These are from my day out in Castleton with a friend. Can't get the slide show to post!
Here is the link:
http://s686.photobucket.com/albums/vv229/tredastrips/?action=view¤t=416b2e22.pbw
Monday, October 5, 2009
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Trouble posting
Oh my. I am having trouble posting my slide shows! So I have posted the links.
http://s686.photobucket.com/albums/vv229/tredastrips/?action=view¤t=e76c656a.pbw
These slideshows cover the morning I golfed at the Chirk Golf Course in the pouring rain! *laughs* It was the par 3, and the clubs*cough, cough*were free to rent, and it was a lovely little course! The canal was down below, there were sheep in front of the course and the people were so nice! I walked the mile to the course, then walked the nine holes, had a cup of tea and walked back to my B&B to take a hot shower.
After that I walked the five miles to Llangollen along the towpath. Well, I had to cross the Ponthyllite Aqueduct(will check spelling). This is a famous Aqueduct that is about 100 some feet high. There is a narrow walkway, the trough for the canal boats, and.....air. I was fine till I got about halfway across, and...got a little nervous! I made it across, went to the bathroom(yes!)and continued on. What a nice walk-saw lots of people along the way and made it to Llangollen in a light rain. I met my fellow hikers, then Pam and I had fish and chips one last time before we met the others at the pub. What a great evening. They were finishing the walk the next day.
Pam and I are going back with Foot-path Holidays next summer to walk the Cumbria Way. This was a great group of people. I wish I could post the slide show, but for now you have to click on the link.
http://s686.photobucket.com/albums/vv229/tredastrips/?action=view¤t=e76c656a.pbw
These slideshows cover the morning I golfed at the Chirk Golf Course in the pouring rain! *laughs* It was the par 3, and the clubs*cough, cough*were free to rent, and it was a lovely little course! The canal was down below, there were sheep in front of the course and the people were so nice! I walked the mile to the course, then walked the nine holes, had a cup of tea and walked back to my B&B to take a hot shower.
After that I walked the five miles to Llangollen along the towpath. Well, I had to cross the Ponthyllite Aqueduct(will check spelling). This is a famous Aqueduct that is about 100 some feet high. There is a narrow walkway, the trough for the canal boats, and.....air. I was fine till I got about halfway across, and...got a little nervous! I made it across, went to the bathroom(yes!)and continued on. What a nice walk-saw lots of people along the way and made it to Llangollen in a light rain. I met my fellow hikers, then Pam and I had fish and chips one last time before we met the others at the pub. What a great evening. They were finishing the walk the next day.
Pam and I are going back with Foot-path Holidays next summer to walk the Cumbria Way. This was a great group of people. I wish I could post the slide show, but for now you have to click on the link.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Chirk Castle
I spent Sunday(after the concert-but more on that later)at Chirk Castle. The Castle is about 1000 years old, and is just 2 miles from my B&B, so I walked it.
I had never seen a castle before! I loved all of this-spent the day, ate dinner at the tea shop, took a sandwich home for later, got back to the B&B and watched the end of the British Open. Poor Tom.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
The Dreaded Switchbacks of Offa's Dyke Bugger Offa!
Well, this was the day-the switchback day. It was like climbing a mountain-but in several parts. I mean, we climbed at least five different 300+ foot hills-almost vertical-then stumbled down the other side. Then, for fun walked and walked and walked-and walked an extra two miles to make it to Montgomery to meet our van.
My feet hurt, my knees hurt, my arse hurt. (I fell once) I did not go the next day. I do need to train more on hills for next year's walk-and to be more mentally ready for the distance.
But, when the sweat wasn't dripping in my eyes, and I wasn't stopping to breathe-it was stunning. And I gelt a great sense of accomplishment that I did this day.
I am amazed at the good condition of the Dyke in this stretch-after over a thousand years of being there. Oh, this was the day I learned to watch for stinging nettles when I took a "comfort stop". Yeah.....
Sunday, August 2, 2009
So, you Want to Walk Offa's Dyke.......
These pictures are from our Travel day, Saturday, and Sunday's walk from Kington to Knighton. here we see the actual Dyke for the first time since Chepstow. It wasn't easy to walk on the Dyke because the earth is not packed-so the path is very rutted, rocky and unstable.
There were a few good climbs, and the scenery was the best yet.
The room is my room at Old Time in Bishop's Castle-lovely B&B. The eggs were from her chickens, the bacon was delicious...and the toast was good! The place was built using beams from the original Bishop's Castle, which was torn apart during the English Civil War. Old, old place. I had the room in the back-very quiet. We got there at the tail end of the Beer festival. This is where I ate fish and chips every night for two pounds 50.
There is a spar and a co-op down the road.
There were a few good climbs, and the scenery was the best yet.
The room is my room at Old Time in Bishop's Castle-lovely B&B. The eggs were from her chickens, the bacon was delicious...and the toast was good! The place was built using beams from the original Bishop's Castle, which was torn apart during the English Civil War. Old, old place. I had the room in the back-very quiet. We got there at the tail end of the Beer festival. This is where I ate fish and chips every night for two pounds 50.
There is a spar and a co-op down the road.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Day 4-Part 2
This was a fascinating day. We walked to the top of Hay Ridge and down to the Abbey(have to check on the name)
I was not expecting heights like this, and this is the purpose of this blog. No other blog or web site talks about how difficult some of these heights are-so I am!
It was fun! But it wasn't easy. My problem with Footpath is that once we got to the top we didn't stop or take any time to just look at the wonderful views! It was cold and windy that day, but we didn't even have time to take our packs off to put warmer clothes on. I was freezing! After this day I made sure my hat, gloves and warm neck gaiter were in the top of my pack-so I could ask someone to get them out for me.
Then we had to walk an extra mile or so down to the Abbey-knowing that we would have to walk back up again. I think day 3 should have been longer so we could have walked into hay on Day 4. That's how you plan it if you are on your own. It was discouraging. I took day 5 off to see hay because i just did not want to walk back up the hill.
The tea at the Abbey was great, though! Oh-walking poles are a big help here-especially if you go down to the Abbey. Very narrow, muddy path down.
I was not expecting heights like this, and this is the purpose of this blog. No other blog or web site talks about how difficult some of these heights are-so I am!
It was fun! But it wasn't easy. My problem with Footpath is that once we got to the top we didn't stop or take any time to just look at the wonderful views! It was cold and windy that day, but we didn't even have time to take our packs off to put warmer clothes on. I was freezing! After this day I made sure my hat, gloves and warm neck gaiter were in the top of my pack-so I could ask someone to get them out for me.
Then we had to walk an extra mile or so down to the Abbey-knowing that we would have to walk back up again. I think day 3 should have been longer so we could have walked into hay on Day 4. That's how you plan it if you are on your own. It was discouraging. I took day 5 off to see hay because i just did not want to walk back up the hill.
The tea at the Abbey was great, though! Oh-walking poles are a big help here-especially if you go down to the Abbey. Very narrow, muddy path down.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Day 3-Part 2
Part 2 of my pictures from day 3. Scroll down for the first group of pictures.
