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  Look whose walking - 2006 (Page 2)

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Author Topic:   Look whose walking - 2006
Lounge Lizard
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posted 09 May 2006 19:10     Click Here to See the Profile for Lounge Lizard     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Two of us ( 51 year old males ) at the Greyhound, Shap for the night of Thursday 25th May ; Friday 26th to Kirby Stephen Youth Hostel ; Saturday 27th to Keld Youth Hostel ; Sunday 28th to Grinton Lodge Youth Hostel ; Monday 29th to Brompton on Swale.
Two years ago was St Bees to Shap ; last year I was unwell ; this year sadly is the last Kirby Stephen and Keld Youth Hostels will be open ; next year we'll do Brompton to Robin Hoods bay hopefully.

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junction36
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posted 10 May 2006 19:16     Click Here to See the Profile for junction36   Click Here to Email junction36     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
What a simply spiffing idea, jolly well thought of. Well for me and friend, you could say 'No going back' we are fully booked for our C2C leaving Saint Bees on Wed. 6th. Sept, arriving no matter what at 'The Bay' on Sun 17th. Look forward to meeting many others, remembering we are not 'Strangers' just friends who have yet to meet.

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junction36
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posted 10 May 2006 19:26     Click Here to See the Profile for junction36   Click Here to Email junction36     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
ONSLOW2 Just checked rest of replies, and noticed ONSLOW 2 will be at RHB same day as we finish, you wouldn't be an Angel and do the honourable thing and get the 'Bubbly' on ice, there's a good chap.
Cheers and hope you enjoy walk

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Onslow2
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posted 11 May 2006 05:34     Click Here to See the Profile for Onslow2     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Cheers to you to junction.

Sounds like you will be having some long days on your schedule.

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Googie
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posted 17 May 2006 16:49     Click Here to See the Profile for Googie   Click Here to Email Googie     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Starting from St Bees on June 6th with my black lab. Lottie. She is only a year old, so I will see how she holds out. Have shortened a few of the days, so arriving at RHB on the 21st, if all else fails we will just do the lakes half. Great chat forum - all very useful. Give us a wave (and a dog treat if you see us).

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Heatha
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posted 18 May 2006 06:40     Click Here to See the Profile for Heatha     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Googie - let me know how you get on. I'm following with my 6/7 year old lab cross retriever (golden) with a similar schedule, starting on July 24th. If we succeed she'll have her seventh birthday en route. Should arrive RHB 7th August.

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Walkingthepeaks
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posted 19 May 2006 13:40     Click Here to See the Profile for Walkingthepeaks   Click Here to Email Walkingthepeaks     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Just doing a taster this year as have not walked a long distance over a number of days. Am doing lakes part starting at Ennerdale on 09th June finishing in Shap on 12th afternoon. Hope to do full thing later in year or early next year. I am using YHA accomodation and hope to travel light.

Only worry is last day as need to do Patterdale to Shap in time to catch 16:20 bus to Kendal.

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LoneWalker
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posted 19 May 2006 14:50     Click Here to See the Profile for LoneWalker   Click Here to Email LoneWalker     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
quote:
Originally posted by Walkingthepeaks:
Only worry is last day as need to do Patterdale to Shap in time to catch 16:20 bus to Kendal.

Obviously depends on your walking pace, but I left Patterdale about 08:10 and was in Shap for about 15:15, despite the headwind most of the way up Kidsty. I made good time along Haweswater and the fields towards the end of the day were an absolute joy to walk through.

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Googie
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posted 22 May 2006 11:47     Click Here to See the Profile for Googie   Click Here to Email Googie     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Heatha - I'll let you know how it goes, good luck with yours, maybe both of our partners will ba able to make use of the 'dog toilet' that AW points out in Richmond !

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Journeyman
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posted 24 May 2006 09:45     Click Here to See the Profile for Journeyman     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Spare a thought for those who have posted on this thread and who are in the middle of their C2C walk. The weather this last week has not been favourable and reports this morning of snow on the Cumbria fells highlights how the UK weather can change.

According to posts on this thread Jencat and Harland are on the walk and in the coming few days Mr Blister, AnneandAlan, Gulf Islanders, Hardy and Lounge Lizard will be taking to the trail - good luck to you all and let us know how you get on.

We know that Countryfile and Lonewalker have successfully completed their walks and we are waiting for full reports of how it went for them - but what about others who should have finished i.e. Keepgoing and Widgeon - we would love to hear of your experiences on the walk.

