See the Snake's head fritillary at Cricklade

North Meadow in Cricklade is famous for its interesting flora, especially the Snake’s head fritillary, which is best seen in late April. The Nature Conservancy Council has estimated that 80% of the British population of this plant are found here, due to the ancient Lammas Land Management regime, a special type of common land.

Cricklade (motto in loco delicioso – in a delightful place) is the only town in Wiltshire on the Thames and can trace its origins at least as far as the Iron Age. Considered of importance to the Romans, Saxons and Normans, it was the Saxons who created the basic road layout of the present town by raising an earthen rampart around their settlement and building a timber wall in the time of King Alfred.

St Sampson’s Church is an ancient Celtic dedication, and there is evidence of Saxon work in the present church, although the nave is predominantly C13th. Many Norman details remain inside, including some rare heraldic carvings and an Elizabethan altar table.

St Mary’s Church at the north end of the High Street was built on the foundations of a Saxon Chapel, but was extensively restored in the mid C19th. It is now a Catholic Church.

Itinerary:
11.30am - Meet at lay-by near North Meadow
1pm - Lunch (bring a picnic or in Cricklade).
2pm – St Mary’s Church
2.30pm – St Sampson’s Church.

This outing is limited to 25 persons.
COST: £10.00 PER PERSON (including donations to the two churches. Book on-line via our website.