In addition to Oxfordshire Mind’s Physical Activity Team weekly ‘virtual walk’, this week we also have a contribution from one of the readers of the Walking for Wellbeing newsletter. They will be taking us all around Banbury.
Walking has become an important part of our day since lockdown has restricted contact with family and friends. It gives us routine and a focus which is important for our mental health. Being early birds means we rarely see other people and can maintain social distancing.
Living in Cherwell Heights gives us easy access to stunning countryside and we have found ourselves exploring further afield. One of our favourite walks is to cross the country park at Bankside (opposite Chatsworth Drive). The paths lead down to the canal which is a beautiful walk in itself, although can get busy. If you take the footpath immediately opposite the canal bridge and head towards the motorway you will find yourself among some stunning scenery. The path eventually bears to the right and follows the River Cherwell. This morning we encountered a deer which headed straight towards us. The river can be crossed by a wooden footbridge; the footpath then takes you under the motorway. Bearing left, walk alongside the motorway and you may encounter a pair of lapwings who are nesting in the field. Straight ahead is a railway bridge and once across this you can follow the footpath which leads to the Jurassic Way. This route takes you along the railway line and eventually to Twyford. A return journey via the canal is a very pleasant walk too.
