On Sunday 20 November, 13 members and 1 visitor set off on an eight and a half mile walk from the Waterhay Car Park, located on the Southern edge of the Cotswold Water Park near Leigh. The group followed the Thames Path to the edge of Hailstone Hill, passing Manorbrook Lake as well as several other gravel pits en route. Despite the generally murky weather conditions, the ramblers had the opportunity to observe a range of water birds including coots, mute swans, mallard and tufted ducks, great crested grebes and herons.

    Picking up the old Midland and South Western Junction Railway path near Cricklade, the walkers then made their way to South Cerney via the Spine Road bridge and the Sailing Club lake. After passing Ann Edwards School, they joined a footpath leading across Ashton Down to the Cotswold Community centre.

    Crossing Spine Road West, the ramblers proceeded to the village of Ashton Keynes, where the group rejoined the Thames Path to return to the start point. This stage took the walkers via Holy Cross Church, Back Street, Kent End Farm and the edge of the Bradstone Playing Fields.


    A misty morning by Manorbrook Lake


    Following the old M&SW Junction Railway


    Sailing near South Cerney


    Autumn colours and berries


    Two deer on Aston Down


    A lake near Aston Keynes


    Lunch stop


    The Thames Path at Ashton Keynes