PS Less than 3 weeks to go for me and fingers crossed the training and preparation are going accordinmg to plan - despite the weather.

[This message has been edited by Journeyman (edited 24 May 2006).]

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MrBlister
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posted 24 May 2006 21:37     Click Here to See the Profile for MrBlister   Click Here to Email MrBlister     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Thanks a lot Journeyman. I'm banking on the reports I've seen that say it'll improve slightly by Sunday (when we start). And good luck to the other imminent people that Journeyman mentioned!

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LoneWalker
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posted 25 May 2006 09:05     Click Here to See the Profile for LoneWalker   Click Here to Email LoneWalker     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
BLATANT ADVERT

Don't forget everyone, I want you journals and diaries for the web site. Either a link to your own web site, or I can host them for you, free of charge.

http://www.walkingplaces.co.uk/

Cheers
LW

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widgeon
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posted 26 May 2006 18:35     Click Here to See the Profile for widgeon   Click Here to Email widgeon     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Good morning Journeyman:
Daughter Gail and started walking from St. Bees May 1, initially in wet windy weather, equipped with very colourful rain gear.
However, by the time we were actually walking East, the rain stopped and we had unbelievably co-operative weather up to landing in RHB May 18th.
Atop the Dent Gail nearly got blown off her feet, while I must have been a Kodak Moment
during a mid-stile crossing. All of a sudden, got hit by a big gust which swung me around - must have looked like I was practising an ungainly pole dance!

We took 17 days, with a rest day at Kirkby Stevens. Met some grand fellow walkers, Alan and Helen; Ed and Brenda; Aussies;, Paul, S.A., Bruce, Vermont; Douglas and Keith;Linda and George;Terry; Mike; Brits, plus many others whose names I can't remember.

One of my favourite days was from Kirkby Stevens to Orton - rain and enough mist to make it interesting. But I was back in time, I was a teenager again - not quite as agile(hah) but with better equipment. Found myself grinning from ear to ear.
Another favourite day - Nine Standards, fabulous weather and, though I was prepared with brand new gators, didn't need them at all. Tussocks available whenever I needed them.
Another favourite, although it was one of our few rainy days, was Ingleby to Clay Bank Top. I had "Wrinkles from Smiling".
All in all it was a Grand Adventure, Gail tells me that I climbed Everest, in that I recorded more than 29,035 vertical feet!

My biggest beef was that Gail was far too fit, we were a match on more or less flat or gently rolling hills, but as soon as we hit Loft Beck, Greenup Edge, Little Tongue Gill etc. etc. she was like a mountain goat while I just kept plodding along. Felt like loading her pack with rocks!!
I steered her to Helvellen and Striding Edge while I took the Grisedale Route. Can't believe those Fell Runners - they must be mad (I'm just jealous is all!)

My thoughts on accommodation:
The hostels were great;Gillerthwaite, Longthwaite,Thorney How, Patterdale,Keld,. Grinton Lodge. Good food (particulary Thorney How), practical facilities, and great companions. I'm pretty sure that Gail at 51 was the youngest hosteller!

My pick for the Best B&B's for a warm welcome yet unobtrusive hospitality; good sized rooms, practical bathroom facilities; were Abbey Farm House, St. Bees; Barn House, Orton; and Elstavale, Ingleby Arnecliffe. Oddly enough,two of the three did not have en-suite plumbing. We found that the often retrofitting an en-suite sacrificed valuable roomspace for a small bathroom. They also seemed more geared for walkers, practical place to take off boots, a warm place to dry any wet clothes, available heat.

Steve at Abbey Farm House also met us at the Manchester Airport, and for a very reasonable price drove us up to St.Bees. On the way he entertained us with how he met his wife Janet on the C2C six years ago. Janet welcomed us with delicious scones parkin, and tea served in a large guest sitting room. Bonus - we were also able to watch Wainwright's video. Good start for the journey - certainly set a high standard.

We had the worst lunch (carrot and corriander "soup") at a pub in St. Bees.

On the other hand, we had very good food, friendly staff and reasonable prices at the Greyhound at Shap, The George at Orton, and the Blue Bell at Ingleby.

The best fish and chips? Robin Hood's Bay. Think it was called "The Fish Shop in a little lane just up from the bay.

No problem with feet.

We're back home now, and I haven't got my mind around what I'm supposed to do. The first few days I had the jet lag excuse, think I'd better go for a walk - at least I won't need a map!

