After 3 days of rain and mist, I did wonder how well supported today’s walk would be. So, it was lovely to be one of 16 Wick Wanderers setting off from Llantwit Major Station. We headed towards Boverton, turning off on a path alongside the cemetery. Sad to learn of the 51 casualties of WW2 from training accidents at nearby St Athan and Llandow Airfields. Crossing the Hoddnant River we soon saw the ruins of Boverton Court ahead, where we had our first photo stop.
It was once the centre of the Manor of Llantwit, going back to Robert Fitzhamon – the Norman Conqueror of Glamorgan.
Looping back, we then headed back towards Llantwit Major, following the course of the river as much as possible. Mud and urbanisation meant we had a few detours, but pretty to walk alongside when we could. After joining Ham Lane, we turned left, and headed towards our second Manor of the day. All that is left of this old Mansion and Estate is the Lodge Cottage, and a fishpond once part of a grand Italianate Garden. We posed here for our second photo, discovering the pond was originally a Victorian Wallowing Pool, an outside spa.
Our route then took us into the open countryside, passing Acorn Campsite and Rosedew Farm. Our 5th time of crossing The Hoddnant meant we were on the final ascent back towards the Town. A brief pause to look at the War Memorial Gates at Sea View Park, then we were all walking uphill at quite a brisk place eagerly in search of Cafe Velo.
It was lovely to see Sue waiting there for us, although the young lady working there was a little overwhelmed that more walkers had turned up than I had estimated. She had patient customers and willing helpers, and I’m sure Frank doubled his step count running up and downstairs as an impromptu waiter!
All good in the end, plenty of happy chat, and chance for Wick Wanderers Cats Choir to sing to Pennie, wishing her a very Happy Birthday.
Once again, thanks all for joining the walk.
Wick Wanderers 