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I'd been warned that the path between Cricklade & Lechlade was very muddy and tough going by a fellow walker who'd done this walk the week before me. Not wishing a repeat of yesterday's walk in wet wellies, I hatched a Plan B. I would wear an old pair of walking shoes and carry my current pair of shoes in my rucksack. Should the old pair get a soaking I'd switch to my newer pair. I also packed a load of socks. My aim for today was to walk to Lechlade and then see how much further I could get before my feet said 'Enough is enough!'. I parked my car in a car park close to the bus station in Swindon and caught bus 51 to Cricklade. I then walked down to Tesco to buy a sandwich for my lunch. I continued down the High Street and turned into Abingdon Court Lane to rejoin the Thames Path. A few weeks earlier it had been impossible to walk under the bridge carrying the main A419 road because of the flooding. Today it was completely dry. Path under the A419 is dry This is good I thought, as did the 4 walkers ahead of me. I kept on walking expecting the path to turn into a bit of a quagmire at any moment but it never happened. In fact the condition of the path was really good I thought because if it's rutted and hard it plays havoc with your feet and if it's muddy and slippery it saps your energy. Today it was soft enough to be really pleasant. I really hoped that pride wouldn't come before a fall as it had yesterday. I was enjoying this! Path in great condition Plenty of dragonflies Plenty of butterflies too I soon reached Castle Eaton, the only village you pass before Lechlade. The Red Lion pub claims to be the first pub on the River Thames. Castle Eaton The Red Lion Castle Eaton Heading out of Castle Eaton the tower of the church in Kempsford could be seen in the distance. Kempsford in the distance News that I would be walking the Thames Path in the area today had got out and the kind people who maintain the path were out cutting the grass for me to make my journey that much easier. I thanked them accordingly. Grass being cut for me! A newish Thames Path fingerpost Very soon I could see one of my favourite houses along the Thames Path in the distance. It's in the hamlet of Hannington Wick by Hannington Bridge. It's covered in ivy and to me is just stunning. Always love seeing this house I want to live here The river near Inglesham Approaching Inglesham I passed a couple who looked like they were just taking a breather. We got talking and they told me they were from Canada and were here on holiday. After 2 weeks in London at the time of King Charles' Coronation they were spending a few days walking parts of the Thames Path. They noticed the Papworth Hospital Charity logo on my shirt and gave me a £10 donation. Catherine and Bruce - such nice people! Catherine & Bruce from Canada Continuing past the church in Inglesham and walking through a couple of fields with cows, I arrived at Lechlade at about 13:30. St John The Baptist Church Inglesham The river takes a 90 degree turn at Lechlade All of a sudden the river is coming to life Time for my sandwich sitting on a bench by the side of the river, admiring Lechlade. Definitely a good time to also get my drone out. Lechlade-on-Thames I knew that Lechlade was the furthest I could get today and be able to get back to my car in Swindon using just buses. However, as I still had the afternoon ahead of me and it was such a nice day, I decided I'd walk as far as I could today and then get a taxi to the nearest public transport. So, after a short rest it was time to move on towards St John's Lock. Carrying a spare pair of shoes in my rucksack together with my drone and water bottles etc was weighing me down unnecessarily I decided. The shoes I was wearing, whilst dry, were very old & worn, so before leaving Lechlade I ditched them in a bin and wore my new shoes instead. View upstream from Halfpenny Bridge Lechlade Halfpenny Bridge Lechlade Looking downstream from Halfpenny Bridge Lechlade St Lawrence Church Lechlade Drone time again. St John's Lock just below Lechlade is the furthest upstream lock on the River Thames. St John's Lock St John's Lock St John's Lock is also where you'll find a statue of Old Father Thames (one of many along the Thames). Apparently Old Father Thames was an old god of the River Thames and would help runaways flee along the river! This statue was moved here from the Source at Kemble in 1974 following vandalism. Good Old Father Thames Artistic time now. So many of the meadows I'd walked through and would continue to walk through were ablaze with carpets of buttercups. I've never seen so many. It's difficult to capture the scale in a photograph so here's a very short video. Bloomer's Hole Footbridge. Looks wooden but is actually iron encased in wood - sneaky! Today & tomorrow would feature large numbers of cows. All very laid back. Cows downstream of Buscot Lock Next up Kelmscott. Do I leave here or continue? I decide to continue I could finish here Kelmscott Manor Continuing alongside the river I arrived at Grafton Lock. By the side of the lock island was a female swan sitting on her nest incubating her eggs. Keeping guard and making sure no harm came to the swan was a huge topiary cat that I must admit I've never noticed before. I knew the swan was here as I follow the Instagram account of the lock keeper and his family 'life_at_the_lock'. This is full of helpful, useful and humorous posts. Got a pic of the main man himself. Topiary cat keeping guard! Lock keeper - Instagram life_at_the _lock Eek! It was now 17:30 and my feet were telling me it was time to stop. I was a little over 1 mile away from Radcot Bridge and more importantly Ye Olde Swan! Whilst ordering my pint I asked the lady behind the bar how far it was to Faringdon, where I knew I could get a bus back to Swindon. She told me it was about a 4 minute drive so at first I thought that would be walkable. After relaxing by the river with my pint I decided that was too far. I called Faringdon Cars who I've used a few times in the past. I was quoted £10. That would be £10 well spent. Radcot Bridge - actually 3 separate bridges Wow! What a great place to relax at When the car arrived the driver laughed at what I'd been told about the distance to Faringdon as it's actually the best part of 3 miles and the road is busy with no pavements. I was dropped off at Market Place in Faringdon and a few minutes later bus S6 for Swindon arrived. Once back at the bus station in Swindon I collected my car and drove to the Travelodge at ................ Faringdon. There is method here. I'll explain on the next stage. Official distance covered today - 17.2 miles.

