Tormarton to Cold Ashton (Cotswold Way 13)

Strip Lynchets near Dyrham Park

The penultimate leg of the Cotswold Way! We picked up the route at Tormarton and immediately crossed the M4 motorway. A track and field paths led us to the delightful little valley. Strip lynchets are the ridges that form on the down slope of a ploughed field.

Soon we came down a lane through the small village of Dyrham and past the gates of Dyrham Park. The rear part, shown below, was designed by a French Huguenot architect called Samuel Hauduroy. The main part dates from 1698-1704 as is rather grander.

From here the route heads south across fields and then into Dyrham wood. There is a nice view to the west - but less dramatic than many previous views on the Cotswold Way.

We cross the A46 at Pennsylvania. It seems possible that it was named by local Quakers in honour of the American state. If so, it would buck the normal pattern of American place names being derived from English originals.

From here, the path leads upwards through two fields of crops, across a road and along a drive to reach Holy Trinity church, Cold Ashton.

Pevsner reveals that it was rebuilt between 1508 and 1540. The west tower, which may be 14th century is the only remaining part of the previous church.

You emerge through the church yard on the main street of this quiet village and pass the imposing Rectory to be immediately greeted by the even more imposing Cold Ashton Manor. Pevsner suggests that it dates from about 1629.

The parking area at the front, across the road, has a splendid view towards Bath to the south.

Conditions: warm with sunny periods.

Distance: about 7 miles.

Map: Explorer 155 (Bristol and Bath).

Rating: three and half star. A easier walk than most we have done, but less drama.