Words and map contributed by Sarah; pics contributed by Marie-Louise.
Nineteen people plus two dogs joined me for this walk starting at Needham Market station. We followed the footpath out of Needham Market known as the ‘Coffin Trail’ up to Barking Church, then crossed the road outside Barking and progressed through Priestley Wood. After skirting around Tarston Hall Farm, we followed the track down to Darmsden Church, where we stopped for a quick snack break.
Once setting off again, we passed through Baylham and Upper Street before arriving in Great Blakenham for our lunch stop at the church, and for those that wanted it, a quick drink at the pub across the road. After lunch, we returned to Needham Market via the Gipping Valley River Path, passing by Baylham Mill and the Rare Breeds Farm. Reaching Needham Lake, we passed under the railway line through the very low cattle tunnel before arriving back at our start point. After some people bid their goodbyes, a few of us retired to The Rampant Horse pub for a well earned post-walk drink.
