Pub Walk (111) Saturday 4^th March 2023, from the Catherine Wheel, Bibury

North Cotswold Branch of the Campaign for Real Ale

8 walkers and later, 2 diners, turned up in dry weather for the 111^th Saturday Pub Walk at the Catherine Wheel, Bibury. First time for a walk at this popular free house which is outside our area located within Cirencester sub-branch territory, close to the River Coln and its famous Trout Farm. Excellent walking around this excellent pub catering for walkers with up to 3 changing real ales.

We set off after taking the usual group photo (Photo 1) heading south from the pub and taking the first turning on the left. Through a gate and though another gate at the top of the field. A crossing of footpaths but we headed straight on to the south east. After one field take a very sharp left down through woods. Now heading north west.

This path approaches the famous Arlington Row of cottages from the rear and emerges at a bridge over the River Coln a great photo opportunity (Photo 2). This is the busy tourist trail through the village along the River back to the Swan hotel. We joined them heading west towards the Swan. At the Swan cross over and take the road to Ablington. No footpath along this road so take care and proceed to Ablington past the entrance to the Trout Farm.

At the next junction fork left towards Ablington Manor then left again crossing the river near the rear entrance to the Manor (Photo 3). At the T junction turn left, stay on the road up a hill until a footpath to the left appears. Take this footpath alongside a house heading south east. This is a delightful rural footpath crossing several stiles and fields with various livestock and animals visible (Photos 4,5 and 6) until reaching the outskirts of Arlington with some fine houses. On reaching the main road a left turn brings you back to the pub. (Photo 7)

A dining room reserved for us away from the tourists in the back bar with choice of St Austell Tribute or Bath Ales Gem (Photo 8) and an excellent lunch (Photo 9 and 10)

Next time, Walk No 112 on Sat 1^st April at the Seven Tuns Chedworth

1015 for 1030hrs start. Note Sandwiches are available for us in addition to the normal lunch menu.

This is a repeat of several visits to this fine pub and walking area by popular request.

Report by Roger Price

Tel 01451 810305

Mob 07850 429630

Pictures taken on the walk:


^ Photo 1 ^	^ Photo 2 ^

^ Photo 3 ^	^ Photo 4 ^

^ Photo 5 ^	^ Photo 6 ^

^ Photo 7 ^	^ Photo 8 ^

^ Photo 9 ^	^ Photo 10 ^