It was easy to get to hay from Manchester. Take the train through Crewe to Hereford, then walk over to the county bus stop and catch Bus 39 to Hay. You can just pay the bus driver. If you call ken at Aldeniro B&B and tell him when you'll be in he'll meet you and take you to the B&B! He is the Town Crier.
Day 3-Part 1
On the third day we started in Monmouth-the ancient bridge and all. The first attraction was the sink in the public toilet-there were 3 buttons-one for water, one for soap, one for air. I thought it was amazing!
And, I also loved the number of public toilets in the towns in the UK! We don't have those over here! Probably because we don't walk as much in our towns-and there is always a McDonalds.
It rained a bit this day, then the sun came out. We walked through hay fields, apple orchards, roads, pastures-you name it, we walked through it. I found this to be an easy day-but I still need to train more at longer distances. Really-you should be able to walk for three or more days-10 to 12 miles a day before you try to walk Offa's Dyke.
We also met a young woman from Belgium who was walking the Dyke alone-with full pack and tent/camping gear. If she didn't hit a hostel or bunkhouse she set up her tent! I don't think the farmers mind too much. I wouldn't want to do it alone-even though you do meet other hikers during the day. There are a lot of steep climbs and downhills-and if you fall you could be in big trouble.
I was getting takeaway from the Indian place in Hay-very good-for dinner. There is a spar within walking distance of my B&B, and there is a table in the B&B where you can eat. The B&B was very comfortable-great food-love the bacon! Very quiet and right across the car park from the bus stop.
Monday, July 27, 2009
On the second day we walked to Monmouth. It was cold and windy. We walked up a high hill to the naval Monument-some widow dedicated it to Nelson. nelson, his mistress, and her husband(Awwww-how cute is that?)visited it together. There is also a tower up there. The site overlooks Monmouth.
I just remember the wind, the mist and the cold! We walked down from the monument to Monmouth and found a lovely spot for tea. Some of the party found the Pub. It was a great walk!
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Picture Post 1
My trip to England/Wales did not start well. I went to the airport on July 2nd, waited 6 hours until my flight was canceled-then went home. So, I flew out on the 3rd. From now on I will fly non-stop!
The trip from Pittsburgh to hay-on-Wye took over 24 hours. I flew to Newark and waited 5 hours for the flight to Manchester. It was very easy to get to the train! I just collected my bag(after customs)and walked there! I checked on where to get the train, bought a sandwich and water and waited-a couple helped me, both there and in Crewe. Well, I took the train to Crewe, changed and took a train to Shrewsbury, then the bus to Hereford, and finally the country bus to Hay. I was tired!
When I got there the B&B owner called out and I was whisked to the lovely place. I was so glad to get there! I had a little sandwich for dinner, slept and started walking the next day.
I would suggest to FootPath Holidays that they should get the information on where everyone is staying and give it to the leader! What if I hadn't shown up? No one would have known where I was!
I met the group, we were transported to Chepstow where we touched the Offa's Dyke start stone-and we began to walk.
Another thing-either we start earlier, or we walk longer! The pace was too fast for me to really see anything! I am not interested in just checking off the long distance trails. I should have checked, I know-but we could have longer walking times!
Nonetheless, the countryside is beautiful! We walked for a long while through woodland, then through fields, fields and more fields. We ate lunch overlooking Tintern Abbey, then continued.
The van transported us back, I picked up a sandwich at Spar, ate, had some tea and fell into bed.
I need to train more on hills-and to walk 10 miles or more a day. 5 miles is no trouble, but the hills knock me out.
What else? That's it for the trip over and the first day.
The trip from Pittsburgh to hay-on-Wye took over 24 hours. I flew to Newark and waited 5 hours for the flight to Manchester. It was very easy to get to the train! I just collected my bag(after customs)and walked there! I checked on where to get the train, bought a sandwich and water and waited-a couple helped me, both there and in Crewe. Well, I took the train to Crewe, changed and took a train to Shrewsbury, then the bus to Hereford, and finally the country bus to Hay. I was tired!
When I got there the B&B owner called out and I was whisked to the lovely place. I was so glad to get there! I had a little sandwich for dinner, slept and started walking the next day.
I would suggest to FootPath Holidays that they should get the information on where everyone is staying and give it to the leader! What if I hadn't shown up? No one would have known where I was!
I met the group, we were transported to Chepstow where we touched the Offa's Dyke start stone-and we began to walk.
Another thing-either we start earlier, or we walk longer! The pace was too fast for me to really see anything! I am not interested in just checking off the long distance trails. I should have checked, I know-but we could have longer walking times!
Nonetheless, the countryside is beautiful! We walked for a long while through woodland, then through fields, fields and more fields. We ate lunch overlooking Tintern Abbey, then continued.
The van transported us back, I picked up a sandwich at Spar, ate, had some tea and fell into bed.
I need to train more on hills-and to walk 10 miles or more a day. 5 miles is no trouble, but the hills knock me out.
What else? That's it for the trip over and the first day.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Last Day in England
My trip to Manchester went off withut a hitch yesterday, met a friend and trooped around Manchester a bit.
We stopped in the "smallest pub in Manchester" where this man would not stop sneezing! It was interesting seeing all the young people, and the different ethnicities. I had a good time.
I had another wonderful day today!
We went to Hathersage by train from Manchester, then to Castleton by bus, on to Edale by school bus(yes!). It was glorious in the Peak district!.
Well, then back to Manchester, had chicken tikka masala at a nice pub, back to the hotel and finally able to blog.
I have enjoyed my visit here and will be back next year. I may be back in January to see London if the price is right!
I will start poting pictures on Sunday!
Home to PA tomorrow-and golf on Saturday.
We stopped in the "smallest pub in Manchester" where this man would not stop sneezing! It was interesting seeing all the young people, and the different ethnicities. I had a good time.
I had another wonderful day today!
We went to Hathersage by train from Manchester, then to Castleton by bus, on to Edale by school bus(yes!). It was glorious in the Peak district!.
Well, then back to Manchester, had chicken tikka masala at a nice pub, back to the hotel and finally able to blog.
I have enjoyed my visit here and will be back next year. I may be back in January to see London if the price is right!
I will start poting pictures on Sunday!
Home to PA tomorrow-and golf on Saturday.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Last Post Till Friday
I am leaving Chirk for Manchester today and won't have access to a computer. I fly home on Friday morning, so should be able to blog after 9:00 UK time on Friday.
Yesterday I golfed the Par 3 at Chirk-in the rain of course. It was fun. I didn't par any holes-left three putts short and bounced out once. Two 5's. It is a very nice course, and they have a regulation 18 hole course, too! So, if you stay here, you can sight see, golf......
I walked the Llangollen Canal into Llangollen to meet my fellow FootPath Holiday Hikers one last time. It is a flat, five mile walk-very pretty. The high point is crossing the Pontcysylite Aqueduct-about 150 feet in the air.
The Aqueduct is about a mile from my B&B-and if you don't want to walk all the way to Llangollen, you could just walk to the Aqueduct! The Towpath is at the top of the lane.
I am glad I stayed here-Llangollen has lost a bit of it's polish. None of the hikers was happy with their B&B in Llangollen-and were a bit jealous of my choice. It is an easy drive from here to Llangollen!