Swinford Toll Bridge Monday had finished with me enjoying a pint at Ye Olde Swan at Radcot, getting a cab to Faringdon, a bus to Swindon and a drive back to Faringdon to spend a night at the Travelodge. Pretty mad I know but it had been thought through. Being almost brand new, the Faringdon Travelodge is eminently nicer than Swindon, it's cheaper to stay in and car parking is free; as an OAP these things are important!! Most importantly, staying in Faringdon also meant I could get an early start to today's walk. Had the breakfast room to myself at the Travelodge After my 3rd cooked breakfast in as many days I drove to the centre of Faringdon, parked my car and called my friends at Faringdon Cars for a cab. Market Place Faringdon 15 minutes later I was back at Radcot Bridge. The aim today was to get to Swinford Bridge because there is a bus stop there with a regular service into Oxford and from Oxford there is an equally regular service out to Faringdon. Old Radcot Bridge - one of 3 bridges collectively known as Radcot Bridge Looking downstream from Radcot Bridge My first sighting of cygnets this year After about half an of walking I decided it was drone time again to demonstrate how the river was slowly meandering its way towards Oxford. Meandering river About 10 minutes later I was walking across a field of cows when I saw a fellow Thames Path walker approaching from the opposite direction. I knew this was Keld who I'd been following on Twitter. We'd worked out that we'd cross paths that morning. As we were talking, the cows wanted to join the party and pretty soon they'd formed a circle around us. It was hilarious. Me & Keld Cows want to join in At Rushey Lock I noticed that since I was last here a year earlier, the topiary toad (or is it a frog?) was sporting a rather natty crown on its head. Rushey Lock - the Thames Path crosses the weir & lock to the opposite bank Is it a toad or a frog? Tadpole Bridge came up next. It was a little early to stop for a lunchtime pint at The Trout Tadpole Bridge Half an hour later the path entered Chimney Meadows - the Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust's largest nature reserve in Oxfordshire. https://www.bbowt.org.uk/nature-reserves/chimney-meadows The reserve is so peaceful and tranquil. Welcome to Chimney Meadows Hairpin bend in the river I'd not actually seen many boats so far BBOWT bird hide in Chimney Meadows Shifford Lock Cut was excavated to cut out a section of the main course of the river. It is almost straight and about 1 mile long. The excavation created an island bounded by the cut and the original course. The Thames Path follows the cut and about half way along crosses onto this island over a wooden footbridge, imaginatively called the Shifford Cut Footbridge. At the end of the cut the Thames Path crosses to the south bank of the river over a short, simple footbridge. Pair of swans flying under Shifford Cut Footbridge Shifford Lock can only be accessed on foot from the north bank of the cut Family of geese Another 2.5 miles after crossing to the south bank of the river I finally arrived at Newbridge. Newbridge is the name of the bridge here and it's in the middle of nowhere. It's also an odd name, as whilst it was obviously new when it was built in the 14th century it's the 2nd oldest bridge along the Thames. The bridge carries the Abingdon to Witney road. Considering its location it's surprising that there are 2 pubs here at either end of the bridge and a bus service. The Maybush is on the south bank and the Rose Revived is on the north bank. I've visited both in the past and the Rose Revived wins hands down in my opinion. Anyway, it was 13:45 and I was feeling more than a little peckish and thirsty. I crossed the bridge to the Rose Revived and ordered a pint and a packet of crisps. Sitting at a table by the river I consumed these whilst surreptitiously eating my shop-bought sandwich. Newbridge - Maybush on the right & Rose Revived on the left Newbridge Rose Revived advises me that I've walked 40 miles of the Thames Path to get here Duly refreshed & rested it's time to move on again The section of the Thames Path between Newbridge and Bablock Hythe is probably the most remote. It is getting on for 4 miles of meadows, mostly carpeted with buttercups. Up to this point cows had been my company but suddenly it was sheep - lots and lots of sheep and lambs. All very pleasant. Looking back upstream - so peaceful Northmoor Lock - probably the most remote lock on the river Perfect! Bablock Hythe is a small hamlet which appears to consist of a pub and a very large caravan park. At one time there was a ferry here (hence why the pub is called the Ferryman) and the towpath continued on the opposite bank of the river. The ferry service stopped in the early 2000s. The Thames Path leaves the river here and for the next 2 miles continues along country roads and fields full of sheep. As I was walking along the road by the caravan park I caught up with a couple of ladies who were clearly fellow walkers. As you do, I exchanged pleasantries with them and as things turned out, walked with them all the way to Pinkhill Lock where they were leaving to meet their husbands at Farmoor Reservoir. Anyway, they noticed the logo on my t-shirt and generously gave me £20 for my charity. So, thank you very much Sue and Fiona. Sue, had just completed her own challenge raising money for Autism Family Support Oxfordshire, doing 60 cold water swims on 60 consecutive days starting on her 60th birthday in