Thames Path Ramble 16: Sunday 14th February 2016 Marlow to Maidenhead, which is about 8 miles.

Thames Path Ramble 16: Sunday 14th February 2016  Marlow to Maidenhead, which is about 8 miles.


Jean, Jane, Sue and Jem, Ann, Dot, John, Julie, Peter and Sue, Ian and I walked from Marlow to Maidenhead.

So, off again through more mud, except that today was a bit brighter and warmer.Valentine’s meals were advertised at the busy curve in the river at Bourne End. We persuaded someone to take a group photo nearby in front of one of the many yachts stored out of the water in the boatyards for the winter.

Then the path took us across the river alongside the 1898 railway bridge that carries the Henley to Maidenhead trains. Half way across, looking back, gave us a lovely view of Bourne End curving around to the left. On the opposite bank we went along the edge of Cock Marsh, common land since the 13^th century and now owned by National Trust.

Around another bend in the river and we were crossing more meadows to see Cookham Bridge and deviated away from the main river slightly into the town. In the centre is a memorial gallery dedicated to the work of Stanley Spencer, the artist, who lived and painted so many local scenes. We had a break here and some people ate their Eccles cake!

Continuing on, we re-joined the main river and walked along a stretch, with lovely views of the wooded slopes of Clivedon Estate on the opposite bank. Boat houses and cottages were visible but the house; now a hotel, was more elusive being perched at the top of the hill.

While walking into Maidenhead, and nearing the end of our walk, we saw more moored boats and interesting houses/holiday cottages including one once owned by Richard Dimbleby, complete with what looked like a model of him sitting outside.

We finished by walking along the promenade to Maidenhead bridge, then catching a bus to near  the railway station. Here we caught another bus (a rail replacement service) back to Marlow.