Our parish walk on Saturday will be in two parts. The first stretch will run from Henley station to Marlow (approx 14km). The start of the walk is very easy flat walking along the banks of the Thames to Hambledon, where we may want to stop at the pub for coffee and a look around the church. We then climb up onto the western end of the Chilterns, (a short steep pull followed by flatter ground) walking through woodland and fields until we drop down into Marlow in time for lunch. After lunch, there are two options. Those who have done enough walking can catch a train from Marlow back to London. Those who want to go further can continue along the river bank to the village of Cookham (6km, all flat). Cookham is famous as the home of the early Twentieth-century artist Stanley Spencer, who is well known for his fantastical religious paintings.
All being well, we will end our walk with a look around the (very small) Stanley Spencer museum and a train from Cookham station.
Transport
Please meet at Paddington station at 8.45 in order to catch the 9.08 train to Henley. Please buy a single ticket to Henley and a separate single from either Marlow or Cookham to come back, depending on where you want to return from. Those travelling from west London may want to make their own way - the Elizabeth line does (theoretically) run to Maidenhead, from where one can catch trains to Henley, although this will be slower than the Paddington train. Please let us know if you are coming independently so we can meet you at Henley.
Food
The pub in Hambledon serves coffee and other refreshments and we will aim to stop for a light pub lunch in Marlow. There is a tea room in Cookham should people need more refreshment.
Sun
The fine weather looks set to stay with us through the weekend, so please remember to wear a hat and sun cream and bring plenty of water. And because this is Britain, a waterproof is also advisable!
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