Wednesday, 26th June - BRENTFORD STATION TO KEW GARDENS  - Leader: Caroline K

Our route takes us from Brentford station through the Butts Conservation Area to Brentford Lock. After following a short section of the Grand Union Canal we continue to Syon Park where we will have a brief refreshment break. We then walk through the park to the Thames, and after crossing the Duke of Northumberland and Crane rivers we continue over Richmond Lock to follow the towpath eastward past the Old Deer Park and Kew Gardens. At Kew Railway Bridge we leave the river and head for Kew Gardens station via the landscaped gardens of The National Archives.

The walk follows sections of the Capital Ring and the Thames Path. Generally easy terrain but at a moderate pace. A few stretches of road walking, uneven ground along the towpath and sets of steep steps at Brentford and Richmond locks. Several drop out points.

1. Toll House, Brentford Lock

2. Meadow flowers

3. Sunshine and shade of Syon Park

4. View from Richmond Lock

5. Swans on the River Thames

6. The tree-lined towpath to Kew

7. Isleworth church

8. Kew Gardens in the midday sun

9. Fountains, National Archives’ grounds

Photos: Caroline K