Kingdoms edge.

[saxonaxe]

Took advantage of the warm sunny day for a wander on the Downs in the area that long ago formed the extreme Eastern boundry of King Alfred's Wessex. He rarely came this far East, although the remains of his hunting lodge lay in the woodland village I walked through. He complained to his Bishop Asser that the Saxons here were a 'wild and ungodly people' and he preferred the West, and Winchester where his books, churchmen and academics were.
Anyway here are some photos taken by one of the wild and ungodly...:D :D

http://i.imgur.com/dSgIT7ul.jpg

Looking East, in that bay stands a medievil castle that itself stands on a Roman fort.

http://i.imgur.com/zSMCVHJl.jpg

A view to the West.

http://i.imgur.com/CNSMGM3l.jpg

A Wayfaring Tree, as yet only small but it bears fruit. Interestingly the fruit on one bush had long since withered while it's neighbour was still showing red berries.

http://i.imgur.com/Da7fTLul.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/esZxNLAl.jpg

These berries ( far left) are just turning.

http://i.imgur.com/aYPzvY8l.jpg

A day when cloud shadows chased each other across the Downland.

http://i.imgur.com/6SC4Mnml.jpg

Old Man's Beard..:D

http://i.imgur.com/YMas8KHl.jpg

There's no need of ice axes and climbing ropes in this land but the long climbs raise the heart beat and give you a nudge about personal fitness..:D

http://i.imgur.com/dj3OdsDl.jpg

Brew time and my poncho on the field gate makes a nice windbreak.

http://i.imgur.com/AeefsP2l.jpg
and the view goes well with the tea and warm sunshine..

http://i.imgur.com/UeXm1Rml.jpg

And into the cool of the woodland and here grow Silver Weed, Mullein and Bugloss ( the sun caught the Bugloss leaves and made them look almost white.)

http://i.imgur.com/MAwV2sGl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/tSH05zil.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/uoDru1Ql.jpg

Didn't meet any of Alfred's Archbishops, Cardinals or even Missionaries on my travels but made a short detour to pay my respects to Woten who still looks down and protects us. :)

http://i.imgur.com/MzbRDU7l.jpg

[Rasputin]

Old Man's Beard A great tinder when dry. Ah Ah, John lad, looks like you had a good day on the downs, once again lovely pics. I hope its as good tomorrow. See you in that lay-by, I'll ring when near lewes. ATB, Ken

[OakAshandThorn]

T^ 'As I walk upon this green land,
This land that I love,
I see figures of chalk
Carved into the hillsides above!
Cerne Abbas, a man so proud,
And the Long Man opens wide
The Gates of His world,
And invites you to step inside.'
~ Damh the Bard, The Hills, They are Hollow

[Silverback]

T^

[shepherd]

looks like a great walk buddy... really enjoyed the photos :oT^