A selection of photos taken on recent walks.
We can't promise good weather but always good company.
Click on the highlighted text to view the photos.
Please send photos to
2023
December
17 Dec - Cranham led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Andy Pearson. More photos by Claire Cox.
A day of mixed emotions today on this 7+ mile walk, for 16 Severnside Ramblers, taking in stretches of The Cotswold Way, Cranham (home of Gustav Holst for a while), and the iconic Cooper's Hill (of cheese rolling fame!). A most enjoyable day with dull and cool, but dry, conditions and nicely undulating paths giving excellent views even as far as the Malvern hills. A sad note to end the day on - biding Chris Bracey a fond farewell after 24 years of walk leading and filling the roles of Chairman & Walks Programme Secretary on several occasions, not to mention his regular narration of the history surrounding us on his walks, all interspersed with appropriate jokes and puns which may have puzzled the wildlife, wondering what all the laughter was about! Many thanks, Chris, for all your years of work for the group - you'll be missed!
10 Dec - Mathern pre-Christmas lunch walk led by Heather Rickards, photos taken by Claire Cox.
Ten hardy folk gathered at The Millers Arms for our traditional pre-Christmas Lunch walk. We started in the rain, but it gradually cleared up and we had a very interesting walk around the area. Thank you, Heather. Our meal at The Millers Arms was very enjoyable. Thank you to Gill King for finding another good venue for Severnside!
3 Dec - Symonds Yat & Bilbins Bridge Loop walk led by Dan Miller, photos taken by Andy Pearson. Additional photos taken by Claire Cox.
We had our doubts about going on this walk, but are so glad we went through with it. The forecast was awful, but hey - what do these forecaster know? Eight intrepid Severnside Ramblers ventured forth to Symonds Yat to follow this 9+ mile route devised by our leader Dan. The rain 'patered' gently most of the day but it didn't dampen our enjoyment of the landscape. The route took in Yat Rock with fabulous views across the deep Wye valley with a very low mist lying below. We reached Biblins bridge for a photo shoot, then doubled back a short way to climb through the woods & criss-cross, then follow, the Wysis way for a stretch, before returning to the cars at English Bicknor. Many thanks, Dan, for leading today - it would be interesting to do this walk in other seasons. Andy P.
November
24 Nov - The Downs and Sneyd Park Nature Reserve walk led by Christine Pankhurst, photos taken by Andy Pearson. Additional photos taken by Peter Spring.
A delightful way to end Severnside Ramblers' Friday Amble season of 2023. A 4.5 mile route for all of 32 members around this local and quite familiar area - Clifton Downs - but including a few somewhat unfamiliar stretches of path. A chilly wind in the exposed areas, but warmer where there was tree shelter. Some great views along the Avon gorge with the sunshine, and even down as far as the M5 bridge at Avonmouth. Many thanks to Christine for bravely leading such a huge crowd on this significant date - yes, folks, a month today (short month too!) is Christmas Eve (sorry). High time to buy your cards and take out a loan for the postage. A sizeable set of photos in Flickr. Andy P
19 Nov - Parkend – Going for gold walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Andy Pearson. More photos taken by Claire Cox.
An amazingly dry day for Severnside Ramblers' Sunday walk of 8.7 miles. It was a bit soft underfoot(!) for the 14 members who braved the (pessimistic) forecast - it stayed mostly dull, but at least mild, with the odd flash of sun to brighten the wonderful Autumn colours. This loop through the Forest of Dean took in the wonderfully named Nagshead Plantation, Cannop ponds (coffee stop), Mallard's Pike Lake (nice lunch stop with picnic benches) and the northern end of The Dean Forest Railway at Parkend, Gloucestershire - great viewing for the Steam enthusiast. The day ended with welcome refreshments in the Whitemead Forest Park, Forest Of Dean restaurant. A fine day's walking - many thanks to Chris Bracey for his leadership skills. Andy P.
12 Nov - Charmy Down walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Claire Cox. More photos taken by Andy Pearson.
Let's just say that today's Severnside Ramblers walk could have been wetter for the 13 members (some from other groups - welcome folks!) who braved the forecast. We had very little rain but underfoot it was rather 'soft going', though some of the 8.5 mile route was on quiet sideroads. St Catherine's valley is remote and very picturesque, while Charmy Down carries much atmosphere, especially on this Remembrance Sunday, where a squadron of Hurricanes took to the skies during our 'finest hour' and for years after as described on the memorial plaque pictured here. The Autumn colours created lovely, serene views in contrast to the bleakness of the abandoned airfield, and our two-minute silence at 11am gave time to reflect on the sacrifices made by so many of 'the few' all those years ago. Many thanks to Chris B. for leading us round this very memorable walk. Andy P.