Margaret

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widgeon
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posted 26 May 2006 19:36     Click Here to See the Profile for widgeon   Click Here to Email widgeon     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Hi Journeyman:
I wrote a long response about an hour ago. Don't know what happened to it??
Margaret

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Journeyman
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posted 26 May 2006 20:18     Click Here to See the Profile for Journeyman     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Margaret

Great to hear from you both - very well done indeed and thanks for the post. It really is great to hear from 'walking colleagues' in relation to their experiences. Some of us have still to set foot on the C2C this year - you can sit back and relive the experience again and again - I am going through that double, treble and so on, checking of all the gear I need, cross checking maps and waypoints, etc. etc. It is exciting to be honest and hearing stories like yours just makes me want to get out there and set off.

Once again a great big well done to you both - it is a massive achievement.

[This message has been edited by Journeyman (edited 26 May 2006).]

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Ernest Smith
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posted 26 May 2006 21:12     Click Here to See the Profile for Ernest Smith   Click Here to Email Ernest Smith     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
hi Margeret,
well done to you and your daughter, a gentle man does not ask a ladies age, but if you have a daughter of 51 you have both done well indeed, i enjoyed your account of your tavels it is a pity no one got a photo of you pole dancing you will have some happy memories well done
regards ern

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widgeon
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posted 27 May 2006 01:06     Click Here to See the Profile for widgeon   Click Here to Email widgeon     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
hello again Journeyman - I posted a long reply this am PST - don't know what happened to it.??

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Countryfile
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posted 27 May 2006 01:11     Click Here to See the Profile for Countryfile     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
I've just E mailed this to Walking Places - but I thought some people may not read that so I apologise for the length but heres the Journal
ENJOY

First of all I should point out that this was my second trip across the C2C. I think it may be useful for anyone planning the route as a first timer to be aware of the training I did this time round.
Training differed, in that last time around I mixed jogging 4 miles most nights with one long (10 - 15 mile) walk a week. This proved helpful for fitness, but I feel caused me a problem with Shinsplints later in the C2C. As a result I changed the training and did no jogging at all. I walked almost everyday. Mostly for 2 hours solid often covering a good 8 miles. Once a week I did a longer walk with my full intended kit, of about 15miles. Result - No shinsplints and reasonably comfortable on all the distances.
I was joined by a colleague from work Scott, for the whole trip and a long time pal Craig who could only do the Lakes section. We are all 40 and reasonably fit, though Scott and Craig are fairly novice walkers (their sporting prowess lies elsewhere). Me - I go under the Psudonym of Countryfile on the Sherpa chat site - but friends call me Ian.

Wednesday 3rd May 2006
St. Bees to Ennerdale Bridge
We set off from home by car, as we all live in Lancashire only a couple of Hrs from the start. We made a late start out of St. Bees at 11.15 am and after collecting a pebble and dipping the toes made our way across the Head in very strong winds. We spent time observing the sea birds and the binoculars picked out an abundance of Puffins. The walk along the cliffs seemed a lot futher than I recalled but we made good time down towards Stanley pond where we took lunch. There was some boggy ground negotiated just after this but we continued with no major navigational problems up and over Dent which proved to be extremely windy. On the way down we were concerned for the trees in the wooded area as they were creeking loudly and several had obviously already fallen due to the conditions.
We were all quite tired once in the valley below but enjoyed the beautiful scenery along through the Nannycatch gate area. We decamped into the Fox and Hounds at Ennerdale Bridge, where after a quick pint we were directed to dine at the Farmers Arms because the Fox and Hounds had not had a delivery of gas. We were fortunate to meet up with several other C2Cers including 77 yr old Richard 'sully' Sulivan from Brooklyn, New York who was going solo and an inspiration to us all.

Thursday 4th May 2006
Ennerdale Bridge to Rosthwaite
We looked out of the window at the spots of rain and donned our wet weather gear in preperation. The walking gods were clearly on our side today though because as we stepped out of the door the skies cleared and left constant sunshine throughout the entire day. Once more strong winds prevailed and today (as for most of the trip) it was in our faces - and Wainwright advised the prevailing wind was from the West!
We stopped at Blacksail Hut for a spot of lunch. Unfortunately the Post Office/shop at Ennerdale had been closed and we hadnt been able to stock up (we were advised that family issues mean that the Post Office is rarely open these days). We got by on the remnants of yesterdays food being a few flapjack bars and some rather delicious Jaffa Cakes. Craig also brewed up in the hut which provides an honesty box for weary travellers in need of a caffine fix.
The pull out over to Honister pass was short but steep, views from the top were a little hazy and by this time I was developing a 'beetroot face' due to the sun, wind and excercise. We scoffed a few boiled sweets to keep us going then descended to the cafe/slate factory where we took another brew (again with honesty box) and met for the first time 'gentleman' Geoff (70yrs) from Cambridge who was going solo and had pretty much the same schedule as us.
The walk down into Rosthwaite was pleasant enough despite aching knees (I hate downhill) and we soon discovered our digs for the evening at Nook Farm. On the approach Craig made my day with the quote of the trip after seeing the farmer leading a cow into the barn " OH LOOK HE'S TAKING THAT COW IN FOR MY BACON IN THE MORNING". We didnt give him much ribbing over that one!. We ate at The Scafell Hotel and left there as Lightening strikes illuminated the fells to the West - a fantastic sight. Thunder rumbled on through the early part of the night, but sleep came easily.

