Saturday, May 22, 2021

Monmouth to Pandy: LEJoG Day 18

Today was a walk across farmland, muddy in parts, on Offa's Dyke Path.

Over breakfast I discovered others at the Inn were attempting the Offa's Dyke Path, but with less success than me, gaining blisters after their first day's walk. People tend to underestimate the amount of climbing up and down the side of the valley on the Chepstow to Monmouth section. Today was less strenuous but also less scenic, crossing undulating agricultural land, mostly pasture. For much of the way I was close to another walker on the same route, who helpfully picked up my walking poles when I carelessly left then against a hedgerow.

Crossing fields looking back at another Offa's Dyke Path hiker.

Highlights included walking through an orchard of cider apple trees in blossom, a field of oilseed rape in yellow bloom, an unexpected cup of coffee and free entry into the White Castle. The coffee came from Treadam barn, a wedding venue. A sign said "Refreshments, ring bell loudly". A handbell was provided which I duly rang. My reward was a carafe of coffee and some Welsh cakes. In return a donation was requested for charity, in particular the Llantilio Crossenny Festival of Music and Drama. Llantilio Crossenny was a tiny village I had walked through so it did well to have a festival which duly received my donation. The White Castle consists of the ruins of a Norman motte and bailey fortification complete with a moat around the motte. When I previously walked Offa's Dyke Path, some nine years ago, I had to buy a ticket to gain entry but today it was free!

Entrance to the White Castle.

Currently I am pitched at the Rising Sun campsite, behind a pub of that name. The sun is shining periodically and there have only been a few showers today. Tomorrow's forecast is for rain.

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