5 Nov - Severnside Now walk led by Heather Rickards, photos taken by Andy Pearson. More photos taken by Claire Cox. More photos taken by Peter Spring.
A mighty turn out of 20 Severnside Ramblers today for this unusual route of nearly 7 miles from Severn Beach. We followed a stretch of the Severn Way south then turned inland through the industrial estate of huge distribution centres bearing some slightly familiar names like 'Amazon' and 'Range' - the best one being 'Bart' (it's a pity the camera can't record the spicy smell in the air!). Our leader took us to an almost complete junction where a road nearly meets the M49 - the finishing of this project would give a useful connection between the two Severn bridges for the frequent occasions when the first Severn bridge is closed - the route down the coast road and onto the 2nd crossing via the M49 would be so much quicker than the current need to return to Almondsbury at the A38 junction! Ah well - we await developments at some point in the future... Many thanks to Heather for leading this interesting walk, especially as it terminates at Shirley's Cafe. Andy P.
October
29 Oct - Bigsweir walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
An 'exciting' day yesterday for 6 Severnside Ramblers on this 10 mile route above the River Wye. From Brockweir we climbed up the eastern side of the valley to touch on Offa's Dyke Path before taking lunch with fine views; then descended to cross the river at Bigsweir Bridge. Another climb(!) up the western side of the valley took us onto a good stretch of The Wye Valley Walk, passing above Llandogo and by the Cleddon Falls - sorry if I overdid the 'long exposure' iPhone trick on these falls! A day of ups & downs & squelchy mud (but at least it didn't rain), the route gave us a total ascent of nearly 2000 ft. A selection of snaps with a bit of video, so you can see what you missed? Many thanks to Chris B. for leading the day. Andy P.
15 Oct - Cwmcarn Forest Drive and Twmbarlwm walk led by Claire Cox, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
Another day of glorious weather for this Severnside Ramblers walk. 10 members covered this route of 8.5 miles from the car park at the Forest Drive visitors centre in a somewhat hilly loop taking in some fabulous views, to the west across the Severn - the two crossings and the whole coast line down to Crook Peak, Bridgewater Bay & beyond, and to the east with Pen-Y-Fan and the Brecon Beacons in sight. A rich collection of panoramic views are inevitable amongst the other photos in the Flickr album. Curious to have had quite small turnouts in recent weeks, but a chance to have some sort of 'virtual' walk by browsing through this 90-photo album. Many thanks to Claire Cox for leading this 'cracking' outing. Andy P.
8 Oct - Whale Wharf walk photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A very pleasant 10 mile walk today for 5 Severnside Ramblers - a late arrival on the programme which nearly failed to happen due to leader illness, but went ahead at the last minute with a substitute leader! An easy route from Thornbury Leisure Centre, following the Jubilee Way, across the Severn vale to Littleton-upon-Severn. Then on out to the Severn Way at Whale Wharf for a lunch stop overlooking the river with the Forest of Dean opposite. We turned 'inland' then for another brief stop at Cow Hill, topped in a very picturesque way by St Arilda's church, before wending our way back to Thornbury via the Castle and Mundy playing fields. Many thanks to Allan for checking then providing the route. Andy P.
1 Oct - Little Solsbury Hill walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A brilliant 9 mile walk today, devised by our current 'Chair' (Chris Bracey), from the Lansdown P&R near Bath, following an undulating route taking in Solsbury Hill (remember the song?) with its Iron Age Fort and super picturesque valleys, hills & villages. Just seven Severnside Ramblers turned out today for this stunning day of views, all reflected in the 100+ photos in this Flickr album. Many thanks, Chris, for a wonderful (dry & mild) day - to those who missed out, hope you enjoy a virtual tour via the photos - but it's not like the real thing! Andy P.
