Hiking day 3 to Birdlip

I was concerned about today’s hike because it was going to be the longest day of the hike, we were still recovering from yesterday’s long day and last night’s sleep wasn’t good. I’m happy to say it was a great day to hike, fabulous temperature, nice overcast and bonus stops. (although I am still very happy to have it behind me.)

After delicious breakfast we got on the trail at 8:15… with an immediate uphill warm-up under a beautiful blanket of clouds. 

The gorgeous hillside was not only shared by sheep and hikers, but also golfers. 

We happen upon these two retired gentlemen, that are still practicing the art of dry stack, limestone walls. It was great chatting with them and Ed even practiced his knowledge to place a limestone rock in the wall and etch his initials in it!

Today we had many fewer gates, but here are a couple of them. Actually, these are stiles.

Upon recommendations from other hikers, we visited Dunkertons, an organic cider place. We shared a flight plus one extra, (a fantastic rhubarb cider) and a ploughmans platter (specialized charcuterie)

Back on trail… “onward and pub-ward”. 

We happen upon this cute roadside mini hut on a very quiet road. It was obviously catering to the Cotswald Way hikers. It had a wonderful array of baked goods. Surprisingly, it also had a card reader so we could just tap our card and pay for our delicious brownies.

Another hill climb rewarded with beautiful views.

About 3 miles from our destination, there is  some major highway work that diverted the Cotswald Way walkers significantly out of the way.  Other hikers that we met along the way shared that they took a Uber to get around all that, and the ones that hiked it said they wish they hadn’t. With that in mind, we called an Uber and ended our hike… finishing with 13 miles instead of the scheduled 16. 

I was very ready for a great night sleep at 8pm after our delicious dinner at tonight’s accommodation the Royal George in Birdlip. 

Gate count: 22

Miles hiked: 13 

Elevation gained: 1820’