20 June 2022. This was a long day. It ended up being 36km (22 miles) in 11.5 hours. No big climbs, but lots of up and down (over 550m of accent). I got away at 0650. It was a cold damp night so my tent was soaked with condensation, adding to the pack weight. As usual, I have one of the heavier packs. Paul caught me up.
The first 14km was walking the route of Hadrian’s Wall. The base of the wall up to 2m existed in most places. I remember walking the whole of the wall the other way in a week’s school camp about 50 years ago!
We had a 15 minute break at Sycamore Gap at 1030 and left the wall after Hot Bank Crags heading North at 1130. The route took us through the south eastern tip of Kielder Forest where we had a 55 min break at 1230. Nice to get the weight off our feet. Then it was over farmland and some moorland for the rest of the afternoon. The pit stop at Horneystead Farm was very welcome and provided another break of 30 mins (1515).
There last couple of km into Bellingham were on roads and we arrived at Demesne Farm campsite at 1820. Drying out damp tents and showering meant we just got to the Cheviot pub before last food orders at 2000.
Thankfully the last three days are going to be shorter. Tomorrow to Byrness.













that was a long stretch!! we divided it up as I remember.
Enjoy the last 3 days. xxxx
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Looks like decent weather for the walk and to dry out your tent at the end of the day. Love the costumes of the other walkers!
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Gosh, I envy your stamina Richard! Nice bit of bush to break things up for you. Hope its not too hot with that heavy load..
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Wow that’s a good effort! Feel exhausted at the thought! Must be hard with such a heavy pack and things being wet. Enjoy the last few days. What an achievement! Well done! Xx
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Ah I’d hoped to find you yesterday but was over on the coast at Alnmouth! You had a huge day!
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