Day 58 Kington to Newcastle on Clun (21.8 miles, cumulative 980.8)

Today was tough, with multiple hills, high mileage and heavy rain.

I left Kington and ascended the first hill of the day, catching up a sheep farmer in his eighties who was heading off to work with his dog. 

Although I walked most of Offa's Dyke ten years ago, I barely recognise any of the route now. I don't think the route has changed, it's just down to poor memory. One significant improvement is that many of the stiles have been replaced by gates - so much easier with a heavy rucksack. 

After a couple of hours the heavy rain started. It's not pleasant to walk in, but there's no choice, so it's a case of head down, feet forward, and mind elsewhere for several hours, motivated by the prospect of removing the wet clothes, having a hot shower, then having dinner. I also had my first fall of the entire walk, slipping on some wet grass, but no harm was done.

The rain stopped about three miles from my accommodation, so I was able to dry out a little, but boots and socks are still wet.