Friday 5th May 2006
Rosthwaite to Patterdale.
Having posted off a couple of cards to the family and stocked up on Vitals at the local store we headed out of Rosthwaite and up the valley towards Greenup.
This climb has a few false tops and is a good test of legs and lungs. Once on the top, myself and Craig managed to get a signal on the mobile and called a chum who was celebrating his 40th Birthday today - we serenaded him from the top with a very poor rendition of "Happy Birthday".
The navigation on the top here can be tricky for the uninitiated and we had to laugh at the sight that came across to greet us, It was 77yr old "Sully" who had obviously had an encounter with a bit of boggy territory because he had staining up to his knees declaring (in his very strong American twang) "GEES WHAT SCREW UP".
We helpfully set him back off on the correct direction whilst we took a slight detour down to Steel End via Wythe Burn. Another steep climb up to Grisedale tarn where we took a good rest at 'The Brothers Parting Stone'.
The walk down to Patterdale was hard on the feet as I had now developed a small blister on the Right heel. It was another long Hot day and Craig was feeling the distance by now so I lied to him about 2 miles out, saying it was only another mile - he took umberance after he realised it was the longest mile in England!
We booked into Grisdale lodge and after a rest and shower decamped to The White Lion for a pint and food (it was very busy).

Saturday 6th May 2006
Patterdale to Shap.
I had forgotten how hard this leg was !! We set off in fine style out of Patterdale and observed a rare Red Squirrell hopping along the wall before we set off up to Boredale Hause. The retospective views of Patterdale and its surrounds are really spectacular. Although it is never terribly steep The climb up to Kidsty does take a good long haul, but the weather was set fair again and the legs felt great. We were fortunate enough to spot 2 seperate deer herds on the fells to the East. Kidsty was not a place to linger long as the wind had got up and a real chill was in the air, so we descended. This descent is hellish steep and not good for aching knees. Once by the Reservoir we took a good rest, leapfrogging 'Gentleman' Geoff most of the day(not literally - because that would make hard work of it!).
At the end of Haweswater I took to wearing my training shoes for the first time to give the feet a rest. I had warned the chaps that this was a long stretch in and not to feel the day was over at the end of Haweswater (6 miles is still a good distance to travel). Craig was dead beat by the end of the day, and we were all chuffed to get into Shap and our digs at The Greyhound. We were met by Scotts wife who provided him with fresh kit (the cheat!) and we later had a pint with Geoff and 'Sully'. This is a hard days walk and shouldnt be underestimated by novices after the last 3 days.

Sunday 7th May 2006
Shap to Kirkby Stephen.
There was a bit of drizzle in the air as we headed out of Shap and over the M6 into Limestone country. Soon enough the dampness cleared but it was a very cloudy/misty day. Craig had left us now, Scott and I made good headway now that the ground ahead was flatter. It was very much a head down and get on with it day as the views were pretty non-existant due to the murky weather. The highlight for me was towards the end of the day with the gorgeous valley around Smardale Gill and the views of the Viaduct. A couple of miles from Kirkby the clouds decided to drop their contents and we endured a little dampness in the company of 'Sully' whom we caught up around that time. The feet were aching a tad but we were both in great form as we were greeted into one of the better B&Bs on the journey The Jolly Farmers. We dined at The Black Bull once again regalling tales over a pint with Geoff and Sully.

