We started the day with a walk near to Eardisley through the Batch to Almeley Church. We set off after lunch, meeting intermittent rain. We stopped at Pembridge - a very good example of a “black and white” village – that is, it has black timbered houses with whitewashed panels. The church has a large octagonal separated bell tower.

The rain became heavier as we struggled towards Ludlow.

The festival was on and we had hoped to see a performance of Richard III in the castle, but we were told that people stand to see the performance and there is no cover unless you take a dustbin bag. We decided to give it a miss, but observed that many others were braver than us. After a warming drink at Aragon, we did the last few miles to the B and B.

Fortunately the B and B had plenty of room for a dripping tandem and our saturated togs in the lobby. The owners helped us to find a taxi to take us back into town where we had a mediocre meal at Aragon.  

Stayed in “Acorn Place”, Fishmore, SY8 3DP. 01584 875295, Peter & Sally Gillham, a guest house NE of Ludlow; a good room with separate entrance and lobby.