Early July marks the start of the summer holiday season. And, ironically, a downturn in activity! Now this may come as a surprise. But, in fact, our busiest months are May, June and September. We are often asked the reason for this and we can only offer two possible explanations:
1. July and August can get quite hot for walking
2. Many walkers prefer to avoid the summer holidays as they fear it might be busy.
Whatever the reason, if you’re planning a late getaway to the Thames Path, you might be pleasantly surprised.
Route News
We’ve had some exceptionally dry weather with very little rain. The river levels are well below usual for this time of year. With that in mind, and considering we’ve got a little more time now that the first of our two peaks has passed, we went in search of the first water on the Thames. We knew it wouldn’t be at the official source (which is often dry even in winter), but we did expect it to be near Kemble. In fact, it wasn’t until we reached Ewen, 2.4 miles into the walk, that water appeared.
There are still a number of diversions in place. Starting from the source:
Between Eynsham and King’s Lock another fish pass is being built resulting in a small diversion.
Diversions remain in place around the closed boardwalk downstream from Marsh Lock, Henley. These are well signposted with no extra distance required.
Since our last newsletter, some resurfacing has been completed at Caversham Lock
Finally, there’s a diversion in Greenwich. Short in length (about 200 metres) but long in time (until October). Diversions are in place using roads. The diversions are required as work is undertaken on flood defences.
Henley Festival is currently in progress, finishing this Sunday with performances by Katherine Jenkins and Jack Savoretti on the famous floating stage. Next week Henley can breathe!
Next weekend is the Fairford Air Show. RAF Fairford lies between Cricklade and Lechlade. It was built in 1944 to support the D-Day landings and boasts the longest runway in Europe. The Red Lion at nearby Castle Eaton will be hosting a live music festival during those days: “Airfest”.
Southwark Cathedral is hosting a mudlarking day on Saturday July 16. There will be various exhibits including book signing by renowned mudlarker Laura Maiklem. Entry is free.
Reminders:
Kelmscott Manor, the former home of William Morris, has now re-opened. Opening times are Thursday to Saturday from 11am to 5pm. Last admission is 4pm. Pre-booking is advised.
Henley is hosting the Traditional Boat Festival on 15-17 July, an opportunity for enthusiasts to display older, traditionally built craft.
Marble Hill in Twickenham has finally re-opened. See here for more details.
Buckingham Palace will open on July 22 and will feature a display looking at The Queen’s Accession to the throne in February 1952. On display will be the Diamond Diadem, which was created for the famously extravagant coronation of George IV in 1821. Her Coronation Dress is on display at Windsor Castle
Tate Modern has launched an exhibition entitled Surrealism beyond Borders and runs until August 29. It includes works by Magritte and Dali.
Accommodation News
The George at Dorchester is currently closed for refurbishment. And the Plough at Clifton Hampden is undergoing its own special care. It’s getting a new roof!
Shop Sales
Although products on our online shop say “not available for overseas customers”, that is not strictly correct: they are available but there will be a shipping surcharge. So, if there’s anything there that you want, just email us and we’ll see if we can get it to you.
That’s all folks. Mind how you go!
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