Wimpole Folly and woodland belt walk, Wimpole Estate, Cambridgeshire
An historical wildlife walk starting at our grand stable-block, exploring the diverse landscape of one of the largest estates in Cambridgeshire. Look out for the Chinese Bridge, Wimpole lakes and the Gothic Folly and of course the woodland belts.
Explore the woodland belt designed by Lancelot 'capability' Brown
Discover the rich history of the land, from the remains of medieval farming to lavish Georgian landscapes. You can also explore the unique contrasts between a historical and modern working estate.
Map
Start:
Kendall Stable-block, grid ref: TL336509
1
Go through the black gate opposite the stable-block and follow the path until you're in front of Wimpole Hall. Remember to look at the view down the stunning South Avenue.
The stable-block
This grand stable-block is where you'll find most of our facilities and is the starting and finishing point to this walk. The stable block was designed by H. E. Kendall and constructed in 1852 . Kendall (1776-1875) worked in the Greek Revival or Tudor Gothic style principally.
2
Follow the path around the house until you reach a gate. Once through the gate, note the ridges and furrows in the field opposite - evidence of the plough pulled by oxen used on Wimpole's medieval farmland.
3
Turn right and through the gate, then meander to the right, following the footpath away from the hall across the field. Keep walking until you reach the ha-ha and iron bridge. Bear left ahead towards the lakes until you reach the Chinese Bridge.
Wimpole lakes
Home to carp, rud, pike, tench, stickleback and the occasional eel, these lakes at the foot of Johnson's hill have been used and loved by generations. They're also suitably placed for cattle and sheep to use them as their watering hole.
4
Cross over the Bridge and keep going up the hill until you reach the folly. Then with the folly in front of you turn left and down the hill towards the gate at the far end.
Folly
These gothic ruins, also known as sham ruins, were made purposefully to create a spectacular view from the Hall in 1768. They are just as stunning close up and stand as a unique portrayal of 18th-century style and fashion.
5
Walk straight through the farmland on the grass path into the Woodland belt; the sign here is filled with wildlife information - do stop to read. Follow the path into the woods and then turn left. Keep walking and after the path has eventually meandered around to the right, a fork in the footpath will appear; take the left turning. As you walk, the fields are to your left behind the trees.
Woodland belts
These woodland belts were designed by Lancelot Capability Brown as a frame for the gardens. There are a number of wildlife habitats, home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. Check out the boards placed around the belts with seasonal information.
6
Once you've made it round the U-turn-like bend, follow the path behind the trees and up the hill. At the top of the hill the woodland belts come to an end. Jump over the stile and, in front of you, will be the medieval mill mound. Turn right and follow the avenue beside the wood.
7
Look out for an avenue of Lime trees to the left leading down to the parterre garden. Follow this pathway down the hill toward the hall. At the bottom bear right and go through the gate, back the way you came, where you can finish either at the stable-block or restaurant.
Wimpole Hall
Following centuries of remodelling and design, now stands the grand hall you see before you. Rich in history and aesthetic beauty, this stunning home was, and still is, the heart of this working estate.
End:
Kendall Stable-block, grid ref: TL336509
