Framilode Walkabout

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We set off from the lock at Saul Junction to trace the course of the Stroudwater Canal to Framilode Lock. This was the junction where the Severn Trows would have entered from the River Severn. They were able to take their cargoes as far as Brimscombe Port. This part of the canal is not included in the Cotswold Canal’s restoration  as the junction with the Severn was a rather dangerous manoeuvre. The footpath closely followed where the towpath would have been, running along between the canal and the River Frome. There were many stiles to negotiate along the way with many beautiful wildflowers lining the path, which is well maintained.

 

The Ship Inn was doing a roaring trade, I wonder if this was a favourite stop when the canal was in use? 

This lovely row of cottages overlook the towpath and canal, which has very little water in it at the moment. We turned left along the lane to St Peters Church which overlooks the Severn. We found the interior of the church was highly decorated with nautical motifs, beautiful painted ceilings, and small stained glass windows. There is a useful village book swap (or 50p each) at the back of the church.

We then ventured along the Severn Way as far as Priddy, then back across the fields, to retrace our steps along the canal.

We enjoyed our walk very much on another lovely warm afternoon.