I have been walking the Thames upper reaches following the recent floods. In some places the gound is still not firm and it is fascinating to see the flood plain often clearly marked by debris.
Residents have lots a stories about paddling to work or being thankful that they live in a raised home.
Walking from Lechlade to Cricklade on the very first day of September I spotted a remote old wooden holiday cottage which had been built a few feet above ground.
I also found the bushes heavy with blackberries which is unusual. On the footbridge at the west end of the new lonely riverside section upstream of Castle Eaton not only did I have to squeeze past blackberries but I spotted plenty apples above on a tree.
On the final Thames crossing before Cricklade I was sorry to see that the lifting bars on the bridge’s stiles remain broken. It’s a reminder that cattle are no longer by the river here.
But biggest disappointment was being unable to have a cup of tea at Cricklade. I had forgotten that the Cricklade Cafe closes at 4pm. At least the Black Cat Tearooms at Lechlade stay open until 4.30pm.
But it was good to be able to have lunch in Castle Eaton at the The Red Lion which is now open every lunchtime, offers bed and breakfast as well as a welcome to serious walkers.
See Chapter 19.