Great Ouse Cut-Off Channel expedition – stage one

I walked this, the first stage of the Great Ouse cut-off channel expedition, in May 2012.

1st stage of the Great Ouse cut-off channel expedition
1st stage of the Great Ouse cut-off channel expedition

It was an overcast day with a slight hint of rain in the air.  I set off along the cut-off channel and soon came across a group of horses grazing by the riverside.

Horses eating and drinking
Horses eating and drinking

One of the horses waded out a little way to drink from the river and nibble on some tasty aquatic plant life.

A horse having a drink

At Denver Sluice the channel takes a turn to the east and rows of trees start to appear on the banks.

North bank
North bank of the cut-off channel

I climbed up the bank and enjoyed strolling under a canopy of leaves and branches, it felt as if I were walking along a lush green corridor.

Wooded path along the north bank
Wooded path along the north bank

You know what?  There was no litter, anywhere at all.  I love it when I find a path that is either hardly used or if used then the walkers are nice tidy types.  The bank and riverside were a joy to walk along and would make a good location for a spot of subtle wild camping.

Looking east along the cut-off channel towards the A10 bridge
Looking east along the cut-off channel towards the A10 bridge

I eventually reached the A10 crossing.  I crossed the channel and started on the return leg.  Once more I walked along gorgeous green corridors and caught sight of scurrying rabbits and flittering birds.

The horses again, on the return journey
The horses again, from the other side of the river, on the return journey

The horses were still enjoying their extended lunch.

I arrived back at Downham Market and  hopped on the train back to Ely.  A fine walk and great day out.

 

3 thoughts on “Great Ouse Cut-Off Channel expedition – stage one

  1. As a Fen boy (by location rather than birth), I have not done this local jaunt.
    But I am now sticking it on a to do list for a nice day this summer.

    Can anyone remind me what summer is?

  2. It’s a fine walk, the next leg should be fun as there is no way home along the 20 miles before arriving at Lakenheath. The Fens are the last great English wilderness ; )

    Where about in the fens are you?

  3. Thanks Martin,
    Very enjoyable, I really like the photos of the horses, eating and drinking. All your walks’ are so appealing. 🙂

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