Thank you for visiting this site. We hope you find it interesting and easy to navigate.
THE MAIN PURPOSE OF THIS SITE IS TO HELP YOU, TO HELP US, RAISE MONEY FOR OUR CHARITIES.t
AS OF TODAY’S DATE (29th October) – WE HAVE COMPLETED 502.63 MILES – WE HAVE FINISHED!!!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL
We have now received a very generous cheque from the staff and pupils of Kirkby Stephen Grammar School and Sports College from their Charity Day. (£267.50) . Our most grateful thanks go to them for taking our final total to more than £3,200, which is an amazing amount. We will now be arranging for account closures and cheques to be made payable to the three charities for £1,068 each. THANK YOU ALL ONCE AGAIN.
THANKS TO YOUR GENEROSITY – up to date (13th March) you have raised a £3,210 in sponsorship/donations! We will be drawing cheques this week for the three charities for an amount of £1,070 each.
You can leave a message on the visitors’ book or email us on: - we will get a reply to you as soon as possible.
Keep reading down and you will catch all the walks from the beginning right up to the end - feel free to skip the boring bits!!!!
DIARY OF A DANEWALK
The first stage of the walk commenced in the Aberdeen area, along the Deeside Way (a disused railway line). The walk included Aberdeen to Banchory and Aboyne to Ballater a total of 30miles. We have nowcompleted the Glasgow to Edinburgh Forth/Clyde/Union canals on Sunday 15th August approximately 65 miles making 95miles in total. We have now returned to Cumbria and as well as updating our leaflets have completed a further 20 miles of walks making a new total of 115miles. We have now finished the Lancashire walks. This now makes a total of 162 miles. Have now completed some of the Cheshire walks and the total mileage at the moment is 196.
Regards
Lesley and John Begg
Check here for daily updates of our progress:
27th - 31st July- we left home and travelled to Banchory (near Aberdeen). Unfortunately we have had internet difficulties, so have been unable to post any updates until today. Silverbank Caravan Club site at Banchory is where we stayed during our Aberdeenshire walks.
1st August - The walk started at Duthie Park in Aberdeen at 10:30 am. Pearl and Cleo accompanied me for the first few miles and then we swapped with Nero. Finished for the day at about 3.30 pm at Drumoak and now updating an the website enjoying coffee and a scone in a lovely new garden centre called the Mains of Drum. We have managed to cover 11.2 miles today, so only 488.8 miles to go!!!!!!
Tomorrow - we hope to leave Drumoak at 10:00 am to finish this stretch of the Deesided Way at Banchory.
NOW OUT OF INTERNET DESERT - SO WILL BRING YOU UP TO DATE
2nd August - Drumoak to Banchory . A lovely quiet walk, even though parallel with the road in places. Met some lovely people both on the walk and on the caravan site. Such generosity from people is amazing. Walked 7.8 miles today.
3rd August - Rest Day: Don't really deserve one yet, but don't want to go too heavily on the tootsie's too soon. Got boring things like shopping and laundry done today. It's got to be done!!!!!
4th August - Aboyne - Ballater: WOW! WOW! WOW! The most stupendous scenery today, weather lovely, walked over 4 miles with Pearl and Cleo, then the rest with Nero. Coffee stop at Dinnet to swap them. John then drove to Ballater and walked back to meet me with Saffi. Completed 11 miles today. Had our photos taken by the station by two nice ladies, one of whom is submitting a piece about the walk for the local paper. Thanks to their lovely young sons who made their own donations to the cause. We went to Banchory-Ternan Rotary Club meeting in the evening, which was most enjoyable, as was the meal. Thanks must also go to them for their generosity.
5th August - Pack up day: Started getting things together ready to move on tomorrow. Aberdeenshire walks now completed and time to move to Edinburgh. It has been lovely here, the walks, the locals and other caravanners, very generous and supportive of what we are doing. Happy anniversary to my sister and brother-in-law.
