Putney Discovers the Cotswolds

The Putney Excel clan took a break from classes yesterday and headed off to the English Cotswolds countryside for some outdoor adventure and relaxation. Part of the group took a trip to Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill and home of the present Duke of Marlborough. This contingent spent a lazy day at the largest private residence in England, where they wiled away the hours drinking in the breathtaking rolling parklands, wandering through the largest hedge maze in Europe, and enjoying tea and scones in the garden. Those who chose to spend the day lazing around this gorgeous residence returned refreshed and ready for classes on Thursday.

Another group of students ventured off into the woodlands on a hiking quest for the Holy Grail of the Cotswolds, braving sheep, streams and other stimulating sights for a glimpse of a hidden Roman mosaic from the 1^st century AD. Students came home from their hike with tired feet and a keen sense of accomplishment, and surely slept well Wednesday night.

Finally, a third contingent took a “Tour de Cotswolds” bike trip, a nineteen-mile expedition through the rolling hills, lush meadows, and quaint villages of the region. The climbs were steep, the sun was sweltering, but the panoramic vistas at the top provided ample reward for their efforts. After recharging in a charming park for sandwiches, salad and a siesta, the whole group agreed the trip had been well worth the exertion.

Students returned to campus Thursday evening for a dinner out with staff members, partaking in traditional fish and chips, pizza, Portugese, Indian, or noodles, allowing time for sharing stories and comparing notes on the day. If the animated chatter over rapidly-emptying plates provided any indication, a good time was had by all on the Putney Cotswolds excursion.