HISTORIC paths and structures have been brought back to life with new walks and experiences at Croft Castle's Fishpool Valley

The National Trust has opened up two new walks through the picturesque valley on the Leominster estate, taking in historic paths, old carriage-rides, far-reaching views and newly restored dams and cascades.

The longer Highwood Walk takes approximately two hours and follows the upper levels of the valley, taking in the lost summerhouse and the restored dam and spillway at Lower Pool.

The Fishpool Dingle Walk follows surfaced paths and newly restored natural tracks, taking in the limekiln and quarry, the remains of charcoal burning platforms and the gothic pump house.

Contractors have been hard at work conserving this structure, along with the grotto, since May and both are now open to visitors for the first time in many years.

Project manager Imogen Sambrook said: “Thanks to National Trust supporters, we’ve been able to carry out urgent conservation work on the built structures, including the pump house, grotto, limekiln and ice house, which are all vital remnants of the valley’s past and help to tell its fascinating story.”

The industrial history of the valley will be brought to life on September 7 and 8, with horse logging, charcoal burning, pole lathing, chestnut splitting and other traditional woodland crafts.

Visitors can also join a guided tour, meet the team, try one of the new walks and discover more about this vital conservation project, which is set to continue for the next three years.

Further updates and details about how you can get involved and support the project can be found by visiting: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/croft-castle-and-parkland