On a warm sunny day at Paddington 9 of us met at the Torelli mobile van. We set off, our goal to collect as many ceramic eggs as possible, with a different artist commissioned on each one. First stop was the Portman Hotel Marylebone then Hyatt Regency, with everyone marvelling at being in such sumptuous surroundings. This continued with the Cumberland Hotel, complete with Marty and Doc's De Lorean. More grandness awaited us at the Dorchester where Pauline recalled a story of high tea with her mother. At Sloane Street we couldn't walk ten yards without finding one. We caught the bus to Battersea Power Station where plenty of eggs were found around the building by Prem. We then took the new Northern line train to Leicester Square and on to Covent Garden to secure a few more before heading to the Lamb and Flag for refreshments.
Thanks to Rachael, Mark A, Tony, Michelle, Jeremy, Pauline, Yian, Derek and Prem.
Report by Nick
4 very keen walkers met outside Wendover Station on a bright sunny Sunday morning, having overcome the emergency engineering works forcing trains to be cancelled, and the walk leader only just making it to the start point on time after being stuck in traffic.
We set off a little later than planned as we waited to see if anyone else would arrive on the replacement bus service. The walk leader had also been made aware that the intended footpath out of Wendover had been recently closed. This meant that we had to walk along the main road and under the HS2 works for approximately 0.75 miles. After the 45-minute diversion we finally arrived in the small hamlet of Dunsmore. At that point we could pick up our intended footpath, the Chiltern Way. This footpath took us through some ancient woodlands where we saw the first of the season's bluebells just starting to bloom, and open countryside where the clear sunny weather provided some outstanding views of the hills and valleys. As we made our way through Lacey Green we were surprised to see a large replica galleon sitting proudly sitting in a garden. We continued on to our lunch stop by the windmill at Loosley Row.
After lunch we headed downhill into Princes Risborough where we then picked up the Ridgeway, and after a short steep climb we arrived at the summit of Whiteleaf Hill, where we paused to take in the views. From this viewpoint we continued on along the Ridgeway until reaching Chequers, and at that point took the Aylesbury Ring, stopping at Ellesborough Church for drinks. From there we could see our final ascent, which would take us up to the monument on Coombe Hill, where we paused for a group photo. From there the walk went downhill back into Wendover, following a much shorter diversion around the HS2 works.
Many thanks to Phil, Jaz and Denisa for joining me on this planned 15-mile walk, with the HS2 bonus of extending this walk by 2 miles diverting around the works.
Report by Malcolm
Two walkers met at High Barnet Station at 10:00 on a beautifully sunny and surprisingly warm Sunday morning.
We walked our way through King George V Field, the steepest hill on the route. Magnificent views over London were to be seen from the top; you can see as far as The Shard. We then headed across Hadley Green, past some very expensive houses, including one once owned by the explorer David Livingstone, and through the wooded area of Hadley Common, which was as muddy as expected. Once we reached the Great Northern rail line we took the "low road" towards Cockfosters. Our lunch stop was at the Cockfosters end of the path which forms part of the London Loop. In the absence of any benches, we improvised and sat on a fallen tree trunk.
For the return leg, we took the "high road" of Hadley Common, which took us onto a higher level through some footpaths which could often not be followed easily due to overgrown brambles. After a fall by one of the participants, who tripped over some brambles (an occupational hazard on this route), and despite the additional hazard of tree roots, we managed it. We made it to the Great Northern rail line without getting lost, using the sound of the trains as a destination marker (very useful) and descended the steps to the "low road". We then reached Barnet High Street via the western end of the common and Hadley Green. We rounded off a good day's walking with drinks at the Hadley House, one of Barnet's finest pubs.
Walkers were David and Coogee.
Report by David
On a very sunny morning eight orienteers arrived at the Black Park lakeside café. Some had taken part in the Black Park Parkrun earlier (over 700 runners). Over coffee we went through the orienteering map and route, then Luna greeted the latecomers and we were off. We took it in turns to use the map to find the hidden marker posts in the woods. Each post has a number (on the map) and a letter which must be noted to complete the course. We crossed by the Go Ape Course. "Can I do that, Derek?" asked Prem, prompting a firm "No" in response. Soraya led us to the next marker which took some searching in the very high gorse bushes. On route to the following marker, we happened upon a complete film set in the woods. Pinewood Studios use Black Park for location shooting; this set appeared to be for a Lord of the Rings-style movie, all camouflaged in the woods. We detoured off the park to the Bridgettine Convent with its shrine. We completed the course, finding the final markers before arriving back at the lakeside café for well-deserved tea and buns. As we took in the views, Harpreet, inspired by the nearby Pinewood, recounted her recent experiences as a film extra, the most notable being the recent wedding in Albert Square.
