WALK REPORT

CHIPPING NORTON, February 4th 2007

On Sunday 4^th February eight members embarked on a tour of the hidden gems of the northeastern Cotswolds. After a scenic detour by coach due to a railway bridge closure (and not even any snow!) the walk started outside Moreton-in-Marsh and headed along the Evenlode Vally to the village of Evenlode. A gentle climb led to a ridge overlooking the valley and this was followed to Chastleton, a village boasting a fine Jacobean manor house and dovecote. A woodland walk culminated in fine views across to Chastleton House and beyond to Burton-on-the-Hill and Sezucote House. The next stop was Adlestrop where we had the opportunity to sit on an authentic GWR seat from the golden age of steam and we read the ode penned by Edward Thomas “Yes I remember Adlestrop ….” Sadly a complaint was received that the poem didn’t rhyme…. Daresford House and Farm provided an example of a manicured farm with creative topiary bushes in tubs strategically placed outside the cow shed (or hen house?).

After a lunch break with optional farm shopping and fabulous conveniences (the lavender and rosemary hand soap retailed at £9.99 per dispenser). The walkers then passed through Kingham (the most desirable village to live in – R.W. Telegraph reader) with a final break to bask in the glorious sunshine outside the church in Churchill – notable for the number of heads carved on the church tower. The final stretch passed Bliss Hill, famous for Bliss Tweed and now converted into apartments and then into Chipping Norton., with just a little time left for a very swift pint!

Nadeine Harris