Well, just finished breakfast-will repack and head to the train station. Another good thing about Chirk is that the train station is here!
When I get home I will start posting pictures.
Yesterday I golfed the Par 3 at Chirk-in the rain of course. It was fun. I didn't par any holes-left three putts short and bounced out once. Two 5's. It is a very nice course, and they have a regulation 18 hole course, too! So, if you stay here, you can sight see, golf......
I walked the Llangollen Canal into Llangollen to meet my fellow FootPath Holiday Hikers one last time. It is a flat, five mile walk-very pretty. The high point is crossing the Pontcysylite Aqueduct-about 150 feet in the air.
The Aqueduct is about a mile from my B&B-and if you don't want to walk all the way to Llangollen, you could just walk to the Aqueduct! The Towpath is at the top of the lane.
I am glad I stayed here-Llangollen has lost a bit of it's polish. None of the hikers was happy with their B&B in Llangollen-and were a bit jealous of my choice. It is an easy drive from here to Llangollen!
Well, just finished breakfast-will repack and head to the train station. Another good thing about Chirk is that the train station is here!
When I get home I will start posting pictures.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Chester
Lovely day.
My hostess here at Syn y Dwr graciously took me into Chester today.
It was amazing! Roman ruins, an ancient wall, a 900 year old cathedral...ancient buildings with shops-lots of shops.
We took the Park and Ride into the city, then split up. I made my way to the tourist information center where there were about 12 loud, pushy Americans. They kept asking the poor woman behind the counter which tour they should take, all the details, the cost-yada yada. The info was right on the pamphlet! Finally I escused my way in and asked about the train from Chirk to manchester-getting a "humph!" from the rudest one. The nice tourist lady directed me to the train station.
I left her with the rude ones and set off.
It was an easy walk, the ticket people were helpful and I have my ticket for the 22nd-Chirk to Chester to Crewe to Manchester. I will stay there the 22nd and 23rd-flying out the morning of the 24th.
I will arrive in Pittsburgh at 2:52.
Maggie will be at the house waiting for me! She won't speak to me-I know it.
So, then I walked back to the Info station to thank the lady and went walking. i spent most of the afternoon in the Cathedral-I'd never seen one that old before! It was amazing to think about that being built by hand. Amazing people-those stone masons!
I walked around the shops and stopped for a nice welsh native cattle meat cheeseburger and fries. Oh, it was good.
I found a shop that sold homemade Cornis pasteys-bought 2.
I met Kath, we went to the car-then she took me on a little side trip to see the famous aqueduct. (Name tomorrow-have to make sure I spell it right)
I rested then took a little walk along the canal-met more boat people and have some nice pics.
Everyone I've met has been marvelous.
Tomorrow I will golf, eat lunch, nap then walk the 5 miles to LLangollen to meet the others. Pam will drive me back here.
Oh! The jams here are delicious and home made!
Hi Cara
My hostess here at Syn y Dwr graciously took me into Chester today.
It was amazing! Roman ruins, an ancient wall, a 900 year old cathedral...ancient buildings with shops-lots of shops.
We took the Park and Ride into the city, then split up. I made my way to the tourist information center where there were about 12 loud, pushy Americans. They kept asking the poor woman behind the counter which tour they should take, all the details, the cost-yada yada. The info was right on the pamphlet! Finally I escused my way in and asked about the train from Chirk to manchester-getting a "humph!" from the rudest one. The nice tourist lady directed me to the train station.
I left her with the rude ones and set off.
It was an easy walk, the ticket people were helpful and I have my ticket for the 22nd-Chirk to Chester to Crewe to Manchester. I will stay there the 22nd and 23rd-flying out the morning of the 24th.
I will arrive in Pittsburgh at 2:52.
Maggie will be at the house waiting for me! She won't speak to me-I know it.
So, then I walked back to the Info station to thank the lady and went walking. i spent most of the afternoon in the Cathedral-I'd never seen one that old before! It was amazing to think about that being built by hand. Amazing people-those stone masons!
I walked around the shops and stopped for a nice welsh native cattle meat cheeseburger and fries. Oh, it was good.
I found a shop that sold homemade Cornis pasteys-bought 2.
I met Kath, we went to the car-then she took me on a little side trip to see the famous aqueduct. (Name tomorrow-have to make sure I spell it right)
I rested then took a little walk along the canal-met more boat people and have some nice pics.
Everyone I've met has been marvelous.
Tomorrow I will golf, eat lunch, nap then walk the 5 miles to LLangollen to meet the others. Pam will drive me back here.
Oh! The jams here are delicious and home made!
Hi Cara
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Canal boat
I have a lot to say today! Yesterday I went for a walk around 2-down the Llangollen Canal towpath where I met a woman holding the rope to her boat. We started talking and she invited me in for tea! On a narrow boat canal boat! What a hoot! She was wild! Rolled her cigs-wild-about 80.
The boat was too cute. She heats water and makes electricity with soalr panels, and also has a coal/wood fired cooker. We had tea while her border collie barked at the walkers and other boats went by.
What treat!
Then my hostess at Syn y Dwr, her husband and friend took me with them to a classical concert at Cholmedly Castle. That was fabulous. It rained, got cold-we had a proper wet English picnic. Wine, salmon quiche, salad, cider-rain, cold-did I mention rrain?
The brass band was great-but the concert was fabulous! Flags were waved(Welsh flag from our table), fireworks were set off, the bagpipes ended the evening from the battlements of the castle.
It was the best fireworks display I have ever seen live-so good during the 1812 Overture. Everyone sang during "Land of Hope and Glory". We got home about midnight and I went right to sleep.
Today Kath made me a great-filling breakfast and I took off walking to the Chirk Castle. I stopped at the golf course first-no ball markers.
I can play on Tuesday-no problem.
The castle was amazing! I, of course, have never seen a castle up close-the first castle I've ever seen was the one at the concert!
I did the whole thing-dungeon, battlement, 18th century redone rooms. I kept looking for Jane Austen to walk by.
I ate there and walked home in a small rain storm. I have been watching golf all afternoon.
Tomorrow Kath is taking me with her into Chester and I will do some touristy things.
Did Eric get home from the Pirate's game all right?
I am having a great adventure!
Hi Cara! Aunt Sissy will be home on Friday. Oh! Maggie is fine-Judy will pick her up for me and be waiting when I get home!
The boat was too cute. She heats water and makes electricity with soalr panels, and also has a coal/wood fired cooker. We had tea while her border collie barked at the walkers and other boats went by.
What treat!
Then my hostess at Syn y Dwr, her husband and friend took me with them to a classical concert at Cholmedly Castle. That was fabulous. It rained, got cold-we had a proper wet English picnic. Wine, salmon quiche, salad, cider-rain, cold-did I mention rrain?
The brass band was great-but the concert was fabulous! Flags were waved(Welsh flag from our table), fireworks were set off, the bagpipes ended the evening from the battlements of the castle.
It was the best fireworks display I have ever seen live-so good during the 1812 Overture. Everyone sang during "Land of Hope and Glory". We got home about midnight and I went right to sleep.
