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…
A change of plan today. The intention had been to walk to Market Drayton today, but, on closer inspection, the route would be around 22 miles and it seemed a good idea to have a rest day, so instead I walked just 8 miles to Norbury Junction and the had the afternoon off.
Walking out of Wheaton Aston, I rejoined the Shropshire Union Canal and basked in the glory of the early spring sunshine as I ambled along the tow path.
Before long, I had reached the tiny community of Little Onn, where in addition to the small number of houses, a vibrant community of semi-permanent residents in narrow boats has sprung up.
Walking to Gnosall means passing through the 74 metre Cowley Tunnel. The canal system continuously reminds one of the extraordinary engineering ambition and achievement of the visionaries of the time. To be able to envisage and execute on a system capable of transporting incredibly heavy loads from Liverpool to London at a time before ground-working machinery leaves the modern day observer in awe and admiration.
It was then a pleasant walk through Gnosall, which is a lovely little community, with handsome homes and good pubs. On such a sunny day, everyone was out and about and the small town felt friendly and uplifting.
The houses lining the canal were animated by homeowners tidying gardens, chatting with friends and… er… erecting aliens.
From here, it was a short walk to Norbury Junction and its lively pub and cafe, where I had a late second breakfast before hanging my boots up for the day.
The Day 24 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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