Five runaway to Bath
It was a chilly Saturday at the end of February and four happy hostellers trundled across country eventually arriving at the lovely Georgian mansion which is now the Bath Youth Hostel.
We set off for the city centre to meet up with Sheila (number five, in case you were wondering) and found a spot for lunch by the river overlooking the famous Pulteney Bridge. The town was a bustle of activity with shoppers and tourists even in February, so leaving it all behind we headed off east alongside the Kennet & Avon Canal for a gentle stroll past barges and the occasional water bird. A very tranquil and well-recommended route.
At Bathampton we stopped at a lovely old pub, The George, for a much needed cup of tea or half of the local beer in front of an open fire. A little further on we crossed a rare footbridge and climbed one of the seven hills surrounding Bath, our route taking in part of the ‘Skyline Trail’. Then on we went past the golf club on Claverton Down and conveniently back to the hostel.
The hostel was very busy with other walking groups, including the Bristol contingent who were in the midst of restoring the grounds to their original Georgian glory. Should be a treat once finished.
Sunday was bright & sunny but with a biting cold wind. We set off on the first stretch of the Cotswold Way to enjoy stunning views across Bristol, the Severn and even the Brecon Beacons. Lunch was eaten sheltering behind a wall, not far from the site of an important battle in the Civil War. Near the end of the walk the footpath was unofficially diverted to take us away from a sinister looking farm supposedly lived in by witches……with guns. Thankfully we were able to take advice from some friendly locals and all arrived safely back at Sheila’s house to fortify ourselves with tea & cakes before the drive home.
A very enjoyable weekend was had by all!
Trevor B
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