20/3/2026 Swift Valley Walk.

Great day for a new walk.

We parked in Elliot's Field car park near to Dunelm store in Rugby.

Walking up to the Oxford Canal which flows close by we crossed over on the bridge down into Swift Valley Nature Reserve. 

Walking alongside an used canal which had become home for all kinds of wild life. 

David Bellamy was a keen fan of the reserve. 

Wonder what lives among the undisturbed parts of this old canal?

The blackthorn blossom dominated the hedges and looking fabulous as it always does at this time of the year.

An unusual fungi attached to this tree looked like small black mussels. 

Paths in most parts of the area were well kept.

Fields were left as they used to be furrowed

Swans on the disused canal.

The reserve continues further along the canal but it was too wet and boggy so hopefully we will explore this the next time we come this way.

A piece of artwork under the brick bridge that some of us didn't notice on the way there - how could we miss this?

A group photo.

Coming down with care.

And then off to our latest watering hole at Cathorpe and they just happen to have lambs and piglets in the adjoining barn.

Everybody enjoyed the lambs

The pigs as well.

Important information.

Our stop of the day Manor Farm cafe with an excellent farm shop plus florist and fancy goods next door.

A very crispy bacon butty exactly as requested.

No excuses, the smells from the café were irresistible.

Food was fantastic.

See you all next week.