Walkers were Brian, Derek, Prem, Soraya, Neil, Harpreet, Soni and Jackie.
Report by Brian
Our spring break saw 20 members make their way down to the YHA hostel in Beer, on the south coast of Devon, for a 4-day break.
On Friday evening after checking into the hostel, we made our way into town in search of food. Being out of season the choice was quite limited, so most settled for fish and chips and then headed into the pub for a beer in Beer.
On Saturday the group assembled on a bright sunny morning ready for our coastal walk. This would take us westwards along the coast from Beer. Our first port of call would be at the top of Beer Head for a group photo, and this high point allowed good views of where we had set off from and where we were going to go. One or two were a little surprised to find that the Devon coast was hilly! After pausing for the group photo we headed off on what was initially quite a level path towards Branscombe which then dropped down onto the beach and café, where we took a well-deserved mid-morning break. After our short break we then continued our way up on the coast path which has now been renamed as the King Charles III England Coast Path. The intended route was to head into Weston just before Weston Mouth, but we were unable to find this path, so were forced to drop all the way down onto the beach again at Weston Mouth. This meant that we would have to make another steep climb up from the beach and then in to the Donkey Sanctuary where we stopped to have lunch. At this point some of the group decided to take the bus back to Beer with the remaining group of hardened walkers heading back via an inland route, passing through valleys with spring flowers and wild garlic and then passing Beer Caves before arriving back at the hostel.
On Sunday morning there was some discussion about the start time as the clocks had sprung forward 1 hour. We left at 10:00am, walking in the opposite direction along the coast to the previous day's, walk up and over the hill into Seaton and the tramway station where we boarded a narrow gauge electric tram. The 3-mile route runs alongside the Axe Estuary and the River Coly, running between the coastal resort of Seaton, the village of Colyford, and the ancient town of Colyton. We left the tram to walk around Colyton village and its church which has a rare lantern tower. After stopping for afternoon cream tea, we headed back to Colyford by walking along the river, where we rejoined the tram to take us back to Seaton. Arriving back at Seaton we learned that out of season Devon buses do not run on Sundays and taxi drivers take Sundays off so had to walk the 2 miles back into Beer.
On Monday after breakfast the group bid their farewells and made their separate ways home to rest and recover from a brilliant sunny break in Devon.
Thanks to Mark, Mark, Tim, Kerry, Nick. Joan, Sally, Claire, Christine, Anne, Nat, Judith, Isabel, Anne-Marie, Martina, Jeremy and Odile for joining us.
Report by Malcolm and Diane
5 keen walkers met outside Princes Risborough Station on a slightly overcast spring Sunday morning. The weather forecast for later in the day was for a possible short thunderstor. The group set off out of the station using a shortcut around the car park on a footpath that is not shown on the map. This shortcut will be used in future walks as this quickly takes you out of town and onto a much smaller road towards thatched houses and a church in Horsenden, where we then picked up our first footpath across open countryside. The path had become very sticky due to the previous night's rain. The path took us into Bledlow and the Carington Estate's Lyde Gardens. Unfortunately we did not stop to look but carried on to the Ridgeway footpath, taking in the views across the open flat Oxfordshire countryside. We stayed on this path, which gently rose up and down for just short of 4 miles. At this point the sun had just broken through and several brown contour lines on the map were very close together, indicating that we were going to go up quite a steep incline into Aston Wood. We had now fully warmed up and worked up an appetite for lunch, so we continued on to Kingston Wood, stopping at a recently felled tree which could be used for seating.
During lunch the temperature dropped a few degrees, so jumpers back on, we made our way through the woods. We were lucky enough to spot 2 different types of deer and the second group were not in any hurry to make an escape as we got closer. The countryside for the afternoon's walk was very different to the morning's walk: there were more hills and they were much steeper than the morning's. As we made our way through several farms, we stopped several times to watch small lambs racing backwards and forwards across the field playfully spring up and down. Our route back followed the Chiltern Way to Rout's Green before heading back into Princes Risborough well before the predicted rain.
