Last weekend saw our family day being spent locally going on a walk from Bradford-on-Avon to Freshford.
We regularly pop to Bradford for a stroll along the canal and a play on the park but we are now encouraging the kiddos to stretch their legs further on some proper walks. A post by Bradford-on-Avon Mum reminded me of a walk I had done with the husband many years ago.
The plan was to walk along the river then through the fields meeting up with the canal at Avoncliff. Then, carry on to Freshford before returning back and heading into town by the canal.
It didn't quite end up like that!
In the fields we discovered willow mazes where we unsuccessfully tried to lose the kiddos. At this point the boy found his favourite thing to have on a walk, a stick of course. It came in handy to get us through the mud; thick, oozy, mud!
We made it through and clambered up the banks to get to the canal aqueduct at Avoncliff. In this photo the canal is behind us going over the River Avon.
Then it was onwards to Freshford. We passed through a lovely gate under an old oak tree into the field adjacent to the river - here the girl spotted some beautiful cobwebs in the grass. Finally we were in the village of Freshford where we rested opposite the pub - yes, opposite the pub and not in it! The plan was to turn back and retrace our footsteps through the mud. In his wisdom the husband suggested a trip back on the train - stubborn me wanted a big walk but once the kiddos had this option in their head there were cries of, "We're so tired, it's too muddy to walk back!" Etc etc. Stubborn me started to walk back. I soon changed my mind.
I'm so glad I did as the walk up the hill to the station was a joy. The station was like stepping back in time - so peaceful. The children couldn't remember the last time we went on a train so they were rather excited - even though it would only be an eight minute journey.
Back in Bradford-on-Avon, it was time to run to the park. It was a little muddier than last time but that's what waterproof trousers are for.
As the sun began to drop in the sky we wandered back to the car for a mug of hot chocolate and marshmallows.
Next time we will walk further!
Linking up with the super Country Kids...
x x x
