Today we set out to complete the second stage of the walk, walking from Kielder Dam to Belllingham. The guide book advised us the walk was just over 12 miles but we managed to clock up 13.4 miles. We were luckier with the weather this time, we did see a few dubious looking clouds but the day stayed dry and warm.
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| (And we're off) |
Just like last time, we had the use of two cars. We left my car in Bellingham and set off up to the Dam in Phil's car.
After parking at Yarrowmoor we set off across the Dam at 10:30, taking in the beautiful views across the reservoir and reminiscing about our previous walk along its banks only a few months earlier. We were pretty hopeful of no snow today!
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| (All smiles at the start) |
After crossing the Dam and joining the track we quite quickly found ourselves in Falstone where we stopped for a quick drink and a change of footwear for me. My new boots are proving to be a bit of a nightmare so I spent the rest of the walk in trainers.
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| (A drink stop for Chance) |
Today proved rather difficult for the Hairy Hiker, having to get himself over many stiles and gates along the way, which is not easy when your over 36 kilos of dog. He had quite a few failed attempts at jumping some stiles, which caused a few winces from us walkers. We also came across cattle grids, some with gates at the side and some without. Chance didn't let these set backs stop him though as he was determined to find a way, be it over, under or between the obstacles. Well done Chance!
After leaving Falstone and walking along the roadside and up a few steep hills we found ourselves in the small hamlet of Donkleywood where we spotted this quirky plaque on a seat. Sounds like Harvey Roll was an interesting guy! We crossed the stile and headed along the narrow path where a friendly, elderly man stopped to chat to us about the walk and where we were headed.
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| (Hott Bridge) |
Once out of Donkleywood we walked for what felt like forever, over fields and farmland. Our target being Hott Bridge, where we'd planned to stop for lunch as it was around the halfway mark.
This stretch of the walk seemed like a long slog, possibly due to the closeness of the weather and our rumbling tummies!
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| (View from Hott Bridge) |
The walk to Hogg Bridge is optional but we highly recommend it. Walking down to the bridge isn't bad and the views from it make it worthwhile. The bridge was built in 1862 and bounces up and down as much as it sways from side to side! Phil, Helen and Chance were quite happy on the bridge but I was just as happy to be back on dry land as soon as the necessary photo was taken.
We sat on the steps of the bridge for a much needed lunch break while Chance enjoyed an apple.
After our break we set off again, covering ground over farmland and along roads. As the book suggested, we didn't see a lot of the river but we did get the odd glimpse here and there.
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| (Friends??) |
Phil has mentioned a few times that hes not really a dog person and he's a little wary of them, but slowly, him and Chance seem to be bonding. Chance can sense Phil's slight disapproval and seems to give him his space, but, every now and then they connect and I'm sure by the end of this walk they will be good friends.
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| (Evidence of the old train line) |
After a long road walk we eventually reached the final 1 mile stretch. Although we all agreed this was the longest mile we'd ever walked and were sure the sign was wrong. We didn't complain too much though as it was just nice to get off the road and see the river again.
Phil and I did struggle a little today. A combination of low energy and the closeness of the warm weather conditions, zapped us of our energy quite quickly. Thankfully though, Helen's boundless energy and positive attitude kept us going. Thanks Helen!
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| (We made it) |
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| (And, relax) |
Once in Bellingham we stopped off at The Black Bull as The Hairy Hiker insisted on a pint and a lie down. Cheers!
The walk was completed in just under 6 hours. We found the day challenging but had a fantastic time and cant wait to get stuck into the next few stages in June.
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