Posted on 10th October 2012 by Zoe Potter
© Petworth House - Possibly the oldest and largest lime tree in the country watches over walkers in Petworth Park
© Petworth House - Few visitors realise that the lake or ‘upper pond’ in Petworth Park is completely man made, landscaped by ‘Capability’ Brown
© Petworth House - A view of Petworth House from the parkland
Historic parklands, hill forts, stone circles, coastlines, farm land, railways…the list of opportunities to explore our heritage ‘al fresco’ is longer than you might think.
So, as Heritage Open Days have finished for another year and with spectacular autumn colours starting to appear across the landscape, now is the perfect time to explore our outdoor heritage. And of course most of it, just like Heritage Open Days, is completely free!
A Great British Walk
Obviously the best way to discover your local historic landscape is on foot, but this may be a little daunting for those (like me) with little local knowledge and a non-existent sense of direction. A great place to start is the National Trust’s Great British Walk, a walking festival designed to encourage us all to venture out into the countryside. Visit their website and you can search for a downloadable walking trail or an event near you. The walking trails come with a map, step-by-step directions and some local history or wildlife information too - perfect for beginners.
A walk in the park
Petworth Park alone has witnessed its fair share of history, a rather notable guest was Henry VIII who visited in the 1500s and supposedly put up a banqueting house and hunted the herd of fallow deer that still reside here today. The park is also home to a large amount of ancient trees, and we even have a walk you can download, highlighting all the natural treasures in the park – including a 1000-year old oak tree and possibly the largest and oldest lime tree in the country. And of course we’re holding some Great British Walk events too, from a Fungi Foray to a Breakfast Safari, there’s something for everyone.
So, this weekend why not grab your walking boots and a flask of tea and head out to explore some of the country’s amazing outdoor heritage?
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