6th August - Move to Edinburgh:Got cleared up and on the move by just after 11am. Good journey down, but wet. Found a nice corner spot on the site, so noisy Nero can't bark at everything. The dogs seem to be enjoying caravan life, particularly the sofas!! We are staying at Silverknowe Caravan Club site, Edinburgh.
7th August - Sorting day: Walked the dogs, did all the yukky jobs, loo, water shopping and laundry again. Planned our route and changeover places for tomorrow. At last we have our dongle working so we could update the website. Love to you all out there, particularly all you wonderful sponsors. Cleo is stuck to the awning window watching baby rabbits on the grass. Canine heaven!
Tomorrow hope to start at 11:00 am from the Bowling Basin on the Forth & Clyde Canal.
8th August - Bowling Basin to City Branch (and part of branch) - a beautiful day for walking lots of people about gave out leaflets and gained some sponsorship. Met lots of lovely people, all the dogs did a section and poor John drove here there and everywhere. Walked 11 miles in country and city. Saw 18 Magpies!!!!! Is this area the Magpie capital of the world? Very disappointed - never saw one single moving boat on the canal all day!
9th August - Lockburn Road Aqueduct to Kirkintilloch - late start and pouring with rain this morning. However after Nero and I getting a good soaking the sun came out and we enjoyed the walk, which once we got out of the outskirts of Glasgow, it was mainly in the country. WOW! Actually saw my first and only moving boat today. John walked the other 'girls' today. Nero and I managed 7 miles. Have taken quite a lot of photos over the walk so far, all probably slanting, because of whichever dog pulls on the lead. Very beautiful. Saw 11 Magpies!!!!! Yes it must be the capital!
10th August - Rest Day - Lots of rain and masses of computer stuff to catch up on. Dogs all nice and sleepy, really enjoying the walks and the rests afterwards. More laundry and caravan jobs done (water, loos, etc).
Tomorrow - we hope to leave Kirkintilloch at around 10:30 am.
11th August - Kirkintilloch to Bonnybridge (12.2 miles) - had a lovely walk today, all the dogs did a session and performed really well. They really seem to be enjoying it. They have slept solidly since we got back to the caravan. Saw lots of fishermen today, at various points. Met a lovely little girl called Skye with her Daddy and Uncle, she really liked Saffi, she has left a lovely message on our visitors page. Thank you Skye. Only saw 5 Magpies today!
Tomorrow - we hope to leave Bonnybridge at around 10:30 am.
12th August - Bonnybridge to Bridge 52A (9.7 miles): Left Bonnybridge, which apparently (according to some locals) has more UFO sitings than anywhere else is Scotland. Pearl and Cleo started the walk and we walked to the Falkirk Wheel, a marvel of engineering. We met lots of people there, as it was a warm and pleasant day. One cup of coffe and a chocolatee yummy later, Saffi and I walked to the far end of the Falkirk Tunnel (without going in the tunnel as Saffi is an even bigger coward than me). John went through it just for fun. Very hot and Nero and I baked a bit this afternoon. Lovely lady we met on site came and sketched the dogs tonight, as she has been on an art course.
Tomorrow - Rest day, we hope to go into Edinburgh.
13th August - Rest Day: - Hurray!!!!!!!! We have been sponsored over £1,000, so thank you everyone who has sponsored us so far, old, young, businesses, friends, relations and strangers, you are all fantastic. Both the dogs and ourselves have had a nice rest day today, going into Edinburgh and enjoying aspects of the Festival and it's participants. Lovely looking up at the castle and wandering through the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the gardens. Back at the van for an early supper and bed, as we hope to walk the next two days. Three Magpies today.
Tomorrow - we hope to leave the picnic area alongside Canal Bridge 52A at approximately 10:15 am.
14th August - Picnic area at canal bridge 52A -left at approximately 10:20 am with Pearl and Saffi, weather hot and sunny, met John at Linlithgow Leisure Centre where we had a coffee and a scone. Yum! Saffi and I did another 5 miles before changing to Nero, who got the coolest walk as we were under lots of trees on a narrow canal path. Completed 11.5 miles in total. We now have about 14 miles to finish the canal at Edinburgh Quay. It would be nice to do it tomorrow, but I think we may have to do a few miles on Monday. Time will tell. 11 Magpies.
