Home page Walks photos Archive 2006		southcotswoldramblers.org.uk Shipton Moyne - Racehorses and an ancient trackway 22 November 2006 Richard writes, "Thought I would try an 'easy-paced' walk. It was a very gloomy day but the promised rain did not materialize and we got round in the dry. However the forecast probably deterred some people, although there were still a respectable nine walkers and we had an interesting and enjoyable walk." Pictures from Richard and John. .
		Pre-walk briefing from Michael and Ann near the local hostelry in Shipton Moyne village .
		With its interesting sign .
		What is Cat and Custard Pot Day? Find out by reading the Wikipedia entry .
		We set off and soon encounter the first of many interesting stiles .
		Followed quickly by a second in need of repair - John demonstrates his stile-crossing technique .
		Then it's off across the fields, with horses watching from a safe distance .
		We certainly see a few horses these are rather large but stay well away from us! .
		Meanwhile, the next stile is also falling apart .
		Then another of quaint construction .
		Then at last a relatively normal stile in good repair, but ideally needing a longer step and a post to hang onto .
		A helpful landowner - or perhaps he wants to protect valuable livestock .
		Across more open fields .
		Before the next tricky stile nimbly crossed by Bill .
		The birds round here should have plenty of food this winter .
		Autumn colours still magnificent .
		Estcourt House .
		With a winding drive crossing the estate .
		Wait for me! cries the photographer (Tetbury church in the distance) .
		We cross a stream - part of the River Avon (Tetbury Branch) .
		Looking downstream .
		Before climbing some slippery steps .
		Then down an even more slippery slope - guided by Ann and Michael our leaders .
		Then a stile built into a gate which opens to allow all but the largest ramblers through .
		We walk along the valley .
		Pausing by the stream for coffee .
		Close upof the picturesque stream .
		Then back to Shipton Moyne along an ancient path passing between hedgerows .
		Spotting some modern day hedging in progress .
		Before our final destination .
		Michael tells us that he has reported all of the broken stiles .
		As you can see, we thoroughly enjoy getting to know the South Cotswolds. We try to keep fit and succeed in having a good old chat. If you are interested in coming with us, see our walks programme and ring the leader if you have any questions about a particular walk. After two or three walks we hope you will then want to join the group as part of the national Ramblers' Association.