Today Kath made me a great-filling breakfast and I took off walking to the Chirk Castle. I stopped at the golf course first-no ball markers.
I can play on Tuesday-no problem.
The castle was amazing! I, of course, have never seen a castle up close-the first castle I've ever seen was the one at the concert!
I did the whole thing-dungeon, battlement, 18th century redone rooms. I kept looking for Jane Austen to walk by.
I ate there and walked home in a small rain storm. I have been watching golf all afternoon.
Tomorrow Kath is taking me with her into Chester and I will do some touristy things.
Did Eric get home from the Pirate's game all right?
I am having a great adventure!
Hi Cara! Aunt Sissy will be home on Friday. Oh! Maggie is fine-Judy will pick her up for me and be waiting when I get home!
Saturday, July 18, 2009
In Chirk(check your maps now!)
What a wonderful place I've landed in! First, the floors are even-but it isn't 400 years old, either. I',e moved to modern times from the age of Charles I!This house -Syn y Dyr- is in a little valley outside Chirk.
I am in a room with a double bed-she made tea for Pam and me-there is a firld with sheep behind us, she has the most beautiful garden-with raspberry plants, chickens and bees! She just put the bees in this morning.I am going with them to a concert(outdoor0tonight-so she asked if I liked Quiche and smiked salmon. Um, yes please!
I am using her laptop in my room! because mine isn't working-but will sort that out when I get home.They have two border collies-and we've had a "throw the ball" play time already. She's going to let me help her walk them!Chirk Castle is a mile away-she asked if I wanted a ride. Um, 1 mile? I can walk.
The golf course is right by the castle, so I'll set up my tee time for Tuesday tomorrow.Monday Kath is driving into Chester and will drop me off. She will take me to the train station in Chirk.So, last night pam came into Bishop's castle and we had fish and chips in the breakfast room of Old Time-she and Hillary want to walk the Cumbria Way next year and want me to join them se we can self-cater. it's a week's walk so I said OK. I can fly into Birmingham-Pam will Pick me up and off we'll go!I plan to get a Britrail pass so I can spend a week around the country.More later!
This is such a pretty part of the UK.
Now, when I get home I will go over the parts of the Dyke I walked in much greater detail.
I am in a room with a double bed-she made tea for Pam and me-there is a firld with sheep behind us, she has the most beautiful garden-with raspberry plants, chickens and bees! She just put the bees in this morning.I am going with them to a concert(outdoor0tonight-so she asked if I liked Quiche and smiked salmon. Um, yes please!
I am using her laptop in my room! because mine isn't working-but will sort that out when I get home.They have two border collies-and we've had a "throw the ball" play time already. She's going to let me help her walk them!Chirk Castle is a mile away-she asked if I wanted a ride. Um, 1 mile? I can walk.
The golf course is right by the castle, so I'll set up my tee time for Tuesday tomorrow.Monday Kath is driving into Chester and will drop me off. She will take me to the train station in Chirk.So, last night pam came into Bishop's castle and we had fish and chips in the breakfast room of Old Time-she and Hillary want to walk the Cumbria Way next year and want me to join them se we can self-cater. it's a week's walk so I said OK. I can fly into Birmingham-Pam will Pick me up and off we'll go!I plan to get a Britrail pass so I can spend a week around the country.More later!
This is such a pretty part of the UK.
Now, when I get home I will go over the parts of the Dyke I walked in much greater detail.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Moving tomorrow
This is my lst night in Bishop's Castle and I have enjoyed the week! Jane at Old Time make great breakfasts, dries my clothes and always has a suply of fresh tea. I recommend Old Time!
Today I slept in, ate with the Palmers at 9 then repacked-getting rid of things I won't need for the rest of the trip. Then I hiked a bit around town-not too much because it poured rain today.
I went back to Old Time and made a PB&J sandwich and had the last of my boiled eggs, then met the wife of one of the other hikers and took a drive to Montgomery. There we saw the museum, had tea and saw the church. Nice little town.
Tonight another hiker and I are eating Fish and chips-then off to Chirk tomorrow!
I will pick up a few sandwiches for dinner tomorrow, then go from there.
Such a peaceful town this is!
Hi Cara!
Today I slept in, ate with the Palmers at 9 then repacked-getting rid of things I won't need for the rest of the trip. Then I hiked a bit around town-not too much because it poured rain today.
I went back to Old Time and made a PB&J sandwich and had the last of my boiled eggs, then met the wife of one of the other hikers and took a drive to Montgomery. There we saw the museum, had tea and saw the church. Nice little town.
Tonight another hiker and I are eating Fish and chips-then off to Chirk tomorrow!
I will pick up a few sandwiches for dinner tomorrow, then go from there.
Such a peaceful town this is!
Hi Cara!
Thursday, July 16, 2009
I realized today that I have not seen a fast food place for two weeks. What a joy that is! The roads around here are lined with hedges-and are very narrow by American standards. The cars are smaller, but there have been some close calls. I would not drive here!
We had a flat walk today-10 miles along the Montgomery Canal. At one point a military helicopter spent about an hour buzzing around us-then hovered in a field next to us as we walked through. I suggested I moon them, and Michael suggested Pam flash them, but we didn't. They waved and went on when we waved. It was a bit scary.
It was a beautiful walk-perfect after the switchbacks and very large hill of yesterday(and the big hills of tomorrow)
We saw the locks, the aqueducts, swans, a heron-all really nice.
We finished the day in Llanymynech(I think the spelling is OK) and had tea at The Village Pantry.
OMG! Ihad this cream cheese filled pastry with icing and homeade strawberry jam-it was the best thing I've ever tasted! The tea was great, too. If you walk the Dyke-stop there! They have meat pies and all of thet-made there!
It rained all afternoon and for a while my phone didn't work. I thought I had to pay them, but it was their system. I'm good.
I am off to take a hot shower and eat my Cornish pastey for dinner. I have some veggies left, and some pickled beets. A few cups of tea and I will be good for the night.
I will walk tomorrow-to finish the week.
We make it to Chirk tomorrow.
Oh! My Outdoor Research hat is wonderful! My shoes are waterproof-dry socks after an afternoon of driving rain, mud and wet hay fields.
Hi Cara!
We had a flat walk today-10 miles along the Montgomery Canal. At one point a military helicopter spent about an hour buzzing around us-then hovered in a field next to us as we walked through. I suggested I moon them, and Michael suggested Pam flash them, but we didn't. They waved and went on when we waved. It was a bit scary.
It was a beautiful walk-perfect after the switchbacks and very large hill of yesterday(and the big hills of tomorrow)
We saw the locks, the aqueducts, swans, a heron-all really nice.
We finished the day in Llanymynech(I think the spelling is OK) and had tea at The Village Pantry.
OMG! Ihad this cream cheese filled pastry with icing and homeade strawberry jam-it was the best thing I've ever tasted! The tea was great, too. If you walk the Dyke-stop there! They have meat pies and all of thet-made there!
It rained all afternoon and for a while my phone didn't work. I thought I had to pay them, but it was their system. I'm good.