Monday 8th May 2006
Kirkby Stephen to Keld.
I paid a quick visit to the Chemist to grab another pack of compede blister plasters because I had just used another on my right heel which now sported two of these little trophies. The weather again was set fair (we couldnt believe we had walked the entire Lake district and beyond and only had about an hours rain!). What a pleasant walk out towards Nine standards. We had dropped the pace because we knew we had a short leg today ( the distance - not physically!). The walk up to nine standards was non too taxing however the wind on top was extremely strong and dead in the face, so we didnt linger long. We managed to round/hurdle/skip and jump the boggy ground on the way down whilst being buzzed by Her Majestys RAF fighter planes. Scott very nearly stood on a grouse before it decided to scoot away. Whitsundaydale was very pleasant, and after the triumph of reaching halfway we celebrated with an Ice cream in Keld. We were then fortunate enough to blag lift from a couple of tourists to take us to our digs at Muker tea rooms, where we decided to refuse the kind offer of tea (most pleasantly) in favour of a pint of Old Peculiar next door at The Farmers Arms. After supper I was diverted by the sound of a brass band playing in the village hall, and sat listening on a bench by the river for a short while as they rehearsed.

Tuesday 9th May 2006
Keld to Reeth.
Muker is an astonishing village (much like Keld) If you had arrived here 50 yrs ago I would say that nothing would be different - fantastic!
We grabbed the bus back up to Keld. We were the only two people on it and we both commented on how pleasant it must be to be the driver meandering about the dales all day (somewhat different to the job of an inner city bus driver I'll warrant!).
This leg was new to me as bad weather forced us down the road route last time. I really enjoyed the climb out of Keld to the Moors. The old Mining ruins are fascinating and one wonders what hardships the occupants endured in times past? The climb out onto the second moor was not clearly pathed and so we busked it a bit - but it wasnt a problem. The devastation hereabouts is very evident - but nature is claiming it back.
Once again it was very hot, very sunny and very windy AGAINST! and so Reeth was welcome respite. We were booked into the Black Bull on the Green and after a pint shown to our room up the most rickety stairway known to man! This was the biggest test yet of the trip - Could we make it up the stairs to the room!?
We dined at The Buck (Roebuck) along with 'Gentleman' Geoff, Three lads from Sheffield whom we encountered yesterday and the (now) legendary 'Sully'.
It was this night that I realised Sully only ever drunk lager because (American twang) "IT SLAKES THE THIRST". So I had a bit of a debate about chemically produced beverages and home grown, crafted real ale. He capitulated and we supped a couple of Old Peculiar in triumph and recognition of "whatever".

Wednesday 10th May 2006
Reeth to Brompton on Swale
A very hot and sultry day! We fair marched out of Reeth and into green Dales country. At Marrick you could taste the wild garlic in the air. A short encounter with a bull was a little unnerving but we fair trotted into Richmond and people - civilisation! Most stop off here - but after last times experiance I wanted to knock off another few miles from the trip tomorrow. So we partook in a sandwich and Ice-cream in the square. Then we observed the forlorn figure of sully entering one of the public houses in the square and so joined him for the final farewell (as we knew our itineries differed). I again chastised him for ordering a pint of lager!
Scott and I continued along the banks of the Swale, into a small wood where we disturbed a young deer that spirited past us not 10 yards away!
We continued on and up to Catterick bridge where we stopped at The Tudoe Hotel in Brompton. Now if Carling did Hotels then this would probably be "The worst Hotel in the World". It was pretty poor and certainly the worst standard provided on the trip by far. However we did watch the UEFA cup final and the Boro get thrashed 4-0, ( so not such a bad night after all!) - only joking Boro fans.

Thursday 11th May 2006
Brompton to Osmotherly
Another VERY hot day and it was tough on the feet with so much road walking - I took to my training shoes early on. The sound of aircraft out of RAF Leeming? was never far away for much of the day. My highlight was watching a 'Diver' in one of the streams with a very young brood obviously perturbed by our intrusion into its life. We trudged into Danby Wiske anticipating a pub lunch only to find the White Swan closed till late evening. However, Ashfield house provided respite and sustainance. On the long trudge into Osmotherly and arrival at Vane House, I found that my left ankle had swollen unexpectedly - but there was no pain?. It is something that really worried me at the time, however disappeared after the next day and never bothered me?
We dined at The Queen Catherine.

