I took an impromptu road trip to Pembrokeshire in May, and that’s the quick summary.
Dinas head
📍 Newport Sands 📍Pwllgwaelod Beach 📍Dinas Head (including Pen Y Fan – highest point on the island 📍 Porthcawl
Improvised little adventure: solo road trip, car camping, hike and sandy toes, in just over 24h.
I left Swindon at 17:00 Saturday and back before 21:00 Sunday night. First time car camping was great – see pic of the car with fairy light and all!
I camped by the beach, and had breakfast with the sound of the dawn chorus and waves at sunrise, took a nap and headed to Dinas head.
Lovely little stroll on Dinas Head. Pity about the mist/cloud coverage on the coast. I’ll have to come back in good weather and look out for dolphins. Still, well worth the road trip and car camping. Another very fun little solo adventure.
I stopped in Porthcawl on the way home. I went for a dip in the sea and the weather was gorgeous.
Total idiot: I scraped my right knee in the sea on a rock!
Photo dump
Written in May 2024… Uploaded in March 2025.
I’ll post the rest of 2024 adventures soon and my plans for 2025.
Today, instead of resting as initially planned due to a poor weather forecast (,the first plan was hiking Yr Wyddfa at sunrise but then forecast for poor to moderate conditions meant I went for a “rest day”), I couldn’t resist the appeal of the local hills. I decided to go on a “leisurely stroll” up Moel Eilio (726m), Foel Gron (629m), Foel Goch(605m), and Moel Cynghorion (674m). Bagging two Welsh Marylins (Moel Eilio and Moel Cynghorion) felt like a satisfying achievement.
It was a simple, happy day, enjoying the beauty of nature in its purest form. Very few people about. I saw 4 or 5 people in the first 4h, and after 1h of not having seen anyone, I went for a nature wee behind a rock…what are the chances?!? Two German trail runners showed up! Luckily they didn’t see me as I was quick. Classic hiking bad timing though…
I had lunch at the top of Moel Cynghorion. It was so pleasant. Looking over the valley and yr Wyddfa.
Instead of pushing on towards Garnedd Ugain and Yr Wyddfa (which was very tempting while there as it looked fairy close and feasible), I opted to head back via Telegraph Valley.
Lots of ascents today again but I really enjoyed it. The “stroll” turned into a full-on hill hike.
Today wasn’t planned, but it turned out to be a day filled with unexpected delights, once more, in the stunning landscape of Eryri. After a week of adventurous stomping around, covering 87 miles or about 140 kilometers with plenty of uphill climbs, embracing the wilderness, camping under the stars for four nights (3 of them wild camping), encountering wildlife, and both swearing and laughing in the face of challenges. Time to go home tomorrow.
I wasn’t feeling at my best this morning. I woke up with a headache (and a bit of a nosebleed but it didn’t last – I think it’s just sinusitis-kike symptoms) and remember having had very vivid stressful dreams.
My legs felt rested. My battery packs were not full because the charger was super slow and only had one USB slot on it.
I had porridge and hot chocolate. I also took antihistamines and paracetamol.
As I was packing my bag, I realised I broke my sunglasses which isn’t ideal. I guess that’s something else not to carry but what a shame.
I went to the corner shop (opened at 8am) to buy a couple of things before I headed off and left Llan Ffestiniog around 08:30.
The plan today was to walk to Penmachno. It is a hilly challenging 13+ miles with a 5km stretch which the guide describes as the “wildest of the entire Trail” (also part of Migneint site of special scientific interest).
The first part of the walk was absolutely beautiful : Ceunant Cynfal nature reserve. I walked past many waterfalls, lovely oak trees covered in moss, bluebells, etc. the main attraction is the Rhaeadr Cynfal waterfall.
Walking from Llan Ffestiniog to the viaduct, at a leisurely pace, stopping for photos of waterfalls, oak trees, moss and bluebells, took 1h.
I had been feeling quite tired, headachey and hungry. I stopped in the woods to eat salted cashews, drink water and take two ibuprofen (I had paracetamol this morning). I knew there was a bit of hill climbing ahead today so I took it at an easy pace.
I walked to the Fferm cwm (ancient building). Then the hill that followed was vety hard work but rewarded by the beautiful waterfall once you reach the first top. The path keeps climbing thereafter until you reach the road. The terrain was also difficult with wet ground and clumps of grass. Watch your ankles! My right calf was sore so it’s been hard work.
