A group of 17 gathered in the market square at Northleach on this early summer morning when the weather was still not uncomfortably hot for walking. We climbed southwards from the town to the interestingly named Helen’s Ditch and then along the bridleway to Winterwell Barn and across the Fosseway.

The route then took us to Oxpens Farm on the outskirts of Yanworth for a refreshment stop then northwards to the Hangman’s Stone. Crossing the A 40 we continued towards Hampnett stopping for photos of the wild flowers at the field edge – a fine display of poppies and the purple flowers of phacelia.

The group enjoyed a picnic lunch at Hampnett church – what a treat to enjoy a break in glorious weather and then it was a short walk across the meadows back to Northleach. Some of the party stopped off at the prison for some well earned refreshment.

Group photo

Hampnett Parish Church

Hangman's Stone, so called, as one story suggests a sheep rustler, resting here, fell and got tangled in the rope and strangled himself.

Red and White Campions with Lacy Phacelia, planted by farmers as a cover to hold down weeds

Looking back towards Hampnett Parish Church

Beautiful views around Northleach and Hampnett