March. Hats off to her! By the way, I felt it only fair that I should donate to her charity. Sue & Fiona who I walked with briefly On reaching Pinkhill Lock, Sue and Fiona took the path to Farmoor Reservoir and I took the Thames Path towards Swinford Bridge. Pinkhill Lock I was nearing the end of my walk. The Thames Path was forced to briefly leave the river for a few hundred yards and rejoined at a boatyard. I could see Swinford Bridge in the distance and to reach it I just had to walk through a meadow absolutely covered with buttercups; it was quite a sight. Thames Path goes through this boatyard So many buttercups! Swinford Bridge - one of my favourites Swinford Bridge catching the sun - end of today's walk The great thing about Swinford Bridge (apart from its beauty) is that there is a bus stop less than 100 yards away as well as a bench. I sat in the late sunshine waiting for my bus, eating the banana I'd taken at breakfast from the Travelodge! It didn't bother me that it was 6:30 and I still had 2 buses to catch and a 2 hour drive home. I had reached the point where I could now complete most of the remaining stages of my challenge by travelling to and from home each day. Official distance covered today was 17.5 miles.

After a 3 day break from living the high life in Premier Inns and Travelodges, it was time to continue my challenge, this time from home. I drove to the Seacourt Park & Ride in Oxford and parked up for the day for £2. Bus E1 stopped directly opposite the P&R and dropped me off at Swinford Bridge 15 minutes later. At 9:15 I was on my way in the direction of Oxford. A very short diversion right at the start caused by a collapsed river bank soon brought me out at Eynsham Lock. Eynsham Lock For the first 2.5 miles between Eynsham and King's Lock, the path passed through meadows that of course were bursting with buttercups. Between Eynsham & King's Lock Wytham Great Wood in the background Path hugs the river bank I soon came to King's Lock. The lock gates between St John's Lock at Lechlade and King's Lock Oxford are all manually operated, unlike all the other locks that are hydraulically operated. King's Lock looking immaculate King's Lock & Weir King's Lock Another mile towards Oxford and the path passed under the A34 and shortly after that it was necessary to cross the road at Godstow Bridge. Next came the remains of Godstow Abbey and Godstow Lock, a perfect excuse to get the drone in the air again. A34 in the background, Godstow Bridge in the foreground & The Trout on the right Godstow Bridge Remains of Godstow Abbey - a Benedictine nunnery from the 12th century Godstow Lock. Note that this is hydraulically operated Needless to say, being a sunny Saturday morning, from this point on there were loads of people out walking, cycling, rowing, swimming & picnicking. It was great to see so many people enjoying the path and the river. Venetian rowing - makes sense - you can see where you're going Port Meadow on the other side of the river Despite all the roadworks going on at Osney Bridge in the centre of Oxford, the celebrity heron - Twitter Osney Bird Instagram Osney Bird - was in his usual position patiently looking out for his next snack on the small weir stream. As I was in no hurry today I watched him for a few minutes and was rewarded by seeing him expertly catch 2 fish. What a star he is. Osney Bridge Osney Bird Ready to pounce Gotcha! Continuing along the path I reached Osney Lock Hydro and Osney Lock. The gates to the hydro were open for the first time since I've been walking past it. It was possible to see the Archimedean screw in action, albeit behind thick glass. Osney Lock Hydro was the first community-owned hydro scheme owned by local residents. It can generate sufficient electricity to power about 50 households. Osney Lock Hydro Osney Lock Hydro After the lock, the river meandered gracefully towards Folly Bridge. Before getting there however was Grandpont Bridge AKA Gasworks Pipe Bridge. Somewhere as nice as Oxford doesn't deserve this bridge. In my opinion it is the ugliest bridge across the Thames. Thankfully it has been closed since March 2021 for safety concerns. Unfortunately, work is about to start to repair it. If only they'd just remove it and replace it with something more pleasing to the eye. The river between Osney & Folly Bridge The Gasworks Pipe Bridge Folly Bridge and Island came next, along with Folly Bridge Tower. Folly Bridge & Island Folly Bridge Tower This is as much of Oxford city centre that the river passes and from now on the path would carry on towards Abingdon. As I continued, the path passed a number of boat houses on the opposite side of the river belonging to individual Oxford colleges. They were all very busy today. I asked one of the numerous people sporting hi-vis vests what was going on. I was told there were inter-college races going on that afternoon. A bit of Googling and I discovered that Eights Week AKA Summer Eights was taking place between 24th & 27th May and that today's races were for colleges to try to get themselves up the batting order. It sounded to me like this was a mini Henley Regatta. I hung around to watch the first race. You can learn all about Eights Week here - Eights Week The college boat houses The crowd patiently waiting for the racing to start Continuing towards Abingdon I passed the Isis River Farmhouse. In this neck of the woods River Thames is often referred to as the River Isis. It derives from the ancient name for the Thames, Tamesis, which in the