From there it’s well signed. I stopped after the crossing to send messages in case there is no signal later. I had food as it was lunch time.
Tiredness started to be felt at that point. My eyes wanting to shut and rest so I put on my fleece, laid on my backpack and slept for five minutes. I needed that rest. I went on to Llyn y Morynion. It was beautiful. Sadly it was spoilt by the engine noise of a truck/car. Someone from Welsh Waters was sat there in the car space, with their engine on.
Electric lamb?
I carried past the dam and went past two small slate derelict houses. I followed what seemed the track only to realise I was slightly off track. I got my marks looking around and found the gate. Interestingly when I got there, it was the other side of the fence!
When I got stuck out the gate.Gate conquered
So I took off my bag and climed over. Another win for the confidence:)
I walk past the bryn y Castell (ancient fort) and up the hill , following the fence. I stopped for an afternoon snack and watch battery top-up by a little lake (on the other side of the fence). It was good to stop to check the route ahead.
Stile in disrepair Amazed at the natural bubbles that kept forming
Straight after my break followed a lot of wet ground and I escaped sinking a couple of times; I made my way up then down hill to reach the road. I sat on the slate bridge for a minute – chatting on the phone with my daughters. Then I took on THE hill towards the slate plant. Steep road. It took me 30 minutes to reach the plant, helped by playing a bit of music too. I thought it was a good effort. Never skip leg day at the gym or interval hill training at the running club!
I walked around the corner from the slate plant, toward the disused communication towers and arrived on top of Rhiwbach quarry. What a view!
Not impressed by climbing that road for 30 min straight
My legs have given up so I stopped here for the night. Just a few meters from the path, as I don’t want to be around any mineshafts. I cooked dinner, drank peppermint tea and I’m ready to sleep. I walked for 9 hours and saw nobody else walking. Not even dog walkers.
Tomorrow will take me to Penmachno and hopefully Betws-y-coed. This is likely my last day of walking so I probably won’t complete the whole trail back to Bethesda. But I’m glad I walked this far already and I’m in awe of how amazing Eryri is.
As I started day 3, I expected a slow day, aiming for 12 to 15 miles. I woke around 2:30 am to a beautiful night sky, though my camera couldn’t capture it. After getting up properly at 6 am, I delayed getting out of my sleeping bag due to the cold and fatigue.
After breakfast and chatting with other campers, Martin, a keen hiker and mountain leader, offered me coffee and introduced me to his wife Fran who walked across Iceland. We discussed hiking, with Martin diagnosing me as “insane” due to the weight if my bag! That’s about right.
I set off around 9 am, enjoying the sunny climb and later with majestic views of Yr Wyddfa and glimpses of the sea.
Descending to Rhyd Ddu, I stopped at a pub for a chocolate bar and apple juice before heading slowly to Beddgelert.
Despite enjoying the woods, I felt mentally fatigued. Concerns about finding accommodation and essentials like water and power troubled me. At Beddgelert, I couldn’t find anywhere to top up my power packs but charged up my devices on the charge I had left. Refueling at a café (bara brith and coffee ) improved my mood and I started to feel brighter as I walked along the riverbank, feeling refreshed. Even my bag didn’t feel that heavy.
The day’s path was drier overall. I had occasional cloudy weather but mostly sunny.
This is when I had what is perhaps the best mile I walked in my life.
Negotiating boulders and paths over the side of the river was exhilarating. Despite the challenges, I felt happier and more confident.
It goes to show about impermanence of situations. I’m not saying you should always push through but having a go at the next step before giving up is so important because you don’t know what’s around the corner. In my case from being tired and wanted to call it a day to exhilarating happy moments on the trail.
Hiking is always here to remind me of these life lessons.
Passing through Nantmor and Bwlchgwernog, I struggled to find a suitable camping spot due to wet ground.
Also, after the fun buzzing part, I had a “moment” of awe when in a proper wild unspoiled area with majestic views. I’m very lucky to have experienced this.
Eventually, I pitched my tent on a windy hillside above Croesor.
Limited phone connectivity made communication difficult, but I managed to send some messages before struggling to keep warm and falling asleep around 11 pm.
You won’t believe what happened in the night… Wait until the next blog, later on, you will have a good laugh at me!
Yesterday marked the start of my hike along the Snowdonia Slate Trail, a day of surprises, scenic wonders, and a mix of challenges and small wins.
