WALKS Throop Mill Walk By Oliver Wall
Spring is finally here and a new year is ready to properly get started, so how about getting outdoors and seeing the world wake up from winter with a nice country walk? If you pick a nice, dry day you could take some food along with you to sit and enjoy next to the River Stour on a relaxing 1.4 mile walk, or if you feel confident and up for a longer trail then you can extend the walk to 3 miles and do a full circuit of the area.
1
The walk officially begins at Throop Mill, a well-known landmark on the outskirts of Bournemouth and a historical scenic view to begin a springtime walk. Follow the path going behind the mill and cross the bridge going over the river, once you have reached the other side you can follow the path north east for 183 meters until you reach the next bridge.
2
Take the right turn once you reach the other side and continue down the path following the river. There are multiple triangular platforms on the riverside that make a perfect spot to sit and relax by the water, maybe even have a small picnic on the way up or the return trip. Continue down the path for 300m until the path takes a left turn.
3
The path will continue straight ahead for 200m, the path should be clear but there can sometimes be mud coating certain areas if there has been rain and vehicles recently but if you keep to the edges then you should be able to cross without much issue.
4
A left turn will take the path between some fields and reach the Leaden Stour after 170m where you can find other places to rest and enjoy the country peace. The water is safe and perfect place for dog walkers to let their pets play around and cool off without worry.
5
This marks the halfway point and where the official walk turns around and follows the same path back to Throop Mill, however if you cross over the bride to the corner of Pig Shoot Ln then you may see some Bluebells blooming across the fence in late Spring.
6
For experienced walkers looking for a longer journey, you can follow the road up through Hunt Ct Ln and Dales Ln for 1 mile until you reach a left turning near to Adventure Wonderland and follow the path back to the River Stour and eventually Throop Mill. This will extend the 1.4 mile walk into around 3 miles, perfect for anyone looking for an extra challenge or just hoping to spend a longer day out in the sun.