Many thanks to Phil, Denisa, Ann and Michael for joining me on this planned 15-mile walk, shortened to just 14.5 miles by taking the shortcut in and out of the station car park.
Report by Malcolm
On a sunny spring morning a baker's dozen met at Radley Station for our Thames Villages Walk. Daffodils were abundant on our route to Radley Boathouse on the Thames. Bodleian Nick, the local expert, pointed out Nuneham Park House on the hillside. We followed the Thames Path to the ancient Thameside town of Abingdon. An important Roman town, Abingdon was notable for its impressive Abbey. Nick led us to the remains of the Abbey, now the Unicorn Theatre. Rehearsals were in progress and the company allowed us to see inside the 13th century Great Hall. Abingdon's market square has a majestic County Hall with its own museum and allows visitors to ascend to the roof for soaring views over the region. The guide explained that the mayor and civic leaders throw buns from the roof on national celebration days. No buns today but Soraya, Neil and Colin checked out the unusual pastries at the Bulgarian Café. The latecomer arrived as predestined at the pub with fascinating tales about bus routes.
Leaving Abingdon, we stopped at the early Victorian county gaol, now converted into apartments with their own barred windows. We followed the Thames to Culham village and its manor house. We crossed the Thames at the lock and arrived at the scenic village of Sutton Courtney which boasts several manors, a village green, abbey residence, and village inns. At the church we visited the graves of George Orwell, Asquith (PM) and David Astor who headed the Observer newspaper from the 1950s to 1970s. The route back to Didcot was via a scenic area of quarries and industrial architecture.
Walkers were Brian, Louise, Kevin, Nick H, Colin, Malcolm, Shilesh, Jeff, Cathy, Joan, Lawrence, Soraya and Neil.
Report by Brian
14 of us met at Sudbury Town Station on a decidedly fresh spring morning. The station is a historic listed building designed and built by Charles Holden in 1931 when the line was taken over by the Piccadilly line. Brian had told me of the mural showing a map of Brent on the waiting room ceiling painted by Lucy Mckenzie. The mural, titled Pleasures Inaccuracies, shows former and current landmarks around Brent. The model of the station also shows a miniature of the mural. We headed up to Whitton Avenue and on up to Horsenden Hill. After a steep walk up to the summit we were able to enjoy some lovely views of the surrounding area, the iconic Wembley Stadium arch and Harrow on the Hill. Brian pointed out the iconic Aladdin Tower on the Dunelm Building on the A40 that used to be an oil lamp factory. We then strolled down the meadow to visit the brewery and coffee shop where cake and coffee was enjoyed. We then joined the canal towpath for a peaceful leisurely walk to the newly built Greenford Quay. From there we walked along Greenford Road, then joining the Capital Ring leading onto Harrow Road to Harrow on the Hill.
There we took a break for lunch, some heading to the Dolls' House for afternoon tea or coffee and pancakes, some choosing the Castle for a spot of pub lunch. Refreshed and rested we bade farewell to those who decided to head home and headed down through the playing fields, enjoying the lovely spring afternoon, to be rewarded with a well-deserved drink in the Black Horse pub.
Thank you to Louise, Kevin, Brian, Ewan, Hema, David, Peter, Shilesha, Ahmed, Anne, Neil, Heather and Teresa for joining me.
Report by Cathy
25 eager walkers and one dog met at Baker Street Station for this long anticipated event. On a fresh sunny spring day. We set out along Baker Street towards Regent's Park. Spring felt ever closer with numerous magnolia trees on display. Daffodils were at their best all through the park. We made our way into Primrose Hill, and at the top we enjoyed spectacular views over London and far beyond to distant hills. I was pleased to find a number of our group had not been to Primrose Hill or enjoyed the fine view - hopefully they will return. Various small back streets led us to the lower slopes of Hampstead Heath where all manner of sports were taking place. Onward to Highgate where we stopped by Highgate Cemetery, famed for the great and the good interred there.
Waterlow Park lays to the north of Highgate Cemetery and has a splendid cafe, where we stopped for lunch. There were too many of us to fit in the cafe but it was warm enough to sit out and enjoy the fresh air. Our usual seating was taken so we made use of various low walls around the garden. Yvonne suggested we have a group photo at the end of the gardens on a steep stairway - this worked well, I look particularly good.