September
29 Sept - Stinchcombe walk led by Allan Davies, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A fine, clear, sunny day with a pleasant cooling breeze for 15 Severnside Ramblers today on our Friday Amble. 4+ miles from Leaf & Ground near Cam, Dursley up the (minor) hill climb onto Stinchcombe Hill and its golf course followed by a relaxing stooge around the top (dodging golfers!) to take in the wonderful views both south along the edge of the Cotswold escarpment to the Tyndale monument and beyond, and west/north across the Severn vale taking in May Hill and the distant Malverns. Sad to see so many Ash trees being removed due to 'dieback' - the resulting bare hill top will, however, afford very broad views - but it may lead to more lost golf balls when the wind really blows! Many thanks to Allan Davis for leading, and Leaf & Ground for their tasty refreshments after our exertion. Andy P.
3 Sept - Berkeley Deer Park walk led by Dan Miller, photos taken by Andy Pearson. More photos taken by Claire Cox.
Ideal walking weather today for this 8 mile route from Berkeley, taking in the Jenner Museum, the village of Stone on the A38 and the full length of Berkeley Deer Park (not a deer to be seen!). Fine views all round to the Cotswolds in the east, and west to the Severn Vale with May Hill, and the Malverns in the misty distance. Many thanks to Dan for leading this happy band of 16 Severnside Ramblers - a selection of views, insects, fungi and free-range Ramblers in the linked photo album. Andy P.
1 Sept - Old Sodbury walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A fine selection of wildlife on show today - a rabbit and a slow worm, not to mention 29 free-range and (mostly organic) Severnside Ramblers! A lovely, warm day with a fair bit of sun for this 5+ mile Friday Amble in the Old Sodbury area, starting from The Dog Inn on the main road where the Cotswold Way meets the Jubilee Way. Our route also took in a stretch of the Monarch's Way, Little Sodbury, Horton and the very impressive hill fort on the edge of the escarpment which is well known(?) for sheltering Edward IV and his army on their way to the decisive battle of the War of the Roses in 1471. A bit of culture as well as wildlife - what a treat! My map is rather incomplete due to me forgetting to start the tracker until a mile+ into the walk... Many thanks to Chris Bracey for leading today, and the staff of The Dog Inn for so rapidly serving lunches to the rather large crowd who invaded their bar. Andy P.
August
27 Aug - Pershore walk led by Claire Cox, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A lovely and unfamiliar route today for 15 Severnside Ramblers (including a few visitors from other groups - welcome folks) from the bridge car park in Pershore. We followed good stretches of the Avon (the Tewkesbury one, that is!) and we walked through some very attractive villages - many thatched cottages, with two churches serving as coffee/lunch stops. The route extended to Great Comberton via Birlingham, and we arrived at a canal/river lock just in time to watch a narrow boat negotiating a 'lift'. Many thanks to Claire Cox (and Bobby) for leading this most attractive walk. Andy P.
Andy - what a great set of photos! They really capture the flavour of the walk. Thank you! Claire C.
20 Aug - Frampton Mansell walk led by Sue Lancaster, photos taken by Andy Pearson. More photos taken by Claire Cox.
A quite strenuous 10+ mile walk today for 15 walkers, led by Severnside Ramblers' leader, Sue Lancaster. We started in the village of Frampton Mansell and followed a tree lined path through Frampton Wood, passing the western entrance to Sapperton tunnel, which was the longest tunnel (3,817 yards - over 2 miles) of any kind in England when it was built in 1789. We continued on the same line to Pinbury Park before turning west, then north to Edgeworth for lunch by the church. The return route took us along the northern side of the valley, with the River Frome below us. A fine day's walking with just a splash of rain towards the end. Many thanks, Sue, for leading another excellent walk covering the River Frome - the second of a series - watch this space! Andy P.
A vigorous 10 mile walk from Frampton Mansell following the River Frome, with 1380 feet of ascent! We dodged the showers, but faced a fair bit of mud. Thanks to Sue Lancaster for such an interesting walk. Claire C
17 Aug - Abbots Leigh walk led by Christine Pankhurst, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
It didn't rain!! An excellent 5.5 mile Friday Amble for 23 Severnside Ramblers today and in spite of the awful forecast, it stayed very dull, but almost too mild, and dry. Our patient leader Christine Pankhust (leading 22 ramblers takes patience!) took us on an attractive route from The George Inn at Abbots Leigh, along a stretch of the Monarch's Way & into Leigh Woods. We then crossed over the very busy A369 into Ashton Court Estate, before returning across Beggar Bush Lane and plunging into Fish Pond Wood for a coffee stop by Abbot's Pool. A variety of lunches were enjoyed by several of us at The George Inn post-walk. Many thanks, Chris for your leadership today. Andy P.
