Cranborne Chase National Landscape recently had the pleasure of hosting a field trip for delegates of the Annual Conference of the National Association for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (NANational Landscape).
Volunteers and team members welcomed delegates from organisations across the country, sharing with them the diverse projects and activities which take place on the National Landscape landscape, in particular as part of our Chase & Chalke Landscape Partnership Scheme.
The visitors travelled from the conference at the University of Bath to Cranborne Chase in the National Landscape minibus, with Chase & Chalke Landscape Partnership Ranger and Volunteer Co-ordinator Roland Hughes. Roland introduced the delegates to our unique landscape, entering the National Landscape up zig-zag hill reaching the stunning views at Win Green.
The party then travelled to various locations across the National Landscape throughout the day, learning about the diverse projects undertaken by the Chase & Chalke Landscape Partnership, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Volunteer Hannah Earl introduced a video created about the UnEarthing Chase & Chalke project, after which delegates had the opportunity to take part in mud and earth painting led by volunteer Mike Gilbert, inspired by the UnEarthing activities which had previously taken place with artist in residence Sarah Dudman.
On the banks of the River Ebble at Broad Chalke, Cherry Truluck, another artist in residence, provided expert guidance to delegates to help them forage for their lunch. The result was an incredible feast sourced from the landscape of Cranborne Chase, it included Elderberry and Hogweed pickle, Nettle and Calendula Tart and Grey Squirrel Pie!
After lunch, delegates shared their ideas for the legacy of the five-year long Landscape Partnership Scheme, which runs until September 2024. Finally, stopping off at Sixpenny Handley the group tried out the Time Traveller App, learning about the infamous smuggler Isaac Gulliver, before heading back to Bath.
The delegates commented how they had a fantastic day learning more about Cranborne Chase National Landscape, and were extremely grateful to the volunteers who made the day such a success. The Grey Squirrel Pie also proved popular!
Find out more about the National Association for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.