Description
This cache is on the eastern flank of Burrington Combe. It can be approached from one of 3 directions – an easy approach from the southeast, a gentle climb from the north or an enjoyable scramble from the west – see Additional Waypoints below.
It is a straight forward 3 stage cache. Stage 1 gives you the coordinates for Stage 2 which in turn gives you the coordinates for the Final box and logbook, but...
...the second stage for this cache is altogether a different kettle of fish, and I use that phrase intentionally! You'll also need a head for heights for the cache box itself. Read on dear cacher:
Equipment - Go prepared to paddle so you'll need to wear shorts or be prepared to remove your trousers; in which case I just hope that your trolleys are respectable! You will also need shoes you don't mind getting soaked, I suggest you use jelly beans, neoprene beach shoes or just an old pair of trainers as, although I have checked the area myself, I cannot guarantee there won't be broken glass or other sharp objects underfoot. You have been warned!
Unless you’re really tough (or particularly thick skinned
) you may also find it useful to bring a towel with you to mop up afterwards
Stage 1
The coordinates for this cache are for this first stage. Hidden here is a small box giving you the coordinates and further advice on finding Stage 2, the tricky part of this cache. Please read the enclosed label very carefully as it gives guidance on how the second stage can be more easily recovered.
Stage 2
Hidden at Stage 2 is a container with the coordinates for the the final cache itself which is nearby. However, when you arrive at the location you may be surprised at what you find. The title of this cache should give you a very strong clue as to where you'll find the box with the coordinates. Now's not the time to be a woosie, go on, man up (whatever sex you are) and go for it! Have you got the bottle? Please remember, you'll have to go there twice, once to recover the clue and once to return it from whence it came - please don’t be tempted to throw it back as this could damage it for others – you knew you’d have to go back when you collected it!
When you go for the clue PLEASE take note of EXACTLY where you found it and return it gently to the exact same spot. Please also ensure that you make sure the seals are correctly in place before returning it.
Temperatures - It is suggested that this cache be avoided in extremely cold conditions by all but the hardest of cachers; you just won’t enjoy it. It will NOT be available following a few days of sub-zero temperatures – come back when the weather’s warmer.
This surprising archeolgical find was built here many years ago to provide refreshments for the hillside cattle and deer who obviously couldn't climb the last bit of hill to reach the ice cream van!
The Cache
Once armed with the final coordinates the final cache should be found nearby. It's only a small cache but well hidden. Use the Additional Hint below if you'rev really stuck, but you shouldn't really need it - I've already given you a clue.
Please sign the log book and remember the geocaching guidance to ‘Trade up and Trade Even’ when exchanging items. Ensure that you close the cache securely and replace it carefully in the holder exactly where you found it. The holder is necessary to ensure that it's not stolen by squirrels or birds! PLEASE do not give away the surprises at Stage 2 and final in your log, though by all means you can be cryptic! Thank you for your visit.
WARNINGS:
Children – for reasons that should be quite obvious to you when you get there, you will need to supervise very young children in your party or you could have some miserable kids on the journey home!
Vehicle security – Unfortunately car thieves operate in this area. Vehicles left on their own in remote areas are particularly vulnerable. Please ensure that you remove all valuables from your vehicle and secure your car
Ticks – Ticks live in the open moor land around Burrington. Whilst ticks are not dangerous in themselves they can carry Lymes disease so you are advised to keep your arms and legs covered especially when brushing past bracken and other foliage – shorts are not recommended for the walk itself!
Falling - Whilst there are no dangers in the vicinity of this cache, if you approach from the Rock of Ages it involves a scramble up the side of the coombe which might not be appropriate for young children due to exposed drops. The rocks can also be slippery when wet. Those with children in their party must assess the risks for themselves and supervise children accordingly.
Unfortunately, due to the nature of the terrain, this geocache is not wheelchair accessible. My apologies.
Please note: This geocache was placed with permission of Discovering Black Down Officer, Mendip Hills AONB Unit
This geocache was set to celebrate the Mendip Rocks Festival 2014, 27 September to 30 October 2014. Download your guide to all the events here.