I am off to take a hot shower and eat my Cornish pastey for dinner. I have some veggies left, and some pickled beets. A few cups of tea and I will be good for the night.
I will walk tomorrow-to finish the week.
We make it to Chirk tomorrow.
Oh! My Outdoor Research hat is wonderful! My shoes are waterproof-dry socks after an afternoon of driving rain, mud and wet hay fields.
Hi Cara!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Lazy Day
I had a lovely breakfst with the other two guests-who are driving around Wales, then went for a little three mile short walk outside of Bishop's Castle. Jane has several pamphlets that give directions for about 10 walks-here at Old Time.
I enjoyed the sun and spent my afternoon reading-ate a salmon and cucumber sandwich for dinner-with fresh peaches and milk and will get to sleep early.
It is disconcerting that it stays light so long and is light so early in the day!
Tomorrow we will do about 10 easy miles!!!
I called my B&B in Chirk and have been invited to go with them to an outdoor concert/picnic on saturday evening. Sonds like fun! I missed the Fourth of July fireworks at home, so I'll just pretend and hum "Stars and Stripes Foerever".
That's it for today!
Hi Cara!
I enjoyed the sun and spent my afternoon reading-ate a salmon and cucumber sandwich for dinner-with fresh peaches and milk and will get to sleep early.
It is disconcerting that it stays light so long and is light so early in the day!
Tomorrow we will do about 10 easy miles!!!
I called my B&B in Chirk and have been invited to go with them to an outdoor concert/picnic on saturday evening. Sonds like fun! I missed the Fourth of July fireworks at home, so I'll just pretend and hum "Stars and Stripes Foerever".
That's it for today!
Hi Cara!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Bloody 'ell!
It was a very nice day today-a bit warm but more on that later. I have changed the subheader because of a book called "Special Offa" about the Trail where the author(good book) says "Bugger Offa" to the cows, sheep, flies...etc. that he meets.
Had a great breakfast. If you stay at Old Time-get the white toast! The bacon is so good, and Jane raises her own chickens. Good eggs!
Well, the day started out fine.....then we started into the switchbacks-5 of them. Here's what you do-you climb 300 feet straight up-yes-straight up-with handholds cut into the muddy, rain slicked earth-then you slide down 300 feet straight down on your arse. Repeat 4 times more. Then walk another 5 miles in the rain. Not my favorite day.
Footpath Holidays! We didn't need to see Montgomery today! The van could have picked us up at the trail!
It was a long, long 14 miles today and I am not walking tomorrow! I know I'll miss the Roman road. Bloody 'ell! I don't care!
So, if you plan to walk Offa's Dyke...take the bus from Knighton to Montgomery.
Oh, we laughed though, and I enjoyed my ham sandwich!
I am going to get more orange soda, take a hot shower and get some sleep.
Jane has lots of books here, so I will read tomorrow!
Hi Cara!
Had a great breakfast. If you stay at Old Time-get the white toast! The bacon is so good, and Jane raises her own chickens. Good eggs!
Well, the day started out fine.....then we started into the switchbacks-5 of them. Here's what you do-you climb 300 feet straight up-yes-straight up-with handholds cut into the muddy, rain slicked earth-then you slide down 300 feet straight down on your arse. Repeat 4 times more. Then walk another 5 miles in the rain. Not my favorite day.
Footpath Holidays! We didn't need to see Montgomery today! The van could have picked us up at the trail!
It was a long, long 14 miles today and I am not walking tomorrow! I know I'll miss the Roman road. Bloody 'ell! I don't care!
So, if you plan to walk Offa's Dyke...take the bus from Knighton to Montgomery.
Oh, we laughed though, and I enjoyed my ham sandwich!
I am going to get more orange soda, take a hot shower and get some sleep.
Jane has lots of books here, so I will read tomorrow!
Hi Cara!
Monday, July 13, 2009
A lovely, Lazy Day
My feet were throbbing so much, and my knee and ankle were sore, so I took today off from hiking.
First, this part of the world is further north than Pennsylvania so that we get more daylight! It was still pretty light at 11:00! That was disconcerting!
It also gets lighter earlier.
I had breakfast at 9 with the other guests-three lads from one of the bands here for the Beer Festival. Nice lads-a bit hungover. I heard them come in early this morning. We had a discussion on politics-because the UK has lost several soldiers in the last week. We were of the same opinion of GBush and all. Try explaining the Electoral College to people from the UK. They have an easier way of doing things!
I met my fellow hiker's wife at 11 and we walked around the village, then had tea. I was back here at Old Time by 12:30, ate lunch(I stopped at the Coop grocery store) and read "A Walk in the Woods" all afternoon and early evening.
Interesting-about walking the App. Trail. I will never do that.
I got some sliced ham for a ham sandwich tomorrow, a bag of ready to eat veggies, some pickled beets and tomatoes.
I also bought a meat pie for dinner. I know-they'll miss me at the Fish and Chips place.
I am very full, my feet don't hurt, and I am warm and dry. At one point this afternoon we had a hard thundershower-the rain beating against the window. I was glad to be inside and not on the switchbacks.
Tomorrow we walk from Clun(yes-Clun!) to Montgomery. The morning starts with a climb, but then we settle into the Severn Valley. The next 4 days should be over rolling, small hills. Thanks!
Hi Eric, Noah, Dwayne, Hannah and Cara
First, this part of the world is further north than Pennsylvania so that we get more daylight! It was still pretty light at 11:00! That was disconcerting!
It also gets lighter earlier.
I had breakfast at 9 with the other guests-three lads from one of the bands here for the Beer Festival. Nice lads-a bit hungover. I heard them come in early this morning. We had a discussion on politics-because the UK has lost several soldiers in the last week. We were of the same opinion of GBush and all. Try explaining the Electoral College to people from the UK. They have an easier way of doing things!
I met my fellow hiker's wife at 11 and we walked around the village, then had tea. I was back here at Old Time by 12:30, ate lunch(I stopped at the Coop grocery store) and read "A Walk in the Woods" all afternoon and early evening.
Interesting-about walking the App. Trail. I will never do that.
I got some sliced ham for a ham sandwich tomorrow, a bag of ready to eat veggies, some pickled beets and tomatoes.
I also bought a meat pie for dinner. I know-they'll miss me at the Fish and Chips place.
I am very full, my feet don't hurt, and I am warm and dry. At one point this afternoon we had a hard thundershower-the rain beating against the window. I was glad to be inside and not on the switchbacks.
Tomorrow we walk from Clun(yes-Clun!) to Montgomery. The morning starts with a climb, but then we settle into the Severn Valley. The next 4 days should be over rolling, small hills. Thanks!
Hi Eric, Noah, Dwayne, Hannah and Cara
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Kington to Knighton
First let me tell you that when you have to go wee in the English countryside-check for nettles. That's all I'm going to say on the subject. :-(
Hard, hard walk from Kington to Knighton. You start with a very steep climb-and my shoes were laced too tightly so my calves cramped. Not good-big hill.
I fixed that and was fine till after lunch when I noticed a rather large hill and asked, "Do we go over that hill?" Of course we did! 1900 feet. Then down and three more miles into town. My feet hurt, my right knee is swollen, my left ankle is swollen.
