Day 53 – not as bad as expected

Hartland Quay to Bude. 15.83 miles, 3,727 ft of elevation, 35,033 steps

There was some trepidation about today as I had heard it was so tough but in the end it was just a really lovely day. I think was down to a number of things:

1. England’s emphatic win over Australia. The first World Cup match that I have watched.

2. The 920 miles that I have walked so far have probably made me a little fitter

3. The weather was amazing

4. The scenery spectacular

5. I had to keep ahead of David’s spandex trousers

So, we set off late (10:15) but feeling buoyed by the rugby.

We did have an alternative plan to dive off the coastal path and take an easier inland route, but the path whilst very hilly was giving us so much to see that we stuck with it. So pleased we did. We saw some really cool things on the way:

1. Harold’s Bench. I love the fact there is a route reference for Harold, his bench and the view

2. Ronald Duncan’s Hut

A amazing little hut that was the studio for a local farmer/ poet. His daughter renovated the hut which is right on the edge of the cliffs and has a book left on a desk where people can write comments, add there own poetry or just right their name. Some poetry is better than other’s – I don’t think this one is top of the list

3. The hawkers hut

Much smaller than Ronald’s hut but cool none the less, this had carvings all over the wood and a little treasure chest if you looked carefully

4. Blue sky

We knew it was out there somewhere, just hadn’t seen it for a while

We made it to Bude by 5pm, and a first for a long time which was no wet weather gear and dry boots. Cousins Jill has kindly done my washing and was returned when we met for dinner along with Mum and Dad. A lovely meal to finish a great day. On my own again tomorrow when David returns home in the morning so just Schooner and I for the day. Thanks Dave for coming. Nick and Nigel will be joining in the evening ready for a day on the cliffs on Monday. Bring it on…..