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| Osterley Lock |
We were lucky with the weather for our next walk along the Capital Ring. My friend and I met at West Brompton and went one stop to Earls Court where we changed to the Piccadilly Line to Boston Manor. From here we walked back to the Grand Union Canal to pick up the walk where we finished last time. The walk is 4.9 miles (excluding rail links), and was as pretty as the last walk.
We soon pass Osterley Lock and before we know it we are at Hanwell Lock where we part company with the Grand Union Canal and follow the River Brent. We reach Hanwell Bridge with the choice of walking under it or over it. The book said the path under the bridge is often flooded. It was. We went down to look. So, we walked up to the road and crossed the busy road by the traffic lights. I caught a glimpse of the viaduct on the other side. I was impressed. Luckily, that was the way we were going and crossed the field. This is the Whamcliffe Viaduct named after Lord Whamcliffe who steered the GWR Bill through the House of Lords. The viaduct was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and completed in 1838.
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| Hanwell Lock |
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| River Brent |
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| Hanwell Bridge |
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| Flooded path |
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| Whamcliffe Viaduct |
Passing under the viaduct the path turns right and then left. Soon we approach Boles Meadow (an alternative route and recommended). We stopped for our packed lunch here. Hanwell Zoo was behind us. Unfortunately, there was no time to visit, but we did use the cafe for a cuppa before heading towards St Mary's Church, Hanwell, designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott and built in 1841.
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| St Mary's Church |
By the church there is a left turn and we crossed by the Brent Valley Golf Course. It always amazes me just how many green spaces there are in London. This is not a part of London I know and I was surprised how pretty and green it was.
Soon we were in Perivale Park where we walked around the perimeter until we came across a piano bench. This is dedicated to keyboard player Nicky Hopkins, who was born in Perivale and who played with some big names/groups. Of course we had to sit on the bench!
Shortly after leaving the park we came across the footbridge over the busy A40. Here I parted company with my friend. She took the train from South Greenford station, while I crossed the bridge and walked towards Greenford station to finish the walk. The path followed the line of Northold Rugby Club grounds and another green space before entering the busy roads around Greenford central.
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| Footbridge over the A40 |
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| Northolt RC |
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| Two bridges, one for the main train line, one for the tube (Greenford) |
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| Greenford station |
It had been a lovely leisurely walk in warm sunshine. We are keen to walk the next section, but as always, it's down to time and the two of us being available on the same days!
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