Setting off on the train to Newport, I found myself chatting with the station staff, setting a cheerful tone for the day ahead. I had to find a fix (a headband) for my backpack’s loose buckle. I switch trains at Newport for the Transport for Wales train, (it had USB charging points!) and announcements in Welsh, adding an immersive touch to the journey.
Interestingly the toilet felt like a TARDIS and kept talking 😆 “door closed”…
Chatting with other passengers was lovely and the lady selling food and drinks explained the voice for announcements is called “Digital Doris” amongstbthe staff.
Arriving in Bangor, I stepped onto the trail, greeted by a picturesque bike path in the woods and by penrhyn castle. Yet, amidst the beauty, I couldn’t help but notice the reality of homelessness under the bridge (someone clearly lives there)—a stark reminder of the world’s complexities.
I kept walking, and the scenery got better – fields full of sheep and adorable baby lambs, and I stumbled upon a lovely spot with bluebells nestled between a couple of trees.
Then, along the fence next to the A55, it got a bit muddy in places, but the wooden path kept it wild enough. I couldn’t help but notice the cars zooming by through the bushes and trees – even played “yellow car”, just for fun.
After that, I struggled over and over again through kissing gates as my pack was too big for them. Taking my bag off, lifting it over the gate, going through, putting my bag back on, walking the length of the field, and starting again…). It slowed me down a lot and was tiring.
Despite the hurdles (pun intended), the journey was punctuated by moments of wonder, from the smell of wild garlic to the breathtaking views atop Charub quarry. Pushing onward towards Bethesda, I struggled with fatigue and the weight of my pack. I was on my own all day. No other hikers on the trail. Just a few dog walkers in towns.
Deciding against indulging in a warm meal and pint in Bethesda, I carried on past Bethesda. The quaint station caught my eye with its charming architecture, providing a brief respite before pushing onwards.
Leaving the town behind, I hoped for smoother terrain to pitch my tent. A massive hill loomed before me, challenging my resolve, but the breathtaking views and wildlife sightings offered ample reward.
Saw another yellow car!
Fortunately, the weather held, sparing me from the rain as I navigated through marshy, boggy ground and crossed streams with caution.
I pressed on, guided by a mix of determination and optimism. As dusk approached, I faced the daunting task of finding a suitable spot to pitch my tent. My first option was under power lines, so I moved on.
With limited options and the threat of rain looming, I made a quick decision, settling for a rocky patch near a house.With the worst of the pitching behind me, I treated myself to a comforting meal of pasta and a hot chocolate, a well-deserved reward after a challenging day on the trail.
Richard later shared, it was Judith’s birthday yesterday – I think she’d have like my little adventure.
Stay tuned for the next chapter of my journey in Snowdonia.
In the lead-up to my upcoming Snowdonia Slate Trail adventure, I embarked on two amazing hikes that not only served as preparation but also filled my soul with joy and anticipation for the trails ahead.
Firstly, I ventured to Coaley Peak and Woodchester Valley loop, accompanied by the indomitable Andrea. Amidst the verdant woods and rolling hills, we indulged in a morning of hiking, sprinkled with a dash of trail running to outrun a passing tractor in the vineyard – an adventure filled with laughter, sunshine, and the simple pleasures of nature. It was a reminder of why the great outdoors is my happy place, and I eagerly look forward to more moments like these.
Next, I tackled Fan Brycheiniog, standing tall at 802m in the heart of Wales. Joined by ten fellow trekkers (from our Iceland trek) and two canine companions, Bear & Daisy, the day was nothing short of extraordinary. Despite the initial steep incline and an unexpected detour along the way, our journey was marked by camaraderie, breathtaking vistas, and the shared joy of overcoming challenges.
As I reflected on our Iceland trek and the resilience it demanded, conquering Fan Brycheiniog felt like a tribute to our determination and spirit of adventure. Each step reminded me of the incredible community of trekkers and supporters rallying behind Prospect Hospice, spurring me onward to embrace new challenges and make a difference.
With memories of these two unforgettable hikes fueling my excitement, I’m ready to embark on the Snowdonia Slate Trail, embracing the unknown with open arms and a heart full of anticipation. Here’s to the adventures that lie ahead, the friendships forged on the trails, and the endless possibilities waiting to be discovered amidst the beauty of nature.
It’s been two weeks since I embarked on the unforgettable Iceland Trek in support of Prospect Hospice, and it’s time to share the incredible adventure with you all (sorry for the delay). From breathtaking landscapes to unexpected challenges, each day brought new experiences and lasting memories. I loved getting to know my fellow trekkers, and by the end of the five days, experiencing so much together, it felt like we’d known each other for five years. As I write this, I miss them so much!