13 Aug - Frampton on Severn walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A pretty flat, but quite strenuous, 10.5 mile walk today for 13 Severnside Ramblers in the Frampton on Severn area. This was a figure of 8 route which gave the option to leave at the lunch stop by the cars. The first half took us down the canal, through Frampton and the Court estate with coffee stop by the lake. After lunch 9 of us headed out around the rest of the route along the derelict Stroud Water Canal towards the Severn at Framilode, followed by a turn inland and across the peninsula to Fretherne, then back to Frampton via the Severn Way. A fine variety of landscapes, architecture and views - and four churches were visited along the way. Many thanks to Chris Bracey for leading this fascinating walk. Andy P.
6 Aug - Hinton Charterhouse walk led by Les Davidson, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
Some dramatic skies accompanied today's Severnside Ramblers walk from Hinton Charterhouse. Nine members covered this 8 mile route taking in Combe Hay, Midford and a fair stretch of the Limestone Link with a few good 'ups & downs' on the way. That dramatic sky dumped a good drenching on us early in the walk, but the sun came out afterwards and we were perfectly dry again by the time we got back to the cars - good news for the owners! Many thanks to Les for leading us today. Andy P.
July
30 July - Dursley walk led by Christine Turner, photos taken by Claire Cox.
29 July - Hinton Charterhouse pre-walk photos taken by Les Davidson.
As you may guess from one photo, discretion led me to alter a short section of the route at Midford. Les D.
23 July - Wye Valley walk led by Claire Cox, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
MUD! 13 Severnside Ramblers found themselves getting muddy boots today - hardly surprising after the last few days, but it still seemed quite novel. It didn't stop us enjoying this lovely 9 mile route starting at a very quiet Tintern Old Station, along the river to Brockweir bridge, up steeply(!) through the woods to follow the Wye Valley Walk above Llandogo before dropping down to the river again at Bigsweir bridge. The return stretch used Offa's Dyke path and then back across Brockweir bridge to the station. We were, of course, obliged to make use of the, now very busy, cafe to celebrate another route successfully completed. A fine, warm, sunny day was most welcome after the messy weather of the last week or more. Many thanks to Claire Cox for leading us today. A notable feature of today was the huge number of butterflies seen, a few examples amongst the 60 photos. Andy P.
21 July - Odbury on Severn walk led by Jill Parkinson, photos taken by Any Pearson.
A huge turnout of 27 Severnside Ramblers for today's Friday amble in the Oldbury area. The 4 mile route took in Cow Hill - topped by St Arilda's church* - with terrific views up & down the Severn. The return stretch took us along Oldbury Pill to arrive at our refreshment venue - The Anchor Inn - shortly after midday, nicely in time for drinks and lunches for a good half the group. Many thanks to Peter & Jill Parkinson for leading on this last dry day for some time (if the forecasts are to be believed?), and the staff of The Anchor Inn - Oldbury On Severn for their prompt & helpful service. * One of only two 'Arilda's' in the country, the other one also being in the vicinity of another Oldbury (on the Hill) near Didmarton. Andy P.
16 July - Rodborough Common walk led by Kathy Strawbridge, photos taken by Claire Cox. More photos taken by Andy Pearson
Waterproof on - waterproof off - waterproof on - waterproof off.... 10 Severnside Ramblers got nearly as much exercise changing tops as we did walking the 9.5 miles! - we did get quite a lot of sunshine too. A grand route put on by our leader Kathy with fine views, shady glades of Beech trees which offered good shelter against the worst of the showers! and all topped off by a very welcome ice cream at the end. Photos of the day in Flickr - look out for the Emperor moth caterpillar (moth wingspan up to 10cm) which ran the gauntlet by crossing the path we were on. Fortunately we spotted it in time. Andy P.
9 July - Sidmouth walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
After the coach ride to Sidmouth, during which we drove through some quite unpleasant weather, our Severnside Ramblers crew split into 'long', and ,'short' walking groups to enjoy a warm sunny day's walking. The 11 strong 'long' group followed a fairly energetic route west along the SWCP before swinging inland to cross, then follow, the river Otter to a very busy Otterton Mill where we stopped for refreshments. The route then took us further down the river before turning east to return to the SWCP for a return to Sidmouth, via Ladram Bay, over quite an undulating path - all with glorious views from many places. Our 9.5 mile route ended via the outward bound section, back to the coach for a change of foot-ware (very welcome!) before strolling the sea front to find a suitable watering hole... Many thanks to Chris Bracey for leading, and Jean Williams for organising the whole brilliant day. A fairly large collection of photos (100+) of the day. Andy P.
