July 2, 2018
Southampton to Salisbury.
Leafy backroads to the Cathedral Town.
July 2nd Monday 48kms
Southampton to Salisbury.
Leafy backroads to the Cathedral Town.
By 9:30am we are following Mike who has generously offered to take us as far as Romsey, a good 20kms along the way to Salisbury. No slouch in the saddle, he sets a good pace with assurance and as we duck and weave our way through the backstreets, woody glades and riverside trails of Southampton, it is clear he knows where he’s going even if we only have a vague idea.
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We farewell him at Romsey and head off following the Sustrans Route sign displayed on reasonably prominently placed posts.. We cycle on through a series of villages: Lockerley, East Dean, up Moody’s Hill and Long Drive. Traffic is minimal and there are shady lanes so we don’t suffer too much from the sun.
Salisbury’s superb cathedral spire soon looms on the horizon and we cycle through the town and buy some food for lunch which we share on a bench in the shade of the Cathedral grounds. This beautiful Cathedral sitting on a spread of green surrounded by shady trees provides a haven from the midday heat.
There is a burst of activity around the front of the cathedral as several schools that had been holding end of year ceremonies are addressed by the bishop and this is followed by photo taking sessions.
Beneath the hill upon which sits the ancient fort of Old Sarum is a campground and here we pitch our tent. More years ago than I care to remember, Ann and I climbed that hill together and marvelled at the view. This time we are content to sit and dine on spaghetti and salad and watch as the sun sets behind it.
Today's ride: 48 km (30 miles)
Total: 1,956 km (1,215 miles)
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