Story contributed by Sarah Sheppard; pics by Stela Luminita Dumbrava & Chanak Kwan Natnuea
Twelve of us set off from the entrance to Belstead Brook Park, a great place for me to start a walk as it is just down the road from my house. I’m so lucky that I live on the edge of this lovely area of Ipswich and I like to show it off to my fellow IOGers.
We set off through the tunnel under the A14, headed towards Belstead village and then towards the level crossing and onto Jimmy’s Farm. Here we met up with 2 others who were joining the walk. After a short stop, the full complement of 14 walkers set off out of Jimmy’s Farm, heading towards Freston.
On our way, we passed Cutler’s Wood, which appears to be private, so we stuck to the footpath around the edge. As it was full of bluebells, we stopped to take a few photographs through the gaps in the trees before carrying on towards Freston and having our lunch stop at Freston Church.
Once we had refuelled, we headed through the lovely Freston Wood SSSI, which was filled with bluebells and wild garlic. We also passed by some people who had set up their painting easels in order to capture the lovely environment at this time of year. After we left the wood, we followed the footpaths towards the Suffolk Food Hall, where we had a quick drink stop before heading up the hill towards Whersted.
After crossing the A137 and heading through the woods at the back of Jimmy’s Farm, I directed Miriam and Martin back to their cars before we headed over the bridge across the A14. We then walked through the ancient woodland of Spring Wood, where the last of the bluebells were still out, before passing by a small play area where a few members took the opportunity to have a go on the zip wire, myself included – great fun! We then headed through Belstead Brook Park, crossing the Belstead Brook, back to our start point.
A great day was had by all; thanks to all of those that made it along and made it an enjoyable walk.