Tomorrow - we hope to leave Broxburn (Bridge 28), at about 10:00am
15th August - Broxburn (Bridge 28) to Edinburgh (The End) -A glorious morning as we set off, Pearl and Cleo eager to start again. Had to laugh when poor Cleo decided to dip her head in the canal and fell in, what a shock she got. Think she liked it as she tried a few times more. Kept her cool as it was a very hot day for walking. Saffi took over and had a shorter day today. Nero was the hero of the day and walked 5 or 6 miles, bless him and Pearl did the last mile. Met lots of lovely people on the route, some on bikes, or boats. Some lovely dogs too. We hope Ollie and Sophie enjoyed their swim. Hi to the great couple ((Simon and Lynn), who we chatted to at the end of the walk at Edinburgh Quays, who were very taken with Pearl.
Thanks to the manager at the Bridge Inn at Ratho www.bridgeinn.com for his kind donation, what a lovely place and a lovely setting. Fab ice cream too.
Looking at visitors book tonight, lovely message from Les Thomson who I met at Dinnet. Thanks for your comments Les, you are an inspiration, enjoy that bike. Scottish walks now complete.
Tomorrow - Rest Day
16th August - Rest Day: had a well deserved lie-in, leisurely breakfast and then went into Edinburgh city centre. Parked in nice cool multi-storey for the dogs and went for lunch. The city is alive with the buzz of the Edinburgh Festival and the atmosphere is electric. Went along George Street which was a first for me, but not for John. Met Lynn(from yesterday - thanks for yours and Simon's donation) and Kathleen at Arran Aromatics www.arranaromatics.com What a lovely store, lovely gifts and smells. (Contact me via the website Lynn and I'll try and get a copy of the photos to you as an attachment).
Went and got Pearl and Nero from the car to walk back to the shop for Lynn to meet the pup. We were swamped by people along the road, surprised we didn't get moved on for causing an obstruction. The cast of one of the fringe plays went past banging drums etc and still the boy behaved himself, even kissing one of the leading ladies, and petted by the rest of the cast! Another Dane owner struck up a friendship with Nero and Pearl charmed all she met, particularly two Spanish ladies. Lots of children also stopped for a stroke, smiling faces and laughter were abundant, some people even had photos taken with them. A good afternoon was had by all. Thanks for your encouraging message in the visitors' book Sylvia and Jeff, it was lovely meeting you both at Edinburgh.
Tomorrow - Pack up day ready for move to Cumbria on Wednesday morning.
17th August - Pack up day: good to to have a later start this morning. After heavy rain overnight it was nice to see the sun so that the awning and annexe would dry out. Annexe now packed away, roof boot back on the car and filled and two great loads of laundry done. Success! All the dogs had a fabulous run on the beach and in the tide today (bit of a shock for Nero who hasn't experienced it before). Had our meal out tonight, a last treat before going home tomorrow. Thanks for all the new visitors messages, Lynn I am loving my treats, thanks again. Five Magpies!
FAREWELL TO SCOTLAND- It is with mixed feelings that we leave Scotland, where we have had 3 wonderful weeks. We have met some lovely generous people, enjoyed some magnificent scenery and lovely walks and made lots of memories. However, we look forward to returning to Cumbria for the next series of walks.
Tomorrow - we hope to leave the site between 10 and 11 am.
18th August - moving on day: fortunately is stayed dry overnight so we were able to get the awning down dry. Packed all away and made our way back to Cumbria. A couple of stops on the way, one for a bite of lunch and a second for a short snooze mid-afternoon. Arrived home to a nice supper of chilli, yummo!
19th August - A level results day: Success! University confirmed and daughter number 4 is a 'happy bunny' in our household. Food shopping and haircut, laundry etc. Tai Chi to finish off the day.
20th August - more of the same: Preparing van to leave next week, dog food restocke, dentists etc all the run of the mill things in life.
