Uphill to Berkeley: 85km

It was a much easier ride today, with few major elevation changes. However, the use of the cycle network routes will continue to lengthen our riding time.

With our food bag stocked with homemade cookies, fruit and cheese, kindly supplied by Liz, we set out on national cycle route 33. It was a cool 8•c.

The route took us on bike paths and minor roads through the towns, villages and countryside of the Somerset levels. The Strawberry Line Cafe at Yatton Station (thanks, Liz, for the tip) provided good coffee and great flapjack. Leading up to the Avonmouth Bridge, the trail went through some pretty villages, although the motorway traffic noise was always audible.

The Avonmouth and Severn Beach environs were less attractive, as we cycled through industrial estates, including past the immense Seabank gas fired power station, currently under construction. Nearby, we discovered a lovely little park, an unexpected refuge in which to have our lunch.

After leaving the views of the two Severn bridges behind, we passed through the pleasant rural landscape of South Gloucestershire, before arriving in Berkeley for a day off.