13/10/25 - London Spiral Stage 21 - Hayes to Hampton Court

That's Very Nearly an Armful

After a fairly dismal Stage 20, the London Spiral needs to convince me on this stage that it is worth continuing with. 

The map suggests it has its moments. A long stretch following the London Loop through Cranford Park. At least it's countryside and off residential streets. That comes later, although there is much to admire in the architecture, as I move into the Hamptons.

Although it's wild, remote walking along the River Crane, it's not particularly pleasant. — littered to the point of fly-tipping, with burnt-out motorcycles and paths that don’t favour the rambler, especially when crossing the Bath Road. And then there is this.

Does Stig of the Dump live in London?

St Dunstan's Church in Cranford is distinctive to look at. A half-rebuilt in brick tower, plonked on top of the original flint structure, stands out. It's "doors locked", which is unsurprising. A less architecturally gifted tramp is asleep in the churchyard. 

Building regeneration, 1710 style

Investigations need to be completed outside - where Birmingham's finest comedic son is laid to rest.

Just 44

In terms of interest, that's it for the walk until reaching Hampton. Two Good Beer Guide Pubs, one already ticked.

The Jolly Coopers is new to me - and despite a sign painter with an odd sense of humour, providing an authentic, pubby experience.

Only just worked out what he is trying to achieve.

From the moment I spot the Watney's Red Barrel lamp in the window, I can tell this is going to be old school. Grade II listed, with the same owners since 1986. A central bar, plentiful nick-nacks, most sports related.

Monday Lunchtime

The sense of continuity and timelessness is enhanced by the conversation that I couldn't help but overhear. A recent, well attended funeral of a 61 year old. All other punters reminding each other of who he was by mentioning which school year he'd been in. The year above the landlord, the same year as others. And a player, according to the mother of a daughter in his year.

The beer - Taking Courage seemed wholly in keeping with the day.

Undeniably Handsome 

My final crossing of the River Thames on this particular LDP is meant to be the Hampton Ferry. October is the last month it runs until next Spring, but only during morning and evening commuting hours.

It road walking on the North shore, past the Garrick Temple to the Bridge at Hampton Court.

Garrick Temple

Hampton Court Palace

Directly opposite the palace is the Mute Swan. A Bruning and Price Freehouse, which if I am honest with you, I don't quite understand how that works. Regardless - its a beautiful building, with a car park full of private plated Range Rovers, their owners lunching.

But that said, the beer range is very good - five cask ales, well kept and for this part of the world, a not outrageously priced. 

£5.70, as you are asking

Across the bridge for transport back to the Smoke. Should I continue? South London is always surprising, so I'll at least have a look at where it wants to take me.

Walk Information

Distance -  11 Miles

Start - Hayes and Harlington Station

Finish - Hampton Court Station

Areas Walked - Heathrow, Cranford, The Hamptons

Geocaches - 8

Pubs - 2

Previous Walks - Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3, Stage 4, Stage 5, Stage 6, Stage 7, Stage 8, Stage 9, Stage 10, Stage 11, Stage 12, Stage 13, Stage 14, Stage 15, Stage 16, Stage 17, Stage 18, Stage 19, Stage 20