Friday 12th May 2006
Osmotherly to Blakey Ridge
Another glorious sunny start, we made good progress out of Osmotherly up into the Cleveland Hills. we watched a helicopter manouvering about the valley below our vantage point. We stopped at Lordstones cafe for Coffee and a Current square and got a lecture off the owner about his anger over being ommitted from OS Maps.
Then the clouds blackened and as we headed for the Wainstones we donned our wet weather gear expecting a thorough soaking. As we reached the stones Thunder and lightening struck the valleys to the South and ahead of us. We hurried a bit over the stones not wishing to be the highest point during a lightening storm BUT....
To our utter amazement the storm never came - it just sounded off all round us and not a drop landed on us (I still dont know what I've done to deserve that one?)
We arrived at The Lion Inn very tired, and after a late change in accommodation had to ring up for our lift.
We were collected by the delightful Mrs Sugars who transported us to our accommodation at Sevenford House Rosedale Abbey. She explained on route that she was sorry that we would have to be accommodated in the annex, we expalined that we didnt mind as long as we had a good bed for the night. On arrival we were shown to "the annex" - a 3 bedroom house with lovely views, set in 4 acres, we had a bedroom to ourselves, a bath, beds the size of Wales, truly Nirvana!
A stroll down to The White Farm Inn for a lovely meal, then watching a terrific thunder storm during which hail pelted the landscape whilst sat in front of a roaring log fire with a pint of real ale... well.

Saturday 13th May 2006
Blakey Ridge to Egton Bridge
Well I guess our luck had to break!
A real pea souper with rain. The walk was pretty dismal as we couldnt ever get a view beyond about a hundred yard and it was wet. But we couldnt complain after the trip so far, and it was a really short leg. So head down and cover the distance. We trooped into Glaisdale and had soup and a sarnie in the pub (dont recall the name) and pondered on spending the afternoon getting thoroughly drunk watching the FA Cup?. However we decided to march on through the woods to Egton Bridge by which time the air had cleared and we shacked up at The Postgate Inn. 16.5 miles to go and we cant believe its nearly over.

Sunday 14th May 2006
Left Egton Bridge via the toll road and we soon made Grosmont. The climb out was teeper than I recalled, but I was treated to something I missed last time (due to mist) our first view of the North Sea. We had a small vocal celebration. The route into Littlebeck was easy and through the woods very Muddy. Scott made my day when Fording the stream by falling full length into it (not a good idea to walk the last ten miles soaking wet!). Then the last trip over the moors was quite difficult to navigate and particularly boggy - but I didnt mind damp legs when we were so close. We finished with the tide right up to the slade and as I cast my pebble into the sea - the heavens opened and it started to rain (Thanks walking Gods for looking after us). I shook the hand of Scotty and of 'Gentleman' Geoff - who had arrived about 15 mins before us.
Memories, company, new friends.................................
If you havent done it yet
WHY NOT.

Countryfile

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Journeyman
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posted 27 May 2006 09:09     Click Here to See the Profile for Journeyman     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Thanks Countryfile and well done to you and your colleagues - whilst reading your brief account I can live the journey with you. Have a well earned rest and then start preparing for your next walk - now what could that be?

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razar
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posted 27 May 2006 12:45     Click Here to See the Profile for razar   Click Here to Email razar     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Hi all.I'm attempting to do the C2C on 30th May.
It's my second attempt, last time I couldn't force myself to leave the lakes and headed south from Patterdale.
This time I have a plan! I'm leaving my car at Kirkby Stephen.
As I'm backpacking and also in my 40's it may take a while, hope to be doing some wild camping so if anyone sees a little brown tent say hello.
useful site this I will hopfully be able to offer advice to others on my return.
Cheers Ray.

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Ernest Smith
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posted 27 May 2006 14:39     Click Here to See the Profile for Ernest Smith   Click Here to Email Ernest Smith     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
hi Countryfile ,
well done, i am sat here reading all these reports of people walking the coast to coast and wishing iwas walking as well.having attempted it 3 times and succeeded twice it still is like a magnet and as Journeyman says we are with you nearly every step of the way,i relive it just reading your accounts,
the first time i succeeded, the weather was very kind till we got to the lion at old blakey, it was not to bad more like a sea roke coming inland ,the second time we had some bad weather at times it was like walking in a river bed going up middle tounge to grisedale tarn.
i have just had a fright , ipressed the wrong button and nearly wiped all the lot off this thread
better pack up before i do some more damage. well done
regards
ern

[This message has been edited by Ernest Smith (edited 27 May 2006).]

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widgeon
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posted 27 May 2006 17:10     Click Here to See the Profile for widgeon   Click Here to Email widgeon     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Good morning Ernest Smith -
Answer 74. Thought I was the oldest female walking the trail until I met two walking women from Vermont, one early sixties, and the other 77!! Not only that, but they were carrying their own gear, AND taking pot luck, accommodation-wise. as they arrived at where they decided to stay for the night. As one of them said "Oh, we just sit in a pub, somebody's bound to take pity on us". Very very impressive.
I felt like quite a softy with pre-arranged accommodation, and the ever efficient Sherpavan delivering our extra baggage.
Each day we felt as if we were on an adventurous Treasure Hunt - if we got all the clues right we would win the treasure - good accommodation, and our bags awaiting us!