Middle Ages was believed to be a combination of "Thame" and "Isis". History lesson over. The Isis River Farmhouse is not only a pub right by the river but it's also a wedding venue with its own private meadow & moorings! The venue is right by Iffley Lock which provides a great location for wedding photos. The Isis River Farmhouse Iffley Lock just a short walk from the Isis River Farmhouse. Congratulations! Now back to the venue & let the party begin Iffley Lock is unbelievably photogenic so it was time to launch the drone again. Iffley Lock Iffley Lock Iffley Lock - you can see the wedding marquee for the wedding Continuing past Iffley I passed under the Oxford Eastern Bypass bridge where the graffiti digging at the directors of Thames Water can be found. Thames Water graffiti Next I came to Sandford Lock. I was a bit early this year for its display of roses. Sandford Lock The final 5 miles from Sandford Lock to Abingdon are not enjoyable and have no real highlights. However, today I was excited to have a hedgehog cross in front of me and I learned all about crimson clover. However, to top both of these I saw engineers working on the repairs to the Nuneham Railway Bridge AKA Nuneham Viaduct, after it was closed in April 2023 on concerns it was sinking into the river! The closure of the bridge has stopped through trains running between Oxford and Didcot Parkway and has resulted in a lot of very frustrated and cross train travellers. The good news is that it is due to reopen again on June 10th! A hedgehog! Crimson clover. Planted by farmers as a nitrogen-fixing cover crop! Nuneham Viaduct Nuneham Viaduct Nuneham Viaduct After what seemed like to be forever I finally reached Abingdon Lock. My spirits were raised by the noise of the weir and the humour of presumably(?) the Environment Agency and the signs within the lock. Crossing the weir to reach the lock. The Thames Path crosses here Very pretty fingerpost Love this! What a pretty setting in the lock Great humour! Last one of the day Official distance walked today was 15.6 miles. I've now completed 62.5 miles of the Thames Path. I walked to a bus stop in the middle of Abingdon and caught bus 33 that took me back to my car in Seacourt P&R. A most welcome sight - my bus stop!

Lechlade The final stage of my 2024 Thames Path challenge to walk from Sea to Source in 11 stages. This was the first time I’d walk from Lechlade to the Source in one go rather than stopping at Cricklade. For this to work I’d have to start from Swindon where I’d get a bus to Highworth (7) and another one to Lechlade (77). However, since 2024 I’ve noticed there is now a number 64 bus that goes to Lechlade without the need to change at Highworth. Just after 9:30 I was in Lechlade and ready for the off. This was the weekend of the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, so for most of the morning I was treated to a free air display. It slowed me down stopping to watch the aircraft but it didn’t bother me as it was a lovely day. Hasty descent with military aircraft heading for me! Inglesham marked the end of where I could legally fly my drone this morning St John the Baptist Church Inglesham Castle Eaton Castle Eaton This bridge at Cricklade carries utilities over the river Cricklade I reached Cricklade 5 hours later, bought a sandwich at the Tesco store in the high street and ate it at one of the benches at the other end of the high street by the river. Cricklade High Street Cricklade The Thames at Cricklade After a short rest I set off again on the final 12 miles of my walk to the Source. As I was walking on this warm and sunny afternoon, I couldn’t help but think back to those people who insist on walking this section in miserable winter weather. Where’s the enjoyment in doing that? 12 miles to go! North Meadow Cricklade One of the many lakes at Cotswold Water Park One of my favourite Thames Path fingerposts - so much character. It was finally replaced in March 2026 Ashton Keynes Cricket Club Ashton Keynes Ashton Keynes Ashton Keynes Beyond Ashton Keynes Neigh Bridge Country Park - 5 miles to go! The lake at Neigh Bridge Country Park Late afternoon - such a lovely time of day Crystal clear River Thames Cows more interested in grass than me Ewen. In winter this gets so muddy Ewen River bed practically dry A429 road bridge at Kemble This is always bone dry in summer But in a wet winter it's like this - February 2026 Anyway, I reached the source at about 19:30, so 10 hours to walk 23 miles; not very quick but so what - I’d completed my challenge to walk 232 miles Sea to Source in 11 stages. This really was something to celebrate, so I walked to the Thames Head for a pint and steak & chips! Nearly there! Made it! Vandalised fingerpost! :( It's getting a bit late now! I now had to walk to Kemble Station to catch the train back to Swindon. I’d been monitoring the train situation after the line was closed in the late afternoon due to an incident. I ended up sitting on the platform for an hour until a train finally arrived at 22:16! Back in Swindon, I next had to drive to the Premier Inn in Reading where I’d booked to stay overnight. The M4 was closed for much of the journey adding to my transport woes! What a day it had been! Swindon Station - 22:39 All the extra walking during the day adds up! Looking back at this year’s walks, I decided that I’d never be able to better 11 stages whilst at the same time enjoy the actual walking. At the end of the day, you’ve got to enjoy the walking otherwise what’s the point.

