tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23626028575327160042024-03-25T07:16:11.229+00:00Brian walkingAND WITTERINGAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.comBlogger157125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-12922555246340344192014-05-13T06:37:00.000+01:002014-05-24T06:23:45.238+01:00South West Coast Path - Day 10<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<em><a href="http://www.barnstaplepanniermarket.co.uk/history.asp" target="_blank">Barnstaple Pannier Market</a></em></div>
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The magic of the SWCP disappeared for me when the sea on my right became estuary and the hills ahead levelled out. The path between Braunton and Westward Ho! will bring variety to the longer distance walker but it is not a route that particularly appeals to me.</div>
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So after a semi-idle day in Barnstaple today, I'm heading back to Minehead by trains and bus tomorrow and will make my way home on Wednesday.</div>
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I've covered modest distances hampered somewhat by a dodgy left knee. I had treatment for it earlier in the year when for a time I wasn't able to walk at all. It seems the knee needs more time or treatment to mend.</div>
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There are inspirational words by Charles Kingsley in his "Westward Ho!" which make me want to pick up this path again from there ...</div>
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"To landward all richness, softness and peace; to seaward, a waste and howling wilderness of rock and roller, barren to the fisherman and hopeless to the shipwrecked mariner."</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-55597367324874036062014-05-12T07:40:00.000+01:002014-05-18T08:39:32.348+01:00South West Coast Path - Day 9<div class="mobile-photo">
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Sun 11 May - Braunton to Barnstaple.</div>
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Cyclists!! I could fill this page and more about them today. But I won't because there wouldn't be a kind word anywhere and it'll do no good.</div>
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The five and a half mile route from<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Braunton town centre to Barnstaple follows the former railway once used by the <a href="http://www.atlantic-coast-express.co.uk/" target="_blank">Atlantic Coast Express</a>. It is also a public footpath, a National Trail (SWCP), a Recreational Trail (The Tarka Trail), and it's the tarmac'd National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 27. Regrettably, MOST cyclists use it as their own with special disregard for pedestrians.</div>
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I now need a plan, to change the plan that I don't really have. The 10 mile route ahead to Bideford is almost wholly NCN 3 and I don't want to risk another day spoilt in the same fashion as today.</div>
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I'm spending the day in Barnstaple where there is much to explore, eat and drink. There will be time to review my options.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-48083169558647487982014-05-11T07:31:00.000+01:002014-05-18T08:39:32.343+01:00South West Coast Path - Day 8<div class="mobile-photo">
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Sat 10 May - Woolacombe to Braunton<br />
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I'm carrying the AZ Adventure SWCP 1:25,000 OS Map which is a strip/booklet map. Book 1 covers Somerset and North Devon in a very handy size because it fits nicely in the smaller Ortlieb weatherproof holder. It's easier to turn pages on a wet and windy day (as it was at times today) than it is to refold a sheet map, and it's lighter too.</div>
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A map is a must of course but it also creates greater interest of the surrounding area. However, signage on the SWCP is excellent.</div>
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Here in North Devon some finger posts even have a small engraved plate displaying the grid reference of that location.</div>
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The nature of the path varies according to the geology. Noticeable differences today are the sandy beaches, sand dunes and broad grassy hill tops - not many of those though. Over the 15 miles of this section there is only 1225 feet of ascent. (Did I just say "only"?)</div>
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I probably walked nearer 12 miles having taken a short cut, avoiding a southern loop down to the estuary of the Rivers Taw and Torridge. Another good reason to carry a map.</div>
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[Image: Looking back towards Woolacombe Sands - through the rain]</div>
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PS. Will reply to comments when network availability more favourable.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-796079760298407702014-05-10T06:35:00.000+01:002014-05-18T08:39:32.371+01:00South West Coast Path - Day 7<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EjDAdOw3NoQ/U227ksNKqYI/AAAAAAAAA7I/Fygep7xgJik/s1600/20140509_120758-769456.jpg"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EjDAdOw3NoQ/U227ksNKqYI/AAAAAAAAA7I/Fygep7xgJik/s400/20140509_120758-769456.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6011667316625549698" /></a></p><div>Fri 9 May - Ilfracombe to Woolacombe.</div><div><br></div><div>Today's route was about seven and a half miles. With just over 2,000 feet of ascent it's graded moderate and strenuous and it took me nearly five hours - the hills and a pub off-route at Lee slowing me down among other things, as well as conversations.</div><div><br></div><div>A lone walker's walk is not necessarily a lonely one. There are remote stretches on this path giving rise to solitude but, in fine weather at least, there tend to be opportunities for conversations along the way.</div><div><br></div><div>Today was typical; chats with two separate dog walkers, a long discussion with a lady sowing wildflower seeds in a border outside her garden wall, and several other interesting, and just as important cooling down periods whilst passing the time of day with others. Including the lady at the Woolacombe Tourist Information who phoned around and booked my b&b for the night.