Tewkesbury with the bear

Back in April it was a glorious day so I decided to have a trip out with my beautiful furry companion to Tewkesbury which is just fifteen minutes drive from home.

A lovely lady took a picture for me as it's impossible on my own to do

That Abbey and the grounds are always such a tranquil and special place to  visit. 

The sound when they have a performance is just spectacular here. 

I always light a candle for my Dad when I visit anywhere that you can.  I'm not religious as such, but it's just my way of talking to him. 

Churches are also one of the few places, if it's quiet enough that Luna is happy to have a little wonder. 

This window is just incredible when the sun shines through. 

One of the reasons I love Tewkesbury so much not only because it's small town, but it's the closest place to water I can get too. 

Luna is incredible (albeit a little heavy to carry) but she just loves to lie down and quietly watch the world go by. 

I often walk across the field, called "The Ham" as I love to see the weir which was running well. 

Black and white photography is definitely one of my favourite mediums for showing a picture. 

I hope you enjoyed taking a walk with me. 

Trip out to Winchcombe

So this weekend is Yarndale which I normally go too so keeping self busy

Had a nice relaxed am at home and then as the weather was the perfect temperature I took Luna out for a walk. 

It was tough one to take her away from her comfortable sleeping position! 

I'm very lucky to live just a short distance away from Winchcombe and over the years have visited many many times, but never fail to enjoy it. 

The bear is heavy, but SOOOO well behaved just taking in her surroundings. 

One of the grand entrances to Sudley Castle. 

Came across this lovely horse. 

Poor thing had so many flies around it's eyes. 

The last time I came on this walk, this beautiful cottage was up for sale, sadly it looks very unlived in. 

Spotted this amazing dragonfly on the road. Would never normally be able to get so close. 

Winchcombe is picture perfect Cotswolds. 

Never realised there was an independent bookshop will have to visit when it's open. 

Just love this cottage name. 

Aren't these allotments just so lovely. 

So many walks available as part of the Cotswolds Way. 

Keeping it local

I have lived in Cheltenham for 34 years and yet my adventure today which was thanks to the now King Charles III extra Bank Holiday I decided to take myself, the van and the kitty off on an adventure to a place I have driven past the sign for many times.

I have saved churches local to me that Luna loves and feels safe exploring.   So today we headed to Hailes Church which has the most incredible history.

But first I parked in the free parking and with Luna safely and happily in her backpack headed on the Cotswold Way through some beautiful countryside.

It wasn't long before I came across a campsite I definitely intend going to staying at called Hayles Campsite it is surrounded by trees and yet so close to a large part of the Cotswold Way and Hailes Abbey owned by English Heritage.

So then I set off on my planned walk. 

Luna was an absolute angel just taking in her surroundings. 

We past so many Sheep and lambs. 

My destination was an incredible monument.  Beckbury Camp C19 limestone monument sits on the edge of a hillfort. Also known as ‘Cromwell’s Seat’ it allegedly marks the spot where Thomas Cromwell watched Hailes Abbey burn following the dissolution. 

I then headed back down the hill and stopped off at the farm shop to get information on the campsite and to stock up on some local cider. 

They had 1 metre high chocolate in the shop too!

Then it was time for Luna's treat to venture into a the church. 

It has to be the oldest church I think I have been in dating back to 1135 a Norman Church. 

On the walls are paintings dating back the the 13th century.  More information can be found here.

Luna had a great time exploring. 

I loved the history this was an incredible place to visit. 

If you enjoy reading my blog, please do comment as I love to hear from you. 

Until next time.....