best known as the primary filming location for the TV series "Downton Abbey." The castle has a rich history, dating back to its initial construction in the late 17th century, with major redesigns completed in the mid-19th century by the architect Sir Charles Barry, who also designed the Houses of Parliament.
The castle serves as the home of the Carnarvon family, with the current residents being the 8th Earl of Carnarvon and his family. The estate covers around 5,000 acres, featuring gardens, woodlands, and parkland that were landscaped by the famous gardener Capability Brown.
Highclere Castle is also associated with significant historical events, particularly through the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, who was a co-discoverer of the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922 with archaeologist Howard Carter. Inside, the castle houses an impressive collection of Egyptian antiquities, reflecting this connection.
The estate is open to the public for tours during certain times of the year, allowing visitors to explore the castle's elegant rooms, gardens, and the surrounding grounds.
https://www.highclerecastle.co.uk/