D61: MERSEA ISLAND to TOLLESBURY
Monday 8th November 2021
Today miles: 13.9 Total miles: 952.7
I decided last night to treat myself to a full English breakfast at the Premiere Inn this morning. Both the breakfast and a late sleep meant that I didn’t start walking until well after 11am. The bus dropped me off at the Rose Inn and I immediately set off along the road towards first Peldon then Great Wigborough. After 3 straightforward miles I left the road behind and took a short section of public footpath towards Salcott.
There’s an old church in Salcott and I’d read somewhere that there’s a kettle and the ingredients for making a hot drink inside. As I entered the building I noted a sign on the door suggesting there’s a funeral in a few hours. Inside I made a quick search but left disappointed, unable to find any kettle or coffee.
Ten minutes later I was on yet ANOTHER sea wall, this time for the five mile walk around Old Hall Marshes. It was uneventful and except for the occasional dog walker there was nobody else out enjoying the sun and the views. Near Old Hall Farm the path turned from grass into a more stony path all the way past the boat yard, the sewage works and onto the Eastern edge of Tollesbury. A quick check of my watch (aka my mobile) tells me I’ve got 90 minutes before the bus arrives. I strolled into Tollesbury, picked up a cold drink and sat on the kerb chatting to a local lady.
It’s been a good year and I’ve enjoyed the majority of the walking. I’ve walked in excess of 309 miles over twenty days at an average of just over 15 miles per day. My hope for next year is to be able to do more days and clock up more miles. I’m planning on resting during the Winter months to try and resolve the pain in my right foot.
Werewolfandflump UK Coast Path 