For some reason I decided I wanted to do a run along the Hicca Way to Ickleford. It was another bright, crisp morning. It was going to be largely cross country, so I went for the trail shoes.
I only have to go a short way from home to get away from the roads. I crossed the railway bridge as a train passed underneath and passed the Mill Pits as I followed the river. I crossed the river at the meadow with the horses and then it was out across the fields. I have done this route a few times, but the signs can be lacking. The farmers seem to either clear or use something to kill a strip of the crops to mark where people can walk. This was in the middle of one such field. You may spot a hot air balloon in the distance.
You will see that I joined the Bedford Road, but I had intended to come out about where it says Ickleford. I missed a turn somewhere. I followed the road for a while until I found another footpath heading in the right direction. The brought me out at the cricket pitch, which I had not seen before. It may be around there that the lacrosse players who I see in the pub play.
Once through Ickleford I passed back under the railway. There is no footpath on that bit of road, so I am always careful there. I passed the lavender farm (popular with Chinese tourists) and picked up another footpath. There is a curious metal rail embedded in that path, but I have yet to find out what it was for. The path continues over towards Letchworth with some great views over the countryside.
The path comes out by The Wilbury pub (the titular World's End in the movie) and then I followed the road back to Fairfield.
I cut straight through Fairfield as I just wanted to get home by then. I went through the old orchard that has a dedicated group maintaining it. This was part of the old asylum who obviously wanted to be self-sufficient in some things. I also passed another the cricket pitch there.
As I came back through Arlesey I saw a couple of cars going much too fast (Mazda RX7 and VW Golf). I hope they do not kill anyone. With the price of fuel that is an expensive habit.
So this was another fairly long run in preparation for my half marathon. I did walk a bit, but then that is about 25km this weekend. I enjoyed the run as there are some great views around here. Apparently looking into the distance is good for our mental wellbeing.
Run free and stay well.
