Day 25: Tadpole Bridge to Lechlade

We knew this would be a marathon - we just didn't know quite how much of a marathon. The plan was 11 miles, to get as far as Lechlade. As you will see, it turned out to be a bit more than that! The (birthday) morning started off warm and sunny, with a tarmac path to walk on, past a beautiful part of the river...

... to quickly reach Rushey Lock, one the the last traditional 'paddle-and-rhymer' locks, with possibly the most idylic lock-keeper's cottage on the Thames.

Four miles into the walk and we reached Radcot Lock - and this is where the trouble began. Blocking our way was a herd of suckler cows and their calves plus one very agressive bull, complete with horns. Not just in the distance, but blocking the gate and stopping us from entering the field. We tried a few times, only for this to attract a second, extra large angry bull, complete with nose ring! We then met an out-of-breath walker who had been evicted from the field by one of the bulls, and we decided a detour was needed.....

.... two miles later, we were back on the Thames Path!

Then another 4 miles or so until a cream tea stop at Kelmscot manor (and meeting members of the Veteran Cycle Club)

Then another 4 miles of bends and meanders (and pill boxes!).....

... until Lechlade and the statue of Old Father Thames.