A Day's Walking

I set off this morning with my Daughter, Grandson and their dog (The Trio from now on) at about 11.15 a.m.to walk into Kingston. Why not by car/bus? We wanted the exercise and it's a great journey on foot.

We started by crossing Hampton Court Bridge; walked along the towpath skirting Hampton Court Palace and the Tijou gates. A little further along the River there's an entrance to Home Park; this being one of the Royal Parks. Home Park is bordered by the River Thames on one side and the gardens of Hampton Court Palace on the other.

It was beautifully sunny although the wind was a tad chilly. We passed the end of the "Long Water" with views back up to the Palace. The feathered visitors here included about 20 swans, young and mature; a few Tufted Ducks and about 60 Coots!

Towards the end of our journey and near the cattle-grid exit near to Kingston Bridge is an Ice House which has been there since 1626. Whilst we were here we could hear a Woodpecker drumming - first I've heard this year. It was so close but even with the bins I couldn't see it!

Over Kingston bridge for a small amount of shopping and something for lunch. Having purchased hot sausage rolls and buns we then headed for the river where we sat on the edge of the walkway dangling our feet over the river.

Comfortably replenished we then made our way home, arriving back about 3.15 p.m. I believe we must have walked about 7 miles. But oh, it does make you feel good after all that exercise.

Looking downstream towards Ham, Kew and Richmond upon Thames


Looking upstream towards Hampton Court

Charter Quay - a new development behind which is the historic Market Place



The Ice House and Plaque