The Mary Knoll Loop #2 - Something to Ponder Traditional Cache

This is cache #2 in a series of 3 caches designed to take you on a round walk through some of the nicest paths in Mortimer Forest, together with a stretch of open farmland. The walk is hilly and can be quite muddy after rain so good footwear is recommended. The complete loop, taking in all 3 caches, is approximately 5 miles (8 kilometres). Thanks to the Forestry Commission for permission to place these caches.

These ancient woodlands were once part of Saxon hunting forests. Ralph de Mortimer was granted these forests and other land that was forfeited by the rebellious second Earl of Hereford in the 12th century. The Mortimers were feudal Marcher Lords and owned much land on the borders of Herefordshire and Shropshire, including Ludlow Castle. The Forestry Commission now own Mortimer Forest and as well as a beautiful area for walking, the forest includes very old limestones and shales laid down by the sea some 400 million years ago. There are several pools in the forest and the cache is location by one of them. The stream either side of the pool is carpeted by wild garlic and bluebells in spring. Note: GPS coverage may be a bit erratic due to the terrain and trees.

After finding this cache you can continue on to cache #3.   The route continues eventually entering a hard wood area before coming to the farmland where you may spot deer and after negotiating your way through the farm the route turns back towards the forest and cache #3.