Scenic Stroll Through the Slaughters and Beyond

A fine February outing saw 24 members and one particularly handsome dog, embark on a delightful walk under classic Cotswold skies, dry but bracing. We set off from Bourton-on-the-Water, gathering by its distinctive pepper pot parish church of St. Lawrence, before making our way toward the storybook villages of Lower and Upper Slaughter.

A well-timed coffee break found us perched on the bridge over the River Eye in Upper Slaughter, where Ian reminisced that it was exactly eight years ago to the weekend that we had stood in this very spot. A glance at the then-and-now photos (shown above) confirmed that time has been remarkably kind to those lucky enough to feature in both. Handsome as ever!

From here, we climbed up to the watershed between the Eye and Windrush valleys, rewarded with sweeping, panoramic views stretching across the countryside. The ridge walk was a true highlight, offering a moment to soak in the sheer beauty of the Cotswolds in winter’s muted palette.

Descending toward Lower Harford Farm, we encountered an unexpected roadside exhibit: a collection of number plates and assorted car parts, grim trophies left behind by those who had underestimated the perils of fording the Windrush at speed. A cautionary tale, laid out in metal and plastic!

Lunch was enjoyed on the peaceful banks of the meandering Windrush, at the site of the abandoned medieval village of Lower Harford. Here, history and nature have conspired to create an eerily beautiful, forgotten corner of the countryside.

With just a few miles to go, we finally made our way back to Bourton-on-the-Water or as it is affectionately dubbed, Blackpool-on-the-Water where the Duke of Wellington provided the perfect setting for a well-earned bevvie (or two).

A thoroughly enjoyable walk, filled with gossip, laughter, and the ever-present charm of the Cotswolds. Until next time!

Prosaic language an amusing addition curtsy of Chatgpt  🤗