Blog No 20, Sandford on Thames to Abingdon 5 1/2 miles. 14th August 25.

I walked this stretch backwards as I was meeting friends in Abingdon at lunchtime. I began walking from Sandford lock at around 10.15  and reached Abingdon at 12.30 in Waitrose to be exact.


The  path began wide but covered on both sides with Japanese Knotweed. I walked on and then through gates leading to the first meadow which wound along the river bank. It was quite cloudy and so good walking conditions. The meadowland continued for I would think at least a couple of miles. only a few narrow paths. I could see the building of the Radley College Boat house some way before reaching it. 

Looking at it on the map I estimated it to be closer to Sandford. By this time I was ready for a drink and also a loo. I looked around the boat house building to see if I could spot a convenience. A man appeared from behind his gate and directed me to the loo situated at the back of the building. It was one of those times when a clean toilet with paper, soap, water and a dryer become a total luxury item, something we take for granted in our own homes. It was a welcome relief. 

I sat on a bench and took a drink and some nuts and raisons, and talked to a man with a rescue dog about which I learned its total history. This is the view from the seat.

I continued on my way through a wooded area, the usual alert re tree roots and stinging nettles. It seemed a long way along the path until I crossed the railway bridge. On the map it does not look far from Abingdon itself.

It felt like at least another mile to reach a set of paths, one leading to a nature walk and the path I needed to take along the river. Soon the path became busier and so I assumed I was nearing civilization. Not so, dog walkers and a group of ramblers. As the path opened into a meadow again I met a woman walking three very excited dogs. I managed to get two of them in the picture and almost all of the dog walker.  Not sure that my photography is making headway. 

I was thinking about Elizabeth, and I wondered if over the weeks of these walks with a purpose if I was changing in any way how I felt about the last year. I think I may be less angry at the futility of her loss and less overwhelmed by sadness on a daily basis. Whether that is measured progress I am  not sure. Just days merge one into another and I think I do all the things expected of me in reasonable order. I remember reading the book 'A Grief Observed' by CS Lewis some years ago. I am telling myself I need to find it and read it again, maybe that would provide me with a 'yard stick'. 

I was looking forward to getting to Abingdon and meeting with friends, but it still seemed a long way to go. It was nearing 12noon and I still could see no signs of the town, but more people on the path which I took as a good omen. I came to a cut which meant that there was water both sides of me. It was very pretty although I do not think I have done it justice.


Just as I was getting worried about making the rendez vous in time I crossed a bridge into parkland and followed a path which took me through some flats. I asked directions to Waitrose and was told it was around the corner. I just made it in time and spent an enjoyable hour chatting with friends. 

Next walk Saturday from Sandford to Osney Bridge. Starting approx 10-10.30.


Comments would be more than welcome

Thank you for reading

Maureen











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