Royston circular

18 April. Our group of nine walked out of Royston past the museum and the Royston cave to reach Therfield Heath. The chalk escarpment marks the edge of the Chilterns and can be slippery underfoot; but our weather and conditions proved perfect for walking, the occasional clouds making the changing colours more special.

We shared some of the hills with golfers but also a variety of birds, notably a kestrel at the end of our walk.

Visitors come far to see the rare pasque wildflowers as we passed one of only five sites in the UK where 99 percent can be found annually.

More fauna and flora helped lift our spirits on the fairly lengthy climb to Therfield village, a path which becomes rather too steep just at the end. But the busy, very welcoming pub was just round the corner and we all benefited from a fairly lengthy break.

The sun continued to shine on us on our route back, almost entirely downhill with some more excellent views rewarding our morning climb.

Further refreshments were available in Royston for those not in any hurry to return to the regular if slow trains back home.

Thanks to Mary-Jane and Christine R for photos. And a special mention to Martin of Southbank Ramblers for support on finding our new walk. Tony.