Beyond the Thames Path: River Thames at Gravesend
The last few days have been hectic to say the least. We are scheduled to move around 400 bags this month, most of which has now been done. Our busiest period was last week when we had close to 30 people on the trail on any particular day. In the midst of this, a scheduled closure of the M4 (installation of the smart motorway) created gridlock in Windsor and we resorted to moving bags there by train. Fortunately we have not been impacted by the Insulate Britain protests – but who knows where they will strike next. Our vehicles have full tanks of petrol so we’re good for the next four days. Challenging times!
Since our last newsletter we’ve had four groups complete the entire walk in one go. Special mention to Jean who, a little like Forrest Gump, reached the Thames Barrier and just kept walking. She finally stopped at Shoeburyness in Essex, having crossed the river on the ferry at Gravesend.
Now that our peak is through, we hope to bring this newsletter back to you on a regular weekly basis.
The Path remains firm and dry throughout.
There are diversions in place just downstream of Goring. We haven’t visited these ourselves (yet) but understand it adds about an extra mile
Thanks to John for this alert who is a member of our Thames Path Walkers Facebook group
The Chelsea Flower Show has just started. It is housed in the grounds of the Royal Hospital near Chelsea Embankment (left bank). The last day is the 26th of September.
Abingdon Michaelmas Fair is being held on the weekend of October 4 and 5.
As reported previously:
Throughout September, Eel Pie Island, accessible by footbridge from the left bank near Twickenham, is hosting illustrated walks every Thursday and Sunday at 11am and 2pm.
Southwark Cathedral have put on an exhibition about mudlarking. The exhibition is on display until October 30.
For a list of scheduled events and festivals, see our events page.
Hospitality
We’ve been in and out of quite a few establishments since our last newsletter. Here’s a quick rundown:
We received very positive reviews of The Crown at Cookham. This will be added to our planner in due course. Less positive was the Manor Hotel in Datchet, much of which remains closed due to refurbishment.
And speaking of refurbishment, the George at Eton is back up and running; whilst the Macdonald Windsor (no, not McDonalds which is on the same street!) has shut down.
Finally some feedback on the best accommodations from our “end to ender’s”, Ruth and Natasha: the Ferryman, Bablock Hythe; the Row Barge at Henley; and Norfolk House in Maidenhead. Honours awarded on account of the friendly staff.
That’s all folks. Mind how you go!
Ready to book?
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