Fully rested and fed we made our way to Highgate High Street with its quaint old pubs, cafes and book shops. As advertised, we stopped briefly to pay homage to the late George Michael. Now on to Hampstead Heath and Kenwood House with fine views over the heath and great toilets. Our last awesome viewpoint was Parliament Hill - slightly higher than Primrose Hill, so the view seems to encompass a greater expanse of the city. The Flask pub, as anticipated, was too busy to accommodate us, so we tried the King William IV. Thanks to Paul's eagerness we found places to sit! Great end to a really good day.
Thank you to all who joined me to make this a fun day out, in particular those who came all the way from Reading: Chris, Yvonne, Milton, Nick, Joan, Shilesh, Simon, Bharti, Gail, Coogee, Malcolm, Denisa, Humay, Paul, Bev, Ollie, Hiro, Jeremy, Dante, Claire, Peter, Mick, Diane and Sarah.
Report by Mike
With a beautiful day forecast, an amazing 33 keen walkers, plus Gino the dog, met up by The Café in the Park at Rickmansworth Aquadrome for the 8-mile circular walk around South-West Hertfordshire and rural Harefield.
In glorious sunshine we set off at 10:45am along the Colne Valley Trail, to join the Grand Union Canal and follow the towpath for about one mile to Springwell Lock, passing the derelict canalside granary with its large dangling monkey hanging from the steelwork. Here we crossed the waterway and joined Springwell Lane to climb a short distance and join a track that runs high above and parallel to the canal, passing the large and imposing Maple Lodge Sewage Works, on the opposite side of the valley. We then made a steep descent back down to the waterway at the delightful Royal Quay canalside housing development before turning left to meet the Hillingdon Trail, and negotiate the lengthy incline through Park Wood, to Hill End. Here we took a brief but well-earned drinks stop before crossing rolling, open farmland of cow pastures and fields, the Metropolitan Police horse training centre, and arriving at the Rose and Crown pub in Harefield Road. At this point, we joined the London Loop to continue our walk through more pastures and enter the ancient and well maintained Bishop's Wood Country Park where we took our lunch break, sitting on logs, in a beautiful sunny glade on the edge of the wood.
After the break we ventured through the wood, following the footpath that became increasingly muddy. Crossing a small wooden bridge, we headed towards Batchworth Heath to emerge opposite the well-known Ye Olde Greene Manne pub, and cross the extremely busy Northwood - Rickmansworth main road at Moor Park. Before entering the golf course for the last part of our walk, and with strict safety instructions given, the party split into two groups to pick up the public footpath that meanders across the course for almost one and a half miles. Following clearly defined white marker posts and passing the magnificent 18th century Moor Park House on the way, we reached Batchworth Lock, just half a mile from the Aquadrome. At this juncture we ended the formal part of the walk as a convenient point to say our fond farewells, where some stopped off for a welcome drink at the White Bear pub whilst others returned along the canal to the start point or walked back to Rickmansworth Station.
This lovely walk across a diverse landscape of waterways, farmland, woods and a golf course, proved a great success, and from comments received was thoroughly enjoyed by all those who took part, namely Michael L, Kevin M, Louise, Runi, David L, Joan, Dee, Pat, Jas, Noah, Vivienne, Owen, Marianne, Anneka, Charlie, Peter, Prem, Derek, Soraya, Neil, Natalie, Lisa, Mark, Michael J, Ann, Mike S, Asha, Julie, Gary, Rahini, Ewan, Hema and Teresa.
Report by Michael
On a bright cold morning we met at the Aquadrome café. Some had taken part in the Aquadrome parkrun earlier in the morning with anniversary cake handed out. After more jam doughnuts ("By Golly they're good" said Soraya), we set off. We cycled on route 6/61, perfect as traffic-free along the Ebury Way and the Watford - St Albans cycle way. Lots of skateboarders, BMX riders and scooter riders were whizzing around the purpose-made Oxhey Activity Park.
After following the Abbey cycle route, we arrived at the restored Bricket Wood Railway Station and Tea Room. The restored LNER Edwardian station is full of period photos and original gas lamps. Over lunch there Ian outlined what he had designed in his laboratory and he and Soraya swapped exotic recipes for their soup makers. We took some bridle paths to arrive at Aldenham village and the impressive church and manor house. We then cycled to the Letchmore Heath Hare Krisna temple, created by George Harrison. A lavish wedding was taking place so we toured the farm shop and watched the cows being fed. Route back via quiet lanes, just in the nick for tea and buns at the ever-welcome Batchworth canal café.
Cyclists were Brian, Ian O and Soraya.
