Five Valleys facts for kids
The Five Valleys are a beautiful group of valleys located in Gloucestershire, England. They all meet up at the town of Stroud, which is on the western edge of the Cotswolds hills.
These valleys are famous for two main reasons: their stunning natural beauty, which brings many visitors, and their important role in Britain's industrial past. Long ago, starting in the 11th century, people here were involved in the wool trade. Later, in the 18th century, they became known for making cloth. Even though the roads were not very good back then, the rivers and streams helped connect the valleys to other towns, like through the Kennet and Avon Canal. This helped the Five Valleys become a busy and successful area.
The Five Valleys
There are five main valleys that make up this special area:
- The Chalford Valley, also known as the "Golden Valley".
- The Nailsworth Valley, which stretches from Cherington, through Avening, and down to Nailsworth.
- The Ruscombe Valley.
- The Slad Valley, which is famous because it was featured in the book Cider with Rosie.
- The Painswick Valley.
The Five Valleys Walk
The Five Valleys Walk is a very popular walking route that goes in a big circle around Stroud. It's about 21 miles (34 kilometres) long. This walk has been held every year since 1987. It usually takes place on the last Sunday in September and helps raise money for the Meningitis Trust, a charity based in Stroud.
There's also a more challenging version of this walk called the "Five Valleys Circuit." This route includes climbing over the high ground of Selsley Common. The charity walk, however, takes an easier, lower path from Stonehouse to Nailsworth, following the old railway line next to the Nailsworth Stream.
Five Valleys Shopping Centre
The main shopping centre in Stroud is called the Five Valleys Shopping Centre. It was named after these famous valleys.
