Coffee break

I was leading today's walk, called The South Tyne and The Wardway. It was an 8 mile circular from the town of  Alston (the highest market town in England).

We were in cloud for the first part of the walk, making the morning break rather dreich as you can see. We had found a nice depression in the land so we could sit out of the wind. Here you see my friends, Brian and Jean, enjoying their hot drinks. Alston is in the background, across the fields.

The views across the South Tyne valley were lovely and suitably autumnal. 

We descended via Leadgate, where Peter gave us an interesting short talk on the hamlet. (Apparently there is a yoga class once a week and this sent his fertile imagination down the route of how the Romans practised yoga, in their togas, when they were here too...... You had to be there!!)

There was a good riverside section by the Black Burn and then beside the South Tyne. We crossed this and headed on the other side of the valley, back to Alston.

Let's not mention that I twice tried to take us towards Bleagate, not on our route, but the other team members were quick to bring me in line. I also forgot to 'phone the car cover person at the end of the walk. Oh dear.


The rain came after lunch and we were well sodden by the time we arrived back at Alston station. Tea, scones and other goodies were consumed there.

It was a lovely day out.