Abingdon's wonderful Donkey Bridge.
Located opposite Abingdon Marina, it is at the point where Swift Ditch re-joins the River Thames. The Bridge got its name from its use by donkeys and work horses pulling barges up the river Thames over this wooden bridge.
A fantastic location, with a very small sandy beach nearby. Within sight of a grade II listed Culham Old Bridge (1790) and location of a civil war skirmish. Swift ditch was once the main navigation channel
How to get the cache?
It is under the wooden donkey bridge. It needs to be replaced exactly where found. The level of the Thames can increase during times of flooding, so must be high. Use common sense regarding safety equipment and flows.
There is no access from the bank. I am not sure access by rope would be possible.
Suggested access is by boat - a kayak or SUP is ideal. Suitable rowing boats can also be hired locally in Abingdon. It is strictly not suitable for swimming and you cannot reach it without standing at water level. The cache can be taken down carefully, then tweezers are needed, signed, sealed again at then put back securely
Andersey Island Paddle Loop
This is on the Andersey Island Loop. Famous as one of the best 20 padding loops in Southern England. Up the Thames from Abingdon, past the lock, then down swift ditch then back. There are another 4 of my cache that can be collected only by boat. Make a day of it. There is a pool directly on the right once you pass the lock to pull in and get out. Allow 4 hours.
- GC7RM2G - Iron Bridge Paddle Cache
- GC8A90Q - Swift ditch Pound Lock
- GC7RZ99 - Abingdon Bridge
- GC7RM80 - Secret Tiger Island