Sidmouth short walk led by Jean Williams, photos taken by Peter Spring.
A great day out for our annual trip with Severnside Ramblers. Weather was kind with lots of sunshine for our walks. I did the short walk ably led by Jean W. which offered lovely views over Sidmouth especially on our last leg down from High Peak. Peter S.
Sidmouth long walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Claire Cox.
Severnside's Annual Coach Trip - this year to Sidmouth. What a lovely day we had! We were so lucky with the weather. Many thanks to Chris Bracey for the challenging, but beautiful 10 mile coastal walk he took us on. Also thanks to Jean Williams for organising yet another super outing for us. Claire C.
Sidmouth short walk photos taken by Jamie Smart - Great day out to Sidmouth
2 July - Kelston Round Hill walk led by Jean williams, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A pleasant, breezy day for this 7 mile walk by 12 Severnside Ramblers - taking in Kelston Round Hill, stretches of the Avon, the Bristol-Bath Railway Path and even a bit of the Cotswold Way. A good climb out of Swineford afforded spectacular views across Bristol and the Severn Vale to the Welsh hills. Many thanks to Jean Williams for leading us - some photos, and a bit of video for the steam train fans. Andy P.
June
23 June - Iron Acton walk led by Bob Smyth, photos taken by Ken Mill.
18 June - Miserden walk led by Sue Lancaster, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
Another hot, sultry (& dry) day today for our little band of 6 Severnside Ramblers on this 7.5 mile walk from the beautiful village of Miserden. The anticlockwise route took us over fields, through nice cool woods and south to Edgeworth where we sat in the shade of the church for lunch. Our return path took us past Misarden Park lake where we spotted many damsel flies and one early dragonfly which escaped my camera. Interesting difference in spellings - Miserden village and Misarden Park - ?? Many thanks to Sue Lancaster for another excellent walk in this most attractive area. Andy P.
11 June - Broadway walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Andy Pearson. More photos taken by Claire Cox.
A hot, steamy day for 8 Severnside Ramblers on this 9 mile route from Broadway. We followed an anticlockwise route, taking in Buckland, Laverton and Stanton via field paths and woodland tracks (nice shade) then turned towards Snowshill. The walk was reduced in length from the original plan by turning north before reaching Snowshill so that we headed back on a more direct route to return to the cars. The weather was very 'sticky' so we were happy to forgo the steep descent/ascent needed to take in Snowshill - never mind! We still had a great day and saw much quintessential Cotswold architecture and many exotic orchids alongside the paths - heading shot here is a Bee Orchid. Many thanks to Chris Bracey for leading us around this excellent route. Andy P.
9 June - Westerleigh walk led by Jean Williams, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
Another warm, dry day today for this 4.5 mile Friday Amble. 23 Severnside Ramblers enjoyed this pleasant route taking in fields & woods (nice shade) with a cool spot for coffee by Bitterwell Lake. We adjourned to Ye Olde Inne for very welcome drinks/snacks at the end. Many thanks to Jean Williams for leading us today. Andy P.
4 June - Castle Combe walk led by Jean Aellen, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A delightful 9 mile walk today for 15 Severnside Ramblers on the eastern fringes of the Cotswolds. We started at the visitors car park outside Castle Combe and in very warm, sunny conditions followed a clockwise circuit taking in the By Brook, Ford, North Wraxall, and crossed The Fosse Way before reaching the outskirts of West Kington. The return leg took us east along a ridge & valley route with several 'ups' & 'downs' before dropping into Castle Combe for a well earned ice cream (well, we thought it was!). The sighting of a Red Kite added to the wonderful views - it's getting almost normal to see one of these iconic birds on our walks! Many thanks to Jean Aellen for leading us today. A varied collection of 78 photos from the day - anyone able to identify some of these flowers? Andy P.
May
21 May - Birdlip walk led by Sue Lanacster, photos taken by Andy Pearson. More photos taken by Claire Cox.
A delightful 10 mile walk today for 13 Severnside Ramblers (including 4 visitors from other groups, who were most welcome), on a new route for this group, over gently undulating countryside (well, many of the 'ups' were gentle!) with grand views and traditional Cotswold architecture. The route took in Brimpsfield, Caudle Green and Misarden Park with its lake where we enjoyed the wonderful vista while taking lunch. Many thanks to Sue Lancaster for another superb day of walking. Andy P.