</div><div><br></div><div>That was good news. The weather forecast wasn't/isn't good and a night under canvas wasn't appealing.</div><div><br></div><div>There are lots of eating places here in Woolacombe (locals call it Wooly) and I have successfully fueled up. Off to bed now, hopefully for some peace and quiet.</div><div><br></div><div><div style="font-size:87%">Sent from Samsung Mobile</div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-22923410622420779512014-05-09T06:41:00.000+01:002014-05-18T08:39:32.332+01:00South West Coast Path - Day 6<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZVjn_i6Ppw/U2xqqz-O5UI/AAAAAAAAA64/CaQQDBovz4A/s1600/20140508_181319-723582.jpg"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZVjn_i6Ppw/U2xqqz-O5UI/AAAAAAAAA64/CaQQDBovz4A/s400/20140508_181319-723582.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6011296886371050818" /></a></p><div>Thu 8 May - Day Off</div><div><br></div><div>A wet and windy day in an English seaside town doesn't always present a pretty picture, in fact it can look quite miserable. But the sights weren't foremost on my mind today; I fancied a break from routine and my nagging left knee needed a rest, and Ilfracombe has provided both.</div><div><br></div><div>Despite not having "a plan", I do have to consider where best to finish up on Wednesday 14th in order to get back to Minehead on Thursday. If I maintain my current average daily mileage then I'll make it to Westward Ho! where transport connections seem favourable.</div><div><br></div><div>Off I go then.</div><div><br></div><div><div style="font-size:87%">Sent from Samsung Mobile</div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-56350303198553624222014-05-08T07:16:00.001+01:002014-06-13T14:19:47.755+01:00South West Coast Path - Day 5<div class="mobile-photo">
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Wed 7 May - Heddon Valley to Illfracombe</div>
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Food has been a major feature today. And a pattern is emerging with breakfast. Easygoing in nature for a start. I can recognise the look of relief when I immediately agree to the suggested meal time. "Half eight Sir?" "Yes please - that's good for me." Rather than barter for an early getaway.</div>
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And I've been taking my time consuming fruit juice, tea, cereal, fried egg (two in Lynton), bacon, grilled tomato, toast and other bits. Before heading down Killer Lane this morning, mushrooms and fried bread were on my plate as well.</div>
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I made good time to Combe Martin (8 miles?) and felt reinvigorated after delicious Broccoli & Stilton Soup at The Harbour Deli. So in high spirits I decided to make it a longer walking day by continuing to Illfracombe, 7-8 miles distant including the highest point on the SWCP at Great Hangman.</div>
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Illfracombe Tourist Information Centre pointed me in the direction <a href="http://www.theacornlodge.co.uk/" target="_blank">Acorn Lodge</a>, a nice b&b with friendly hosts where I have a clean and bright, en suite room with a double bed (and breakfast tomorrow of course) for £35.</div>
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Dinner in town this evening was at <a href="http://www.takethymeilfracombe.com/home" target="_blank">Take Thyme</a> where I enjoyed Dover Sole with a light sauce of lemon zest and thyme, mint buttered new potatoes and a side salad with French dressing, followed by homemade Rhubarb & Pear Crumble with a local ice cream.</div>
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Fuel for the coast path walker.</div>
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[Image is Illfracombe Harbour]</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-79248869121818748912014-05-07T21:47:00.001+01:002014-05-18T08:39:32.358+01:00South West Coast Path - Day 4<div class="mobile-photo">
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Tue 6 May - Lyndon to Heddon Valley.</div>
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Most SWCP walkers will end up in Combe Martin at this stage of their walk. That's the best part of 14 miles with about 3,800 feet of ascent. Guide books rate the route "strenuous" so I set my sights on Heddons Mouth, 7 miles from Lyndon. There's a pub a half a mile off the SWCP and a farm b&b half a mile east from there which on this occasion I had booked by landline the night before. <a href="http://www.lynton-lynmouth-tourism.co.uk/mannacott/mannacott_farm.htm" target="_blank">Mannacott Farm</a> (Grid SS 662481) is approached from the pub via Kings Lane. It's a very steep climb. Killer Lane would be a better name.</div>
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There were many differences today; a gentle downhill route out of town rather than up; even more spectacular views from cliff-hugging, narrow paths; and ferral goats rather than sheep.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-14178603599453923342014-05-06T07:49:00.000+01:002014-05-18T08:39:32.327+01:00South West Coast Path - Day 3<div class="mobile-photo">
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Mon 5 May -<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>A field to Lynton</div>
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I sometimes feel a strong craving for something when walking. Today it was ice cold fruit squash. At my first point of call at Lynmouth this afternoon they had none, nor at the second. The third did but no ice and it was disgusting. Their bacon and tomato sandwich and two pots of tea hit the spot though so we parted friends.</div>
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It was a hard walk - only about 7-8 miles but a roller coaster route. And breakfast hadn't amounted to much after a poor nights sleep. I thought I'd chosen a sheltered spot to pitch my tent but it wasn't when the breeze changed direction and increased it's force. I was concerned that we would be blown away but we stood our ground, both flapping in our own way.</div>
