Text and pics contributed by M-L
On a glistening autumn morning more than 20 IOGers gathered at Harleston in Norfolk for a lovely circuit of the Waveney Valley of around 10 miles. It was as warm as summer, but there is something in the light this time of year – and the angle of the sun – that shouts season of mellow fruitfulness and all that. A simply perfect day!
We started from the Co-Op carpark in Harleston, and followed the Angles Way footpath southwards out of town and over the River Waveney before traversing tranquil countryside and farmland parallel to the river as far as the village of Brockdish. Glen then gave us the choice of heading straight to the Old Kings Head pub or taking a pretty 1.5 mile loop around the village and THEN going to the pub. I am proud to say that no one wavered. And the drink was so much wetter when we got there.
Our journey back via a mostly different route took us along country lanes (to avoid a bull) and then back onto footpaths to skirt Weybread and cross the Waveney for the fourth time.
Glen had made a booking for six at the J D Young restaurant in Harleston in case a few people wanted to join him for a late lunch after the walk – but luckily they could extend that to 20 or more, because almost everyone took part.
A lovely day out with all the ingredients: beautiful Norfolk/Suffolk border scenery; great company; sparkling weather; jolly pub break – and a roast to finish it off. Thanks again Glen, for another great memory.