A lovely 10 mile walk today in glorious sunshine. A good turnout with several new faces. Thanks to Sue Lancaster for such a super route. Claire C.
14 May - Winchcombe walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
Another (mostly!) glorious day of walking for 10 Severnside Ramblers - plus one from our neighbouring group of Kingswood - good to meet you, Graham. An energetic 10+ miles from Winchcombe along stretches of The Cotswold Way and The Warden's Way (many 'ways' converge here!) with grand views and pleasant fields & woods with carpets of bluebells, cowslips and who knows what else? All this being accompanied by the romantic sound of steam whistles from the trains operating along the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway who were having a gala day (see video). A misty, cool start - but warm & sunny later, with not a hint of rain. Many thanks to Chris Bracey for leading his second walk in 3 days. Andy P.
12 May - Penterry walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A pleasant morning for Severnside Ramblers' latest Friday amble today. Just under 5 miles of woods, fields and tracks, starting from The Piercefield Inn at St Arvans. The route took in the little church at Penterry, then returned via the iconic 'Eagles Nest' with a wonderful view across the Wye, Severn & Chepstow. Beyond these the Somerset coast wound into the misty distance with Steep Holm just visible. 24 walkers enjoyed the day including a few who are fairly new to the group - a warm welcome to all. Many thanks to Chris Bracey for leading, and the attentive staff of the Piercefield Inn where some of us took advantage of their menu & bar! Andy P
7 May - Coaley Peak walk led by Sue Lancaster, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A fabulous day of walking today! 9 miles over, up, and down in the Cotswolds from Coaley Peak car park, taking in Cam Long Down, Cam Peak and some stretches of the Cotswold Way. Eleven Severnside Ramblers were just blown away by the amazing displays of Bluebells on show along our route, all backed by terrific views across the Severn to May Hill and the Malverns in the mist. I couldn't resist putting this letter box on the front of the Flickr album - seemed appropriate considering the events this weekend. The quantity of photos here is just a reflection of the quality of the walk - the weather, the scenery, the ups & downs! - and did I mention those glorious Bluebells? Many thanks to Sue Lancaster for giving us such a treat on what was a fairly 'last minute' programme entry. Well over 100 photos lie behind this innocent looking post box... Andy P
April
30 Apr - Twixt Severn and Wye walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A rather damp 7.5 mile route today for 15 Severnside Ramblers along stretches of The Gloucestershire Way and Offa's Dyke Path, taking in the Devil's Pulpit overlooking Tintern Abbey - the monks wouldn't have been troubled by him today, that mist would have spoiled his view as much as it did ours! We adjourned to the Hanley farm cafe at the end and dried out over coffee/tea/cake before leaving. Many thanks to Chris Bracey for leading - just a few photos this time - the Gorse, Bluebells and Cowslips put on a good show to brighten the day. Andy P
28 Apr - Saltford and Kelston walk led by Jean Williams, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A pleasant little Friday Amble today for 25(ish!) Severnside Ramblers - some mud in places but a dry, warm day. We started from the car park of the Bath Cheese Shop (and cafe), took in some fields, a disused railway path and a stretch of the river Avon - passing the locks & weir at Saltford, before returning to, of course, the cafe for very welcome teas, coffees, snacks, lunches to suit. All this under the gaze of Kelston Round Hill with its top knot of trees. Many thanks to Jean Williams for leading, and the busy staff of the Bath Soft Cheese Shop & Cafe. A few photos along the way. Andy P.
16 Apr - Dramway 3 walk led by Claire Cox, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A fascinating 9 mile walk today for 15 Severnside Ramblers with the third of three routes investigating the Dramway. This section runs from Warmley to the end at Londonderry Wharf, taking in Willsbridge and a good stretch of the Avon to The Chequers Inn. A mild and dry day but plenty of mud underfoot in places. Many thanks to our very knowledgeable leader Claire Cox for all the historical information - I'm glad there wasn't an exam at the end! Andy P.
Thank you, Andy! Another set of great photos which capture the mud, the beginning of spring and a good walk with friends! Claire C.
Mar
31 Mar - Wickwar photos taken by Jean Aellen.
We started off in rain, then it stopped, then it drizzled, then it was dry from above but we encountered a 'pond' had developed around a kissing gate - fortunately there was another gate in the field, so with a bit of brute force and skilful paddling we managed to get through to the next field. Then we had sunshine, as seen in the photos, but as we came out of the church the heavens opened and it rained until we got back to the cars. The really good part was that, at the end of the walk, our boots were totally mud free - a benefit of wet grass. Jean A.
