Strollers Walk, Frampton Cotterell, 21st February 2026

6 of us met at the usual Bath Car Park to offer lifts. Great to know that the Council plan to introduce parking charges there has been dropped. We made our way to The Globe in Frampton Cotterell where we met up with a further 10 making 16 in total for our walk led by Dave Godden.

We began with a stroll to the Magnolia Mews Bakehouse, a charming café which, though very popular, managed to find room for us all. The owner, Dana, kindly took our photo afterwards.

Our walk continued with Dave pointing out various places of interest, notably the old windmill, originally with sails above but later converted to steam power with the engine house and chimney located alongside. There would have been a ready supply of coal from the numerous local mines.

Continuing through this now very much larger village, we found the old Hat Factory, a three-storey building since converted into homes. The making of hats was once a major industry here.

Continuing by crossing the River Frome, we found the Old Manor House then made our way through the Rugby Club grounds and by Crossbow House, a former school founded in 1842. We next stopped by the Old Workhouse, where a lady now living there explained more of the history. Our leisurely stroll continued back to The Globe after a walk of a little over three miles, quite warm and with no rain, so very enjoyable.

Dave had taken the precaution of booking for lunch for 14 of us, just as well, as this pub is very popular. We all enjoyed an excellent value lunch and lively conversation. As forecast, the rain then started as we set off home so we were quite lucky with the weather for our morning walk.

Thanks to Dave Godden for organising everything, leading us and sharing his knowledge of the history of this interesting village.