The next two days are the most difficult of the entire path. I will be playing tourist in Bishop's Castle. The wife of one of the other walkers is taking tomorrow off-so we will have lunch. She just joined us.
We have two other new walkers-one brought his flask. Very nice on a windy hill!
I have mine-so we compared Scottish Whiskey and Kentucky Bourbon.
Oh, we laughed today! Even though it was hard, Pam, Bill and I laughed. I had packed a few extra Welsh Cakes and at the end-when we thought we'd never get there-she asked if I had any food-so we shared the Cakes(and we split my scone on the way home in the van)
The hot tea(with sugar)is a godsend.
Fabulous breakfast from Jane in Old Time this morning! Eggs, bacan-fabulous bread! I slept very well last night-very quiet-marvelous bed. When you've walked 15 miles over very high, steep hills-then down those hils-with rain, sun, hot, cold, wind, did I mention rain?-you sleep very well.
There is a tray for tea in my room-which I'm going to make soon, and jane dried my clothes I left in the shower! Old Time-Bishop's Castle! Great in every way.
I must mention Alan and Pam-our leaders. They are so very nice.
Hi Cara! Hi Noah! Hi Eric!
Hard, hard walk from Kington to Knighton. You start with a very steep climb-and my shoes were laced too tightly so my calves cramped. Not good-big hill.
I fixed that and was fine till after lunch when I noticed a rather large hill and asked, "Do we go over that hill?" Of course we did! 1900 feet. Then down and three more miles into town. My feet hurt, my right knee is swollen, my left ankle is swollen.
The next two days are the most difficult of the entire path. I will be playing tourist in Bishop's Castle. The wife of one of the other walkers is taking tomorrow off-so we will have lunch. She just joined us.
We have two other new walkers-one brought his flask. Very nice on a windy hill!
I have mine-so we compared Scottish Whiskey and Kentucky Bourbon.
Oh, we laughed today! Even though it was hard, Pam, Bill and I laughed. I had packed a few extra Welsh Cakes and at the end-when we thought we'd never get there-she asked if I had any food-so we shared the Cakes(and we split my scone on the way home in the van)
The hot tea(with sugar)is a godsend.
Fabulous breakfast from Jane in Old Time this morning! Eggs, bacan-fabulous bread! I slept very well last night-very quiet-marvelous bed. When you've walked 15 miles over very high, steep hills-then down those hils-with rain, sun, hot, cold, wind, did I mention rain?-you sleep very well.
There is a tray for tea in my room-which I'm going to make soon, and jane dried my clothes I left in the shower! Old Time-Bishop's Castle! Great in every way.
I must mention Alan and Pam-our leaders. They are so very nice.
Hi Cara! Hi Noah! Hi Eric!
Saturday, July 11, 2009
I am now in the Old Time B&B in Bishop's Castle, and what a lovely place it is! It is a few hundred years old-built partly with beams from the castle that was torn down during the Civil War. No, not our Civil War-England's Civil War-Cromwell, Charles I, John Simm in "The Devil's Whore"!
Wonderful little room looking out over the fields-great old double bed with fabulous linens.
Jane has been very gracious to let me on here to post.
Pam and I drove up from Hay today-taking a good four hours because we investigated little old churches and back roads-also spending a long time at the Offa's Dyke Center in Knighton and grocery shopping.
I filled my bag with apples and bananas. The PB&J is holding up very well.
Pam and I explored CC when we got here-found a fish and chips place that sells kebobs(kebabs?) for £3. I have found my dinners for the next week!
Oh! BC is having their Beer Festival-ending tonight, so I am glad my room is in the back. Lots of people out-music, fun!
I had a great dinner at the Old Black Lion last night-steak and kidney pie, two pints of a good local ale-good conversation.
I have 13 miles to walk tomorrow-from Kington to Knighton, and will take Tuesday off.
I am having a good time. Oh! Judy checked on Maggie-she is fine.
Hi Cara!
Wonderful little room looking out over the fields-great old double bed with fabulous linens.
Jane has been very gracious to let me on here to post.
Pam and I drove up from Hay today-taking a good four hours because we investigated little old churches and back roads-also spending a long time at the Offa's Dyke Center in Knighton and grocery shopping.
I filled my bag with apples and bananas. The PB&J is holding up very well.
Pam and I explored CC when we got here-found a fish and chips place that sells kebobs(kebabs?) for £3. I have found my dinners for the next week!
Oh! BC is having their Beer Festival-ending tonight, so I am glad my room is in the back. Lots of people out-music, fun!
I had a great dinner at the Old Black Lion last night-steak and kidney pie, two pints of a good local ale-good conversation.
I have 13 miles to walk tomorrow-from Kington to Knighton, and will take Tuesday off.
I am having a good time. Oh! Judy checked on Maggie-she is fine.
Hi Cara!
Friday, July 10, 2009
I felt very rested this morning after my day out. We started in Hay and walked to Kington-15 miles. The first part of the walk was by the river Hay and was level and very pretty, then we started up. We stopped at an old church where they had tea or coffee-for a small donation. Very nice break. We went on and walked part way up the Hergest Ridge(600 feet high)and had lunch in a sheep pasture. Yes, I was careful where I sat. The hot tea in my thermos is wonderful at lunch!
We walked on from ther for the last 7 miles-up to the top of the ridge for wonderful views. It got a bit cloudy and chilly, but no rain. Great gorse and fern wild areas.
We walked down into Kington and had tea at a little coffee shop. The tea house's German Shepherd kept us company. Then back in the taxi and back to Hay.
We are all meeting at The Old Black Lion for dinner, so I hope to tell you about that tomorrow.
I don't know if the people at my next stop will be as gracious as Ken and Gillian have been to let me use their computer.
If I can't, I'll call Elaine and she can post for me. Or Jean.
I am fine-feet hurt a bit and I'm glad I'm only doing two weeks.
Hi Cara!
We walked on from ther for the last 7 miles-up to the top of the ridge for wonderful views. It got a bit cloudy and chilly, but no rain. Great gorse and fern wild areas.
We walked down into Kington and had tea at a little coffee shop. The tea house's German Shepherd kept us company. Then back in the taxi and back to Hay.
We are all meeting at The Old Black Lion for dinner, so I hope to tell you about that tomorrow.
I don't know if the people at my next stop will be as gracious as Ken and Gillian have been to let me use their computer.
If I can't, I'll call Elaine and she can post for me. Or Jean.
I am fine-feet hurt a bit and I'm glad I'm only doing two weeks.
Hi Cara!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Sorry about Elaine and the driver.
I took the day off from hiking to see Hay. It is a nice little town and today was Market Day so everyone was out. I wandered through some of the bookstores-didn't buy anything, went through the touristy shops-bought some little things, stopped and had tea and Welsh cakes. It was a nice day-overcast, windy and cold. A perfect day to stay off the Ridge.
I spent the afternoon reading one of the books here in the B&B-had more tea, took a nap. Tomorrow we start right here in Hay and walk to Kington-not a bad walk at all.
I think I will do much better tomorrow because of today because when you think about it, I haven't stopped since last Thursday and the fiasco at the Pittsburgh airport. I needed a day to get things back together.
