03/04/24 - Father Ted Geocaching from the Lion Inn, Trellech

 The first of 2024's goals ticked off

You may think a single Geocaching round is unworthy to be on a goal-list that includes other challenges such as achieve 1050 Good Beer Guide Ticks and walk 1000 miles. But there is more to this than meets the eye.

The 25 caches presented are "Mystery Caches" that require solving.  Here's an example;

So, that's 25 episodes of Father Ted that needed to be watched to get the clues.

As one of the best comedies of all time, this was no hardship. Although sobering to see that I now have nine years on Dermot Morgan unlucky innings.

Over a couple of months, all the information was gathered. A spare Sunday earmarked to head down to Trellech, South Wales, with no consideration to the conditions.

Oh no.... the Geocacher's Nemesis.

Snow in South Wales

Mrs M tag's along. 7 miles of Tupperware hunting in the woods is not her idea of fun, but a Sunday Lunch out is promised. She's under the strict instructions not to moan, which she is keen to remind me off when I kick off. Digging boxes out of snow and ice - when you are lucky enough to spot the Geocaching hint - is not necessarily conducive to a happy day out.

So we give up, and concentrate on a fine walk. Trellech Common more a forest than my definition of common land, but fine tracks under blue skies.  Where's that meme of Kolo Toure saying "there is no need to be upset"?

.

Caches in them, thar woods.... usually under stumps.

Onto the village - and the pub.

Trellech - a fascinating village filled with history from the ancients to the Normans. I've visited twice before and been subject to the panel of dubious ticks, as both times the Lion Inn has been closed.

Not today, we have a table booked in this Good Beer Guide stalwart.

Fitting Finale

It's popular, packed and thankfully with more than enough staff running around providing quick service. A two roomer, with roaring fire in each and the Sunday lunch was perfect.  Its always going to score highly when cauliflower cheese is part of the base deal and not a five pound surcharge.

Walk Details

Distance - 7 Miles

Geoaches - 25 available, 11 found.  Blame the Snow

First Cache