Day 71: Kingsettle to Castle Cary
📏 Distance: 13.57 miles (21.83 km)
☀️ Weather: Dry, warm sunshine with a refreshing breeze
🕘 Start: 09:06 | Finish: 15:06
After a restful night at the campsite, today began with a visit to the National Trust office nearby. The main purpose was practical — I’d managed to misplace my hayfever mask last night. The staff were not only helpful in supplying a few spare masks, but genuinely interested in my journey. They took flyers and promised donations, the generosity was a lovely way to start the day.
Following yesterday’s intense bout of hayfever, triggered by trudging through chest-high grass, and before I thought to wear my mask, I made a strategic decision to stick mostly to country lanes today. It was a good move — the symptoms have thankfully eased, and I was able to walk in much greater comfort.
The route itself was gentle and enjoyable, winding through the peaceful Somerset countryside. I made steady progress and took the time to enjoy some of the interesting buildings along the way. With time on my side, I even treated myself to a coffee stop in Castle Cary.
Castle Cary turned out to be a delightful little town — full of character, historic architecture, and a beautifully preserved Market Hall at its heart. It has an air of quiet charm, and it’s no surprise that Douglas Macmillan, the founder of the charity now known as Macmillan Cancer Support, once lived here. In fact, the route I’ll be taking tomorrow is named the Macmillan Way.
All in all, today was a shorter walking day, and tomorrow is similar— giving both my legs and spirit a bit of a breather as I continue this incredible journey southward.
