Hartlebury Common

Starting Point: Hartlebury Common has several free car parks. The main one is often Wilden Top car park, off the B4193 Stourport to Hartlebury road. (Postcode: DY13 9JB for site location, follow brown tourist signs).

Approximate Distance: 1.5 - 3 miles (2.4 - 4.8 km) or more. The Common covers 229 acres and has a network of crisscrossing paths, allowing for walks of various lengths. The waymarked Heather Trail is 1.5 km (just under 1 mile).

Estimated Time: 1 - 2 hours, depending on the route chosen and time spent enjoying the views and nature.

Walk Description:

1. From Wilden Top Car Park (or other access):** Start from one of the car parks. Wilden Top often has information boards and a picnic area with wheelchair accessible tables.

2. Heathland Exploration:** Follow the network of paths that crisscross the open heathland. Enjoy the characteristic landscape of heather, gorse, bracken, and scattered birch and pine trees. The Common is particularly stunning in late summer when the heather is in full bloom.

3. Waymarked Heather Trail:** Consider following the waymarked Heather Trail (1.5 km), which is described as hilly with varied surfaces and not suitable for wheelchairs/pushchairs, but gives a good tour of some key heathland areas.

4. Dappled Woodlands and Hillditch Pool:** Some paths lead into areas of dappled woodland or towards Hillditch Pool and Coppice, which includes a rare acid bog and attracts various creatures.

5. Viewpoints:** The undulating terrain and higher points on the Common offer good views over the surrounding Worcestershire countryside.

Highlights:

• Exploring Worcestershire's largest and most important area of lowland heathland (SSSI).
• Beautiful displays of heather and gorse in bloom.
• Opportunities to spot specialised heathland wildlife, including reptiles (with caution for adders).
• Varied walking across open heath, through woodlands, and by a pool/bog.
• A sense of open space and fresh air.

Tips for Your Walk:

• Worcestershire County Council Website:** Check for Hartlebury Common for the latest visitor information, trail maps, any grazing notices, and safety advice (especially regarding adders).

Adder Awareness:** Crucial. Keep dogs on paths, especially in sunny weather when adders bask. If a dog is bitten, seek veterinary attention immediately.Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or boots. Sandy paths can be loose, and other areas muddy/uneven.Accessibility:** While the picnic area at Wilden Top is accessible, most paths on the Common are not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs due to sandy, uneven, and steep surfaces.Leave No Trace:** Help protect this SSSI by taking all litter home and keeping dogs from disturbing wildlife or damaging habitats.

Hartlebury Common offers a wonderful opportunity to experience a rare heathland habitat, providing invigorating walks and rich wildlife, but requires responsible dog ownership, particularly regarding adders and ground-nesting birds.