Sunday Winter Woodland Walk: Abbots Leigh and the Gordano Round

Steve can usually arrange lifts from Bristol and Bath

In January and February 2026 we will be focussing our Sunday Countryside Walks on the landscape immediately beyond the urban hinterland of Bristol.

This is a landscape of wooded hillsides. We have only ever visited in the summer before. It will be good to see what the area looks like in winter. It's called Abbot's Leigh for a reason. This is church land. We will go in search of monastic fish ponds. There is a wonderful Victorian Gothic revival orangery. The future Charles II came through here in disguise as he fled his defeat at the Battle of Worcester.

Our route takes in the eastern quarter of the Gordano Round and is just under six miles as measured with the OS online tool.

As is our custom historical research notes will be sent out to participants after the event. These will allow you to hold onto what you have learned from our walking on the edge of Bristol.

The Portishead bus from Bristol will drop you at Abbots Leigh.

If you would like to lift share from Bristol or Bath then please use the comment board below to make the arrangements.

A Walk in the Past is a friendly group where regulars and newcomers are always welcome. Our aim is to combine a good walk with pleasant company in historic landscapes.