Swinford Bridge Stage 10 of my 2024 Thames Path challenge to walk from the sea at Grain to the Source near Kemble in 11 stages. 23.76 miles today from Swinford Bridge at Eynsham to Lechlade. It’s a long walk but I’ve done it before so knew it was well within my capabilities. I knew today would be a long day, so I’d need an early start. However, I never expected it would be as long as it turned out to be. After getting up at 5:15 and driving 65 miles to the Seacourt Park & Ride car park in Oxford, by 7:20 I was waiting at the bus stop for the E1 back to Swinford Bridge. By 7:35 I was back down by the river heading towards Newbridge. You have to make a small detour back to the road here On the road briefly before rejoining after the boat repair yard Approaching Pinkhill Lock Pinkhill Lock Away from the river for a couple of miles you see lots of sheep More sheep Bablock Hythe. I'm guessing this was a pulling mechanism for the ferry across to the other side Certainly looks like a slipway We're now back alongside the river Northmoor Lock. Probably the most remote lock on the river Northmoor Lock Northmoor Lock Northmoor Lock Beyond Northmoor By 10:30 I was sitting by the river at The Rose Revived with a coffee for my first break of the day. Considering the number of times I’d stopped to take pictures with my drone, I’d made really good progress. Newbridge Mid-morning coffee at the Rose Revived Beyond Newbridge, I didn't desperately enjoy Chimney Meadows this year as the path was quite overgrown in places & uneven. Shifford Lock Cut The cut rejoins the original navigation Duxford Old River incorporates the old Thames navigation Path was very overgrown this summer I reached Tadpole Bridge at 13:00. By then I’d completed 13½ miles so was still doing well. I stopped off at The Trout for a pint and surreptitiously ate my shop-bought sandwich in the beer garden. After a half hour break I carried on towards Lechlade. Tadpole Bridge Lunch break! Progress in the afternoon wasn’t as fast as it had been in the morning but I wasn't too fussed as I was enjoying my walk. Rushey Lock The topiary frog at Rushey Lock in need of a good hair cut! The snaking river Radcot Lock Odd looking sheep Approaching Radcot Bridge. This bridge always seems quite rickety The campsite at Radcot Bridge Radcot Bridge Grafton Lock Grafton Lock The topiary cat at Grafton Lock watches over the resident swan Jeremy's partner's nest The topiary cat at Grafton Continuing towards Buscot Buscot Lock Buscot Lock St John's Lock - the last (or first) lock on the Thames Old Father Thames at St John's Lock was moved here in 1974 after being vandalised at the Source By 18:00 I reached Lechlade. Then the fun started. My plan for getting back to my car in Oxford had always been to get a taxi to Faringdon from where I’d catch the S6 bus into the city. All being well, I’d be back home in front of the telly for the start of the Euro 2024 final. Unlike Lechlade which has no buses on a Sunday, the S6 from Faringdon runs at 30 minute intervals for much of the day, reducing to hourly after 18:15. I’d used this method on a number of previous occasions, so saw no reason why today should be any different. Final ½ mile from St John's Lock to Lechlade Made it - Halfpenny Bridge at Lechlade The thing is, today was different from previous occasions. Today was the final of the UEFA Euro 2024 competition between England and Spain. Today was also the final day of FollyFest 2024 in Faringdon. FollyFest is the town’s annual music and community arts festival which takes place in the market place. I began phoning for taxis. I had a couple of numbers in my phone of firms I’d used before. No answer! I then did a google search and tried a few more different numbers. Again, no answer. I finally widened my google search further and tried a couple more numbers. No answer! I assumed that taxi drivers were putting watching the football on telly ahead of earning some money from a fare, plus it was a Sunday. Lechlade Market Place Nothing for it but to carry on to Faringdon I made up my mind there was nothing else for it but to walk the 6½ miles along the A417 to Faringdon. This road is normally quite busy but thankfully tonight it was quiet (people staying in to watch the football maybe?), so I could walk on the road most of the way rather than the hit-and-miss grass verges. I could see from the timetable that there would be a bus at 20:14. Goodness knows where I got the energy from but by 20:00 I reached Faringdon. Made it! 3.4 mph I walked to the bus stop in the market place. It had a notice on it saying that due to FollyFest, buses were going to be rerouted from the town centre until 18:00. Fine I thought. That means the 20:14 bus will stop here. Needless to say, the bus didn’t turn up. The next one was due at 21:14 but I wasn’t going to risk waiting here for it, so I walked to the stop where I knew the diverted buses would stop. Thankfully the bus turned up on time! The bus got me back to Seacourt P&R just before 22:00. I was tired, hungry and had missed the football – which was no big deal in the end as we lost. There’s a McDonalds opposite the P&R so I bought a meal from there – never has a McDonalds tasted so good! I then drove home, arriving back just before midnight. Looking at my FitBit stats for today, I’d walked further than I’ve ever walked before in one day – more than 32 miles. I could afford a day off tomorrow! A new FitBit badge to boot!

