“The questions are always more important than the answers.” Ernest Shackleton
I will make it clear that this trip report will not read the same way as the other ones this year. It will be more of a more serious and formal documentary piece of writing. Whilst it can be fun to make jokes and play with humour, this trip reports do actually provide a more serious purpose. It is important to provide a documentation for future years and prospective members; innovation is always possible.
This trip involves a novel idea for the BUMC in the exclusive use of public transport. From a trip organiser’s perspective public transport is much simpler to organise and it means that those who don’t drive can get out and enjoy the country side. This trip was organised later in the year, about a month before exams. This meant that the trip was not as well attended as it ought to have been, but not something that should put anyone off, it was still a positive experience.
It was an early Saturday morning, unusually both pick-up locations were off campus. Meeting at 8 am at Bath Spa or Oldfield Park station, ready for the 08:08 Weymouth to Worcester Foregate St stopping service via Bristol Temple Meads. We had bought split tickets, splitting at Keynsham meaning a return was of the order of £16, for the 2hr 45 min journey to Colwall station. Jon had stayed the night in his van in Malvern and sent us a preview for the day to come.
Jon’s preview of the view
Arriving at Colwall station, we met with Jon, who had been to a “cute little café” near the station. Colwall station itself has very limited facilities so best to use the toilet on the train or at Worcester. We began our walk heading south to meet the ridge line. This part was relatively flat and mainly passed through agricultural fields with a bit of woodland towards Hangman’s hill. It is worth noting the difficult crossing of the B4232 at Hatfield Coppice. We began climbing and soon arrived at Herefordshire Beacon, where it was time for an Instagram post and a spot of lunch.
The beauty of doing a walk using public transport is that linear walks are very possible, meaning more views and new places. It can reduce the accessibility barrier as some people are uncomfortable sharing cars, and it reduces pressure on drivers. Although there are some cost downsides, it was calculated that each person spent £2 more using the train than if we drove, either in personal cars or using an MPV. However, we could claim 50% back via delay repay). Overall this trip was a massive success and should be added to the BUMCs portfolio of activities.
Ollie Howell
Walking Sec 22/23
