Day 12: Hartland to Abbotsham

I was led into a false sense of security today in that the paths were good and my pace was fast. That all changed in the afternoon. 

• Date: 1 April 2024
• Start: Hartland
• End: Abbotsham
• Miles: 14.3
• Total miles: 164.4
• Accommodation: Westacott Farm

I left the campsite in Hartland and followed a route back to the South West Coast Path recommended by the campsite owner. It was a beautiful route through some woods. I also found the world’s most pointless gate. 

I then rejoined the South West Coast Path by Clovelly, a privately owned village which you need to pay to enter, so I didn’t. I walked around it and then along a very well laid path for the next few miles. 

It was when this path ended that things took a turn. Constant mud for the next 7 miles to the campsite. I was glad that I’d made such good progress in the morning otherwise I’d have gotten to the campsite very late. 

I finally made it to a damp and soggy campsite, set the wet tent up and had a shower. After the last few nights of being cold and wet, I desperately wanted to sit inside, so headed to the local pub. If you are in Abbotsham, you have to visit The Thatched Inn, a brilliant pub. 

Tomorrow is thankfully all roads and cycle paths as I head to Barnstable and finish my time on the South West Coast Path.