Ten Tors 2022: Autumnal Navigation hike to Rode

35 intrepid students returned for their latest Ten Tors 16-mile hike to Rode, this time students were armed with maps and route cards to practice the navigational skills discussed in a recent workshop. The frost glinted in the lovely morning sunlight and the cloudless blue skies indicated we might be in for a very beautiful day 

The group headed off towards Widbrook over the frozen fields, long shadows being cast on the grass at the inevitable queues at each stile or gate. We then headed towards Stowford farm, before dropping down and walking alongside the River Frome to our gloriously stunning lunch spot at Tellisford Weir (shared with some very brave local swimmers!). As we began our return journey through Rode and then Southwick we had a few close encounters with friendly horses and cows, and a prolonged view of 4 deer who ran laps around the field as we watched on, with one deer rushing past us in very close proximity. 

As the sun began to set, we arrived tired and satisfied from our day's hike. As usual the students had been superb (thanks to the 55-mile team for their gate duty) and a special mention for James Asquith for being super helpful (holding broken stiles, moving hanging brambles, checking electric fences). Navigation was of a very high quality, and it is already evident that we are likely to have very high-quality teams for next year's event. As always thanks to all the staff and volunteers who make this possible.