On Sunday 4 September 2022, ten members enjoyed a walk in the Cotswold Water Park of six and a half miles.

Starting at the Water Park’s Gateway complex, the group followed the old canal towpath to Claymeadow Farm, passing Boxwell Springs Lock and South Cerney Golf Course en route. Although this stretch of the Thames & Severn Canal is disused, it forms part of the Thames & Severn Way, a 45 mile trail linking Inglesham with Framilode.

On leaving the towpath, the ramblers passed the Kensmyth Alpaca Stud, before proceeding along an open countryside ridge. This brought the walkers into South Cerney village.

A gentle stroll along School Lane, Bow Wow and Station Road followed, before the group joined a bridleway at South Cerney Sailing Club and subsequently headed south towards Cricklade. This path forms part of the former track bed for the Midland and South Western Junction Railway. The railway line closed in September 1961, having provided a hugely important transport link between Andoversford and the Hampshire town of Andover during the Second World War. Today, the bridleway is part of Sustrans National Cycle Route 45.

Eventually, the walkers left the old railway path and made their way to Cerney Wick, using the track running beside Spinnaker Lake. Upon entering the village, they followed minor roads leading to Churn Pool.

Finally, the group made their way back to the Gateway by following part of the Lake 6 circular route.

Group near South Cerney airfield

Walking along the ridge towards South Cerney village from the alpaca stud

Sailing on the Lakes at South Cerney

Old Railway Bridge by Spine Road 

Walking along the disused railway line

Thames and Severn canal close to the Gateway bridge