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 skipped breakfast this morning and headed out bright and early for an 18 mile walk to the lovely village of Mitchell.
Leaving the hotel, I walked through Redruth’s main shopping area and up a long hill to Scorrier, where I left the roads behind and strolled through pleasant woodland.
Emerging briefly from the woods, The Cornish Oven tried to tempt me, but I pressed on. I tend not to stop once I’m walking and it takes more than a pasty to break my habits.
The morning was spent passing through delightful countryside which, even on a grey winter’s day, filled me with joy.
The rain that had started moments after leaving the hotel started to subside after about 5 miles, but the sun made no appearance today.
I passed through the fabulously named village of Jolly’s Bottom. I love Britain’s approach to place naming, which includes pretty much everything you can think of. Someone should write a book on that. Oh, wait. They have. Lots of people. Lots of times.
The woods are yet to spring into life, giving today’s world walk a sense of anticipation. I know some people view winter woodland as eerie or foreboding, but I just see what’s to come; a spectacular eruption into colour and life.
The bucolic scene was suddenly replaced by the industrial and another reminder of Cornwall’s important mining history.
And then it was back to rural idyll as I passed through expansive fields and hardworking farms.
I love that Cornwall sends a clear signal about the use of its tracks, with charming little signposts inviting everyone to have some calm time.
At St Allen, I had a look around the beautiful church and sheltered for a few moments from a sudden downpour, whilst tucking into some nuts and berries.
It was then an easy stroll along tracks, paths and abandoned roads to the world famous* Mitchell, where I checked in to the Plume of Feathers Inn for food and rest.
*what’s that, you say? You’ve never heard of Mitchell? Well, trust me, it really is (was) famous. Mitchell was home to the Folk Cottage, a legendary music venue, which launched the careers of people like Ralph McTell.
The Day 4 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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