28 Mar - Sedbergh - first full day of a week in the HF 'Thorns Hall' house in Sedbergh. A bit wet, shall we say! - but it didn't rain as hard as the forecast warned and the sun nearly came out towards the end. Our illustrious leaders kept the route of 7.5 miles at low level, taking in river banks and fields & woods with fine views of the fells. A large group today (20+) with plenty of chat, especially with the added company of a few ex-members who have left our area and now walk regularly with their own local area groups - good to see you folks! Many thanks to Janet & Mike for leading today. Photos taken by Andy Pearson.
Day 1 Photos taken by Claire Cox. Day 2 Photos taken by Claire Cox. Day 2 Photos taken by Andy Pearson. Day 2 Photos taken by Gill King. More photos taken by Julie Ann Lewis. Day 3 Photos taken by Claire cox. Day 3 Photos taken by Julie Ann Lewis. A selection of photos taken by Chris Gaymer.
22 Mar - Bristol walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Peter Spring.
Some pictures from today's interesting walk round Bristol for 5 Severnside Ramblers. We were very lucky with the weather, very sunny in the morning with more cloud appearing later, but stayed dry. Many thanks to Chris B. for leading such a good walk. Peter S
12 Mar - Prinknash Abbey walk led by Sue Lancaster, photos taken by Claire Cox. More photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A 9 mile walk with Severnside Ramblers starting at Prinknash Abbey, taking in Coopers Hill, the Cotswold Way, Cranham, Paradise and Painswick Beacon. Thanks to Sue Lancaster for leading such an excellent walk! Claire C
A very pleasant 9 mile excursion today for 16 Severnside Ramblers - from the Prinknash Abbey car park, taking in stretches of The Cotswold Way, Coopers Hill (of cheese rolling fame!), Cranham, Painswick Beacon and Kites Hill (local nature reserve) before adjourning to the Abbey cafe for well deserved tea'n'cake! The weather was very kind and held back on the rain for the day & we enjoyed cracking views across the Severn vale to May Hill and beyond. Many thanks to Sue Lancaster for leading the day and all other members for creating such an enjoyable day. Andy P
5 Mar - Old Sodbury walk led by Dan Miller, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A rather chilly day for 17 Severnside Ramblers on this 9.5 mile 'figure of 8' route from Old Sodbury (what a wonderful name) taking in stretches of The Cotswold way, Horton, and skirting Hawkesbury Upton with its nearby Somerset Monument. Lots of Snowdrops visible still and the Daffodils just beginning to take over the job of putting on spectacular displays. Even though it was a rather dull day we had excellent long distance views across the Severn in the west, and were those the Marlborough Downs in the east? Many thanks to Dan for leading us round this varied route - and we even had 'proper' seats for lunch at the cricket ground in Hawkesbury Upton. Andy P.
3 Mar - St Arvans walk led by Bob Smyth, photos taken by Ken Mill.
Feb
26 Feb - Dramway 2 walk led by Claire Cox, photos taken by Andy Pearson. Dramway Leaflet
Your challenge today is to work out, from the photos, what route we walked today - yes, I forgot to fire up the navigator on my iPhone! (sorry). A grand day for 17 Severnside Ramblers on this 6.5 mile route covering the second section of The Dramway. An easy route - except for some quite awkward stiles - but with great views to The Cotswolds to the east, and across north Bristol to the Brecon Beacons and Severn estuary to the west. Many thanks to Claire Cox for leading another wonderful walk. A few photos for 'waymarking'? Andy P.
19 Feb - Painswick walk led by Kathy Strawbridge, photos taken by Claire Cox. More photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A real touch of Spring today for 18 Severnside Ramblers on this 8 mile route from a very packed car park(!) in Painswick. We took in some really picturesque scenery, hosts of Snowdrops, stretches of the Cotswold Way and an energetic climb up to the top of the Beacon with spectacular views across to The Malverns, May Hill and all the way down the Severn to the two crossings. The topograph quoted the distance to the first Severn Bridge (pictured) as being 44 Km. Many thanks to Kathy Strawbridge for leading a fine day's outing. Andy P
17 Feb - Ashton Court walk led by Christine Pankhurst, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
An excellent 4.5 mile amble today taking in Ashton Court estate - watching great herds of deer sweeping majestically across the... sorry got a bit carried away there! A breezy day for 13 Severnside Ramblers with some mist but good views too. All followed by a fine lunch in the Angel Inn, Long Ashton. Many thanks to Christine Pankhurst for leading, and the helpful staff of the Angel. Andy P