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I have found perfect accommodation in Lynton - <a href="http://www.southcliffe.co.uk/" target="_blank">Southcliffe B&B</a>, where hosts, David & Ceri provided a lovely roast pork dinner with all the trimmings. A good choice - I couldn't have handled lamb. Now I've got a lovely double bed firmly set on the floor.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-47707747487744911572014-05-06T06:48:00.001+01:002014-05-18T08:39:32.338+01:00South West Coast Path - Day 2<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-igMxpEumPq0/U2h3vplN-SI/AAAAAAAAA50/A3UY-aofnqM/s1600/20140504_165141-725922.jpg"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-igMxpEumPq0/U2h3vplN-SI/AAAAAAAAA50/A3UY-aofnqM/s400/20140504_165141-725922.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6010185363225442594" /></a></p><div>Sun 4 May - Porlock to a field.</div><div><br></div><div>It might seem odd that the first real contact with the sea when following this coastal path (unless toes were dipped at Minehead) is on the approach to Porlock Weir, where the path is in fact the pebble beach which leads into the hamlet.</div><div><br></div><div>From there it feels like mostly upwards, through pleasant woodland and past sheep-filled fields. Many fields and lots of sheep.</div><div><br></div><div>I found one lamb stuck up a tree! Having rescued the cuddly creature, it was heart-warming to see it belt away, when released, to it's mum for a swift half of milk.</div><div><br></div><div>Like I said - I'm dawdling, and today I'd had enough after 5-6 miles so I pitched my tent (Shangri-La 1) in a field, unseen by anyone I think except sheep. One of whom detached itself from the staring flock to more closely check me out. Returning it's stare, I recited:</div><div><br></div><div>"Mary had a little lamb,</div><div>She ate it with mint sauce.</div><div>So everywhere that Mary went</div><div>The lamb went too of course."</div><div><br></div><div>The Recce Platoon's detached sheep seemed to get the message and immediately reported back to Flock HQ and I wasn't bothered again.</div><div><br></div><div>[Some technical problems sending to blog. Reduced picture to 30% on the hope that this post is transmitted.]</div><div><br></div><div><div style="font-size:87%">Sent from Samsung Mobile</div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-14437754245664210372014-05-04T07:54:00.000+01:002014-05-18T08:38:29.869+01:00South West Coast Path - Day 1<div class="mobile-photo">
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Sat 3 May - Minehead to Porlock</div>
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Apparently, Minehead gets it's name from an old Welsh word meaning "mountain". Those setting out on the SW Coast Path might think that fitting during the climb to the path's highest point on the "mountain" (North Hill) where there is a well used bench - and a marvellous view over the Bristol Channel to the Welsh coast.</div>
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After a night at the most excellent <a href="http://www.tregonwellhouse.co.uk/" target="_blank">Tregonwell House</a> in Minehead (where perfect hosts Andy & Sue agreed to look after my van for the duration of my walk), I have dawdled for the 8 miles or so to Porlock on a fine, sunny day. And that's the general aim over the next 11 days. No plan; nothing booked or points to get to - stopping off at a B&B if a bed is available, otherwise looking for somewhere to pitch my tent.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-67479780553832839312014-01-26T17:57:00.000+00:002014-01-26T17:57:54.222+00:00Dreaming in Hayfield, High Peak<span style="font-family: Arial;">An aim this year is to walk a couple of long distance trails. But because I've become used to local strolls, preparation will have to include increasingly longer walks to improve fitness. Best get to it I thought. But at the same time, no need to overdo
it. Break myself in gently perhaps. And why not begin by dreaming about what I aim to do - and do the
hard part later.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">And that is what I have mostly been doing this past week -
dreaming. Whilst making sure I wasn’t wet, cold, hot, tired, thirsty or hungry during the process - all part of what I can expect later this year if my backpacking dreams and plans come true!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">I have just spent a week in cosy <strong><a href="http://www.derbyshire-cottages.info/the-peak-district-and-derbyshire/buxton-bakewell-and-area/jumble-cottage#.UuQZtdtFCUm" target="_blank">Jumble Cottage</a></strong>, Hayfield,
Derbyshire. If you want a peaceful place (for one or two) to dream or a base where
the hills are just yards away, or both, then I can recommend it as a good spot to stay. And Hayfield, which sits below Kinder Plateau, ticked all the right boxes for me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Luckily, the weather was kind so I was able to
combine some dreaming with walking, mostly after setting out each day along Snake Path heading
for Kinder Scout.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QdRyXyHs62E/UuQOy-MAw6I/AAAAAAAAA2E/sNu2ziq4C5w/s1600/Snake+Path+Jan+2014.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QdRyXyHs62E/UuQOy-MAw6I/AAAAAAAAA2E/sNu2ziq4C5w/s1600/Snake+Path+Jan+2014.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span></em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <em>Middle Moor - view north east toward Kinder Plateau</em></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NO6sK0bqVVY/UuQPsyqm6oI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/VVXnQ49M-pc/s1600/Kinder+Res+%2526+Scout+Jan+2014.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NO6sK0bqVVY/UuQPsyqm6oI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/VVXnQ49M-pc/s1600/Kinder+Res+%2526+Scout+Jan+2014.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Arial;">Kinder Reservoir from Snake Path</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">White Brow where Snake Path leads NE to The Pennine Way</span></em></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-34264137228695194672013-12-16T14:52:00.000+00:002013-12-16T14:52:43.608+00:00I Started Another Blog Recently<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Although it’s been a while since I backpacked along any of
