It was a dull, misty morning when six Cirencester Ramblers and two visitors set off from the middle of Cirencester, along the riverside path towards Stratton. The walk proceeded through fields to Daglingworth, passing the 19th century school house still retaining its bell, and on to the hamlet of Itlay. The Ramblers were joined by another member, bringing the group up to nine. Walking through woods, they passed the huge Daglingworth quarry, which has been yielding limestone aggregate for over 100 years. The group stopped for lunch at the historic church at Bagendon, with its Norman tower and nave arcade.
Leaving Bagendon, they headed south and through two revolving gates – monkey cage - intended to keep deer out, or maybe in, and to confuse unwary Ramblers. After passing under one main road and crossing another, the route led down to Trinity Mill and then to Baunton. The path led through water meadows, which lived up to their name after the recent rain and snow, while in places the ground was still frozen underneath. The group were allowed into the church at Baunton to admire its fine 14th century St Christopher wall painting and a 15th century embroidered altar frontal.
The walk returned to Cirencester past the Humpty Dumps, the site of another old quarry, and through the Abbey Grounds.
The group outside Stratton Church
School's out!
Bagendon Church
Negotiating the Monkey Cage
Water Meadows living up to their name!
Signs of Spring!
St Christopher and the Alter Frontal in Baunton church