Hamsell Lake is well worth a visit. It is about two miles and a half only from the Cross, and so within an easy walk. Surrounded by dense foliage, the forms and shades of which are clearly reflected in it, it presents a view in striking contrast to the general scenery of Crowborough. The bright light of the sky shines all along its centre, while the deep grey-green of the shadows encircling the light as a girdle emphasises the contrast. The shades from the leafy groves which cover the hills on both sides to the very brink of the water, are a most refreshing retreat on a bright warm day, and we can linger on the banks of the lake for many hours, dreaming sweet day-dreams, if so inclined. There are two roads or paths to this lake, both of which the pedestrian will find attractive. The one by Pilmer Lane leads through the lower part of the Beechen and Bream Woods, and every break in the leafy canopy opens up charming glimpses of the opposite hill, while the blue-grey distance occasionally adds its beauty to the scene. The other road is through the gate at Cooke's Corner under the ancient oak tree. It skirts the upper part of the Beechen Wood, passes Gildridge Farm and along the border of Bream Wood to Orznash Farm; then entering the wood it descends into the valley to the lake. Here we may stay to while away many a pleasant hour in peaceful solitude, or we may continue on into the Groombridge Road, and keeping to the right arrive at Eridge Station. From there we may get back to Crowborough by Boar's Head and Steel Cross. This route, however, will be perhaps a longer journey than many would care to take. The greater number will no doubt prefer retracing their steps through the wood to the Cross. There is another ramble which will certainly please every lover of wild nature. Take the road as far as Steel Cross, and on arriving at the sign-post go down the path on the right and take the first turning on the left, which is known as Pell's Gate Road. On reaching a group of cottages a road on the left will be seen; this leads over a piece of wild common by the Lime Kiln Wood to Redgate Mill. The road past this mill goes on to Rotherfield. If instead of going over the Common the pedestrian continues on the Pell's Gate Road it will lead him to Maynard's Gate, a little way beyond the Crowborough Railway Station. |