Dark Lane

Just a quick walk today to get us back into the habit.  We left the car at Carisbrooke Castle, headed along the moat then took a footpath down a steep chalk bank, along a path between two high hedges, across a field and past a chestnut tree then onto Froglands Lane.  We turned left and followed the lane to the end then turned right and followed the footpath.  This was rather muddy and led to Dark Lane; this is a deep, ancient lane cut into the chalk with high, wooded banks showing gnarly roots and stems.  The middle of the lane was clear, with debris washed away by rain from a recent storm.  There was the occasional large fallen branch to clamber round.  The kids had fun running up and down the banks and climbing trees.

Dark Lane emerged into fields and we continued for a while until we came to a junction; we turned left and followed another lane steeply downhill, emerging into the sunlight by a farm. We walked past, admiring rabbits in the fields, and came eventually to Whitcombe Road.  We turned left here and followed the road back to Froglands Lane.  Whitcombe Road was far busier than I expected and cars came down it at high speed.  There are no pavements, and only intermittent verges, so I don't recommend it if you are of a nervous disposition!

Route:  http://gb.mapometer.com/walking/route_3719835.html

Footpaths: N89,  N108