Walk 10 : Randwick to Coaley Peak (6 miles)

 Having had a break for a couple of weeks, we thought we'd be refreshed and find this walk easy. Not so. We were joined this time by Elaine, Deborah F and Dave. 

We started at Randwick 

and after walking in the woods at the top of the escarpment, we dropped down into the Stroud valley. 

There were beautiful views across the valley towards Selsley Common. We crossed a couple of fields on our way down, some cows but too far away to be a problem, and then entered a vineyard. Seems unusual to be growing vines in this part of the country, but some of the wines are very good. Further research showed that this was part of the Woodchester Valley vineyard. Photo is from their website (www.woodchestervalleyvineyard.co.uk).

In 2021, The Sunday Times named Stroud the best place to live in the UK, citing the abundance of green spaces, independent spirit, and school quality. Also of note is the Farmer's Market, held every Saturday, and well worth a visit for its cheeses, breads, craft beers and many other local delicacies. 

On this walk we had a choice: walk along the canal in the valley and make our way up to Selsley common, or cross the valley floor and make our way up to King Stanley and from there to Penn Woods.

Having taken a look at the gradient of the former, the decision was unanimous - go for the latter. So we crossed the canal, and then the busy A419 and started a steady climb up towards King Stanley. 

We crossed a field and passed tentatively by a couple of handsome shire horses. 

Having taken a break for lunch

we reached Penn Woods after a short but lung-bursting climb up the side of the valley. The stiles were unusual; metal Vs which looked somewhat intimidating as you approached. However there were no mishaps.

The woods were beautiful - quite dark as the weather had become quite overcast - and silent. 

Here we saw the  nature sighting of the day. An interesting curved tree.

The walk follows the contours of the escarpment as it twists and turns and eventually comes out at Coaley Peak where our walk ended.

all 

Before leaving, we had a look at Nympsfield Long Barrow, a chambered tomb dating from about 3800 BC. Originally the mound, used for burial, stood about 2m high and was edged with drystone walling.

And at the views of the river Severn, winding its way down to Bristol.

We were lucky with the weather - we were expecting thunderstorms after the recent hot spell, but luckily they held off and we remained dry throughout the walk.

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