Day 1: Travel and Reykjavik Welcome
Our journey began with an early start from the airport. Landing in Iceland just before lunchtime, we boarded our minibus, our trusty transport for the duration of the trek, and headed to Reykjavik for a delightful lunch in a food hall (everyone gets dishes from various restaurants and we eat in a central location) and a tour led by our knowledgeable guide, Dagny. From glimpses of the Parliament to insights into Icelandic history, the tour was a perfect introduction to this vibrant city. The highlight for me, however, was the harbour and the exceptional Harpa concert hall, a masterpiece of modern architecture.
In the evening, we arrived at our accommodation for the next three days. Expecting a basic hostel, we were pleasantly surprised by the lovely hotel awaiting us. Sharing a room with Sal, the best roommate I could have wished for, added to the experience. The hotel’s “hot pots” (hoy tub but not bubbly) offered relaxation with their crystal-clear waters, complemented by unlimited tea, coffee, and hot chocolate from the coffee machine. Chef Harry treated us to sumptuous dinners, with salmon and a lovely chocolate cake pudding, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.
That evening I had a glass of wine. My first in about 4 months (I’d stopped counting at 100 days). It felt right to enjoy a glass of wine with those wonderful people, eating delicious food.
That evening, we heard that the volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula, which we passed on the way from the airport earlier that day and saw its smoke, erupted. The guide had told us that some scientists said it would erupt again whilst others were persuaded it would erupt again.
Day 2: Exploring Þingvellir
The morning brought a flurry of messages from friends, all concerned about the eruption. Fortunately, our trek remained unaffected; although we were also situated in the southwest of Iceland, far from the peninsula where the eruption occurred. We couldn’t even catch a glimpse of it in the sky, unlike reports of an orange glow seen above Reykjavik that night.
Hiking in Þingvellir National Park was a highlight of the trek, where we traversed a lava field (now extinct) in the 5km gap that separates the fault line between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The stunning scenery, from lowlands to a beautiful lake, to picturesque waterfalls, left me in awe of Iceland’s natural beauty. In that place, I think I might have fallen in love with Iceland! Despite encountering some challenging weather, the day was filled with wonder for this unique landscape.
When back at the hotel we had a gorgeous dish of braised lamb, with a madeira sauce made after Harry’s grandmother’s recipe…. and the best creme brulée I’ve ever eaten!
It was St Patrick’s day so we celebrated with some Jameson whiskey. We also had a great game of cards. What a lovely evening.
Day 3: Conquering Hengill
On the third day of our journey, we ventured towards the majestic Hengill volcano mountain range. En route, we passed an intriguing plant that I had never encountered before. Apparently, these plants capture CO2 from the air and reintroduce it deep into the ground—a fascinating environmental initiative [news article about it].
Ascending Hengill was a monumental challenge, one that pushed me to my limits both physically and mentally. But I relished every step in the snow…I wasn’ so keen in climbing the steep mossy inclines. Despite being the hardest thing I’ve ever done, it also treated me to some of the most breathtaking sights I’ve ever seen and provided valuable lessons along the way.
As we ascended through snow, ice and moss-covered terrain, the physical and mental challenges became apparent for all of us in the group. Everyone was pushing their limits and supporting each other. Little did we know, the weather had more in store for us. During our lunch break, the strong winds started peaking and relentless sleet made an appearance—a preview of the grueling return journey back down the mountain that awaited us.
Despite the harsh conditions, the camaraderie within our group and the sheer beauty of the landscape made every step forward feel worthwhile. However, as the weather intensified, so did its toll on my body. I found myself grappling with mild hypothermia (I didn’t know that it was hypothermia at the time), my mood darkening as I struggled to eat, to stay warm and to stay focused.
Upon reaching the minibus, I was trembling, my soaked layers providing little protection against the biting cold. It dawned on me that the elements had gone through every layer, leaving me vulnerable and chilled to the bone. Grateful for the offered coats in the mini bus and for the short trip back to the hotel, I sought refuge in the warmth of the room, where a hot shower, dry clothes, and then comforting hot chocolate and cake in the snug, helped restore some semblance of warmth and vitality.
I still had a headache that only shifted after dinner. So I went to the sauna for welcome warmth.
Despite the adversities we faced, the experience only deepened my affection for Iceland and reinforced my belief in the indomitable resilience of the human spirit, as exemplified by the determination of our group.