Report by Brian
Initially eleven of us met on a warm February morning and set off through Cassiobury Park. Crossing the ford bridge we were soon on our way along the Grand Union Canal. Walking a good pace and warmed by the sun the layers were soon coming off. There was a good mixture of walkers with interesting chats along the way, walking past colourful narrowboats, as swans, ducks and coots glided along the water. I pointed out a mandarin duck (with striking colours of blue, gold, rust, yellow, purple, black and white) which some in the group had never seen before. A welcome break was had at Rickmansworth Aquadrome Cafe with a tantalising spread of cakes and savouries. A fellow walker gave me a taste of Sri Lankan home cooking from her packed lunch, which was delicious.
Suddenly Nat turned up with two others. She had apparently been calling after us having just missed our departure from Watford Station. I felt honoured as she said she had left Paris at 5am that morning and had changed trains especially to come on my walk. As four walkers were tired recovering from flu, travelling etc. they stayed for a longer lunch as we set off for a circular walk around Stockers Lake to meet up again on the way back. Opening the gate to Stockers Lake, we were surrounded by tranquil scenes of nature. Great crested grebes bobbed down, scuba diving for fish, and emerged minutes later. A group of lapwings, with their handsome hairdos, perched in a line on a log in the lake and made a beautiful picture. The path turned boggy as we slip-slided our way, carefully avoiding a dip in the lake. Looking up past the bullrushes we saw a heron on a nest, and another soaring through the sky like a pterodactyl clutching a stick for nest building. The old instinct of returning to their nesting sites was heartening to see. The path became more treacherous and I was glad I advised good boots and gaiters. Some took a tumble and I stumbled. Mike D decided to test his new boots and ploughed right through the middle of the quagmire, avoiding slipping round the edges. After a few minutes we were through it and bonded by mud, all in the same boat. We met Nat and the others again at the cafe and continued along the canal and the Sustrans old railway route where they left to head back. The remaining ten of us continued along the canal as the sun shone down and conversation bloomed. We stopped for a final photo at Cassiobury Park Bridge.
Thank you all for coming and for the good chatting along the way which made it a grand day out.
Report by Paul
Our city break this year was to York, founded two thousand years ago by the Roman legions, and the capital of the North under the Anglo-Saxons and Vikings. Twenty-two arrived by the fast train at the York Youth Hostel where we gathered for tea and buns before the late afternoon walk. We followed the riverside to the Abbey Gardens area. We took in the remains of the 11th century abbey and good views of the surviving Roman walls and two-thousand-year-old Roman tower. We entered the old city via Botham Bar (the medieval gateways are called "Bars" in York). We followed the alleyways through the marketplace and the Viking encampment. This weekend, by chance, saw the annual Viking Festival take place. Several longships were displayed at the Market Square. After fish and chips at the pub we trekked back to the hostel for Brian to share out the Victoria Sponge cake. "Oh Goodie" said Joan and Amanda, tucking in.
On Saturday we were up with the larks for the circumnavigation of the city on the city walls. York has almost its entire medieval walls intact, and the 3-mile circuit can be walked along the ramparts. As we stepped lively between the towers and gateways, we noticed lots of the towers had been repurposed as cafes. After exploring the Clifford Tower (remains of York Castle) we continued along the walls until Walmgate Bar where we happened upon a hidden tea shop within the Elizabethan tower. The former guard rooms now contain cosy sofas and artwork for a very different café setting. As we re-entered the old city, Judith befriended some Norse warriors, "I say you chaps, can one join in?". Judith was welcomed within the horned helmets and shields as they marched onwards. At the Merchant Adventurers Hall (original livery mansion from 14th century) we encountered more Vikings. We strolled through the Shambles (medieval alley with unique shopfronts) and made it to the Minster Square for the Viking Parade. Hundreds of lavishly attired Vikings assembled and marched forth across the city. Our next visit was to York Minster. This is the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe and has half the remaining medieval stained glass left in Britain. The guide explained the fascinating history of the Minster before some began the ascent of the tower. We were rewarded with stunning views over the entire Vale of York. We stopped for Parkin cake at the Minster Refectory before the majority returned to the hostel. Diane arranged an evening meal at the Door Mouse where Kevin and Malcolm enjoyed the traditional Yorkshire delicacy of the roast dinner inside a giant Yorkshire pudding. Just time to see the dazzling light show beamed on the main wall of the Minster and some live music at the Shambles micro-brewery pub.
