Cambridge University Botanic Garden

I wandered to the Cambridge University Botanic Garden today. As ever I parked at the park & ridge and walked in. Although there are more cars it is still not up to pre-pandemic levels by a long way. 

The decision to walk is purely an exercise one as I racked up almost 6 1/2 miles.

This chap was hanging about by the old entrance gate.

On arrival I headed straight for my coffee :)

Gosh you can tell the seasons are going. It is meteorological autumn tomorrow though.

Roasted Chestnuts soon? 

As ever a nice walk and interesting to see how it changes throughout the years.

Magdalen Laver Church

This morning I decided to walk to Magdalen Laver Church. I knew little of the church and I didn't know if it would be open but walk to it I would. Now given the walk is 7.54 miles .... 

It's a hard life being a foal.

This one was with his Mum

Obviously a male ;)

I was miles away when I took the photo below but does this Heron appear to be swimming?

So I arrived at the turning to the church which is marked as private with access to church.

St Mary Magdalen, Magdalen Laver. There is a blocked Norman window and there are roman bricks used as well. I know there were Roman settlements in Harlow. The timber west tower dates to 1535. The first rector mentioned on the board is Gilbert de Breaute in 1256. A latter rector of 1855 is William Webb Ellis (yes the one alleged to have invented Rugby). 

Rather a fine tomb for William Cole outside the church. There is a black marble slab to him inside.

Early 18th century commandments board

The memorial lists those who died in WWI and thanks god for the 39 villagers who served and all came back from WWII

And a field of Sunflower.s

 A productive walk I think