Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
downhill for perhaps 300 metres, keeping a lookout for a signpost indicat-
ing a narrow path that climbs among trees and shrubs on the right.
The path mounts the escarpment and eases along the scarp edge with
fine views on the approach to Leckhampton Hill. Watch for a signed path
on the left that goes downhill a short way to give a close view onto the
Devil's Chimney
(grid ref: 946184).
THE DEVIL'S CHIMNEY
One of the major landmark features of the Cotswold Way, the Devil's Chimney is a
craggy finger of rock projecting from the scarp-face terrace below Leckhampton Hill.
Throughout the 18th century extensive quarrying took place here, and the exposed
pinnacle is a result of this industry. Local quarrymen apparently trimmed the chimney
as part of a hoax. Although climbing the pinnacle is now prohibited, for many years it
made a popular scramble, and the record apparently stands at 13 people on the top
at one time!
Back on the main path continue over Leckhampton Hill, then along the
scarp edge round Charlton Kings Common heading first east, then south-
east among gorse bushes and hollows where in the past ragstone was
quarried. Lovely long views brighten the day. The path leads through a
spinney and down an enclosed rectangular field, eventually coming onto a
narrow road where you continue straight ahead (passing a windpump in
the right-hand field) to reach the A435 a few paces north of the
Seven
Springs
crossroads.
Note
Should you be in need of liquid refreshment at this point,
the Seven Springs Inn will be found a short distance down the A436 to the right.
The extravagance of a flower meadow in springtime - Charlton Kings Common