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inthenextlife
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posted 27 May 2006 18:37     Click Here to See the Profile for inthenextlife   Click Here to Email inthenextlife     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Finally confirmed all accomodation and the sherpa van service since initially booking it all last November. Me and my girlfriend set off from St Bees for Ennerdale Bridge on Thursday 8th of June so please say hello on the journey if our paths cross. I must admit to being a little bit excited by it all now as the day approaches. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all the posters and sherpa van for a great site/forum. It's taken me literally hours to plan/book and without this site probably would have taken me even longer. Thanks to those people who recommended I double check accomodation as one of the fourteen didn't have our booking so it pays to check!

Steve and Caits

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JenCat
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posted 29 May 2006 15:58     Click Here to See the Profile for JenCat     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
quote:
Originally posted by Journeyman:
Spare a thought for those who have posted on this thread and who are in the middle of their C2C walk.

Thanks for thinking of us (and the other soggy souls who have been walking the past couple of weeks) Journeyman! We had rain almost every day - though luckily our two longest days (Shap to Kirby Stephen and Clay Bank Top to Grosmont) were dry.

Despite the torrential rain and strong winds we had a fantastic 14 days (finished on Friday). We met so many great people and are already talking about 'next time'.

Good luck to all those setting off in the coming weeks and months!

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Journeyman
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posted 29 May 2006 18:09     Click Here to See the Profile for Journeyman     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Well done JenCat - it's great to see that despite the bad weather your post is full of positives.

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Ernest Smith
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posted 29 May 2006 20:03     Click Here to See the Profile for Ernest Smith   Click Here to Email Ernest Smith     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Hi Margeret,
aren't we lucky to be some of the few who can enjoy our second childhood, and two young ladies you mention, to go walking and when they have had enough, be such lovable characters that they have confidence that some one will take them in. WHAT DID A.W.create when he devised the C2C, the camaraderie that exists among the people that have walked C2C and the pleasure we get when some one else walk's it and tells us of their journey, the high's and the low's happy days, we owe him a lot.
thank you again for sharing your memories and well done to you both.
regards
ern

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Mattcop
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posted 29 May 2006 21:10     Click Here to See the Profile for Mattcop     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Hello all. I've enjoyed reading all the posts here over the last few weeks, as I look forward to my own walk starting 10 June from St Bees.

Along with 2 friends, we are aiming to finish on Sunday 18th. Not quite the 5 day C2C much debated on this forum, but still feels pretty challenging for us! The football fans amongst you may notice that by some freak chance(!) our week away from the families coincides with the first week of the world cup. This means England play on the first day of our walk and on the evening we're due to stay in Richmond.

I have a question. England kick off at 2pm on 10 June - so I reckon the best we can manage is to watch the match in Cleator and carry on to Ennerdale after final whistle. Does anyone know whether there is a pub in Cleator that is likely to be the type to have the football on? Thanks

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lightweightmick
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posted 29 May 2006 23:23     Click Here to See the Profile for lightweightmick   Click Here to Email lightweightmick     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
I would say yes - I passed a pub on the A5086 in Cleator Friday night but couldn't say exactly where it is as I was a bit weary! I was tempted to stop but was making for pub in Sandwith (didn't make it there before CT though!) You'll also pass a WMC about halfway on the long st. rd. into Moor Row (if not using cycle path route) - you may be able to get signed in(?)

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LoneWalker
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posted 30 May 2006 08:14     Click Here to See the Profile for LoneWalker   Click Here to Email LoneWalker     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
The Three Tuns in Cleator (right on the C2C path) is definetely the sort of place to be showing the game, its a small pub, so you may struggle to get a seat. The beauty of the World Cup is that its on terrestrial TV so pretty much any pub with a TV can show the games.

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kevanliz
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posted 30 May 2006 11:41     Click Here to See the Profile for kevanliz   Click Here to Email kevanliz     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
WORLD CUP?????

Merde, so that's why Lizzie wanted to do the coast to coast in the middle of June!

Wonder whether I can get away with the old Metatarsal trick?

Must make note to spend next weekend rigging up a satelite antenna and receiver in my trekking pole carefully earthed to prevent lightening strike.

