Today was a gray day, mostly overcast with occasional drizzle. The temperature was cool enough that I didn’t go through much water, but I still wished it were warm enough to skip wearing a jacket. The scenery was similar to yesterday but the rolling hills and small towns I passed through kept things interesting.
I started the day with a Clif Bar in my hotel room before heading out around 8:30. Since it was a bank holiday, many coffee and breakfast spots were opening later than usual, and I didn’t want to waste time searching for food. I knew I’d have an option in Woodstock about an hour into the ride, so I got on the road.
The rolling hills between Woodstock and Moreton-in-Marsh were tougher than expected, and I started to lose some motivation. I made a quick stop for water and some Haribo gummies, and the sugar boost helped get me back on track.
Leaving Moreton-in-Marsh required tackling a one-mile climb averaging a 10% grade, which my legs were not prepared for. Then, coming down the other side at 30 mph, I missed my turn and had to reroute at the bottom.
With 20 miles to go, the sun finally came out and the road flattened, making the end of the day more enjoyable. Tonight I’m staying in Worcester, which doesn’t seem like a major tourist town. With no real plans for the evening, I walked to Worcester Cathedral before grabbing a couple of beers and some dinner in town.
Ramblin' Dan: Bike Touring Adventures 