our National Trails – the sort of travels that have in the past prompted me to
blog, I have been walking locally, mostly in the historic county of
Bedfordshire. Doing so has opened my eyes to the poor state of some of our
public rights of way. Sadly there are plenty of paths that cannot be used at
all and others that are likely to be lost forever because of the so called “cut-off
date” of 2026. The situation is echoed in many counties of England and Wales.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The local authorities whose duty it is to protect and care
for our public rights of way, generally say that they can’t afford to look
after our paths because of “the economic climate” but I feel that is just a
lame, convenient excuse. The real reason is that some, certainly my council, do
not seem to care. And they can get away with that attitude if the public doesn’t
care either, or at least if the majority don’t. Initial contacts with my
council to express concern drew little interest leading me to score it as a
moderate success if I even received a reply. I now represent the Open Spaces
Society and so have a louder voice (I suppose the council might say “bigger
mouth”) which will be harder to ignore.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If this blog is called Brian Walking then I could have
called my new blog Brian Ranting, but I resisted the urge. But that is what I shall
mostly do there - rant. Yet I’m keen to give credit where it’s due and hope to
find cases to rave about rather than complain. It’s in my nature to resist the
urge to be too hopeful on that count though.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Meanwhile, I am preparing to get back to the more enjoyable
pastime of walking with shelter, rations and the relevant kit on my back. I’m
still dreaming about where to go but The Pennine Way will be the major trek
next year.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Blogspot moves with the times so I’m on a steep learning
curve with some of the new-fangled technology but you can find my latest
offerings <strong><a href="http://ossbedford.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">HERE</a></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year</strong></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y97L9Y2iWuw/Uq8Sdv1YbeI/AAAAAAAAAy0/bJAhdeicINo/s1600/Its+Christmas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y97L9Y2iWuw/Uq8Sdv1YbeI/AAAAAAAAAy0/bJAhdeicINo/s320/Its+Christmas.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em><strong>Work in progress</strong></em></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-24093149475558622142012-09-20T08:45:00.001+01:002013-12-10T07:27:09.020+00:00We plough the fields and scatter ...It’s a double whammy when I haven’t walked a long distance path for a while; no long walk so no blog. That’s because I tend to write about the longer treks rather than your everyday local walks. The situation should have been remedied this week in the Lake District where I had a 10-day holiday planned. Regrettably, a need to cancel at the last moment put paid to that though. So, keen to update my scribblings with something/anything in order to satisfy the blogging bug I thought I’d let the fingers do the talking about more local matters.<br />
<br />
The weather in this part of the country has been perfect for farmers and walkers. Farmers have just about finished harvesting cereals and are well into ploughing and sewing winter crops over which walkers such as I have the pleasure of walking around or over.
Witnessing the harvesting at close range can be spectacular.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R9OeO9QdbTQ/UFrHPPsnh0I/AAAAAAAAAqw/iptZWxKRo1Q/s1600/Thurleigh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R9OeO9QdbTQ/UFrHPPsnh0I/AAAAAAAAAqw/iptZWxKRo1Q/s400/Thurleigh.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><a href="http://www.agweb.com/tractors-four-wheel-drive/">John Deere 9030</a> Series with Gregoire Besson 12 Furrow plough - south of Thurleigh, Bedfordshire</i></div>
<br />
Here’s the twelve furrow Greqoire Besson 12 Furrow plough in action. The sound track is grim but bearable so endure it (concentrate though or you’ll be reluctant to admit that you were actually tapping your feet or wobbling something) for at least a minute until you have seen the miraculous, mesmerising, manoeuvring, machinations of this magnificent feat of engineering upon arrival at the headland.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/EHOEC1h4nhw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
A nice walk <a href="http://mediafiles.thedms.co.uk/Publication/BH-GO/cms/pdf/Hidden%20Britain%20BEDFORD%20-THURLEIGH.pdf">this </a>either by bus to Thurleigh and a wander back to Bedford; or a wander to Thurleigh and a bus back to Bedford; or a wander to <a href="http://www.thejackalpub.co.uk/">The Jackal</a> at Thurleigh and back.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-25241803926026496452012-06-05T08:15:00.000+01:002012-06-05T08:22:54.935+01:00The West Highland Way - After<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPEnj25qoto/T82wD9QlSgI/AAAAAAAAAqc/qmPGGlkC1d4/s1600/Inveroran+Hotel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPEnj25qoto/T82wD9QlSgI/AAAAAAAAAqc/qmPGGlkC1d4/s320/Inveroran+Hotel.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Inveroran Hotel (2-3 miles north of Bridge of Orchy)</span></div>
<br />
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A Scottish friend of mine would occasionally say, with a
sigh, “It’s a sair fecht”. A straight translation of which is - “It’s a sore
fight.”<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When people use this phrase they mean – “It’s a hard
life.” People usually say it when they are just a bit fed up with things, not
seriously despondent or depressed.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">That was me on The West Highland Way.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Perhaps it was my very high expectations that were vulnerable
and therefore almost guaranteed to plummet. Whatever the reason, regrettably,
the overall experience of <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>walking The
West Highland Way was not a good one for me.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The reader will want to know what the main problem was.