I changed my trip a bit-will spend two days in Manchester, still flying home on the 24th.
I usually have eggs, sausage, toast, potatoes and tea for breakfast-great food here! My lunches have been the PB&J sandwiches, with a Welsh cake, apple and banana. Last night I had fish and chips-very good and not at all like Arthur Treachers. The serving was huge! Tonight I will finish my Chicken and Mushroom Balti and tomorrow will eat out with the others.
I sleep very well, have not been in enough sun to get burned, but my face is a bit wind burned.
I will spend this evening reading and hit the road again tomorrow.
On Saturday I'll travel to Bishop's Castle. The walk from Knighton to Montgomery is supposed to be hard, so I will plan my day off accordingly!
Hi Cara!
I took the day off from hiking to see Hay. It is a nice little town and today was Market Day so everyone was out. I wandered through some of the bookstores-didn't buy anything, went through the touristy shops-bought some little things, stopped and had tea and Welsh cakes. It was a nice day-overcast, windy and cold. A perfect day to stay off the Ridge.
I spent the afternoon reading one of the books here in the B&B-had more tea, took a nap. Tomorrow we start right here in Hay and walk to Kington-not a bad walk at all.
I think I will do much better tomorrow because of today because when you think about it, I haven't stopped since last Thursday and the fiasco at the Pittsburgh airport. I needed a day to get things back together.
I changed my trip a bit-will spend two days in Manchester, still flying home on the 24th.
I usually have eggs, sausage, toast, potatoes and tea for breakfast-great food here! My lunches have been the PB&J sandwiches, with a Welsh cake, apple and banana. Last night I had fish and chips-very good and not at all like Arthur Treachers. The serving was huge! Tonight I will finish my Chicken and Mushroom Balti and tomorrow will eat out with the others.
I sleep very well, have not been in enough sun to get burned, but my face is a bit wind burned.
I will spend this evening reading and hit the road again tomorrow.
On Saturday I'll travel to Bishop's Castle. The walk from Knighton to Montgomery is supposed to be hard, so I will plan my day off accordingly!
Hi Cara!
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Hi Cara! I will take a picture of a fish for you!
I am not walking tomorrow because I've done 50 miles in 4 days-walked up a frikkin' huge mountain today(2000 feet) without a rest stop-walked down the side of said mountain to reach this priory, and have to walk back up the narrow, muddy path to walk another 13 miles tomorrow! I walked up that mountain once! I'm not doing it twice!
I'm going sightseeing in Hay.
I am staying at such a lovely B&B-Aldinero ---will have a light breakfast tomorrow, stop in the afternoon and have tea, then take a nap.
Pam (from Essex)is taking me to Bishop's Castle and on to Chirk. I like her-she is staying at a farm B&B and cooks her own meals. The 3 men and Terry-the other American woman eat in pubs every night. Hillary just joins them every now and then.
Our leader could slow down and give us a few more rest stops. Today was harder than it should have been.
The views are amazing-this is such a beautiful area, and the walk is certainly worth it, I just don't want to walk back up a narrow, slippery path again.
I feel this is my vacation and I can do as I wish. Tomorrow I wish to walk around this lovely little town.
I wonder if I could get to the golf course.........
Hi Cara! Hi Noah! Hi Eric!
I am not walking tomorrow because I've done 50 miles in 4 days-walked up a frikkin' huge mountain today(2000 feet) without a rest stop-walked down the side of said mountain to reach this priory, and have to walk back up the narrow, muddy path to walk another 13 miles tomorrow! I walked up that mountain once! I'm not doing it twice!
I'm going sightseeing in Hay.
I am staying at such a lovely B&B-Aldinero ---will have a light breakfast tomorrow, stop in the afternoon and have tea, then take a nap.
Pam (from Essex)is taking me to Bishop's Castle and on to Chirk. I like her-she is staying at a farm B&B and cooks her own meals. The 3 men and Terry-the other American woman eat in pubs every night. Hillary just joins them every now and then.
Our leader could slow down and give us a few more rest stops. Today was harder than it should have been.
The views are amazing-this is such a beautiful area, and the walk is certainly worth it, I just don't want to walk back up a narrow, slippery path again.
I feel this is my vacation and I can do as I wish. Tomorrow I wish to walk around this lovely little town.
I wonder if I could get to the golf course.........
Hi Cara! Hi Noah! Hi Eric!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
I just want to say that this is a wonderful B&B if you are ever in Hay.
We walked 12 miles today-finally through open country. I mean open. Through cattle fields, sheep fields, corn fields, wheat fields, cut hay fields, mud fields. I have some great pics.
There was a lot of uphill, but not as steep as yesterday. Tomorrow is supposed to be hard.
I stopped at the Indian Takeaway(takeout) and had chicken and mushroom Balti. It was good!
I have enough left for dinner tomorrow. So far I've been spending about 10 dollars a day for food. I make PB&J sandwiches, buy apples and bananas and diet coke for the evenings. Yesterday we had tea at the end of the walk-in Monmouth. So civilized.
I will be joining the others Friday for dinner.
I have a ride to Bishop's Castle.
I have decided not to walk the third week, and Foot-path Holidays will hold my money until next year. So, I will be still going to Chirk on the 18th, but leaving on the 22nd to go to Manchester so I can see Manchester. In Chirk there is a train station, so I will take day trips on the train! The other walkers said to go to Chester.
I would come home early, but that would cost me 700 dollars. No. Booo Continental!
I read and am in bed by 10. Very peaceful here.
Hi Cara! Hi Noah! Hi Eric!
We walked 12 miles today-finally through open country. I mean open. Through cattle fields, sheep fields, corn fields, wheat fields, cut hay fields, mud fields. I have some great pics.
There was a lot of uphill, but not as steep as yesterday. Tomorrow is supposed to be hard.
I stopped at the Indian Takeaway(takeout) and had chicken and mushroom Balti. It was good!
I have enough left for dinner tomorrow. So far I've been spending about 10 dollars a day for food. I make PB&J sandwiches, buy apples and bananas and diet coke for the evenings. Yesterday we had tea at the end of the walk-in Monmouth. So civilized.
I will be joining the others Friday for dinner.
I have a ride to Bishop's Castle.
I have decided not to walk the third week, and Foot-path Holidays will hold my money until next year. So, I will be still going to Chirk on the 18th, but leaving on the 22nd to go to Manchester so I can see Manchester. In Chirk there is a train station, so I will take day trips on the train! The other walkers said to go to Chester.
I would come home early, but that would cost me 700 dollars. No. Booo Continental!
I read and am in bed by 10. Very peaceful here.
Hi Cara! Hi Noah! Hi Eric!
Monday, July 6, 2009
I think we climbed all day. Up these steep hills overlooking Monmouth, then down these steep hills to Monmouth and a nice cup of tea.
I did quite well. These hills are higher than the West Hill.
I have found an Indian Take-out place for dinners, so am happy. Am spending about 10. dollars a day for food.
I am tired, but ready for tomorrow.
I did quite well. These hills are higher than the West Hill.
