2. Linden Field & The Windmill
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To your left of the old railway station you will see some gates, pass through them and you will be on Linden Field.
A signboard on your left tells the story of how the field played a part in the foundation of the modern Olympic Games.
A short distance away you will see the new 'photo opportunity' art installation celebrating William Penny Brookes contribution to the International Olympic Movement.
Further on is a children’s play area, should the young ones need to burn off some energy!
As you look ahead and a little to the left you will see on a hill the remains of a windmill built circa 1600.
Though damaged by lightening some 200 years later the Much Wenlock Windmill Preservation Trust is now working to restore it to its former glory.
It was on this hill that spectators would sit to watch the early Wenlock Olympian Games. Founded by Dr William Penny Brookes in 1858 the concept was adopted and developed by various groups throughout the world and ultimately resulted in the first International Olympic Games in 1896. The local version of the games continue to this day, taking place every year in July.
Today on Windmill Hill one can get a wonderful view of the roof tops of Wenlock - a great place to stop for a picnic on your walk!
Continuing along the impressive tree lined path at the edge of the field you will see a small building encircled by a clipped hedge - it is now the bowling green. It was once the shelter that sat on the station platform. Inside the greens, by one of the lights, is one of the Olympian Memorial Trees mentioned on the information board.
Follow the path straight on to the kissing gate, pass through the gate, go straight until you come to some steps, go down the steps, you are now standing on what was the original railway line.
The Olympic Connection
Much Wenlock is considered by many to be the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games as a result of the inspired work undertaken by Dr William Penny Brookes in the late 19th century.
Today the Wenlock Olympian Society is the guardian of this remarkable heritage, maintaining an extensive historical archive and actively preserving the traditions by organising regular events, including the annual Wenlock Olympian Games.
Click here to visit the Wenlock Olympian Society web site for for more information about Much Wenlock and the Olympian Connection.