On a hot, sunny day, saw a group of 11 members and one guest on an 8 mile walk between Lechlade and Kelmscott.

The walk started along Shelley’s Walk, which runs beside St. Lawrence’s Church in the centre of Lechlade, before continuing along a tree lined footpath for about ½ mile.

We then followed a minor road for about ¾ mile before heading across fields to Kelmscott, where a coffee stop was taken in the church yard.

We continued through the village, passing the one-time home of William Morris, a turn of the 20th century designer and social reformer who was part of the Arts and Crafts Movement.

The walk joined the River Thames along the Thames Long Distance Path, with a lunch stop at Buscot Lock, passing several World War 2 pill boxes. As we neared Buscot Lock, one of the walkers was taken ill, and thanks to prompt action by the group, she was speedily transferred to hospital for expert treatment. Many thanks to all who rallied round to support a fellow walker.

The walk continued along the Thames, passing St. John’s Lock with its sadly neglected statue of Old Father Thames. The walk ended with fine views of St. Lawrence’s Church before returning to the start point.

First of many stiles

St George's Church at Kelmscott

Photo at the church

Crop is ready for harvesting

Joining the River Thames on way back to Lechlade