Set on the footpaths, bridleways and farm tracks around Mucking Hall, this is a circular series of 10 caches and a bonus. See the marked waypoint for parking. Proceed west on the bridleway into the farmyard and you will find the signed footpath on your left.
CAUTION: This is a working farm so please be careful crossing the farmyard. Be aware that farm vehicles may operate in the area.
Terrain is flat although sections cross open farmland so path conditions will vary throughout the course of the year. Only a very short section (around 100ft) is on public road, but even this is very quiet and traffic minimal. There is one low stile to cross.
Suitable for dogs although please be mindful the route uses bridleways so horses may be encountered, plus the paths cross open crop fields. No cattle.
Mucking Hall Wood (aka Dove Wood) is a peaceful fishing spot; if a fishing bay is unoccupied it's also a great place to sit for a while, or even have a picnic.
Allow around 2 hours to complete the loop at a steady pace. Tweezers will be helpful.
Caches are generally 'small' or larger although there's a couple of surprises thrown in too. All are intended to be quick finds - the enjoyment here is the fresh air, the open countryside and the walk.
Ideal series for younger geo-cachers; probably unsuitable for buggies / strollers though due to open fields.
Bonus numbers are hidden around the route, with back ups in case any go missing.
Swag trading is encouraged at all caches. Please come prepared and please remember to trade fairly.
One of the Manors of Barling, Mucking Hall is a grade II listed moated house comprising two main builds: a 16th century timber-framed building joined by an early 19th century brick faced building. Also on site is a grade II listed 18th century timber-framed granary and a grade II listed early 17th century timber-framed barn. Original settlement is uncertain although Roman pottery and flue tiles have been recovered. The moat is rectangular with slopes c10ft high. It is now dry, having been drained in the 1950's. The moat pre-dates the house and is thought to be associated with Thomas de Muckinges (1248). Other records also show 'Mokkynghall' (1374), 'Mocklynghall' (1548) and 'Mockyngehall' (1554).
Please note that occasionally the fence here is electrified, although without touching it we're not sure how you tell...!
After this cache, continue to follow the footpath south across the field, then turn right (west) at the waypoint shown.
*****Congratulations to gspleo & $tu for the FTF!*****
