On 13th December in inclement weather 11 ramblers set forth along a footpath leading to the high street in Bourton-on-the-Water, following the street out of the village crossing the A429 opposite a gate sign posted Windrush Way.
With the River Windrush on our left we walked on the footpath through a couple of fields gently sloping into a wooded hollow. Turning right at the fork (SP Gloucestershire Way) and ascending through a tree-lined corridor out to a field edge. Joining a track we climbed north with beautiful views behind us to the road.
Continuing ahead along the roadside for a short time before turning right and heading down the quiet road to Upper Slaughter. Both Upper and Lower Slaughter tucked down in the Eye Valley are two of the most charming in the area.
Stopping for our coffee break in the small square near the church before continuing down through the village to reach and cross over a pretty ford passing cottages before heading up hill branching off right along a walled path Wardens Way, over a tiny footbridge bearing right onto a path snaking though a run of the meadows alongside the Eye.
Reaching Lower Slaughter turning right at Mill Lane we followed the river through this picturesque village turning right by the Slaughter Country Inn and then through a small gate following a narrow path along side the River Eye.
After a wooded area we reached the A429. Turning left we crossed and walked on the pavement a short distance before reaching a metal gate leading us on a pathway through fields to a minor road turned right along this for few yards to a gate leading through fields where we found shelter for a lunch stop.
Refreshed continuing on crossing a bridge over a stream with stepping stones from here we made our way back to Bourton-on-the-Water shortening the walk due to the weather.
A walk on muddy paths and mostly quiet lanes
Some very wet horses and and sheep
Crossing the River Eye in Lower Slaughter and Andy tests his wellies!
The Old Mill in Lower Slaughter
More views of Lower Slaughter