Well, the Scottish Midge essentially. Call me stupid but I don’t find it
enjoyable walking the length of Loch Lomond, and elsewhere, if I’m unable to
take the weight off my feet and laze without fear of being eaten by clouds of
evil midges.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A lady at Rowardennan said “There’s a reason for the
midges but I can’t remember what it is.” Err, alright then. Food chain maybe? The
House Martins hoovering up the midges outside at the time would agree that
point if they were capable of agreeing anything. And if it is food chain then
fine. Just leave me (and my friends) out of it.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Also, me being me, if one thing doesn’t suit me I do tend
to look at other things in a bad light which can exacerbate the problem. In
short order, I did not appreciate the beer (a Tartan Special at the Rod &
Reel in Crianlarich was ok after the third pint), the food; the Full Scottish
Breakfast looks a bit lonely on the plate, and they don’t seem to even have
plates at The Inversnaid Hotel …<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Prodnose: “Enough!!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Me: “But they’ll want to
hear about the walk. About the good company of Andrea, Markus and Anthony, the
friendly locals, what the scenery looks like through the secure window of a
b&b where the inside temperature is 34C , where midges congregate in a tent,
how small the fried eggs ...”</span></i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Prodnose: “You’re off again. Enough!</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dcqmVws4nr4?rel=0" width="420"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-67662720547354960122012-05-24T06:25:00.000+01:002012-05-24T06:26:08.508+01:00The West Highland Way - Before<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B8hSI6EOpuM/T726NDeV0zI/AAAAAAAAAok/Fv5O_bAamyI/s1600/Gdn+23May12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B8hSI6EOpuM/T726NDeV0zI/AAAAAAAAAok/Fv5O_bAamyI/s320/Gdn+23May12.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's a great feeling; the grass has been cut; gentle, reassuring words delivered to the spuds, shallots, rhubarb and the rest; the house is tidy and hoovered, and best of all, I've been packed since yesterday. So, I'm ready to head north this morning. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Ready too for <a href="http://www.dansadventure.co.uk/images/west-highland-way-map.gif" target="_blank">The West Highland Way</a> starting this weekend.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">It will be a walking holiday with a difference for me and almost luxurious</span><span style="font-family: Verdana;">. Reserved Bed and Breakfasts along the way except for one night at a campsite. A <a href="http://www.travel-lite-uk.com/index.htm" target="_blank">sherpa service</a> to carry my belongings (less a day bag). And I'll be walking with friends for most of the time; Markus, Andrea and Anthony (all of whom I met on the Coast to Coast a couple of years ago).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The weather forecast sounds good too. Mostly dry, although that may suit the <a href="http://2010.midgeforecast.co.uk/" target="_blank">midges</a>.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I'm still in two minds about a daily blog. We'll see how it goes.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-48783298086385451492012-05-08T08:01:00.000+01:002012-05-10T08:04:32.100+01:00More of the same - Mon 7 & Tue 8 May 2012<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Monday: Bus to and then more time in and around Keswick, final visit to The Dog & Gun - until the next time.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Tuesday: Homeward bound.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">It's been a great week for walking (if not for good blogging) principally for enjoyment but also exercise in preparation for The West Highland Way at the end of this month. These posts were more about postcards home than letters of note.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-53545310024173544622012-05-07T11:17:00.000+01:002012-05-07T11:17:43.256+01:00More of the same - Fri 4 to Sun 6 May 2012<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;">Friday: Upped Sticks and walking poles and moved from the Keswick Camping Site to the Camping and Caravan Club's Troutbeck Site (off the A66 between Keswick and Penrith). In between an exploration of Penrith sampling some of its delights; tea, cake, soup and bitter.