Monday, 21 May 2012

Day 2 Tiverton to Hillfarrence 22 miles






After a good breakfast I eventually hit the road on what would prove a long day crossing the border to Somereset. Some domestic duties had to be sorted out first as I needed a OS map to find my way across the border. After calling in W.H. Smiths I set out to find the Grand Western Canal which would be my "constant friend" for the next 12 miles. Canals are never boring as there is always something going on as every step unfolds. Ducks fighting, swans teaching their young gracefulness and Perch hanging around in weedy water waiting for someone to beat up! Although sunny, the day had a distinct Siberian feel with a strong wind that nearly blow my hat into the canal several times. The barges/houseboats looked cosy though, with breakfasts well"underway" and people stretching to welcome the morning . Eventually I reached the end of the canal and found a pub that was only open evenings and  day times on weekends. Boy was I disappointed. I sat dejected and ate some chocolate. I was not the only "wasp trapped into a jam jar of water". As I sat there chewing, a couple stared through the dark pub window and asked me "is it closed"?  I left them looking intently at their map and passed some old lime kilns as I headed out into the country lanes. Eventually by way of high rocky lanes and shady churchyards I came to the Anchor Inn at Hillfarrence. It was comfortable and homely, an oasis after a long day on the road.

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