Looking upstream from Abingdon Bridge towards the lock Stage 9 of my 2024 Thames Path challenge to walk from the sea at Grain to the Source near Kemble in 11 stages. 15.83 miles today from Abingdon to Swinford Bridge at Eynsham. To make the final 2 stages a little shorter, I had hoped to get as far as Newbridge - another 7 miles further on - but it turned into such a hot day that in the end I was glad I stopped at Swinford. In fact, despite drinking water like a fish all day, by the time I got home I was 6 lbs lighter! As things turned out, it didn't matter that I only reached Swinford on this stage because I was still able to reach the Source in 11 stages. I've never enjoyed the 5 mile stretch of the Thames Path between Abingdon Lock and Sandford Lock. Much of this has to do with the amount of tree cover over the path, restricting the views of the river. It's also not very wide in places and in winter gets very muddy and rutted. I'm not a fan! Beyond Sandford however, the path opens up more, making the rest of this walk enjoyable. Abingdon Lock Abingdon Lock Abingdon Lock The roses at Sandford Lock never disappoint Sandford Lock - the walk gets much better from here So peaceful Iffley Lock Inquisitive geese Iffley Lock Iffley Lock Iffley Lock Beyond Iffley - Donnington Bridge and the city in the background Continuing towards Oxford City Centre The start of the Oxford colleges' boat houses Oxford City Centre Oxford City Centre Oxford City Centre Folly Bridge Oxford - the path crosses the road here before continuing upstream Caudwell's Castle on Folly Bridge Island Oxford This bridge looks sooooooo much better now it's been refurbished Walking up towards Osney Bridge Osney Bridge - the lowest bridge on the navigable Thames! Osney Heron (Twitter & Instagram - @OsneyBird) - Oxford's most famous heron - just caught himself a snack Very quiet stretch just north of Oxford Take this bridge across to Port Meadow.................. .........and this one - Bailey Bridge - to continue along the Thames Path Cattle keeping cool The river at Binsey Lovely time of year for flowers Godstow Lock with the Abbey in the background Egret Godstow Abbey Very colourful! Beyond Godstow King's Lock - the first upstream lock with manual not mechanical gates King's Lock - the first upstream lock with manual not mechanical gates Lovely reflections Wytham Great Wood Nearing Eynsham Looking back downstream from Eynsham Lock Eynsham Lock Swinford Toll Bridge - the 2nd toll bridge across the Thames This is a great place to finish/start a Thames Path walk due to the brilliant bus service back to Oxford

Goring Lock Stage 8 of my 2024 Thames Path challenge to walk from the sea at Grain to the Source near Kemble in 11 stages. 20.55 miles today from Goring to Abingdon. I decided to avoid having to walk along the busy main road through Moulsford and Cholsey Nature Reserve by instead walking The Ridgeway route on the other side of the river between Goring and Wallingford. I would then cross back to the Thames Path over the Winterbrook Bridge. Makes for an altogether much more pleasant walk. Thames Road on the Goring side of the Streatley-Goring Bridge over the river Thames Path is on the other side of the river. I'm on The Ridgeway The Perch & Pike in the pretty village of South Stoke Back by the river - the Beetle & Wedge on the other side where you would leave the path for the busy road in Moulsford You don't see this from the Thames Path Moulsford Railway Bridge from another angle Looking upstream beyond Moulsford Bridge Cholsey Nature Reserve is off to the right and left. At one time there was a ferry here Path leaves the river briefly, heading for North Stoke North Stoke North Stoke The river from Winterbrook Bridge Now back on the official Thames Path at Wallingford Heading towards the town centre Market Place Wallingford Looking upstream from Wallingford Bridge Looking downstream from Wallingford Bridge Whilst the walkway over the weir is closed for repairs, this brilliant ferry service at Benson has stepped in to save walking the detour On the ferry! Coffee & raspberry ripple cake! A staple of mine at Benson Waterfront Cafe Works going on, rebuilding part of the bank Very neat! Shillingford Bridge This is a bridge over the Thame near Dorchester. It's where the Thame meets the Thames! Little Wittenham Bridge. The bridge continues behind the lock keeper's cottage Day's Lock with the Wittenham Clumps in the background Day's Lock & The Clumps Looking upstream from the other side of the weir Day's Lock & Weir - so pretty You get a lot of wildlife along here The Earth Trust has been responsible for projects creating new backwaters along this stage, encouraging more wild life One of the new ponds - thanks to the Earth Trust So pretty! Clifton Hampden Bridge - unusually for the Thames, built from red brick A group of walkers I met at Clifton Lock Clifton Lock - Every year, Curtis & his wife add more colour with profits on ice cream sales adding to their plant kitty I encourage you to buy an ice cream as the profits go to a good cause - more plants! Clifton Lock - just perfect! The Cherwell Valley Line operates on these tracks between Didcot Parkway & Banbury Culham Lock After the final major bend in the river today, Abingdon is in the background St Helen's Church Abingdon Abingdon Bridge Well earned pint at the Nag's Head

