Weathercock Hill

Hill, Mountain in Berkshire Vale of White Horse

England

Weathercock Hill

Honeybunch Corner Credit: Matthew Chadwick

Weathercock Hill is a prominent hill located in the county of Berkshire, England. Standing at an elevation of approximately 187 meters (614 feet) above sea level, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Situated near the village of Bracknell, the hill is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The hill derives its name from the weather vane that sits atop its summit, which acts as an indicator of wind direction. This feature has become an iconic symbol of the area and can be seen from miles around. The hill is easily accessible, with several footpaths leading up to its peak.

The landscape of Weathercock Hill is characterized by rolling green fields, scattered woodlands, and patches of heather. During the summer months, the hillside is adorned with a vibrant display of wildflowers, attracting a myriad of insects and butterflies. The diverse flora and fauna make it an ideal spot for nature photography and birdwatching.

Weathercock Hill also holds historical significance, as it is believed to have been an important lookout point during ancient times. It offers commanding views of the nearby Roman town of Calleva Atrebatum (Silchester) and the surrounding area.

Overall, Weathercock Hill is a picturesque and tranquil destination that provides visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich history of Berkshire. Whether it's a leisurely hike, a peaceful picnic, or a chance to admire the stunning vistas, this hill is a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.

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Weathercock Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.538063/-1.5788393 or Grid Reference SU2982. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Honeybunch Corner

Matthew Chadwick

Avenue to Ashdown House

Matthew Chadwick

Ashdown House

Matthew Chadwick

Walker in field

Matthew Chadwick

Ashdown House

A view of the north face of Ashdown House.

Oscar

Fields West of Middle Wood

A view of fields to the west of Middle Wood, part of Ashdown House's grounds in Lambourn.

Oscar

Ashdown House, Lambourn

Ashdown House is a 17th century hunting lodge now owned by the National Trust. It is set in beautiful parkland and is well worth a visit. For a closer view see Link

Brian Robert Marshall

Sarsen Stones in the Afternoon

A late light shot of some of the Sarsen stones, or Grey Wethers as they're sometimes called, near Ashdown House on the Berkshire Downs. Sarsens are the broken up remnants of a post glacial era silica sandstone layer which formed above the chalk. More info on Sarsen on Link

The undulation in the field surface is marked on the map as Park Pale in antique script, so is presumably of ancient origin. It looks to be part of a roughly square enclosure around what is now Upper Wood. Scanned from a print.

Des Blenkinsopp

The driveway to Park Farm, Upper Lambourn

A more imposing entrance and drive than that for your average farm!

David Purchase

Paddocks at Ashdown Farm

About 400 metres south of Ashdown House which, at the time of my visit to the area, was undergoing major roof repairs and was swathed in plastic sheeting.

David Purchase

The B4000 heads north

Making for the pass where it crosses the Ridgeway National Trail, by way of the quaintly named Honeybunch Corner!

David Purchase

B4000 climbs Fognam Down

Stuart Logan

B4000 crosses the border

The border between Berkshire (behind) and Oxfordshire is delineated by a bridleway which can be seen to the right of shot. This part of the downs is called Lambourn Corner and sees the conjunction of road, bridleway and by-way.

Stuart Logan

B4000 passes pumping station

What type of pumping station LPG, sewage? BP McKeefry has a fleet of 200 lorries transporting bulk and the one in the picture looks like a liquid waste carrier. So slurry might be the load??

Stuart Logan

B4000 skirts Weathercock Hill

The road is some 50 metres below the 219 m. summit of the hill, which is on the right, and this bend loops around its shoulder.

Stuart Logan

B4000 passes entrance to Ashdown House

Stuart Logan

Kingstone Down from the B4000

The down ascends to 227 metres at Crowberry Tump out of the picture but we can see the wood clinging to the side of the hill. In Southern England this is often called a hanger.

Stuart Logan