Out of nowhere, without the slow build usual of spring, Friday 6th May is going to be hot. Not roasting-hot, not height of the summer-hot, but hot. So fill those water-bottles, pack your sunscreen, and come along with me.
Two buses take us to Long Stratton, a small town on an old Roman road (we’ve been there before, the start of many walks). We head out of town northeastward and happen upon Tharston
Too soon to take advantage of this seat. As with many Norfolk villages, the church is way-way-way away from the present-day village
Just to remind us of the month, every hedgerow is white with May blossoms (hawthorn)
The route is over fields and along little leafy lanes…
Anyone who knows me knows I’ve a passion for pylons. If we see nothing else this day, still I’d be happy with these
Twisty-turny country lanes, and sprawling farm buildings…we’re happening upon the next village, Hapton
More little lanes, and across a pasture with cattle grazing
And we’re at destination. Flordon Common. Next month (June) this path will be lined with yellow flag (wild iris)
In centuries past this stream powered several mills on its way to join the river Yare just outside Norwich. How things do change!
No yellow flags today, too early. Instead the common has turned white with ransom flowers (wild garlic), and oh boy, is that a tantalising smell
We follow the path kept wide by grazing cattle to rejoin the country lanes at Flordon village. By now the heat has become oppressive. The two miles back to the bus-stop somewhat resembles walking into an oven; I want to return to the shade of the trees
I hope you enjoyed the walk. I did. But I have to admit, I have a heart problem which makes me hyper-sensitive to heat (doctor says I shouldn’t go out in it but stupid me, I keep going)
Hope you’ll join me again next week. And don’t forget to check out Tuesday Treat for the flowers seen on the way