England’s Green and Pleasant Lands
Continued dry weather has resulted in a rather parched landscape with yellowing grass in the meadows. July was the driest on record since 1911. Coming on top of a dry spring and a relatively dry winter, it’s no surprise that water levels are very low.
Something that might be banned are the disposable barbecue sets that are frequently sold in garages. The London Fire Brigade are supporting a petition to ban these on safety grounds. Aside from being a major fire risk, they are a danger to others if left on the ground.
Route News
Some of the Path is starting to become overgrown with brambles. The worst stretch is probably downstream of Culham Lock. You might want to carry a stick and/or wear long trousers. This is entirely normal for this time of the year.
The walkway on the left bank at Barnes Bridge is starting to take shape. This will eliminate the walk inland alongside the railway line
There are still a number of diversions in place. Starting from the source:
Diversions remain in place around the closed boardwalk upstream from Marsh Lock, Henley. If walking downstream, there seems to be a sign missing: if you get to the fenced off boardwalk leading to Marsh Lock then you’ve missed the turn. There is a path leading to your left about 20 yards before the boardwalk. See picture below.
Approaching Barnes Bridge, the right bank towpath will be closed until early October whilst work on strengthening flood defences takes place. A diversion is in place along Mortlake High Street between Jubilee Gardens and the White Hart.
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.
As it’s now the school holidays, there is a lull in organised events so not much happening. If walking through Reading at the end of August, be prepared for Reading Festival. This major rock festival is held on the banks of the river. Although the Path is not impacted during day time, walkers may feel a little out of place unless wearing wellington boots!
Marble Hill is hosting free music, dance and theatre events every Sunday through August and September. Performances range from Bollywood to Shakespeare.
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.
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. The Palace is open until October 2.
Tate Modern has launched an exhibition entitled Surrealism beyond Borders and runs until August 29. It includes works by Magritte and Dali.
The London Luminaries lecture series will be held this autumn. This will feature lectures about Hogarth’s House, Ham House, Orleans House, Garrick’s Temple, Marble Hill, Turner’s House, Pope’s Grotto, Fulham Palace, Chiswick House and a few more.
Shop Update
Sadly we have had to discontinue the popular Thames Path AZ published by Harper Collins. This is now out of print. A new map will be published in February 2023 entitled Thames Path National Trail Planning Map.
Instead we will be substituting the 1:25,000 route map booklet that comes with the Leigh Hatts book. This can be bought on its own, or in combination with the Trailblazer Guide.
And finally…
We mentioned in our last newsletter that Swan Upping was in progress. Well, we were able to catch the tail end of this .
That’s all folks. Mind how you go!
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