Somerset

The England Coast Path is still not complete, so today I face a 17 mile gap that many long-distance coastal walkers dislike, having to divert inland to cross the River Yeo. I’m determined to take something positive from the day.

After three long days, I’m looking forward to a short walk, exploring the area. No better way to start than a full English breakfast, to make up for the shocking three beers and three packets of peanuts for dinner last

My legs are sore from yesterday’s long riverbank trek, and I’m following the other side of the River Parrett today, so the hiking poles are back. It’s damp and grey, but a rainbow cheerfully points the way. Actually, it guides

There are not enough daylight hours to cover the 25 miles to Bridgwater, so I wind my way down the country lanes in the dark, foxes’ eyes shining in my head torch light. I would love to see a badger.

The plan for the next five days is to hike from Minehead to Clevedon, closing in on Wales. Most of the walk will be near urban areas, also passing the Hinkley Point nuclear power station, so I’m upgrading from camping

My final day on the SWCP. It’s a short walk to Minehead, so a perfect morning to explore Porlock Mash, gorgeous in the early morning light. Nature has arranged the perfect ending. I reach Minehead early afternoon, with the obligatory

The campsite owner shows me a quicker way back to the coast path, so it is still early morning when I crest a hill and get a breathtaking view of The Valley of Rocks. One of those magic moments. The