As today’s walk was to be a flat walk, we made the decision to have a day off walking boots – went for the lighter approach of trainers.  

Our airbnb hosts in Braunton were Sarah and Tommy, a lovely young couple and they had provided a beautiful ensuite room – we tucked into muesli, croissant and nutella, toast and jam before heading out.  Walked back into the village to pick up the coastal path, we set a fair pace!  Averaged 17.5 minutes a mile over the day, not bad for a couple of old’ uns!!  A pleasant stroll along the Tarka Trail, a disused railway line, named after Tarka the Otter.  Passed a large Marine base as well as a troop of young weary looking marines being herded up the Trail, rucksacks on back – said hello and smiled at each and every one – felt so sorry for them!! The walk took us via Branstaple and continued on and on …. the long ‘unwinding’ road!  We were joined at parts by swooping swallows, so beautiful to watch these elegant birds.  Stopped for lunch at a cafe in Fremington – a converted railway station.  Delicious baguettes and lashings of tea!!

A mile or so further on we came across a young lad selling tea and cakes from a trike stall – had another cuppa and a chat – one of the lovely things about this trip is the people we are meeting.  Although rain had been forecast we mostly walked in dry and sometimes sunny weather.  Now we are in our room in Bideford, the heavens have opened.  Staying tonight in Sue’s family home – beautiful room and a very welcoming host.