Scowling at the Great Oak Multi-cache
Scowling at the Great Oak
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(regular)
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With a girth of 45 feet, The Great Oak of Newland is the largest ever recorded Common Oak and is still marked on OS explorer maps today despite being struck down by a snowstorm in 1955. Now, a young Oak, planted in 1964 from a cutting of the original, shades it’s elder's withering stump, and in 1000 years time it too may grow as large as The Great Oak of Newland.
Park in Newland at N51º 46.967 W002º 38.911 and ascend The Burial Path to the first of three micros at The Scowles. The Burial Path is an ancient path which was used to transport coffins to All Saints Church in Newland (a.k.a. The Cathedral of the Forest). Now just follow the clues and enjoy the views. All micros are black film canisters and the final cache is a 130 cal ammo box.
The Oak can be seen at several points along the route, especially micro #3. Just look straight ahead at the lone tree about ½ mile away, though you will get closer to it. The Black Mountains can be seen also along the route.
This is an adaptation of Sid and Bob’s most regular walk, so keep and eye (and an ear) open for Bob. He may well be closer than you think!
There are stiles along this walk which can be difficult (but not impossible) for large dogs unfortunately.
The Burial Path can be very wet and muddy for much of the year, so proper footwear is essential then.
If you enjoyed this cache then why not have a drink / food in The Ostrich Inn and then try Tractor Hill. The starting point is just across the road.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Zvpeb #1 : Orgjrra gerr naq ebggra cbfg arne fvta
Zvpeb #2 : Haqre guveq obhyqre
Zvpeb #3 : Qba’g pyvzo bire lrg, tb haqre
Znva pnpur : Haqre furygre