The rain kindly stayed away and the sun came out as 30 ramblers left the oldest bridge on the River Thames at Radcot, the scene of several battles through the middle ages.

The Battle of Radcot Bridge was fought on 19 December 1387 between troops loyal to Richard 111 and an army captained by Henry Bolingbroke, Earl of Northampton. Adjoining the bridge is the Swan Inn and the earthworks of Matilda’s Castle. Radcot means “cottage by the road”

Using footpaths and farm tracks we made our way cross country to Carswell Marsh and then turned toward the river for a break at Rushey Lock where we saw several boats negotiate the lock.

 Then following the Thames Path we returned to the start and enjoyed a drink in the busy Swan Inn featured in the book “Once Upon A River” by Diane Setterfield.

The group sets off from Radcot

Some young cattle in the field

Watching the boats pass through Rushey Lock

Looking for a Swan Princess to kiss!

Passing Radcot Lock we are nearly back