Spring is not a single event but a series. From maybe the first snowdrops to Morris dancing in the May.
An important stage is visiting a bluebell wood. This lockdown year my challenge was to find one an easy walk from home. The nearest is on the large campus of the University of Kent, about two miles away.
A cloudy start with a slight northerly wind. Along Wincheap and Rheims Way, eerily almost traffic free. Through Toddlers Cove, the children’s play equipment out of use. A few dogwalkers, runners, and cyclists. Through housing to Whitstable Road. After the March rains, i expected a muddy footpath by a small stream up the hill. Fresh woodchips had been applied .
Along University Road. Views downhill to Canterbury cathedral, much better than the view of the university from the city. Opposite the main bus stop is a wood with another stream. Full of lovely bluebells. Photos never seem to capture the contrast between blue and green.
Back through St Stephens area, meeting more dogwalkers. Through the pretty Westgate Gardens with formal flower beds. Signs of essential work: emptied litter bins, mown lawns.
My walk ended in sunshine. At four miles, my longest since February. Achy and needing coffee. Feeling good after exercise in Spring sunshine.
Rambling Brummie 