Eight Years, One Guestbook, and Countless Memories
Posted by Alison Allen
Eight years ago, I opened the doors to my B&B at The Walking Hub, not entirely sure what to expect. I just knew I loved the rhythm of walking, the kind of people it draws, and the magic of our patch of the Welsh borders. I hoped others would feel the same.
Today, my guest book — the one that’s sat quietly on the table through all seasons — is full. Every page now home to kind words, sketches, thank you cards, and laughter scribbled into the margins by the hundreds (maybe thousands?) of walkers who’ve passed through. Most of them have come with one goal in mind: to walk Offa’s Dyke. But what’s unfolded over the years has been far richer than any trail description could promise.
The First Guest (and My Big Blunder)
I still remember my very first guest: a solo walker from Australia. I was so eager to make a good impression, to be the perfect host. Trying to be super helpful I drove her to Hay-on-Wye so she could walk back to The Walking Hub
Only... I set her off in the wrong direction, heading south and definitely not back to me.
I walked with her for half an hour, chatting, making sure she was happy — feeling confident I was nailing the host thing. It wasn’t until I turned back toward the car that the creeping realisation hit me: she was going completely the wrong way. I ran after her — couldn’t find her — then had to drive up to Hay Bluff and wait, breathless, hoping she’d appear, feeling sick that she might not. When she did, we laughed so hard. She forgave me immediately. That moment taught me that people don’t come here for perfection. They come for honesty, connection, and a good story to take home.
The People Who’ve Walked Through the Door
So many faces have come and gone. Some just for a night, some who’ve stayed longer — and some who return, year after year, like old friends. Many have walked solo, some in pairs or groups, and a few with dogs that instantly became Roo's temporary best mate.
There have been early breakfasts of overnight oats (I’ve probably served enough to fill a mountain), slices of Alex Gooch’s heavenly bread devoured before boots were even tied, and conversations over coffee that I still think about.
There are stories I probably shouldn’t share here — the kind that are funnier whispered over a pint — but let’s just say: running a B&B brings moments that are equal parts heartwarming, surprising, and occasionally absurd 😉
The Final Page
The last entry in the guestbook brought things full circle. It was signed by two particularly inspirational sets of guests:
First, Glyn — a Welshman now living in Finland — who returned to Wales to celebrate his 80th birthday on top of Snowdon.
Then, Celia and Michiel from the Netherlands — 81 and 85 — who arrived still walking strong, still radiating that ageless kind of joy only walkers seem to carry.
They stood outside the shop smiling, looking not a day over 50. Truly, walking keeps you young.
What This All Means
This isn’t just a guest book. It’s a time capsule. A trail of gratitude. A reminder of how much connection happens over shared maps, muddy boots, and tea.
To everyone who’s stayed at The Hub: thank you. Whether you walked the full Dyke or just passed through, you’ve become part of this story. I may have started this journey trying to impress a guest from Australia… but it's me who’s been endlessly impressed — by you.
Here’s to full pages, full hearts, and whatever comes next.
