Walk 1: Source to Cricklade

The (alleged) source of the Thames is close to Kemble in Gloucestershire. The first part of the Thames is not swimmable (although there may be paddleable parts), so this first stretch is a walk of approximately 12 miles from the source to Cricklade. On reflection it would be perfectly possible to walk in the bed of the Thames for long stretches whether wet or dry. We met at the Town Hall car park in Cricklade. This car park gets busy, so make sure you get an early start!

http://goo.gl/maps/O2N5O

From there we shuttled up to the source, leaving cars in Cricklade for the finish. We parked at the lay-by on the A433 but there is another layby closer.

http://goo.gl/maps/NCMXM

From there we walked along the road to the source

http://goo.gl/maps/m3w49

before following the Thames Path to Cricklade. The finish point of the walk is on the West side of the bridge on Cricklade High Street:

http://goo.gl/maps/IwKQE

Check the weather reports before the day so you don't bring too much/too little clothing and of course dig out the sensible shoes. Consider minimum swim gear in case you decide to start swimming early.