Day 7: Cirencester to Malmesbury

"Most of the morning walk is along very minor roads except for the last mile before the lunchtime pub. Three real ales were being served when I visited. In the afternoon we walk on about half a mile of the Thames Path before taking to the road as far as Minety. One point of interest is that a member of George Washington's family is buried in Garsdon churchyard. No hills to speak of were encountered in the walk - a pleasant relief for some!" Yes, over a 17 mile walk, you can have 700 feet of ascent without noticing it!

After the rest day it's time to move on, and there's cleaning to be done - Dannie vacuums...

...Ceri wipes.

Keith gets his boots on.

We celebrated Mass at St Peter's, next door to the hall.

Fr David loves the smart chasuble. Fr Peter seemed to like our music, and many parishioners turned out for our Mass.

The back markers chat to Frances - but it's Francis who's missing from their team.

Out of Cirencester, we found a playground - you wouldn't believe Marie is the oldest pilgrim.

Mike is wearing Tineke's tail today.

Dannie fancied this hollyhock.

Off we go - a fair amount of road walking, and pilgrims largely close together.

The road gets smaller.

Second drink stop after only 3.5 miles!

First prayer stop - All Saints, Shorncote

Interior painted wall.

Douglas chats to the vicar.

"Manchester Ann" leads Peter out of the church.

Gill and Derek lead the way.

Mary spotted this huge porker by the path.

Lunch at the Baker's Arms. Mmmm BURGER!

For once it was nice to sit out, though sun cream was required.

An impressive building in Somerford Keynes.

Dannie guards the gate at All Saints, Somerford Keynes.

Mike models the Saxon Doorway

We got tea and coffee!

The route passed between lakes.

More road walking.

With bridges over streams (and the upper reaches of the River Thames).

Aruna crosses the decorated level crossing at Minety.

St Leonard's, Minety

Monica serves Neville at the drink stop.

Bridget and the cross.

Along the road again.

Oh no! Mud...

Prancing Pony

Cattle have to be walked around.

Anne gets caught at a wayside pub.

More sinners leave the pub.

Howard is supported by communications infrastructure.

All Saints, Garsdon.

Nev rides the horse

Cattle guard the stile.

Baptist Church - Closed.

Rose & Crown - Open

Pat takes a rest, with coffee.

The winding road to Malmesbury.

Views as we approach Malmesbury (pretty place - but lights are out and I must rush)

Our home for the night

Dannie stretches - or is it ballet?