Slow Way Route Epwgai one
Today started with breakfast at Wetherspoons.
It was called the Sweyn Forkbeard. This led to some basic reading about the town’s Viking heritage while I was there. https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/pub-histories/england/lincolnshire/the-sweyn-forkbeard-gainsborough.
I had never really thought about rivers being navigable that far inland but I soon realised as I saw evidence of the River Trent’s past.
I crossed over the bridge and began walking beside the river.
I passed pumping stations and sluice gates showing how heavily managed the river is. My route took me along the top of the river embankment.
I chatted to man walking with his two dogs for a while. He was an interesting character and I loved the way his two little Yorkies bounced along.
I left the River Trent at West Stockwith Marina and headed up a stretch of the Weir Dyke towards Misterton.
I turned North at Misterton and saw more evidence of the ubiquitous water management in this area.
There were some great views along the waterway.
I was then back on the road again towards the village of Haxey va Graizelound
When I got to Haxey – I was ready for a rest and some lunch. The pub was closed but Google reckoned there was a cafe further along the road. It was great though sadly was closing in a couple of weeks. I made the most of it though and had soup and a sandwich.
For the final section to Epworth it was along tracks and through fields.
Epworth is famous as the birthplace of John and Charles Wesley. I passed the old Rectory where they were born. The town itself was quite touristy with nice looking small shops.
Tonight’s stay was a lovely Airbnb who provided snacks and a continental breakfast as well as the room.