Afton Down

Downs, Moorland in Hampshire

England

Afton Down

Catching the breeze â 1978 A group of hardy bus enthusiasts enjoying a trip on a vintage open top bus climbing to the top of the cliffs just to the east of Freshwater.

Southern Vectis 702 is a Bristol K with ECW bodywork, new to the company in 1939 and converted for open top services in 1959. When this view was taken she was already approaching her 40th year of service with the company, and although seen here on a private charter, was still regularly used on normal services. In 2021, now affectionately called &#039;The Old Girl&#039;, she is still in service, although now only used for special private charter work. As such, she holds the UK, and possibly world, record for a bus in continuous service with the same operator.

This is one of a series of views featuring buses in the 60s, 70s, and 80s. <a title="https://www.geograph.org.uk/search.php?i=137652761" href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/search.php?i=137652761">Link</a> — Catching the breeze â 1978 Credit: Alan Murray-Rust

Afton Down, located in Hampshire, England, is a picturesque area known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscape. Covering an expansive area, Afton Down encompasses both downs and moorland, creating a fascinating mix of ecosystems and habitats.

The downs of Afton Down are characterized by rolling hills and open grassland, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. These downs are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including wildflowers such as cowslips and bird's-foot trefoil, as well as an array of butterflies and birds, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and avid birdwatchers.

In contrast, the moorland section of Afton Down offers a unique and contrasting landscape, with its heather-covered hills and rocky outcrops. This rugged terrain provides a habitat for a range of wildlife, including red grouse, kestrels, and adders. The moorland also boasts a rich cultural history, with ancient burial mounds and stone circles scattered throughout the area, attracting history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts.

Afton Down is not only a haven for wildlife and history but also a popular destination for outdoor activities. The downs offer ample opportunities for walking, hiking, and picnicking, with well-maintained footpaths and designated areas for relaxation. The moorland, on the other hand, is ideal for more adventurous pursuits such as rock climbing and orienteering.

Overall, Afton Down in Hampshire offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities. Whether visitors are seeking tranquility, wildlife spotting, or an adrenaline rush, Afton Down has something to offer everyone.

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Afton Down Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.670679/-1.5003937 or Grid Reference SZ3585. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Catching the breeze â 1978

A group of hardy bus enthusiasts enjoying a trip on a vintage open top bus climbing to the top of the cliffs just to the east of Freshwater. Southern Vectis 702 is a Bristol K with ECW bodywork, new to the company in 1939 and converted for open top services in 1959. When this view was taken she was already approaching her 40th year of service with the company, and although seen here on a private charter, was still regularly used on normal services. In 2021, now affectionately called 'The Old Girl', she is still in service, although now only used for special private charter work. As such, she holds the UK, and possibly world, record for a bus in continuous service with the same operator. This is one of a series of views featuring buses in the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Link

Alan Murray-Rust

Site of the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival 50 years later

View from East Afton Down towards East Afton Farm with the site in between. The photo was taken exactly 50 years after the first day of the Festival whose performers included Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, The Who, Ten Years After, Chicago, The Moody Blues, Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, Jethro Tull and Supertramp.

Paul Coueslant

Freshwater Bay

Freshwater Bay has formed in a break in the chalk cliffs. The rocks shown here are at the SE corner of the bay, viewed from the promenade - Stag Rock, Arched Rock & Mermaid Rock (right to left). A cave is also visible. A fishing boat is moored. Photo taken in June or July 1973. Arched Rock subsequently collapsed in 1992.

Ian Taylor

Grazing above Freshwater Bay

Paul Coueslant

Bus terminus, Freshwater Bay â 1978

Southern Vectis was the principal operator on the island from the 1930s having come under control of the Southern Railway in 1929. By 1978 it was part of the National Bus Company. Bus 673, a Bristol VR with ECW bodywork, is seen in the standard NBC livery of leaf green, and is representative of what was effectively the standard NBC double deck bus of the period. It is parked at the entrance to the Freshwater Bay Golf Club on Southdown Road waiting for its return to Sandown. This is one of a series of views featuring buses in the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Link

Alan Murray-Rust