Moreton-in-Marsh

Moreton-in-Marsh is a thriving market town at the head of the Evenlode Valley and on the Fosse Way (the old Roman road linking Exeter to Lincoln). Not really on the Cotswolds tourist trail, it seems caught somewhere between the 19 th an 21 st centuries and has retained the air of a traditional market town. Walking the streets we encountered few tourists, the Tuesday outdoor market (chartered in 1227) caters largely to the local market with local goods. The wide high street, once lined with tall shade trees retains elegant 18 th and 19 th century inns and houses, but has lost most of the trees to parking. While still attractive, it is best viewed early in the day, before the parking stalls fill. The Old Market Way was actually a modern shopping mall just off the high street and held one of those small but delightful discoveries that make a trip memorable: the WafelWaffle, where Agnes made superb Belgian waffles from flour imported specifically for her waffles and topped with fresh local ingredients. Her refreshingly direct, friendly personality added to the atmosphere. She was soon to leave for France and we were there during her last week. We had hoped to breakfast there on her last day and tell her how much we had enjoyed her meals and her company, but the shop was closed and we did not get the chance. Agnes, if you ever stumble upon this page, you were a delight.