On Sunday 25th, back by popular demand, we repeated the Turkey Walk. There were sixteen of us on the walk, which was on a very cloudy, but fortunately dry day.
Starting from the NT car park at Maidenhead Thicket, we set off through wooded areas and footpaths towards Stubbings Farm and Burchetts Green. Next stop was the Berkshire College of Agriculture to see horses, emu and wallabies. We we're unable to spot the pole cat or red squirrels on this occasion.
The college leads to further farmland, taking us up to High Wood, with good views over Hurley and surrounding countryside.
Our first stop was on the River Thames at Hurley Lock for a drinks break and sampling of home-made gingerbread Christmas cookies, plus opportunity to use the conveniences. Back on the trail, our walk along the river had crossings both at Hurley and back over the wooden bridge at Temple Lock, providing much interest and good views of life along the Thames.
We continued on good paths rebuilt over the last year into Marlow, with a short diversion on the small footbridge on entering the park, as it's being replaced. We had our lunch stop in the park which provides many benches, café and conveniences.
Despite our warning to members of the rogue kite, we found Julie and Chris had been targeted again! Quite incredible considering it was their voice that led to signs being placed to warn people of red kites stealing food!
Leaving Marlow over the road bridge, we headed for the steep climb up Winter Hill and on to Copas Turkey Farm. Family run and established 1957, this free range farm is always a place of great interest and amusement!
We learn from a brochure there are turkey, goose and chicken on the farm, sold prepared in a variety of ways. For those so inclined there is a Turkey Cam, so next year you can watch the birds roam 24/7 from July to November!
After the farm our path led to Cookham Common then down Winter Road through woods and over Marlow Road onto Pinkneys Green. Keeping to the edge of the green, we reached a footpath that leads back to the Thicket, passing under the motorway first then back over on a footbridge to the car park and our starting point.
Thank you to Ann and Kathy for leading this walk, writing it up and providing the photos.
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