On Sunday Mike and Cathy cooked the biggest fry-up seen in Yorkshire since Boycott was in short trousers. We then visited the National Railway Museum which contains many famous steam locomotives including the Mallard and the Evening Star. We climbed aboard the Japanese bullet train and saw the many exhibits on the 200th anniversary of the first passenger railway. Con then led us to high tea at Betty's, the art deco just-so tea shop founded there in 1919. Over lashings of Yorkshire tea, we savoured the just baked Yorkshire Rascal Cakes after a very rewarding weekend in the rather splendid city of York.
Attendees were Diane, Mark T, Mike, Cathy T, Amanda, Tracy, Judith, Geetha, Cathy O, Sally, Joan, Christine, Louise, Kevin, Malcolm, Brian, Coogee, Mark P, Con, Simon, Bharti and Ranjan.
Report by Brian
Well, I should have renamed my Totteridge circular walk the Totteridge quagmire walk. I did a reccy a week ago and it was a tad muddy but gave no hint as what awaited us. Instead of a gentle stroll, I felt it was fast turning into a "Gods teeth I'm never going on a walk with Coogee again". This wasn't actually said by anyone but Joan's fleeting sideways glance my way with a mumble about 'I am hating this' told me all I needed to know (I almost felt guilty but luckily I'm not the sensitive type). For 35% of the walk we found ourselves in a 'suck it and see' situation whereby the ground would do its best to suck the footwear off our feet and we would see whether we could keep our footwear on. At the garden centre we all gathered for a tea and cake, purchased from the cafe ... all except Owen that is, who sneaked to one side to eat his own food only to be told he can't do that. He went off to the front of the garden centre to eat in peace. I didn't see Eva Braun this time round but I think her understudy was there keeping an eye out for those who decided to flout the rules (Owen). St Andrew's 2000-year old tree is still there as is the nice beer at the Orange Tree post-wander.
Thank you to Kev, Louise, Mark, Lisa, Owen, Marianne, Michael, Runi, Teresa, Milton, Rachel, Cathy and Joan for joining me. Sorry about the mud but a big up to Louise for assisting me in listing those who braved the mud.
Report by Coogee
On a beautiful Sunday morning 28 walkers met at the Cock Inn Sarratt. We walked past the Holy Cross church, through the fields down to where the watercress plants used to be. Snowdrops were out and horses were grazing in the fields. We crossed a stream and made our way to Chenies village, peeped through the gates of Chenies Manor before heading back over farmland to the pub, passing a house used for filming in Four Weddings and a Funeral. Those who joined for lunch continued to enjoy the good company and enjoyed a tasty meal. It was lovely to meet so many new members on their first walk.
Thankyou to David, Ingrid, Louise, Kevin, Mick, Chris, Maria, Hiro, Michael J, Ann, Michael L, Ann D, Dawn, Julie, Denisa, Asha, Joan, Jill, Laura, Rita, Sandi, Dean T, Sarah, Mark, Diane, Tracy, Ian O and Harpreet.
Report by Sandie
Fourteen of us gathered outside Twickenham Station on a gloriously sunny, if rather chilly, Saturday morning. Lots of indulgent chatting ensued as we waited for the last two to join us on a late running train from London. That, the sudden urge for doughnuts and the discovery that the station bike stand is half way up a long flight of steps in a dark 'thieves paradise' corner (Network Rail take note please) delayed our start by a short while.
We made our way to the picturesque Twickenham riverside opposite Eel Pie Island, noting the alarming height markers that previous high tides had reached. Here too is York House Gardens, home to the famous sculptures known locally as the Naked Ladies. York House dates back to the 1630's and was the residence of a long list of 'Who's Who' entries (including the fabulously named Sir Mountstuart Elphinstone Grant Duff), but the statues were placed there by the son of the Tata Steel founder in the early 1900's. The gardens are home to summer theatre productions, and were used in the outside sanatorium scenes in the film Alfie (the 1966 original, not the dreadful remake). Onwards along a beautiful section of the Thames Path, past Marble Hill House, and the site of the former Richmond ice rink. Richmond Lock and Old Isleworth were passed before our lunch stop at Syon House cafe, which we enjoyed at outside tables in the sunshine.