Day 4: Reykjadalur Valley
Our final hiking day took us through the stunning Reykjadalur Valley, where hot springs and streams awaited. Walking through snow, wind, and hail once again, but this time I remained warm, we reached the hot river bathing spot—a surreal experience amidst the harsh elements.
Arriving at the hot river bathing spot felt like stepping into a dream amidst the unforgiving elements. The contrast between the icy surroundings and the soothing warmth of the natural springs was nothing short of surreal.
After indulging in the rejuvenating experience, we retraced our steps back to the café where we had parked, our spirits filled by the sense of accomplishment and camaraderie. With warm drinks in hand (and perhaps a few indulging in something stronger), we shared hearty laughs and triumphant smiles, basking in the joy of our shared achievement.
As we paused to reflect on our journey and the funds raised for Prospect Hospice, a profound sense of pride and gratitude washed over us. Not only had we explored some of the wonders of this remarkable country, but we had also made a tangible difference in the lives of others—a truly humbling and rewarding experience.
We headed to Reykjavik to a new hotel and for a celebratory dinner.
Still no sight of the northern lights but we’ll have to return to Iceland for this.
Reflecting on the Journey
Looking back on the Iceland Trek, I’m filled with a mix of emotions—gratitude for the support of friends and fellow trekkers, awe at the beauty of Iceland’s landscapes, and admiration for the resilience of the human spirit.
Being part of this landscape, each day, show how little we are, amongst the majestic mountains and vol
In hindsight, the challenges faced during the mountain hike on Hengill left a lasting impact. Since then, I’ve struggled with regulating my body temperature and have found it difficult to exercise properly. Despite these ongoing difficulties, the journey was a testament to the power of perseverance and the joy of adventure. I’m priviledge, lucky and grateful to have had such an amazing experience, have met and walked with the most beautiful souls, and seen such incredible sights.
As I’m writing this, I want to thank every single one of you who have supported Prospect Hospice through donations on my page.
I’m now preparing for my next adventure, in May, in North Wales. More in the next post. Until then, happy rambling.
I wanted to share my last two training hikes before the Iceland Trek.
Sunday Solo Hike – More Iceland Trek Training
Date: 25th February 2024
This marked another section in my journey to prepare for the upcoming Iceland trek. Despite forgetting to check the forecast (rookie mistake, I know!), I embarked on a solo hike that turned out to be quite the adventure, if a wet and windy one!
The route took me through some familiar landscapes (which I’d walked in June 2022 on my walk across Wiltshire in aid of Prospect Hospice), starting with Walkers Hill and winding through charming little villages. As I walked along the canal and passed through Honeystreet and Alton Barnes, memories of my previous walks across Wiltshire flooded back, except there was a bit more wind and rain this time around.
The highlight of the hike was the ascent up the hills, with iconic landmarks like Alton Barnes White Horse and Milk Hill punctuating the landscape. Despite the challenging weather conditions, the walk served as excellent preparation for the cold and unpredictable weather I’ll likely encounter in Iceland. Plus, it gave me the chance to test out my gear once more and make sure everything is in top shape for the adventure ahead.
The Malverns, with the best company I could wish for
Date: 3rd March 2024
And the trek training continues!
This time, for my last hike before the big one, I was joined by my two lovely daughters. They asked to join and wanted to “go up a mountain”. We would have done Pen Y Fan but the forecast was for heavy snow and the ground conditions meant we probably wouldn’t have been able to reach the car park.
So a friend suggested the Malverns. It was closer so that’s a win, but also it’s somewhere all three of us could discover together.
We approached the hills startled and in awe. It looked stunning with the snow atop. We parked and started from British Camp. Word of warning if you ever go, the card machine wasn’t working in the car park. Bring coins. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect – a beautiful sunny day that filled us with energy and excitement for the journey ahead.
As we soaked in the breathtaking views and embraced the crisp air, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for moments like these. And while I may have forgotten to start my Garmin for the first couple of miles (oops!), the experience itself was worth more than any number on a screen. In total, we covered a solid nearly 9km, making every step count.
These hikes, despite their challenges and surprises, remind me why I fell in love with hiking in the first place. Each journey is not just about physical endurance, but also about embracing the beauty of nature, pushing past limits, and finding moments of pure joy, whether it’s when enjoying company or simply connection with the world around us, when we’re on our own or with others.
I still am amazed by all the support I have got from all my friends. Thank you.