12 Feb - Woodchester walk led by Sue Lancaster, photos taken by Andy Pearson. More photos taken by Claire Cox.
An above average turn out for today's 8.5 mile Severnside Ramblers walk with 23 being double our usual head count; all boosted by walkers from two other groups (Kingswood and Clevedon) who were all most welcome. A good climb at the start from Leonard Stanley up onto Selsley Common before swinging south to take in the length of Woodchester Park, passing the lakes and mansion, then back along the edge of the escarpment via The Cotswold Way. The weather stayed cool, with just a breeze, and dull, until the sun finally came out for the last mile or so. Many thanks to Sue Lancaster for expertly leading such a huge crowd - and also thanks to Chris Bracey for doing a great herding job as back marker! A smallish collection of photos to remember the day by. Andy P
5 Feb - Trellech walk led by Kathy Strawbridge, photos taken by Gill King.
3 Feb - Almondsbury walk led by Jean Aellen, photos taken by Ken Mill.
Jan
29 Jan - Charterhouse and above Cheddar walk led by Chris Bracey, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
Let's just say today's walk was a bit damp and muddy - and chilly - and misty... Eleven intrepid Severnside Ramblers ventured into the Mendips for this 9 mile route, from the car park at the top of Burrington Combe and following a circuit taking in Velvet Bottom, Black Rock and the northern edge of Cheddar Gorge. Our return route took in the highest point in the Mendips at Beacon Batch. The conditions rather curtailed the photography, so a small selection of just 20 this time (you'll be glad to hear?). The weather did a kindness by clearing for a spell during our lunch stop, revealing the stunning view which would have been a pity to miss - all the way across to the coast line with Bridgwater bay and as far as Minehead. Many thanks to Chris Bracey for leading us on this varied route. Andy P.
22 Jan - Dramway 1 walk led by Claire Cox, photos taken by Andy Pearson. Dramway Leaflet
A very cold morning gave us one advantage on our Severnside Ramblers walk today - very little mud, since the ground was frozen solid! This was the first of a series of three walks covering the Dramway, from Coalpit Heath to Shortwood via Bitterwell Lake and Westerleigh. An 8.6 mile route for 14 walkers led very ably by Claire Cox who gave us an excellent narration as we inspected the various sites of industrial archaeology along the way. It's difficult to imagine what the environment was like back in 'the day' when coal was mined, loaded onto the drams, and carted several miles down to the river Avon for subsequent distribution to homes and industries across the land. Many thanks, Claire, for a great day's walk. Andy P.
15 Jan - Doynton, Hinton and Dyrham walk led by Les Davidson, photos taken by Claire Cox. More photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A 7 mile walk from Doynton through rain, hail and sunshine! Very wet underfoot, but a lovely walk nonetheless. Thanks to Les Davison for leading us through the mud! Claire C
Thank you so much Les for leading this fabulous walk it hailstoned, rained and there was lots of mud but also lots of chat and good humour. Thank you all for making me so welcome. You really are a lovely walking group. Hope to see you all again soon. Lorraine N
8 Jan - Haresfield Beacon and Painswick walk led by Sue Lancaster, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A chilly day for 6 Severnside Ramblers on this 10 mile route in the Painswick area from the NT car park at Shortwood. The walk took in Pitchcombe, stretches of the Cotswold Way, Painswick with its iconic church yard of 99 Yew trees, Edge and Haresfield Beacon. A mostly dry day with fine views to May Hill and the distant Malverns - we just got a bit damp in the last 30 minutes as we returned to the cars, but a fine day's walking all the same - many thanks to our leader Sue Lancaster for an excellent outing. Andy P.
2 Jan - Mendips pre-walk - Chris Bracey, photos taken by Andy Pearson.
A day of wonderful weather for Chris Bracey's prewalk of his Mendip round. We accompanied him on this 9.2 mile walk from Burrington Combe car park on a slightly muddy route taking in Velvet Bottom (brilliant name!), along the north side of Cheddar Gorge and some stretches of the West Mendip Way - all under blue skies and a gentle breeze. It was almost like spring at times! Many thanks to Chris for the invite. Andy P.