Tomorrow - walking from Junction of B6261 and the link road to M6 Junction 39 (across the common from Shap to Orton and possibly beyond) at approximately 2:30 pm
21st August - Across the common from Shap to the Chocolate Shop Orton: IF ANYBODY TRIED TO JOIN ME FOR THIS SECTION I AM VERY SORRY - GOT SNARLED UP IN TRAFFIC AT GARSTANG AND LANCASTER AND DIDN'T GET THERE TILL 4 PM. (4.4 miles). Have been unable to sort a caravan site for the weekend so will commence canal walks from home and leave it until Bank Holiday Monday before we go with the caravan.
Tomorrow - walking from the Chocolate Shop at Orton at approximately 10:30 am.
22nd August - Kennedy's Chocolate Shop (unfortunately closed) www.kennedyschocolates.co.uk through Raisbeck, Kelleth, Newbiggin-on-Lune, Ravenstonedale to the Tommy Road (10.1 miles).Weather very hot bottles of water emptied regularly. Had a nice refreshing shandy at the Black Swan (Ravenstonedale) www.blackswanhotel.com before tackling the end of the walk. We have now completed over 100 miles.
Tomorrow - we hope to leave the top end of the Tommy Road at approximately 09:30 am in the direction of Pendragon Castle.
23rd August - Tommy Road to Frank's Bridge, via Pendragon Castle, Nateby and the viaducts:left the top end of the Tommy Road at 09:40 am in the direction of Pendragon Castle. Only I could choose the morning when the sheep were being gathered and all coming in our direction. However, with a bit of careful sidewalking and some cheerful banter with the farmer, we found our way through. The weather was dull and grey to start off with, but soon changed to torrential rain - what fun! Saffi who 'loves' the rain, managed to get her bit finished before it got really bad, and poor Nero had to have a coat on and we both got completely drowned, which was when I realised my jacket needs re-proofing! That's a job before we move on again. Saffi and I passed Dale Foot where there is an impressive, award winning local bakery business, Country Fare www.country-fare.co.ukwaved to some of the staff as we passed. Nero and I started our wet walk off with a tussle with a five-barred gate at a cattle grid, but did manage to get through it successfully. We then walked through Nateby and onto our favourite viaduct walk (two viaducts kept up by the Northern Viaduct Trust www.nvt.org.uk ).
My son-in-law has set me up on Twitter, which I am a bit ignorant about, but any tweeters out there, you will probably know what to do.
Tomorrow - Rest Day
24th August - Rest Day: normal dog walks, caught up with friends, jobs, jobs, jobs. Had an enjoyable evening at a Rotary club BBQ and gave updates on the walk.
Tomorrow - hoping to leave Tewitfield Lock near Burton-in-Kendal about 11:30 am
25th August -left for Tewitfield after dropping daughter number four at the station for a day out with friends and made our way to the M6, where 6 miles down the road we had a puncture. Great!!!! Had a spare - wonderful! Where was the jack? In it's locker behind the cage at the back of the car!!!! Would you like to take 3 Great Danes and a Collie cross out of the car on a busy motorway? No, neither did we so we called Brittania Rescue, who in due course alerted a local breakdown service, (Mark Johns Garage www.markjohnsmotors.co.uk )which came out promptly and sorted us out very quickly. Well done James, you did an amazing job, it can't be easy trying to drop the spare tyre under the surveillance of a nosey Great Dane. Walking abandoned in favour of sorting new tyre etc
Tomorrow - weather and tyres permitting we hope to walk from Tewitfield at approximately 10:30 am
26th August - Tewitfield to Bridge 110 (under the A6, north of Lancaster), 10miles:After getting the newly delivered tyres fitted, we made our way to Tewitfield and started walking at about 11:00 am. The weather was lovely and it was interesting to see the contrasts in the canal and banks to those of the Firth/Clyde and Union canals we had walked in Scotland. Met lots and lots of lovely people today and dogs too, stopping for an excellent cup of coffee at the Canal Turn Inn at Carnforth www.thecanalturn.co.ukwhich was in a lovely spot and quite busy. This was a good dog swap point and we continued to Lancaster via Hest Bank, with some glorious views over Morecambe Bay. Thanks to today's sponosrs. Nero had lots of opportunities to lie down and greet other dogs and is getting much better at it. Having one or two problems, booking caravan sites in the Chester area, which will be our next destination , when we move on from Garstang next Friday.