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Saturday: Trudged across boggy (bridleway impassable in wet weather the sign at Lobbs warns) Threlkeld Common, then east along the Old Coach Road to Dockray, then northwest through forestry commission land back to campsite (12-14 miles?)</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-veDWHfzH-Mc/T6eeujEvVzI/AAAAAAAAAoM/UtxLukftxa0/s1600/Saddleback%2B4May12%2Bfm%2BThrelkeld%2BCommon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-veDWHfzH-Mc/T6eeujEvVzI/AAAAAAAAAoM/UtxLukftxa0/s400/Saddleback%2B4May12%2Bfm%2BThrelkeld%2BCommon.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Saddleback/Blencathra (from Threlkeld Common)</span>
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
Sunday: To Saddleback (or Blencathra if you prefer) via Scales Tarn. There's an unmapped, well-used path from the west side of the tarn to the summit - the Sharp Edge is too scary a route for me. It was snowing from the tarn to the summit! Returned via the same route but stopping off at the White Horse Inn, Scales for refreshments.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rSjuB1v12N4/T6ee7Wt1oaI/AAAAAAAAAoY/44fkLQbkffU/s1600/Sharp%2BEdge%2B5May12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rSjuB1v12N4/T6ee7Wt1oaI/AAAAAAAAAoY/44fkLQbkffU/s400/Sharp%2BEdge%2B5May12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Sharp Edge (from Scales Tarn)</span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-1923432519357359792012-05-04T09:55:00.000+01:002012-05-04T09:56:27.626+01:00More of the same - Wed 2 & Thu 3 May 2012<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
It's been a week of walking rather than talking hence the brief posts. Once again I've been lucky with the weather. Some drizzle this morning (Friday) but that's the first rain since Sunday night.<br />
<br />
Wednesday: a walk around Derwent Water along nicely surfaced (level) paths with the minimum of road walking. About 8-9 (easy) miles I think.<br />
<br />
Thursday: from Keswick up to the summit of Skiddaw and back. About 8-9 (hard) miles I reckon.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-raqoQ9USmfo/T6OXZd5wKcI/AAAAAAAAAnw/87VimduNW7Y/s1600/Lakes%2B3May12%2BSkiddaw%2B4%2BMiles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-raqoQ9USmfo/T6OXZd5wKcI/AAAAAAAAAnw/87VimduNW7Y/s400/Lakes%2B3May12%2BSkiddaw%2B4%2BMiles.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Skiddaw: (Centre, rear). Third highest lump in the Lake District</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0z8T4NhpVvo/T6OX3z1lwyI/AAAAAAAAAn8/CpjjpyUa2G4/s1600/Lakes%2B3May12%2BSkiddaw%2BSummit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0z8T4NhpVvo/T6OX3z1lwyI/AAAAAAAAAn8/CpjjpyUa2G4/s400/Lakes%2B3May12%2BSkiddaw%2BSummit.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-68024866436356629762012-05-02T17:07:00.000+01:002012-05-02T17:07:24.115+01:00More of the same - Tuesday 1 May 2012Borrowdale ...
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p3z8Q9uLUfw/T6FaWSLBglI/AAAAAAAAAm8/L5xqVA1Kdcg/s1600/Lakes%2B1May12%2BBorrowdale2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p3z8Q9uLUfw/T6FaWSLBglI/AAAAAAAAAm8/L5xqVA1Kdcg/s400/Lakes%2B1May12%2BBorrowdale2.jpg" /></a></div>
Baa Lambs ...
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SCnDBimmgDg/T6FapFxhyhI/AAAAAAAAAnI/Rr7bwvRCetc/s1600/Lakes%2B1May12%2BB%2527dale%2BLambs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SCnDBimmgDg/T6FapFxhyhI/AAAAAAAAAnI/Rr7bwvRCetc/s400/Lakes%2B1May12%2BB%2527dale%2BLambs.jpg" /></a></div>
Bus - <i>from Rosthwaite back to Keswick</i> ...
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qtxn0G8AgJE/T6FbL3aUCYI/AAAAAAAAAnU/oTU6XdSQVls/s1600/Lakes%2B1May12%2BNo%2B78.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qtxn0G8AgJE/T6FbL3aUCYI/AAAAAAAAAnU/oTU6XdSQVls/s400/Lakes%2B1May12%2BNo%2B78.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-43826841854133606722012-05-02T16:58:00.000+01:002012-05-02T16:58:52.519+01:00More of the same - Monday 30 April 12Lakes ...
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ziGXecj-eN4/T6FYrL7okyI/AAAAAAAAAmY/e5lNwqI04Uk/s1600/30Apr12%2BDerwent%2BWater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ziGXecj-eN4/T6FYrL7okyI/AAAAAAAAAmY/e5lNwqI04Uk/s400/30Apr12%2BDerwent%2BWater.jpg" /></a></div>
Legwork ...
