I took a fast trek along the Canterbury Way in England, it’s a short cut in a way, from Farnham to Canterbury. Actually, it known as the North Downs Way and then on to Dover. It’s a much shorter pilgrimage than the regular more popular Pilgram’s Way. I was concerned about language gaps and I’m more accustom to the creature comforts of Bed and Breakfast joints or as I planned in advance, a nice stay at Canterbury Hotel at the end of my trek.
This short cut is a nice alternative and a good reason to re-read Chaucer. Of course, Chaucer’s book follow the exploits of a group of pilgrims travelling from London to Canterbury by foot. But, I wanted to follow the trail from Farnham, because it’s known as the North Down Way and if I started at London, I would get all sloggy with city stuff, which I’d rather not do.
I’ve received three cautionary remarks from earlier pilgrims, pilgrims with experience. First, historically, I’ll still on a pilgrims route and it’s a very long-distance walk. There’s no infrastructure or any book references along the way, and by now you’d think there would be. Second, the terrain can be a bit repetitive, all day walking along a hillside, walking up, walking down, walking up, walking down, I think you get the drift. Lastly, the view seems to be similar and if you lodge, instead of camp, it can get quite expensive. If you don’t lodge, you’ll end up pretty soggy through out the trek. I hope to find some hostels along the route. The guide book I have, which is the latest one printed, does have maps and provides a good amount of information about where I can go to find facilities and points of interest along the way. With all that said, I’m on my way. See you in Canterbury.
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