CROFT AMBREY
Going back in time to an Iron Age hill fort – with birds
This is one of those walks in Herefordshire where you can spend the whole day wandering through a hilly woodland with ancient oak and Sweet Chestnut trees and with a hill fort from ancient times, a castle from more recent times and fish pools to add to the interest. The hill fort – a Scheduled Ancient Monument – dates back to around 550BC and up to the Iron Age and is one of the most significant in this country. It has magnificent views across the beautiful Herefordshire countryside and, of course, it makes it easier to see highflying birds, with Red Kite lately seen in the area more frequently. There are quite a few tracks to explore the woodlands and you can test your knowledge of bird calls. So, expect woodpeckers, flycatchers, Nuthatch and Treecreeper. There are pine trees, too, so check for Goldcrest. Up near the hill fort you may see Wheatear or Redstart. Part of the walk is along Fishpool Valley with a stream connecting the pools, so you could see Coot, Moorhen or Dipper. Near the castle, many more common birds will be seen, with Robin and House Sparrow the most likely. The castle itself is worth a visit if you have time after this wonderful walk – and there may be a few more birds here!