When Scones and Souvenirs Take Over.
Today wasn’t really a hiking day, but more of a travel day – just heading to the starting point of the trail, Chipping Camden.
But instead of just hopping straight to my destination, I decided to make the journey a bit more exciting and explore some extra spots along the way.
One village that’s not actually on the trail caught my eye: Burton-on-the-Water.
So, I jumped on a train to Morton-in-Marsh, where I was supposed to catch a bus to Chipping Camden.
But you know what? I thought, “Why not switch things up?” I dropped my luggage off, caught a bus to Bourton-on-the-Water instead, and went off on an adventure.
Now, let’s talk about Bourton-on-the-Water. It’s like the poster child for the “perfect” English village.
You know the type – all charm, but perhaps a little too polished. Was it gorgeous? Absolutely! But, let’s just say, it’s a little too picture-perfect for my taste.
The place was swarming with tourists – Chinese, Japanese, Dutch, Indian – you name it.
Everyone was crammed into the same narrow alleys, darting in and out of tea rooms, pubs, and souvenir shops, all trying to dodge the inevitable drizzle that’s basically England’s second language.
Every house felt like it was straight out of a tourist brochure, either selling scones, jam, or cute trinkets you don’t really need but end up buying anyway.
I’ll admit, it was hard to really feel the place beyond the crowds. But after weaving through the chaos, I found a moment of peace in the church.
It gave me a chance to sit, meditate, and think, “Alright, Trail, you’re gonna be a welcome change!”
But hey, at least I didn’t leave with that nagging feeling of “Did I miss out on something?” Now, on to the next adventure!