After admiring the huge display of garden offices for sale, we strolled along to Brentford and turned onto the convoluted towpath of the River Brent / Grand Union Canal with its eclectic rows of houseboats of every size, type and age. Much redevelopment of post-industrial sites is happening there, with the sad loss of many quirky buildings being replaced by the same bland design of flats seen on every redevelopment across London. Two of the large boatyards remain, and it was fascinating to see an enormous barge being renovated in dry dock. On a promontory overlooking the Thames, we viewed a large metallic sculpture named 'Liquidity', with masses of intricately pierced fish images. It elicited several responses ranging from "marvellous" to "what a waste of good steel" .. vive la difference! By special request, we detoured to see St Paul's Church in Brentford. This has a beautiful traditional exterior, but the interior has been given a very modern yet tasteful makeover to produce a fabulous open community space. A great lesson in sympathetic design ... tea and cakes too! We followed the Thames to our destination of Kew Bridge, where most of our happy band departed. Six of us crossed the bridge, past the Banksy mountain goat mural (which at the time of writing has just been taken down for safekeeping as the building is undergoing restoration - unlikely to return). We made our way to the original Maids of Honour tea rooms at Kew. Sadly they were fully booked with tourists gorging on their afternoon teas, so we struck out for home via the very cute Kew Gardens Station.
Thanks for a lovely, sunny, chatty day to Brian, Sandra, Rob W, Louise, Kevin, Marianne, Mark, Lisa, Carole, Jeremy, Heddy, Amin, Milton, Heather and Tim.
Report by Rob
On arrival at Pinner Station on a cold but dry Saturday in January, Kevin and I were greeted by 5 eager walkers. Great, I thought, a good start to the day and we would not be walking alone. As more and more arrived including 3 newly joined members we now had a grand total of 27 and 1 dog and all arrived on time. Introductions made and names taken, off we set, Kevin leading the way following the Celandine Route to Uxbridge. First we entered Pinner Memorial Park, and on to some residential roads before we began following the River Pinn, passing through the allotments, Coogee with some interesting comments about what could be grown there, onto some muddy woodland paths around the back of Pinner, walkers getting acquainted with each other.
Our first stop was Eastcote Gardens for a quick comfort break. Another head count and we were off again. We continued on through the back of Ruslip on to Kings College playing fields with runners making use of the track and the morning's fair weather, local football groups playing in the next field, parents cheering their youngsters on from the sidelines. We carried on, with a quick stop for a group photo. Sadly the tree we took the photo at last year had taken a battering from the recent storms. Passing the Winston Churchill Hall we continued on to the start of the HS2 diversion where work was in progress, on through to Swakeleys Park. Now nearing our half-way point 5 miles done and with bellies ready for our lunch stop and some liquid refreshments to satisfy us we made use of the many opportunities on offer. It was there we were joined by another member and 2 walkers bid their farewells, yes only 2, the rest confirmed they would continue after lunch.
Bellies full with the weather still good and now 28 walkers still keen to continue the last 4.5 miles to the finish we headed through woodland then over the busy A40 bridge onto the open Uxbridge playing fields once again meeting up with the River Pinn. Following now mostly residential streets we headed on through the St Andrews RAF estate and its many new builds with its Grand Hillingdon House and hidden Battle of Britain bunker in the distance, David filling us in on its former MOD use, Derek also pointing out the remains of the former gunnery. On through many more ever growing new builds we made our way though to Uxbridge High Street reaching the end of the walk at Uxbridge Station where some bid farewell and the rest headed onto the Fig Tree public house, formerly the old Uxbridge police station, for further liquid refreshments and more catching up.
Thank you to Malcolm, David L, Surinder, Ewan, Joan, Pete D, Mark O, Peter M, Jeremy, Vivian, Anne, Milton, Gaurang, Amin, Dee, Pat, Marianne, Vian, Simon, Bharti, Neil, Mick, Owen, Coogee, Karen, Mike, Mifan, Louis and Derek for your great company and for joining Kevin and me on our Celandine walk.
Report by Louise
On a very sunny yet cold morning nineteen of us assembled for coffee and pastries at Pauls by the Tower Pier. We then jumped on the DLR and grabbed the front seat for a driver's view of the track. Kevin gave his observations of the line based on his decades as loco driver on the Northern line. We alighted at Blackwall to view Pontoon Dock and then East India Basin. Reaching the Thames promenade we took in the superb views of the Dome and Isle of Dogs. We stopped at the Virginia Memorial where the first colonists set sail for the New World. We then crossed footbridges to reach the hidden Trinity Buoy Wharf on City Island. This was the manufacturing base for all lighthouse equipment until recent years. We visited the museum and Faraday's exhibition (the inventor was important in the development of the lighthouses). The island quarter is full of art works and an area formed of former containers used as art studios. We had lunch there listening to the thousand-year long player, Peter and Mark O reminiscing about their days on the firing range.