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OsXImahx4bI/T6FZIGGPdLI/AAAAAAAAAmk/EZ-R98XXRLo/s1600/30Apr12%2BLegwork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OsXImahx4bI/T6FZIGGPdLI/AAAAAAAAAmk/EZ-R98XXRLo/s400/30Apr12%2BLegwork.jpg" /></a></div>
Lubrication ...
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0qyzserdyKY/T6FZde_yjJI/AAAAAAAAAmw/aj10nzjXNRo/s1600/30Apr12%2BLubrication.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0qyzserdyKY/T6FZde_yjJI/AAAAAAAAAmw/aj10nzjXNRo/s400/30Apr12%2BLubrication.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-87267704724924961102012-04-10T07:57:00.000+01:002012-04-10T07:57:41.461+01:00Sykeside Camping Park - 22 to 26 March 12<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0lyhLKBf17o/T4PX2GrEogI/AAAAAAAAAmM/U8hdXGFcf8s/s1600/Lakes%2526Candles%2B009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0lyhLKBf17o/T4PX2GrEogI/AAAAAAAAAmM/U8hdXGFcf8s/s400/Lakes%2526Candles%2B009.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
What a lovely morning it is this morning; bright, pale blue sky, everything looking fresh after yesterday’s rain – the perfect morning for, well, lots of things but in my case perfect for planting another row of early potatoes. I dug a trench at the weekend, filled it with farmyard manure and left it open to soak up the rain. I can bury the spuds now.
<br />
<br />
Yesterday’s rain caused me to postpone a walk though. The planned wander with a friend along the River Great Ouse through Bedford followed by a pub lunch, wasn’t quite so appealing in the damp. You win some you lose some. Rather like my walk last year along The Leeds to Liverpool Canal when it didn’t seem to stop raining.
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<br />
The weather was a feature of my stay in the Lakes – as it usually is but this time I struck lucky. It felt like August should do but without the crowds. Not a pretty sight but shorts were the order of the day for me, during the day.<br />
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I was based at <a href="http://www.sykeside.co.uk/">Sykeside Campsite</a> for the second part of the week. It is in a rather special place - Dove Valley, which is overlooked by hills and crags shouting out to be climbed. At this time of the year, out of the tourist season, it was quite a special campsite too because it was almost empty. It’s not that I am anti or unsociable it’s just that I can imagine it not being such a great place when fully occupied; the pitches are closer together than I’ve encountered on this type of site elsewhere, and at a location where there are over 60 pitches for campervans and tents, and an adjacent area for caravans, the Gents only has four “seats”!
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Mine was a simple daily routine; basically - up early, a circular walk, packed lunch at the summit of something, nap, pub, bed.<br />
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Rounding off the account of the week has become a bit of a mind drag. It should have been a straightforward enough job but with photos to transfer from camera and phone, wanting to make maps into pictures and transfer them from a netbook to pc, and to be in the right frame of mind to write, all contrived to make it a seem a bit of a chore, each day therefore it was left till the next.
Excuses, excuses. Or, perhaps I should just not get out more.<br />
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So without further ado, and with only the one image (of the campsite I shared with a few quiet humans and a small flock of sheep), I’m taking the easy route. I’ve got spuds to plant so I’ll publish and be damned. Kirk out.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-74435859107102861162012-03-21T20:24:00.001+00:002012-03-21T20:24:54.017+00:00Castlerigg Stone Circle - 21 March 12<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IPfMm3zxBys/T2o4ogeS0sI/AAAAAAAAAmA/tGFG2UF54po/s1600/The%2BCircle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IPfMm3zxBys/T2o4ogeS0sI/AAAAAAAAAmA/tGFG2UF54po/s400/The%2BCircle.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I guess that most people will have heard of Stonehenge but I reckon that far less (or should that be fewer) know of <a href="http://visitcumbria.com/kes/castlerigg-stone-circle.htm">Castlerigg Stone Circle</a>. I checked it out today after noticing information about it last year. First thing this morning I had it all to myself. Fascinating stuff. Mind you, not a great deal is really known about the circle. One of life’s mysteries, like: is it only the labels that are made in China? And, how come most people never tire of having the exact same breakfast every day, but would object to eating the same set meal daily at other meal times? Just a thought.<br />
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In contemplative mood I wandered toward and over Walla Crag, down to Derwent Water and back into Keswick.<br />
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The sun shone this afternoon. Deckchairs were dusted off and sat on outside caravans and campervans. People chatted. Dogs stretched out. And I, unsociably, closed the curtains and had a nap. That set me up nicely for 2.5 pints in the Dog and Gun this early evening in good company. The place is regularly packed. What a great pub.<br />
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Tomorrow, Thursday, I head off to the campsite at <a href="http://www.sykeside.co.uk/">Hartsop</a>. My endeavours will be slightly more adventurous. I say again, slightly! Regrettably, sort of, communications will not be as good over there so I’ll not be blogging again until after I return home – Tuesday of next week.<br />
