On the sunniest, warmest day of the year so far it was good to have seventeen of us including newcomer, Sam, on our walk this week. We set out along the footpath parallel to the Sports Field . thanks to farmer, James Belcher, the path along and through the flowering rape seed was clear through to second crossing. We continued up to the Charlton rad and along to the path signed off towards the Rainsborough Camp. We passed alongside the camp and began the gradual descent to Lower Walton Grounds. The views were spectacular. Great squares of yellow rape seed, spread across the hillsides; Banbury and Edgehill beyond stood out clearly in the bright sunlight until we reached the valley. We walked around the out buildings on to the tarmac track to admire the cherry blossom. Time and heavy rain the previous day had reduced the intensity of the blossom, and the track seemed covered in confetti as the petals spread along the route. We passed into the lay-by on the Banbury Road, crossed onto the bridle way through to Millers Lane, and walked down to the right angled bend. We did not go down to the ford, but followed the path along the wall and emerged opposite Bob Magarry’s house. We walked up to Souldern Village and took the path opposite the Manor. The view over the rape seed to Aynho Park House was wonderful. WE continued across the fields to the Portway route and were soon back enjoying our refreshments outside in the sunshine.
6.5 miles 2hrs.
