Geocaches - 1
Pub - The Queens Head, Stow on the Wold
Walk Inspiration - Jarrold Pathfinder, More Cotswolds Walks, Walk 18
A perfect day for walking meant that its a double walk weekend. The weather simply couldn't be ignored.
We are off to the Cotswolds and Stow-on-the-Wold. For the future Mappiman, town parking is free next to Tesco - itself sympathetically created in honey coloured stone.
This is a walk of "Ways". Starts off on the Gloucestershire Way, takes in a touch of the Heart of England Way and then delivers you back into town on the Monarchs Way. This is testament to the quality of the local countryside.
Early views from the Gloucestershire Way |
Their pubs are simply delightful. You'll see this later in the blog. I doubt there is a more bucolic brewery in the land. And I include Hook Norton in that claim.
The Donnington Brewery |
We make our way to the village the brewery was named after but first we have to climb to a site of historical interest. In a sheep field is a monument with a little plaque, detailing the battle of Stow on the Wold of 1646.
Everything you need to know. Roundheads won. |
Lunch was not at the rather beautiful Fox Pub. It wasn't quite open and Mrs Mappiman had got creative with the tin foil before setting out. We sat at the monument stone watching the only child in the village play football with his dad.
Broadwell Village Green |
This is what a Donnington Tied House looks like |
A quick 1.5 miles back to Stow, along the Monarch Way on a green lane that offers some superb views.
Views on the Monarchs Way |
So what to go for? Another potential claimant to England's Oldest Pub?
No, I am a frequenter of St Albans Fighting Cocks and profess allegiance |
That's me in the Window |
The answer was staring at us from the other side of the Market Square.
Its a Donnington Tied House - The Queens Head |
Two Real Ales from the Brewery |
Donnington BB |
The only concession to the 21st Century was free WiFi. I used it to validate the Porch House's claim. Unsure if a Saxon shoe in a chimney is proof enough.
I also determined the Donnington Brewery was founded by a descendant of the Arkells brewing dynasty.
Great walk and a lovely beer at Donnington Brewery
ReplyDeleteKeep reading the blog :-) .... Mid August, I should be heading out on the Donnington Way. It's been on the list for so long and this year, I have finally got it planned!
Delete