The weather was perfect as 8 members and one visiting member set off from the pretty village of Condicote, near Upper Swell. We followed the Gloucestershire Way then turned off along an orchid lined track into woodland.

We took a coffee break at Beechy Bank before an uphill pull through woods, emerging on high pastures full of flowers and grasses. Walking on up to Bourton Downs the weather was clear enough to give panoramic views over miles of Cotswold countryside.  We descended to the valley bottom and more woodland before having lunch on a grassy bank.

After lunch we walked along a lovely green valley to Hinchwick Manor, then followed a quiet and scenic road back to Condicote

An old badger set

Wild orchid

Stunning Cotswold landscape

Perfection in nature

Group photo outside Hinchwick Manor