Cotswolds walking

[Tinkerbell]

If you should find yourself in the area of Winchcombe (Glos) and enjoy a good walk - you are in for a treat.

We were fortunate to be staying at the Old Station House B&B at Greet, which overlooks the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Railway line, Greet being one of the stations operated by its many volunteers. Amongst the publications available to guests was one describing walks in the locality, which you could combine with a rail journey (no trains running that day unfortunately) and so we set off 'up that hill' on foot.

Our quest took us along public footpaths past Hailes Abbey, and on to Hailes Fruit Farm (refreshments were available), as we slowly ascended, remembering to stop now and again to look back on the ever changing scene beneath us. At one point we skirted woods, then took advantage of the shade they provided for a while, whilst negotiating an ancient pathway. Eventually we emerged and made our way up to Cromwell's Seat - an old stone chair construction with wonderful views beneath. Then off across fields towards Beckbury Iron Age hill fort, where we marvelled at the ability of our ancestors construction abilities, thence along farm tracks and footpaths down to sleepy Didbrook and onwards to Toddington. Our return to Greet was much shorter, but nevertheless enjoyable. In total probably 8/9 miles with some steep up and down hill areas, but very well signposted.

Part of the route merged with the Cotswold Way, where we encountered a gentleman pacing purposefully towards us. He stopped to explain that he was walking from John O'Groats to Lands End and had included at least part of this trail into his itinerary. No motive other than pure enjoyment of walking in our beautiful countryside.

I'd recommend the route we took and look forward to next time when we will head off 'up another hill'.

Tinkerbell