I have run in and around Didcot for the last 10 months – I thought I must have pretty much covered the entire area and exhausted all the possible running routes.

So I was really surprised to discover that south of Didcot lies an impressive raised path which cuts through the idyllic Oxfordshire countryside.  It is part of the national cycle network (route 44) and wide enough to accommodate cyclist, walker, buggy stroller, trotting Labrador and runner alike.  The route, lined with artful benches and wildflowers, allows delightful views across farm land, rolling hills, woods and picturesque villages.  In the distance even the Didcot Power Station Cooling Towers look majestic.

The views were a reminder of one of the things I love about running – that it can be an adventure and a great way to discover an area.  This week the unexpected views provided that extra boost that lifted the run from routine into remarkable.

To set the scene we needed to run 8 K on Wednesday, the hottest day of the year so far and still a respectable 27°C when we set off at 21:00.  Since I had been so hot and thirsty on the first run of the week (Monday, 5 K, Didcot Ladygrove Loop) I decided the best thing to do was drink a couple of glasses of water before I left.  Note: actually not a brilliant idea it turns out – I spent the first few kilometres feeling like a giant water balloon, slushing internally and groaning with every step.  In addition, early on this new route wasn’t great, just tired residential areas followed by a dodgy looking overgrown dark wooded path with uneven pavement.  (If you have watched Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: at the beginning when Belle’s father has to choose between two roads – one bright and enchanted woodlands complete with chirping birds and the other a dark and desecrated forest – yeah we were definitely closer to option two).  On top of this, despite waiting until late evening it was still stiflingly hot.  I hadn’t eaten yet either so I was not particularly enjoying the moment or in the best of moods.

So, imagine then, when the path suddenly opened up and offered up spectacular views.  All the little niggles drifted away and I was just in awe.  All that nature, combined with the setting sun and high orange tinted moon and the run became pleasant once more.  Ended up running 8.5 K and going back for the long run on Sunday (13 K) where we took these photos.

Week 1: Total mileage for the week was 26.5 K (16.5 miles), total running time was 3:11.