Letter: The Blocked Path Has Been Part of Our Lives for 60 Years

Published on: 14 Feb, 2026
Updated on: 14 Feb, 2026

View to Chinthurst Hill from the blocked path (taken some years ago).

From Dr Barbara Brockway

In response to: Blocking of Popular Field-side Path Criticised – Councillor to Meet Loseley Estate Manager

My family moved to one of the bungalows beside Henley Fort in 1968, and this path has been part of our lives for nearly sixty years. The view from that ridge is truly spectacular. On a clear day it is said you can see through a dip in the south downs, all the way to the sea.

It is one of the finest vantage points in Surrey, and it has been cherished by joggers, walkers, families young and old, and dog walkers for as long as any of us can remember.

Henley Fort, is a reminder of this area’s deep history. The path along that field is part of that same living heritage — not legally, but in the hearts of the community that has treasured it across generations.

We have the greatest respect for the Loseley Estate and fully acknowledge that this access depends entirely on their goodwill. But that goodwill has meant everything to so many people for so very long. We dearly hope it can be restored.

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