Navigation in Somerset is difficult because GPS systems are prone to taking
you into the myriads of country lanes which frequently are narrow
with ditches and
tall hedges both sides, making you lose orientation and adding stress
to driving.
Take a tip from me. If you navigate directly to Shoreditch or Orchard Portman
as you approach from outside of Somerset, your GPS will likely want you take
the narrow lanes and this is not making for a pleasant trip. You are best to go
to Taunton town before
starting your GPS. Take B3170 (Shoreditch Road) and navigate
to Octon Lodge (about 6 minutes).
When you cross over
the top of the M5 motorway, then SLOW DOWN, because that's where the action
starts!
There's a large radius right-hand bend which brings you to Shoreditch.
It's just a small locality. Blink and you miss it! (The
Old Corfe Road entrance leading to Octon Lodge will be on your right.)
But once you've passed Old Corfe Road straight ahead of you is a junction where
Shoreditch Road takes a left
turn. You are at Junction 1 on Map 3.
You will be looking directly at the old Smithy on the corner.
This was where our Clist ancestors lived and worked.
The building you see is now two attached residences.
- The two-storey house on the left is named "The Forge".
- The old Smithy on the corner has been converted into a cottage called "Little Forge".
It's decision time!
For the Ivy Cottage go straight ahead on the B3170 towards Corfe.
It's not far, and on your left. The racecourse grandstand towers behind it.
For St Michael's Churchyard, turn left to Orchard Portman.