I have found an Indian Take-out place for dinners, so am happy. Am spending about 10. dollars a day for food.
I am tired, but ready for tomorrow.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
The first day went well. We were driven to Chepstow and looked at the sea, touched the stone at the startt of the walk, then headed out through a cow pasture.
Up, up, up...down, down, down..... And again. I have some pics of Tintern Abbey from high above, but mostly we were in the woods. There are wild black current bushes-too early for blackberries. I am glad I walked the West Hill!!!
The people are nice-only one other American. I was tired at the end of the day, stopped at a grocery store and got some chicken and a salad and orange juice. The PB&J worked fine for lunch, but I have enough chicken left for a sandwich tomorrow.
If you ever come to Hay-on-Wye, stay at Aldemiro! They are wonderful!
Tomorrow we will go through Monmouth.
Off to shower, read and get some sleep. Yes, my feet hurt!
Oh, you can comment!
Up, up, up...down, down, down..... And again. I have some pics of Tintern Abbey from high above, but mostly we were in the woods. There are wild black current bushes-too early for blackberries. I am glad I walked the West Hill!!!
The people are nice-only one other American. I was tired at the end of the day, stopped at a grocery store and got some chicken and a salad and orange juice. The PB&J worked fine for lunch, but I have enough chicken left for a sandwich tomorrow.
If you ever come to Hay-on-Wye, stay at Aldemiro! They are wonderful!
Tomorrow we will go through Monmouth.
Off to shower, read and get some sleep. Yes, my feet hurt!
Oh, you can comment!
Saturday, July 4, 2009
The Epic Journey
As you know, I had to leave a day late. Well, I ran into so many people who were in the same boat! All the flights from Pittsburgh to Newark were canceled!
I had no trouble on Friday. Darlene and Glen drove me down, my plane took off an hour later, and I made it to Newark with no trouble.
I waited in Newark, discovered that my netbook's wifi is not working(curses)so watched the episodes of "Between the Sheets" I'd put on a little usb drive.
I sat with a couple from the UK (Liverpool)who had sailed across the Atlantic on the new Queen Mary and were flying home, and sat on the plane with a couple from Sheffield who had spent the week in NY. I got some sleep on the plane-not much. Uneventful trip.
I found the train station in Machester quite easily, talked to the agent and sat to wait for my train(had a little breakfast). A couple sat by me and we started talking-so they sat with me to Crewe and helped me get on the train to Shrewesbury. It was so nice to see people out - walking-taking the train-not just sitting in cars. Everyone was nice, but then when I open my mouth they know I'm and American. But I think they are nice anyway!
I made it to Shrewesbury(sp?)and we had to take a bus(rail repairs). Two fabulous young goth girls with orange hair led the way, and we laughed all the way to Hereford. Now, I landed at 7:30 and it was now 12:00. I waited the hour for the bus to Hay, the bus driver helped me on with my suitcase, an older couple told me when to start looking for Hay, the driver helped me off and my B&B person was right there in the car park.
It is a lovely place-such nice people!
I will post pics this week. I am going to organize and go for a walk about town. More later!
I had no trouble on Friday. Darlene and Glen drove me down, my plane took off an hour later, and I made it to Newark with no trouble.
I waited in Newark, discovered that my netbook's wifi is not working(curses)so watched the episodes of "Between the Sheets" I'd put on a little usb drive.
I sat with a couple from the UK (Liverpool)who had sailed across the Atlantic on the new Queen Mary and were flying home, and sat on the plane with a couple from Sheffield who had spent the week in NY. I got some sleep on the plane-not much. Uneventful trip.
I found the train station in Machester quite easily, talked to the agent and sat to wait for my train(had a little breakfast). A couple sat by me and we started talking-so they sat with me to Crewe and helped me get on the train to Shrewesbury. It was so nice to see people out - walking-taking the train-not just sitting in cars. Everyone was nice, but then when I open my mouth they know I'm and American. But I think they are nice anyway!
I made it to Shrewesbury(sp?)and we had to take a bus(rail repairs). Two fabulous young goth girls with orange hair led the way, and we laughed all the way to Hereford. Now, I landed at 7:30 and it was now 12:00. I waited the hour for the bus to Hay, the bus driver helped me on with my suitcase, an older couple told me when to start looking for Hay, the driver helped me off and my B&B person was right there in the car park.
It is a lovely place-such nice people!
I will post pics this week. I am going to organize and go for a walk about town. More later!
Friday, July 3, 2009
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Sunday, June 28, 2009
I found this lovely blog this morning with some good pics of the Trail.
http://freespace.virgin.net/chris.collins1/index.htm
And here is an official site:
http://www.nationaltrail.co.uk/offasdyke/text.asp?PageId=4
http://freespace.virgin.net/chris.collins1/index.htm
And here is an official site:
http://www.nationaltrail.co.uk/offasdyke/text.asp?PageId=4
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Hi Cara!!!
Here is my travel schedule:
July 2nd-fly from Pittsburgh to Newark to Manchester, arriving at 7:40 AM on the 3rd.
July 3rd-pick up debit card, check global phone, walk to train station, get ticket, take train to Hereford. Take bus from Hereford to Hay-on-Wye.
July 3-10 Aldemiro Guest House, Hay-on-Wye. Walk starts July 5th. Walks last from 9:15 til......
July 11-17 Old Time Guest House in Bishop's Castle.
July 18-22 Syn y Dwr Guest House in Chirk. Walks start in Llangollen every day.
July 23rd-take train from Chirk to Manchester. Stay at hotel at airport.
July 24th- fly back to Pittsburgh.
July 25th Golf outing at Borlands.
Here is my travel schedule:
July 2nd-fly from Pittsburgh to Newark to Manchester, arriving at 7:40 AM on the 3rd.
July 3rd-pick up debit card, check global phone, walk to train station, get ticket, take train to Hereford. Take bus from Hereford to Hay-on-Wye.
July 3-10 Aldemiro Guest House, Hay-on-Wye. Walk starts July 5th. Walks last from 9:15 til......
July 11-17 Old Time Guest House in Bishop's Castle.
July 18-22 Syn y Dwr Guest House in Chirk. Walks start in Llangollen every day.
July 23rd-take train from Chirk to Manchester. Stay at hotel at airport.
July 24th- fly back to Pittsburgh.
July 25th Golf outing at Borlands.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Why Offa's Dyke?
Last September i took my first overseas trip to County Kerry, Ireland, where I hiked the Ring of Kerry. I had such a wonderful time that I decided to go again, for another week. Someone said to me, "You're not getting younger. Perhaps you should do the longer walks first."
Ah ha! Well, the longest walk I want to do is the 177 mile Offa's Dyke National Trail in Wales. I found a company that leads guided tours of Offa's Dyke, set up my accommodations, organized my way there, and (luckily) paid for most of it before the exchange rate soured for me.
I will explain more tomorrow.
Ah ha! Well, the longest walk I want to do is the 177 mile Offa's Dyke National Trail in Wales. I found a company that leads guided tours of Offa's Dyke, set up my accommodations, organized my way there, and (luckily) paid for most of it before the exchange rate soured for me.
I will explain more tomorrow.
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