Cotswolds Rivers Week

Seven days of walks exploring some of the area’s finest waterways will take place this September, at the first Cotswolds Rivers Week.

The very first Cotswolds Rivers Week will get underway on Saturday 4 September 2010, aimed at raising awareness about these rich habitats during the 2010 International Year of Biodiversity.

The inaugural celebration aims to provide unique opportunities for people to discover some of the area’s most beautiful rivers including the Windrush, Evenlode, Coln and Isbourne.

Organised by the Cotswolds Conservation Board’s Cotswold Voluntary Wardens, there are many walks being offered during this week, some of SoGlos.com’s highlights include:

A six-hour walk to the edge of the Cotswolds on Sunday 5 September 2010 passing though Nympsfield and Coaley Peak and Woodchester Park Mansion. Walkers should bring a packed lunch and meet at the long stay car park in Nailsworth’s Old Market at 10am.

The chance to explore the Roman archaeological features on Wednesday 8 September 2010 on the easy five mile walk along the River Coln, meeting at Quenington village green at 10am.

Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust’s Tales from the River Bank event at Greystones Farm Nature Reserve on Wednesday 8 September 2010 at 6pm, where all ages can learn about water voles, otters, dragonflies and the plight of the native crayfish. Booking is required on (01452) 383333.

Following the Cotswold Way to the source of the River Isbourne, the moderate Springs to Silk walk setting off from Winchcombe’s Back Lane car park at 10am on Thursday 9 September 2010 will see walkers take in historic mill sites and tucking into packed lunches.

Heading off from Stratford Park Leisure Centre car park in Stroud at 10am on Saturday 11 September 2010, walkers will be exploring the Thames and Severn Canal as well as the River Frome with the chance to stop off for a pub lunch on the six hour walk.