Walk 05/2010 – The Cotswolds

Friday 19th February 2010

The day for Geoff, Steve, Simon and myself began at 7.30am when we departed for the Cotswold’s. The other group members were making their way in organized groups throughout the day. There had been a considerable snowfall overnight but the journey was no problem (thanks Geoff) even though the settled snow became deeper as we neared our destination. We arrived in the village of Stanton, not exactly your everyday Gloucestershire village. Almost every house is a dream of 17th–century harmony in rich gold Cotswold tones, some under thatch, and some under stone roofs. Once suited and booted we set off along the Cotswold Way, passing a 19thC tithe barn as we walked through a squelching muddy course towards Stanway. There was a lovely blue sky above and the snow was slowly melting in the sunshine. We passed Stanway House – a Jacobean manor house built between 1590 and 1630 of Cotswold stone known as Guiting Yellow. Unfortunately we didn’t see the 300ft single jet fountain set in the gardens, but we did pass by the watermill which dates back to the 13thC. Originally it was used for weaving, the row of long windows providing extra light for the weavers. Later on towards the end of the 17thC corn milling took its place and the 24ft water wheel has now been fully restored. We passed through a gate with a beautiful ornate swan’s head and neck as part of its construction.

Still following the Cotswold Way we passed though Lidcombe Wood – an ancient wood, half of which retains a semi natural canopy (not for Simon who got a cold shower when negotiating a tree) with the remainder replanted with conifers and supporting a varied flora, but today was carpeted with snow and damp limbs of fallen trees.

We reached Snowhill &ndqsh; another secluded village set in the hills above Broadway and Laverton where it is said that ‘if there is any snow about, you will find it here first’ So once we had cleared the village seat of a layer of snow, it was lunchtime. Not much more to be said about this spot except it would make a great Christmas card picture.

It was then onwards towards Laverton – with its extensive views of the Vale of Evesham and back to the car – a really good walk made even better in the snow (and of course the company).

On arrival in Stow–on–the–Wold (which is the highest town in the Cotswolds at nearly 800ft above sea level) we immediately spotted more of the group who had already checked in and checked out the local shops.

Eventually we all arrived, sorted out eating arrangements (which was no mean feat, even if Rob alias Superman was in charge!) and while 2 of us stayed behind to find out who killed Archie Mitchell, the remainder headed for the Queens Head for a swift half or two!

Report – Sue

Pictures – Simon

Walk rating – very good