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In the meantime, here’s my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTSNXSWyktw">theme song</a> (pinched by a certain car maker) to power me up the fells. Pump up the volume ...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-27882482715220052312012-03-21T06:37:00.000+00:002012-03-21T06:37:52.245+00:00Latrigg - 20 March 12<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Latrigg is Keswick’s very own hill. Its close proximity makes it an imposing presence yet in reality it is only a very modest lump; rising to 1230 feet it is little more than a third of its giant neighbour Skiddaw.</span> <div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I have walked to the summit of Latrigg before but that didn’t prevent me from doing so again today. The touristy six mile circuit provides outstanding views in clear weather, which there was today, and its a fine way to spend a morning.</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1wyXAKdNvSI/T2l1CumKK7I/AAAAAAAAAl0/9e-wsJzk1Z8/s1600/Greta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1wyXAKdNvSI/T2l1CumKK7I/AAAAAAAAAl0/9e-wsJzk1Z8/s320/Greta.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">The River Greta flows along Latrigg’s southern base through a picturesque wooded gorge. It inspired William Wordsworth – “To the River Greta, near Keswick”</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><em>“Greta, what fearful listening! when huge stones,</em></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><em>Rumble along thy bed, block after block:</em></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><em>Or whirling with related shock,</em></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><em>Combat, while darkness aggravates the groans ...”</em></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">He's not just daffodills yer know!</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My afternoon was spent walking the shops of Keswick – walking gear everywhere. Ooohh! [nice shivers]. The green and black new look of the Osprey Exos (rucksack) seductive; the latest Memory Map device (3800) improved and appealing; Paramo, Montane - new colours, but I am in denial, my wallet remains in my pocket - until I arrive the Dog & Duck, the beer, refreshing.</span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-83485569544557702202012-03-20T05:11:00.002+00:002012-03-20T05:20:45.242+00:00Keswick - 19 Mar 12The idea, or basic plan, was, to set off early from Leek, spend a couple of hours with sister and brother-in-law, leave Holly and continue to Keswick, plug in the Grampervan, then, after a swift pint in town stroll toward Latrigg and back before it got dark. You’re probably ahead of me; yes, the plan came unstuck in town – in the <a href="http://www.pub-explorer.com/cumbria/pub/dogandgunkeswick.htm">Dog & Gun</a> actually where they stock a delicious golden bitter, Thirst Blossom which is brewed here at the <a href="http://www.keswickbrewery.co.uk/">Keswick Brewing Company</a>. And long may they do so.<br />
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I wasn’t much use for anything after that but a good sleep which I attended to fairly early and have paid the price by being wide awake since 03:15 hours.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4zjNbMPh3FI/T2gQ6BLrqvI/AAAAAAAAAls/42TmWLBeQwg/s1600/Derwent+Water+site.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4zjNbMPh3FI/T2gQ6BLrqvI/AAAAAAAAAls/42TmWLBeQwg/s320/Derwent+Water+site.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
At this <a href="http://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/siteseekerlite/aspx/details.aspx?id=7150">campsite</a>, those in tents can pitch up-close to Derwent Water and are rewarded with fantastic views as you can see from the image above. It’s £9.30 a night for me here although added to that, as I forgot to mention yesterday, is the annual club subscription, the amount of which I have also forgotten. It’s an age thing.<br />
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A bit of walking today and, well, I’ll just see how it goes.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2362602857532716004.post-67982725379107530112012-03-18T18:45:00.000+00:002012-03-18T18:47:52.015+00:00Leek, Staffordshire - 18 Mar 12<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeULgvb5L0Y/T2Yt2TK1fpI/AAAAAAAAAlY/atzxR1TmwdA/s1600/18032012637a-772021.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeULgvb5L0Y/T2Yt2TK1fpI/AAAAAAAAAlY/atzxR1TmwdA/s400/18032012637a-772021.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721310787502702226" /></a></p>It's about 260 miles from my house in Bedfordshire to the place in south Cumbria where I visit family and drop off my dog. Normally, it's a five hour journey. The drive is a bit of a drag though even with a couple of breaks along the way.<p>So, to make it easier, and because I wanted to check out a Peak District campsite, today I've travelled as far as Leek (which is about half way to Cumbria) where I'm spending the night at the Camping & Caravan Club's site.<p>The campsite is tidy and peacefull. It's a bit muddy in places but the price is right; I'm in my campervan for the night so it's £7.95 for a hard surfaced pitch, with hook-up to a 16 Amp electric supply, and there's access to a clean ablutions block with hot showers etc. There's no pub handy but I'm carrying everything that I need - including the kitchen sink and hob.<p>Keswick from tomorrow till Thursday, and then south-east to Hartsop where I'll be based until Monday. Someone else to do the cooking from tomorrow (and pull pints). Luxury!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05873064873719243245noreply@blogger.com1