The Thames Path gets diverted almost straight away at Marsh Lock Stage 7 of my 2024 Thames Path challenge to walk from the sea at Grain to the Source near Kemble in 11 stages. 20.57 miles today from Henley to Goring. It was an absolute perfect day, spoilt only by a 35 min delay getting the train back to Henley where my car was parked. Loved the warm sunshine at last. Will have to expose my white knees on the next stage! The Marsh Lock closure results in a long diversion that takes you through Harpsden Wood in order to reach Lower Shiplake. I chose to avoid this by walking along the (admittedly) busy A4155 Reading Road. My map of the walk shows shows this route rather than the official diversion. For most of the way, the A4155 is fine; for about 200 yards however, the grass verge disappears and you're forced to walk on the road. This is why the bridge is only partially open - the structure beyond the lock is unsafe Weir gates at Marsh Lock This part from Henley is open as far as the lock Official diversion in blue. The main road route shown in red This is the main road by the Bremont watch factory. The verge here is plenty wide enough OK so the verge disappears briefly Walk along here into Lower Shiplake Lower Shiplake Shiplake Lock Shiplake Lock Shiplake Lock The river by Shiplake College's boathouse Looking back downstream towards Shiplake This is a quiet section of the river Approaching Sonning Bridge Sonning Bridge The Thames Path crosses the river at Sonning Sonning Lock The ducks, geese and swans really enjoy relaxing here in Thames Valley Park Nature Reserve - a former power station Approaching Reading Reading Caversham Lock Reading Hydro uses the power of the weir at Caversham Lock Caversham weir Caversham Lock Reading Bridge Christchurch Bridge Looking up towards Caverhsam Bridge Another popular place in Reading for swans This is a lovely footpath up from Reading City Centre Gorgeous in summer for relaxing I always have to take a photo of the this house! Lara Croft has lost her arm since I passed here last year! The path passes this rather well to do housing estate - Purley-on-Thames Mapledurham Lock In autumn especially, Mapledurham Lock to Goring is one of my favourite stages with the backdrop of all the trees of the Chiltern Hills. Mapledurham Lock What a lovely backdrop This is a lovely meadow to be walking across I've reached Pangbourne Meadow Looking back downstream towards Mapledurham Whitchurch Bridge connecting Pangbourne with Whitchurch Whitchurch Bridge - one of two private toll bridges crossing the Thames. Swinford Bridge is the other one. Looking back from Whitchurch Whitchurch - so pretty Hartley Steps in Hartslock Wood. The only bit of hill climbing on the Thames Path Glimpses of the river from up above in the woods Pill box in Hartslock Wood Gatehampton Railway Bridge near Goring Gatehampton Railway Bridge Approaching Goring Yay! Reached Goring Goring Lock I've earned this pint! Goring Now need to get the train back to Henley Back in Henley at 8:15 - 12 hours after setting off this morning Another long walk

Setting off from Teddington Lock 5th stage of my Thames Sea to Source 2024 challenge on an absolutely belting day. This time 25.49 miles from Teddington Lock to Windsor and Eton Bridge. I don't know what was wrong with my camera but the colours were all over the place today. Refurbishment works going on at Teddington Looking downstream from Teddington Teddington Lock & Weirs Duck enjoying the early morning sunshine Kingston Bridge which the Thames Path crosses over Looking upstream from Kingston Bridge The Long Water at Hampton Court Deer at Hampton Court Golf Club just about staying off the green! The gold Tijou Screen at Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Bridge - 147 miles to go! Taggs Island - home to one of Britain's largest residential Houseboat communities Quintissentially English Ferry across to Hampton ........and another one! Sunbury Lock Sunbury Lock Heading towards Walton Walton Bridge On D'Oyly Carte Island Nice place to stop for coffee D'Oyly Carte Island The house is being brought back to life The house is being brought back to life The