Bit of a last minute 'impromptu' decision to go walking on this particular sunny Sunday afternoon. Found a nice route in my 'Walking close to the Nene' guide. Our starting point was The Square at Earls Barton, walking along West Street and crossing the B573 we soon found ourselves crossing fields filled with sheep and lambs. The next field was full of Broad Beans coming into flower before further fields of vibrant yellow Rape.
Leaving the fields we arrived in the pretty village of Ecton. Following the road out of the village we crossed the A45taking an immediate left and passed 'Commanders Spinney'. A dyke trickled along on our right side as we continued along a hardcore road path .Crossing two bridges we arrived at Cogenhoe Mill (pronounced cook-noe). There was a beautiful Heron (one of many we were to see) by the riverbank where we picked up the 'Nene Way' footpath.
From there we followed the rivers edge as it gently meandered it's way along to Whiston lock.
I think the highlight had to be seeing a fleeting view of a Kingfisher flying down the river. A splash of electric blue before disappearing as quickly as it arrived. There are lovely views of Whiston Church in the distance beyond the fields No wonder it is known as 'A jewel on a hilltop'. A Common Tern circles above us while Mrs Duck swims downstream trying to keep almost a dozen unruly ducklings under control. It really is a scene from a perfect Summers Day.
We spotted several swans all sitting on their nests of reeds keeping their eggs warm and safe from predators. The only noise is the drone from the nearby A45 but it can't disturb the scene that is one of peace, calmness and tranquility. Sadly on reaching Whiston lock it is time to turn inland and begin an uphill climb back up to Earls Barton.
The striking landmark of the church tower tells us we are nearly home. It is one of the finest examples of Saxon church architecture in the country.
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