We started the day in a very subdued mood with Faith taking Merlin home and as we left our accommodation it was raining. However we are doing this for Mental Health Charity and walking is also good for the mental health and by the end we were in a much better frame of mind and elated with the news we had smashed the £9,000 barrier. 😲
By the time we had returned to where we left the path yesterday and took the traditional selfie
Within a few minutes it stopped raining and the coats were off. It soon became very hot and was sapping our energy so relieved this was our shortest day of the whole walk just 13 miles. .
After yesterday‘s squelchy bogs, it was quite nice to leave Baldersdale on firm ground it is always good to see the hay bails and farmers cutting the hay fields you know the weather is going to be good
We passed between two reservoirs at Blankton Bridge
. From here we passed Hannah‘s Meadow and the historic barn. Part of the legacy of Hannah Hauxwell has been the preservation of her farmland which has been given the status of a study area for Meadow grasses and wildflowers We cross Mickleton moor with several gap styles and sprung gates some difficult to negotiate
We see Grassholme Reservoir bridge which we cross
. From the reservoir we walk uphill and through a farm and are happy to find a tuckshop and honesty box by the path luckily we brought some change, so invested in chocolate bars and drinks
we now have to go over Harter Fell. It’s quite a very pleasant route.
Weather had now turned hot and we were already feeling tired As we drop down, we can see the view of Middleton in Teesdale
when the path reaches the bridge over the river Tees we decided to take the opportunity for a small detour into Middleton in Teesdale to stock up on some vital provisions.
First couple of miles out of Middleton has a tedious series of styles far too many trees impair the long views but the river is ever present on the right providing adequate compensation. Occasionally getting lovely views
After crossing many of these styles we felt it was like an assault course we were getting very warm and stopped on a small bridge for a photo in a cooler spot.
Eventually we arrive at Wynch Bridge
at low force there’s an impressive double waterfall, but Not as impressive as normal due to the dry weather
about a mile from Lowforce will leave the by crossing the river to reach our accommodation the High Force Hotel
One continues to be enthralled. I remember the documentaries about Hannah's hard life in the High Pennines. Now seeing some locations we have visited on holiday. High Force and Low Force. Fabulous. Kerp safe. Bob Smith.
ReplyDeleteThanks Bob for your continued support and comments I’m glad you are enjoying it.
ReplyDeleteHi Steve Jane and Kirsty Mick johns here I have been following your progress daily and I think you are all such amazing people you are an inspiration to us all I have walked a lot of the Pennine way on different walks and having seen you guys and the fun you are having you have inspired me to put this challenge on my bucket list I know it's hard work but so worth while the memories you are making are so precious I have nothing but admiration and pride in what you are doing keep up the great work Merlin will be waiting for you well done .
ReplyDeleteThanks Mick, it has been amazing so far but tough. Go for it
Delete