Another warm and sunny day was forecast, so it was on with the walking boots again to enjoy the local countryside.

We started from the farm this time, and had a number of ploughed fields to cross, but these were not too bumpy and of course, very dry:

A bit further along, we stopped for our morning apple:

The terrain became more mixed, with a friendly horse to say hello to:

As we dropped down into the Stour Valley, there were some nice views:

We then followed the River Box upstream, and Rocco had several opportunities to get wet!

We stopped for lunch by a field of beets

After lunch, there was a very overgrown section of path that took careful navigation with shorts on:

Rocco found another ford to play in:

We then climbed up the hill towards Stoke-by-Nayland, then dropped back down again to follow the river again.

Finally, we reached Homey Bridge ford, and Rocco spent ages playing in the water:

Then back up the hill to home and a welcome cup of tea.

8.6 miles today.