Day 5 Monmouth to Clun

We were looking at today's ride from Monmouth to Clun (described as easy in the route notes) as a chance to rest tired legs.

Studying the GPS course showed that there was more than 3000ft of climbing involved so rest wasn't really going to be an option

An attempt to get to the bike shop in Monmouth first thing came to nothing when we turned up to find it didn't open till 9.30 so we set off up the obligatory hill out of town heading for Hereford.

Taking the scenic route to avoid part of the A49 we both almost came to grief on a downhill section with a sharp right hand bend - a salutary reminder to pay attention at all times.

We continued into Hereford and went into the Cathedral for a look round and to inspect the Mappa Mundi (google it!), the Magna Carta and the chained library.

 

An easyish ride through beautiful countryside was spoilt a little by the cloudy and damp conditions but things perked up after lunch when we rode into Shropshire (forgotten how many counties we have been through now).

The sun came out to shine on us for the first time since Lands End so we could  actually cycle in one less layer of clothing ! A good job as it turned out we had a very steep hill climb to finish the day off before arriving in the picturesque village of Clun.

Had photos taken on quaint bridge in the middle of the town before being asked to move on by a group of watercolour painters who told us that we were spoiling the view

Arrived in good time at the White Horse and sampled some of the local brew and shared "bike tales" with some other guys doing LeJog on the Youth Hostel route.

Good day helped by a spot of sunshine means that we are ready for the journey back to Tarporley tomorrow.