Looking back at my photos from our walk along the Thames - that day where we clocked up over 20,000 steps, way more than my what has become usual for lockdown 200 (on a good day!) - I was struck by the beauty of its industrial-ness. And yes, I know that’s not a word, but it seems to fit.
We had great weather for a walk, which started in earnest once we’d reached the Thames Barrier, one of London’s iconic structures. I’ve never been inside, but I have admired from either side of the river many a time.
Perhaps it was the good weather, but even the rusty railings and gateposts were looking good, and I suspect that MOH knew at this point that our walk was going to be one of those with plenty of camera stops.
And why not, especially when most of the Thames Path was relatively quiet, and presented us with views such as this.
Clearly this is still a working part of the river, but imagine its history. I bet it has many, many stories to tell.
Even the graffiti looked more of a work of art rather than vandalism.
When we reached the Yacht Club, I did have a smile - though only cats need to stop here, clearly.
But even though there was the ironwork and industrialism, there was also softer elements. Planting along the Thames Path included vibrant hollyhocks, and even though it was still July, some blackberries.
I doubt there’ll be any left by the time of traditional blackberrying.
There’s a kind of romanticism about the next shot, and not just how the picture’s framed, or even the bikes resting alongside the end of the jetty, it’s owners no doubt enjoying a quiet and beautiful spot.
So much has changed along the river since we cycled along here regularly, but I’m pretty sure that this was the jetty on which MOH proposed, many years ago. A cold February day where he insisted we head out for a walk, and ushered me here. All the time though the weather was worsening and snow was threatening, and I was desperate to get home, little knowing his plans, or how I was wrecking them. Though it all turned out ok in the end.
As we neared Greenwich we realised all this walking was thirsty work, so stopping at the Cutty Sark Tavern (the pub, not the boat) we enjoyed the view for a pint or two.
London really is a great place, and this year many more of us Londoners will hopefully remember to enjoy some of those great spots.
