There are many enjoyable things that COVID has prevented or postponed in the past 3 years …. the wonderful November E&H weekend is thankfully NOT one of them.
Would we have missed the rain, mud and mini floods if our chosen destination had been ‘Bourton in the Sun?’ Who cares? The heavy rain on the Sunday and paths better suited to wallowing hippos only served to strengthen our resolve to have a jolly good time. Southern softies? No way! 22 hardy walkers had a whale of a time.
Walking in The Cotswolds is always good, routes chosen and ably lead by Rita, Mike and Gwyneth (from local group Bristol and West) made it exceptional. They started from the hotel and Winchcombe and included some of The Cotswold National Trail including its’ highest point, Cleeve Hill. Thank you, leaders.
The HF hotel ‘Harrington House’ provided the usual excellent food and service and unlimited hot showers, heated boot room and good packed lunches made it ideal for walkers, especially wet ones like us!
No one seemed too tired to join a team and enjoy the hotly contended evening quizzes. Points were rewarded with unexpected prizes to the victors. Thank you to Gill for organising these and the Tiptree Jams, made in Essex,  presented with thanks to Gwyneth. All beautifully wrapped I may add.
It’s always a little disappointing when good things come to an end but several of those returning home were heartened with the knowledge that they only have 4 months to wait for the next happy hol. Yes, Essex and Herts are off yet again in March to Malhamdale in The Yorkshire Dales, as Lizzie takes the organisational reins. I, for one, can’t wait.

Friday's walk

Saturday's walks

Sunday's walk 

Find out more about HF Holidays here: Walking & Special Interest Holidays - HF Holidays