LIFETIME of WALKS by DEREK HARWOOD

Parked in Court Garden Car Park, Marlow and cycled to Lower Shiplake on A4155 via busy Henley on Thames, approximately 15 miles. Locked bike to Thames Path finger post in Mill Lane and started walking north across fields to Lower Shiplake Lane and railway station. Waited for train to leave station before crossing track towards riverside mansions on Bolney Court Lane. Surprised but delighted to see complex narrow gauge railway at Bolney Court. Path turns back to riverside with road views of mill bank and its houses on the far riverbank, pleasure boat Density increases dramatically as Henley Bridge approaches, then realised Henley Regatta was in full swing. Crossed Henley Bridge with irs responsibility notices to regatta tents. Skirted stewards enclosure, but otherwise walked slowly in crowd along riverbank, passing revellers enjoying champagne and wine. Passed regatta start by Temple Island and a very busy Greenlands College grounds on opposite bank. Soon arrived at Hamblen Lock and the busy walkway across the weir to Mill End. Path deviated from river bank down a lane to Aston village and the possibility of a welcome pint or soft drink. Turn left from lane along Culham Court Road to Frogmill skirting Culham Court full of wild flowers onwards to Frogmill and Danesfield Hotel high on opposite riverbank. Surprised to see lots of families enjoying themselves on meadows by marina and rows of pleasure boats. Spotted a Red Kite soaring above me as I passed Stoney Ware Church on opposite bank then soon arrived at destination of Marlow a the beautiful Suspension bridge. Short walk from the bridge to the car park and finish of walk. A most enjoyable walk through the unexpected Henley Regatta, very fortunate timing, the planning of the walk did not consider the regatta date.

Location Map: - Start: at Shiplake - Finish at Marlow
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