19. Lechlade to Cricklade
The towpath ends soon after Lechlade and, although navigation is technically allowed as far as Cricklade, only canoes now make it any further upstream as the river is narrow and shallow. In the 1850s it was often full of tall reeds but was cleared by the 1870s which allowed for about 3ft of water for some navigation. For today’s walkers there is one long diversion on a main road until a new riverside path, extending the towpath, is created.
Refreshments
Lechlade: The Riverside café and pub, next to Halfpenny Bridge. Open all day.
Lechlade: The Crown , High Street. Open all day.
Lechlade: The Black Cat Restaurant & Tea Rooms, High Street. Open daily 8.30am to 5.30pm.
Castle Eaton: The Red Lion, The Street. Open all day weekends, Mon-Fri 12-2pm and from 6pm. Riverside garden.
Accommodation
Lechlade: Cambrai Lodge, Oak St, GL7 3AY (01367 253173).
Lechlade: The New Inn, Market Square, GL7 3AB (01367 252296).
Lechlade: Bridge House campsite, GL7 3AG (01367 252348). Mar-Oct.
Castle Eaton: The Malt House, The Street, SN6 6JZ (01285 810822).
Castle Eaton: The Red Lion, The Street, SN6 6JZ (01285 810280).
Transport
Lechlade: National Rail to Swindon then bus 64 & 74 (Stagecoach)
Cricklade: Bus 51 (Stagecoach) to Swindon then National Rail.
Tourist Information
Swindon: 37 Regent Street, SN1 1JL (01793 530328).
Map
OS Explorer 169 (Cirencester & Swindon) and 170 (Abingdon).