house has 13 bedrooms, a grand ballroom, 5 bathrooms & 40 boat moorings! The ferry connects Weybridge with Shepperton Technology has now made the bell to summon the ferry redundant How many National Trails can boast a ferry? On board the ferry On the Shepperton side Looking downstream from Shepperton Lock Pharoah's Island You need a sign this wide for all this information Ryepeck Meadow Chertsey Bridge Chertsey Lock The M3 I always wonder what this is Walking towards Staines Walking towards Staines Penton Hook Lock - the ice cream van always seems to be here Penton Hook Lock Nearly at Staines Reproduction of a London Stone marking the upstream limit of the City of London's authority Bridge 142 has been closed since February 2024 necessitating an unpleasant detour I really like these 2 cottages just beyond Staines Bridge Detour takes you under the M25 and A30 You rejoin the Thames Path at the hotel Bell Weir Lock Walking up to Runnymede Pleasure Ground Queen Elizabeth II Statue at Runnymede commemorating 800th anniversary of the sealing of Magna Carta American Bar Association's memorial at Runnymede The Jurors artwork installed in 2015 commemorating 800th anniversary of the sealing of Magna Carta Walking up to Old Windsor Old Windsor Lock Albert Bridge Datchet The private part of Home Park Windsor Looking upstream from Victoria Bridge Windsor Windsor Castle Romney Lock Romney Lock I got a bit of a shock when I saw this - that's a big swan! After nearly 26 miles I'd earned this pint! Windsor Looking upstream from Windsor & Eton Bridge Looking downstream towards Romney Lock Journey's End By the time I got home this had been a very long day!

Setting off from Vauxhall Bridge 4th stage of my Thames Sea to Source 2024 challenge. This time 18 miles from Vauxhall to Teddington Lock which marks the end of the tidal Thames. The walk takes in 20 bridges if you include Vauxhall & count Teddington Lock as 2 (there are 2 separate bridges). The Thames Path goes past the entrances to both Kew Gardens & National Trust Ham House – great for coffee & cake stops if you have memberships to either or both. I chose to stop at Ham House for refreshment plus to admire the colourful gardens. I first did this stage in June on what was a very grey day. Me being me, I had to walk it again on a much more pleasant day. Needless to say, most of my photos are from my July walk. February 2026 - I've got so behind in writing these blogs. Also, I've written in so much detail about my walks in 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 that I've decided to stop giving a blow by blow account of each walk; instead I'll just add a few photos from the current year's walks. You can always go back to previous years for full details of each walk. ​ Wimbledon fortnight at Battersea Power Station Battersea Power Station Looking back downstream. Chelsea Bridge in the foreground and Grosvenor Railway Bridge behind it Albert Bridge. Surely the prettiest of the bridges over the Thames Artist painting Albert Bridge I do so love this notice! Albert Bridge World's End Estate. A social housing development completed in the 1970s St Mary's Church Battersea The Chelsea Harbour & Creek developments. Former Lots Road Power Station is now 260 apartments Looking down to Wandsworth from under Battersea Railway Bridge Looking down to Wandsworth I love these houseboats Wandsworth Park Looking back downstream from Wandsworth Park Putney Bridge Lots of rowing clubs on the left and the new Riverside Stand at Fulham FC The Riverside Stand. Even in January 2026 it has still not been finished Harrods Furniture Depository - now apartments Hammersmith Bridge. Closed to motor vehicles since 2019 following discovery of fractures Barnes Bridge - a combined railway bridge and footbridge Looking downstream from Barnes Bridge Looking upstream towards Mortlake Mortlake. Prone to flooding during high tides Mortlake. The stone marks the official finish of the Boat Race When I did this stage in June, as I was passing the entrance to Kew Gardens, the sun came out briefly, so I popped in for a quick walk around. Back to July 2024 now. Richmond Lock Richmond Bridge Petersham Meadows Hammerton's Ferry runs March to October between Ham House & Marble Hill Park Ham House National Trust Ham House Ham House is a great place to stop for coffee & cake Marble Hill House on the other side of the river Looking back at Richmond & The Petersham Hotel Less than 2 miles now to Teddington Teddington Lock Teddington Lock Beyond Teddington Lock Teddington Lock weirs are amazing The 2nd of the bridges at Teddington Lock during major refurbishment works The weirs at Teddington Lock Lovely day second time around. Having reached Teddington Lock I’d now completed 80 miles of my challenge.