The first Monday Walk of 2024 saw 15 Wick Wanderers set off from Cowbridge Cattle Market Car Park. It was lovely to be joined by new member Mavis, plus Pennie and Gill who hadn’t recently been free to join walks. Initially we did some town walking, passing Fred Dunn’s Gates at the cricket ground, learning a little of the story behind them.
The walk progressed; passing the site of a Roman Baths, joined a path along The River Thaw which eventually led us to Druids Green. This is now a housing estate, but interestingly was the site of Cowbridge Station which was on the Llantrisant/Aberthaw line. Very little evidence of its past history is visible but good to learn about. Blue plaques, and an informative notice board added to our knowledge.
Back on the High Street, we could see the terraced cottages built for the railworkers. From The Druid point of view, we spotted The Ancient Druid’s house which once was a medieval pilgrim’s resting point as they had travelled to St David’s in West Wales. A house a few doors away has 2 standing stones in the garden. We all agreed the town was full of history, and it was good to stop, stare and take it in as we walked along.
Then we headed out of town, noticing all the leaf tips of bulbs pushing their way through the soil. After the snowdrops there will soon be a lovely display of spring flowers. The route climbed upwards, and we soon reached the ruins of St Quentin’s 14th Century Castle. The views were lovely on this bright sunny winter’s day. Our resident photographer lined us up against the castle backdrop for our group photo.
We then walked down the steep St Quentin’s Hill lined by quaint cottages. Turning right at The Mill House, we once again joined a path following The River Thaw which led us back to Cowbridge. A short but lovely winters walk was completed by refreshments in The Penny Farthing. Thank you, fellow Wick Wanderers, for joining me.
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