“Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August”
Jenny Han

Waking up early on a warm July morning in the quiet Northamptonshire village of Blisworth – not something I do on a regular basis, but recently, this is where I found myself. After staring out at the clear blue sky, I had to choose whether to go back to dreamland, or get up and go explore; thankfully, I chose the latter.

I was staying once again at the Walnut Tree Inn, located about a mile and a half from Blisworth’s main village, so having checked google maps, I plotted my route and headed out into the early morning, armed with my iPhone, camera and cap. My route took me a short distance from The Walnut Tree to the ‘Station Road Bridge’, which spans the magnificent Grand Union Canal. From here I clambered down the bank to the canal itself, and found it’s path leading to the village.

The view of the Grand Union Canal, from Station Road Bridge

Following the towpath, I passed wonderful narrowboats as the canal meandered towards the next bridge, known as Candle Bridge. Being such a glorious morning, it was a slow walk, involving lots of photos and friendly ‘good mornings’.

Heading down the towpath

A wonderful collection of pots and even a watering can

The walk along to Candle Bridge was probably the highlight of the morning, it was so peaceful and picturesque, with the wonderful colours of Summer on show.

Spot the fisherman

Approaching Candle Bridge

The fascinating story of how the bridge got it’s name

The view further along the canal from under Candle Bridge

… and back towards Candle Bridge

From Candle Bridge, I returned to the road, and completed the short walk towards the main village. First up was that focal point of all good villages, the village pub, The Royal Oak.

Drinks anyone?

The walk then continued along the high street, past thatched cottages and neatly manicured lawns and gardens.

Such amazing street views

My favourite shot – love the Hovis sign next door

Even the local Church had caught the World Cup fever

Once again at the canal, and this stunning view dominated by Blisworth Mill, an old flour mill built in 1879, but now converted into luxury apartments

After some 2 hours of walking, I returned back to The Walnut Tree for a well deserved ‘full english’. Living overseas, it is warm summer days and locations such as Blisworth, that make me miss the UK a great deal – this is the Country at her beautiful best.