Hollingbourne Hike #3 Traditional Cache
Long Man: As the owner has not responded to my previous log requesting that they check this cache, I'm archiving it.
Andy
Long Man
Volunteer UK Reviewer - Geocaching.com
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(micro)
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The Hollingbourne Hike is for the die-hard hikers out there. A series of 7 caches on an 9 mile (14.5 km) walk which offers a physical challenge as well as the opportunity of enjoying one of the best sections of the North Downs Way, with the path constantly dipping and climbing. The views from the top of the ridge must be among the finest to be had from the North Downs Way.
If undertaking the whole Hollingbourne Hike the rating would be Difficulty 3 Terrain 4. However, each separate cache has been rated individually as each leg could be undertaken by itself.
Explorer map 148 will help with navigation, however additional waypoints are provided below to help guide you along the route.
It is suggested that at least 4/5 hours are set aside to complete the whole walk.
Many of the paths can be quite muddy even in the summer so good boots are recommended.
The circular trail is mostly along footpaths and quiet country lanes, however, please keep an eye on your dogs and children. There are numerous stiles, which are mostly dog friendly, however, bicycles would be a real struggle. Some sections involve lengthy climbs up and down steps. In summer long sleeved shirts and long trousers are recommended as brambles and nettles in places might be quite high.
Limited parking is available in the main street at Hollingbourne, in the vicinity of the Dirty Habit pub or outside the church.
Refreshments en route include pubs at Hollingbourne and Thurnham as well as a coffee shop at Cobham Manor Riding Centre.
The walk also passes very close to Church Micros Nos 807 Thurnham Church (GC1WAFF) and 808 Hollingbourne Church (GC1WATJ), or even Jump to It by pooh, tig and lala (GCZ101)
This is a regular size film canister dressed in camouflage.
The canister contains a log book and a small pencil (So may be best to take your own writing implement). Make a note of the additional clue in the logbook which will guide you to the Bonus Cache. Good luck.
Start this leg of the walk at Waypoint B. 'Jump To It' can be found on this leg.
The right of way bisects its garden but walkers are recommended to use the bypass that skirts the garden and begins before a row of leylandii. A length of enclosed path follows and then a succession of stiles lead to paddocks. Keep ahead with fences to the left to reach steps that then take you towards the buildings of Cobham Manor Riding Centre. It does get a bit confusing around here, but the riding centre did not mind us wandering about - looking lost.
From the car park, head for the road and turn left. Directly opposite the manor take a path on the right which heads across a field towards an oast house, where it meets a surfaced bridleway.
Continue along this to reach Thurnham Lane, if you are going to visit Thurnham Church turn left at this point.
If not visiting Thurnham Church turn right to climb the hill, passing the Black Horse pub at the crossroads.
Keep straight on at the intersection and climb the steep hill to reach a hairpin bend where the North Downs Way leaves on the right.
Finish this leg of the walk at Waypoint C.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Ng gur onfr bs n gryrtencu cbyr.
Treasures
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