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Lounge Lizard
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posted 30 May 2006 18:34     Click Here to See the Profile for Lounge Lizard     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Mattcop. Are you really serious ?
Surely the main point of going on a good walk is to get away from all the hustle and bustle of town or city life. Yes, it's nice calling in some pubs on the way, but decent ones where the only noise is civilised conversation and perhaps the clatter of dominoes, not those with the room filed with the racket from an unnecessary and often ignored box in the corner.
If you've a real interest in football surely someone will tell you the result the next morning, or maybe friends at home can record an 'important' match for you.
And, if my memory serves me correctly, there was no beer worth drinking in the Three Tuns when I looked in there two years ago.
What next, someone asking if there's a Tesco or Sainsbury's convenient for Nine Standards Rigg ?

[This message has been edited by Lounge Lizard (edited 30 May 2006).]

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kevanliz
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posted 30 May 2006 22:38     Click Here to See the Profile for kevanliz   Click Here to Email kevanliz     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
but i have heard that Starbucks are opening on the riggs with wlan internet connection.

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LoneWalker
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posted 31 May 2006 08:35     Click Here to See the Profile for LoneWalker   Click Here to Email LoneWalker     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
LOL, until it sinks

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Hardy
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posted 31 May 2006 09:16     Click Here to See the Profile for Hardy   Click Here to Email Hardy     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote

lounge lizard, if that�s your opinion then fine but you should also respect other walker�s opinions - people walk this walk for many different reasons not all the same. I for one will be looking forward to following the world cup as I walk and also enjoy the quiet of the countryside. Hey Mattcop I'll probably see you in the pub maybe we can have a game of dominoes before the match!

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tonyk
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posted 31 May 2006 09:56     Click Here to See the Profile for tonyk   Click Here to Email tonyk     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
I believe Tesco are opening a superstore in Keld.

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Lounge Lizard
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posted 31 May 2006 11:03     Click Here to See the Profile for Lounge Lizard     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Hardy. I respect Mattcop's opinion but find it difficult to comprehend and understand that these forums exist so that a lively debate on such issues can take place. Just as everyone on here gets out walking, and wouldn't consider sitting at home for hours watching other people on TV doing long distant walks, so too with football and other sports, if you've a proper interest in them then you will play the game regularly, getting exercise and enjoying the team spirit, not sit about watching others play it, and if there is some reason for being a football supporter then you should make the effort to travel to the game not sit back and expect a broadcaster to give it you on a plate especially if it disrupts the tranquility of an otherwise civilised public house.
tonyk, they must then be taking on the Youth Hostel building being sold by the YHA for �300,000 !

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Mattcop
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posted 31 May 2006 11:09     Click Here to See the Profile for Mattcop     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Hardy - thanks for the offer. Game of doms before the match it is!

I was actually expecting more abuse for mentioning the football than I have got! For me the walk is the clear priority, but if I can enjoy a pint and watch the footie as well what more could I ask from a holiday? First stage is a pretty easy day anyway, so I reckon a couple of hours off is achievable.

Big night planned in Robin Hoods Bay to celebrate finishing on Sunday 18th - anyone else around that night, maybe see you in the Bay Hotel for a beer?

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LoneWalker
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posted 31 May 2006 11:15     Click Here to See the Profile for LoneWalker   Click Here to Email LoneWalker     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
LL, where did that price come from? That sounds like an absolute bargain!

Now that there is a price tag for it, hopefully Sherpa will be able to purchase it... Remember this post in a previous thread?

noj
Administrator posted 22 February 2006 13:41
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sherpa will be making a bid to acquire Keld YHA when it comes up for sale. So with luck there will still be accommodation for walkers in Keld.

http://www.coast2coast.co.uk/ubb/Forum8/HTML/000145.html

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Mattcop
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posted 31 May 2006 11:22     Click Here to See the Profile for Mattcop     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Lounge Lizard - you have a unusual outlook on life? If you can't participate then it's not worth taking an interest?

Walking need not be mutually exclusive to all other events. If you were complaining that I proposed getting out a portable tv and a few tinnies on top of Helvellyn then you might have a point. But I'll be safely tucked away in the pub, so my interest in things other than walking need not offend your sensibilities.

You know what - I might even read a newspaper in the evenings, or do I need to go over and join the war in Iraq to do this?

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Lounge Lizard
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posted 31 May 2006 12:42     Click Here to See the Profile for Lounge Lizard     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
LoneWalker. That's the sum I overheard when staying at Keld the other evening and Sherpa's interest was also mentioned.
Mattcop. Yes, you had best go over to Iraq as you can't believe much that's now in the rags that masquerade as newspapers !

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