AVON CALLING

A Slow Afternoon Paddle

By The Bimbler

This scenic paddle begins on the majestic Kennet and Avon canal, a 200 year old inland waterway which connects to the River Avon in the City of Bath. The honey coloured stone and architectural features make this area a real treat for the eyes. It’s easy to imagine pack horses hauling barges full of cargo along these towing paths in times past.

Heading away from the city the canal runs parallel to the river and out into the Limpley Stoke Valley

Narrowboats line the towpath, reflecting the individuality of their occupants

The one below for instance has a turf roof which blends seamlessly into it’s environment

a local heron is the picture of concentration as it sizes up its next snack almost oblivious to the floating nomads

After dropping down from the canal to the slow moving river it’s time for a break. Out comes the gas stove and within minutes I’m enjoying a large mug of builders tea and watching the river gently cascade over Warleigh weir

feeling refreshed it’s time to launch downstream again and let the river do the work

Taking advantage of the slow moving current I barely paddle this last section and instead simply go with the flow.

An hour later I reach the stone bridge where my gentle canoe trip concludes for the day.

Once ashore I pause to take in the peaceful surroundings when a pipistrelle bat flies out from a nearby bridge, I’ve never seen one during daylight hours before so watch it flapping around. It circles overhead scattering the cloud of mosquitos which have gathered ready for the feast… It’s time to go.