Hullo. How are you? I hope you are having a good day. I’m Mark and I’m walking from Land’s End to John O’Groats…
I started the day with breakfast in a cafe next to Gloucester Cathedral, which makes for quite the backdrop to any meal.
Walking from the cathedral to the river Severn takes just a few minutes and gives a view of the end of the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal, which I walked along yesterday. The canal and the river meet for a moment via a lock and then the Severn winds its way out of the city.
I started to follow the river along the Severn Way, which can take the walker all the way to Tewkesbury on a flat and easy ramble. But as I was perusing my Ordnance Survey map, I noticed a trig point marker at the top of something called Sandhurst Hill and thought it would make an interesting diversion. So, I strolled up to the village of Sandhurst, with its pretty church, and proceeded along pleasant lanes towards the hill.
Passing through Brawn Farm, I was impressed at how much effort the landowner had gone to to ensure the footpaths, and particularly the stiles, were so well maintained and accessible.
At the top of the hill, the same landowner had placed several tables, chairs and benches for walkers to relax and enjoy the views.
I sat for a moment and felt grateful for the chance diversion. It was so nice to be able to see for miles in all directions, including a view of the Malvern Hills to the north west.
I wandered down the other side of the hill, which gave great views of the river below – clearly a sentiment shared by Del, whoever he may be.
Returning to the Severn Way, I continued along easy paths with far reaching views and not a soul in sight.
The remaining walk to Tewkesbury was so peaceful and I fell into a sort of meditation for quite some miles.
As I reached Tewkesbury, its importance in English history was immediately apparent – the path passes Tewkesbury battlefield where, on 4 May 1471, the decisive battle in the Wars of the Roses brought a 32 year long power struggle to an end and determined the course of England’s history.
I visited Tewkesbury Abbey and ambled around town for a while, exploring its tiny, ancient streets and visiting some independent shops before heading for tonight’s B&B.
The Day 19 Vlog
Fundraising for MacMillan Cancer Support
As I walk from Land’s End to John O’Groats, I am hoping to raise £10,000 for MacMillan Cancer Support, who do such a wonderful job of supporting families through the most difficult times. If you are able to spare any amount and would like to donate to MacMillan, please do so through my Just Giving Page.
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