Home from home

Day 9 Saturday 5th September Bath to Malmesbury

Malmesbury Abbey

My intention was to ride to Cirencester, about 33 miles and then find a place to stay when I arrived. As I would be passing through Malmesbury I decided to phone a friend who I had worked with many years ago and suggest meeting for a coffee. But she was going to Bath for the day and I was heading out of Bath. When I told her what I was doing she offered me a bed for the night, such a generous offer, and why would I refuse? This would mean an easy day, something that really appealed to me after such a long ride yesterday.

Getting out of Bath wasn't going to be easy. Route finding was not the problem, but which ever way you leave Bath it’s up hill!

Once at the top it was a pleasant ride along part of the Fosse Way. I even stopped for tea and lunch at a farm that was in the middle of nowhere. I took the opportunity to use the toilet and wow what a toilet, a very old porcelain toilet that was  decorated inside and out with blue flowers, the wash basin was an antique bowl and a jug of water. Sorry no picture of this loo.

It's just like being at home!

Journeys end for the day was in Malmesbury a lovely town with an abbey that had a fantastic Norman archway.  When I arrived at Jean's house I unloading my bike, had a quick cup of tea and then headed back with my friends to the town as it was carnival. The Scottish pipers in kilts, made me think of home and all the children at Lochdon Primary school. I have included this picture especially for you all. Perhaps you can find Malmesbury on your map.