Bathampton

Bathampton, a semi-rural village on the outskirts of Bath, held a few unexpected surprises for us.

One notable site is St. Nicholas Church, an Anglican church originally built in the 13th century. It underwent significant alterations in the 15th century, including the addition of a tower. The church is best known as the final resting place of Admiral Arthur Philip, the first Governor of New South Wales, Australia, who was buried there in 1814.

Visitors interested in the early history of New South Wales will find the "Australia Chapel" in the south aisle especially meaningful. This section of the church contains memorials and informative displays dedicated to Admiral Philip and his legacy, making it a quiet but significant stop for those tracing Australia's colonial beginnings.

***********************************************************

The Kennet & Avon Canal skirts the edge of Bathampton and lies just across the road, within easy walking distance from the church grounds. This historic waterway stretches across southern England, covering a total length of 87 miles (140 km). It comprises two navigable rivers - the River Avon and the River Kennet - linked by a central canal section. Although technically only the middle part is a canal, the term "Kennet & Avon Canal" is commonly used to refer to the entire waterway.

Beginning in Bristol, the route follows the River Avon to Bath, before continuing via the man-made canal to the River Kennet at Newbury, and ultimately reaching the River Thames at Reading. Along its course, the waterway includes an impressive 105 locks, a testament to the engineering prowess of its time.

As we stood nearby, it did cross our minds that on a future visit to the UK, a journey aboard one of the traditional narrowboats that navigate this canal might be a delightful way to explore the English countryside at a leisurely pace.

***********************************************************

Bathampton will also be fondly remembered for its excellent beer and hearty pub food. We spent two enjoyable evenings at The George Inn, a charming and historic riverside pub located just a stone’s throw from St. Nicholas Church. With its cozy atmosphere, local ales, and classic British fare, it offered the perfect setting to unwind after a day of exploring the village.

***********************************************************

Another unexpected surprise came as we left Bathampton for Tetbury on 17 August 2014. To our delight, we encountered a quaint toll bridge where we had to pay a £1 fee to cross. This charming arched bridge, constructed from the iconic Bath stone in 1872, spans the River Avon and still retains much of its historic character. The road across the bridge is a single track, controlled by a "give way" sign, requiring drivers to take turns crossing - a gentle reminder of a slower, more graceful era of travel.