We then arrived at the Royal Victoria Docks which formed part of the much larger eastern docks, built for the new steamships inspired by Brunel. We crossed over on the high-level transporter bridge, with great views to the City. Sadly, no way into the Millenium Mills, built in the 30's and derelict for decades, location for many crime films as it's perfect for portraying urban dereliction. Onto the DLR again, its route a viaduct through the airport and a tunnel under the Thames to Woolwich. Derek led one group to an East End Victorian pub perfectly preserved, Pauline recalled meeting Bobby, Geoff and Martin at the Boleyn before a big match. The rest made it to the Arsenal where Louise led us, as ordained, to the Wetherspoons for more tall tales from Jeremy and Mark P.
Walkers were Brian, Neil, Louise, Kevin, Derek, Prem, Jeff, Jeremy, Mark P, Lisa, Heddy, Joan, Peter, Mark O, Pauline, Shirley, Simon, Bharti and Marianne.
Report by Brian
A larger than expected group assembled on a cold overcast morning at Little Venice. After coffee and introductions, we set off using the excellent David Fathers guidebook to follow the Westbourne River to the Thames. A detour inspired by Mr Dunn's railway architecture show saw us explore Brunel's train shed at Paddington. We then followed the Westbourne through several Georgian mews until Hyde Park. Here the Westbourne flows alongside the Serpentine Lake. We crossed into Knightsbridge and followed back streets twisting to follow the route of the underground river. Our lunch stop was in Belgravia at Motcomb Street courtyard, a collection of outdoor cafes by the original Pantechnicon. The latecomer joined us here by tradition.
Our route continued south, passing several embassies and Cadogan Hall (originally a Byzantine-style church). We then explored Holy Trinity Church at Sloane Square with its outstanding arts and craft design and William Morris stained glass windows. We then crossed Chelsea Bridge to arrive at Battersea Power Station. We admired the ice rink, the many Christmas lights and the Christmas tree by the power station. Some then donned skates for a very festive session on the riverside ice rink. The rest had some warming mulled wine watching the skaters glide by. Louise and Sally then led a tour of the ever-amazing power station where we gathered for tiffin and cultural conversation.
Walkers were Brian, Joan, Mark P, Sally, Coogee, Jeff, Louise, Kevin, Derek, Prem, Pauline, Kate and Julie.
Report by Brian
Leaving home for the start at Wendover, reports on the radio were giving yellow weather warnings for snow later in the day. Not expecting to meet any one else at the meeting point I was surprised to find 4 others well prepared for the day's walk. Although a little frosty it was a good clear day but a little overcast, so plans were made to cut the walk short should there be a change in the weather. Knowing the weather forecast for the day we promptly set off at a brisk pace. After approximately 20 minutes we arrived at World's End. From there we skirted around the Weston Turville reservoir and nature reserve and into Weston Turville itself. As we made our way through the village Mike said good morning to one of the cheerful locals and then noted that he's the bloke from Antiques Roadshow. We then picked up a footpath that ran parallel with Westend Ditch, which is actually a small stream that rises from a spring in Wendover and flows towards Aylesbury. As we passed through a new-build estate just outside Bedgrove we spotted a wooden sculpture of a duck, and continuing through the estate we also came across sculptures of a badger and then an owl. We then joined the Aylesbury branch of the Grand Union Canal.
After following the canal for a short distance we stopped for lunch at Red House Lock. Leaving the canal at this point we headed into Aston Clinton, before picking up a footpath which was going to take us around the outskirts of RAF Halton airfield, which appeared to be very quiet apart from one small plane which was preparing to take off. We paused for a while to watch the plane take off. Continuing onwards we emerged onto the Wendover branch of the Grand Union Canal. As we made our way along the canal we were able to spot quite a few colourful birds as we headed back to our final destination of Wendover. Despite the yellow weather warning, we never saw a drop of rain or a snowflake and it was in fact perfect weather for a winter day's walk, and we arrived back in Wendover well before darkness fell.
Many thanks to Surinder, Mike D, Phil and Brian F for joining me on this 13-mile winter walk to kick off 2025.
Report by Malcolm