Tomorrow I’ll be landing in Iceland, ready for the three-day trek in aid of Prospect Hospice.
I can’t wait to share this journey with all of you
I’ve been a bit slack on the blogging front lately. Apologies for that! I’m attempting to catch up on what’s been happening out on the trails as our small group is gearing up for our big Iceland trek in just three weeks!
First off, we tackled Bibury-Coln on January 27th – a beautiful hike, albeit a muddy one. Then, a few weeks later on February 10th and 11th, we went for not one, but two hikes, back to back. Not everyone came along to all the hikes as not everyone is available at weekends, but it was nice to get to know each other a bit better. We’re really getting into the swing of things!
A few photos from our Bibury hike
My poor navigation did get us slightly off my originally planned track but we rejoined the track soon after. Note I did not use the word “lost” 😆
Then, a few weeks ago on February 10th and 11th, we went for not one, but two hikes, back to back. Not everyone came along to all the hikes as not everyone is available at weekends, but it was nice to get to know each other a bit better. We’re really getting into the swing of things!
Old Town walk lead by Tony:
Despite the mud and the rain leaving some areas barely passable (seriously, will it ever stop?), we soldiered on, knowing that each hike brings us closer to being ready for Iceland.
The highlight? Definitely the beautiful 15-mile trek, which tested our endurance and our hill walking. It was tough, but we made it through together.
Avebury – Wansdyke 15-miler
As for training, I’ve been going to the gym three times a week, focusing on functional training with sandbags and keeping flexible. Plus, I’ve been squeezing in a couple of runs each week, with a bit of Parkrun tourism thrown in for good measure.
I ran a 10k event in Longleat at the end of January too, the day afer the Bibury walk. That was hilly and challenging too!
Note: If you haven’t heard of Parkrun tourism, look it up!
Now, let’s talk tech. My Garmin watch decided to have a meltdown on me a couple of times, so my route maps on Strava (above) ended up looking a bit wrong on a couple of occasions.
As we gear up for Iceland in three weeks, I want to remind you that you can join me on this journey by supporting my fundraiser. Every little bit helps, and I’m so grateful for your support.
You can donate to my Iceland trek fundraiser on my Justgiving page .
More updates, plans and adventures coming soon. Until then, happy rambling!
Yesterday’s ramble took me on an 8.5-mile journey, guided by the memory of Judith. Alongside Richard (my friend, Judith’s husband) and a group of Judith’s friends, we strolled off from Barbury Castle and the Ridgeway, while looking at nature’s wonders.
I had run a 5K parkrun in the morning and done leg day at the gym the night before, so this was perfect to stretch my legs. A day later, it’s all a bit tense so I’m off to yoga class today 🙂
I really enjoyed the walk.
Shortly after leaving the Ridgeway path, I heard a murmurration of starlings behind the hill, then some red kites soared above the path, a bit further.
Despite the biting cold, our brisk pace kept us warm, a fitting tribute to Judith, who sadly left us three years ago in December 2020. Judith had shared countless adventures with children on Duke of Edinburgh programs and her friends yesterday told me many lovely stories of her time with them.
The camaraderie with Judith’s friends added more warmth to the chilly walk. However, our hike wasn’t without its challenges. Crossing paths with a hunting group required a bit of patience (and a lot of my tolerance as I’m not very understanding of hunting generally), as they fired across the public road at pheasants. Further along, Finn, the energetic black Labrador who walked along with us, found himself in a field with horses, but together, we navigated the situation with teamwork.
Approaching Rockley, an unusual sight awaited – a field retaining water from recent rains, a rare occurrence in these clay fields.
The last few miles we walked through sunset around 16:30 and then it became much darker. With my ’emergency’ small torch in hand, I navigated the path, and as the temperature dropped, we reached the car park.
The celebration began with mince pies, blueberry muffins, and Christmas biscuits treats from East Germany that Alan brought. The festive spirit thrived, accompanied by (now daily cold) hot chocolate from my flask, while others enjoyed mulled wine (I don’t drink alcohol at the moment). The night views of Swindon were lovely, a fitting conclusion to a great walk.
As I reflect on this day, I am grateful for the invitation from Richard. Judith’s memory lives on through each step, and I look forward to honoring her with many more hikes. She remains a source of inspiration, alongside the wonderful Jen who’s also one of my hiking inspiration, shaping my journey one hike at a time.
I’ll write a bit more about my plans for this year’s walk in another post.