Tomorrow - Dentist, caravan repacking and more publicity arrangements.
27th August - Busy day: Dentist for myself and our daughter, then organised some stuff for uni'. Vets for Cleo's booster.
Tomorrow - hope to leave Bridge 110 (under the A6, north of Lancaster) at approximately 11:00 am traffic permitting.
28th August - Bridge 110 (under the A6, north of Lancaster) to Glasson Dock (10.3miles): made our way south on the M6, raining heavily, so we called in at one of the fantastic kennels that we use, (Glaneils www.gleneilskennels.co.uk), to give them some of our publicity leaflets, met another gorgeous Great Dane when we were there. Commenced our walk slightly later because of the weather, met lots of lovely people and dogs today and spent time chatting and giving out our leaflets. Hi to anyone who has logged on, the lady with the lovely standard poodle in Lancaster, as promised, a big "Hello," to the three teenagers I met at Lancaster Kris, Emma and Josh, who had a good play with Nero, also to the ladies we met at the Canaside Craft Centre at Galgate, (www.canalsidecraftcentre.com) Enjoy your weekend. Total mileage now at 135 miles.
Tomorrow - getting the caravan finished ready to move to Garstang on Monday.
29th August -busy day ironing and getting everything packed, few friends popped in and out to say cheerio, Lu made a nice Cumbrian supper of 'Tatie pot.'
30th August- moved from Cumbria to Garstang to a lovely little site, in a very pleasant situation by a marina. My sister, husband and family dropped in for a cuppa on their way home from a weekend north of Carlisle. Daughter number one saved our lives when we discovered 'someone' had forgotten to pack the awning annexe poles and she drove down with them, thus making a real family tea party. Got ourselves sorted and prepared for an early night ready for a walking day tomorrow.
Tomorrow - hope to leave the Canal Craft Centre, Galgate, between 10:00 and 10:30 am.
31 August - Canal Craft Centre, Galgate to Barton Grange Garden Centre (www.bartongrange.co.uk 13 miles) -left the Canal Craft Centre on schedule and walked with Pearl and Cleo to bridge 78. Thank you to the two children who very kindly gave dog treats to them along the way. Changed over to Saffi and did about 4 miles back to the caravan site for a coffee and ice cream. Cheerio to the young man who fell in love with our dogs despite being a little 'dog shy.' The last stage was walked by Nero and it was very amusing to see his face when a Yorkshire Terrier told him off in no uncertain terms. We finished the day in the car park of the garden centre where we met two lovely couples, who kindly sponsored us, one of whom turned out to be the local newsagent in Garstang.
Tomorrow - we hope to leave Barton Grange Garden Centre at approximately 10:30 when we will hopefully have sampled the delights of their coffee shop to set me on my way.
1st September - Barton Grange Garden Centre to Preston (13 miles):set off after a delicious scone and coffee at Barton Grange coffee shop. It was yet another glorious sunny day. As usual met loads of interesting people along the way. Hi to Peter, Imogen and their grandma, who had a good chat to Pearl and Cleo. I hope the poor man I met who had had the motor stolen from his boat has managed to get things sorted out. Hi to the two guys Saffi and I had a chat with about canals, dogs and whatever else in the boatyard and cafe. Thanks for the sponsorship and chat to the lovely man I met with the fantastic collie, Biscuit, I wish you good luck with her she is a lovely dog. Stopped for liquid refreshment at the Hand and Dagger pub, near bridge 26, so Hi to Martin the landlord, who made us very welcome. The last section was with Nero, this took a little longer than expected when we met a lone swan in the path. We have seen loads of swans and cygnets on all the canals so far, however, this one was on its own. When we got close it hissed at Nero who immediately sat down and refused to budge. (Can't say I blame him). Tried throwing dog titbits towards thecanal in the hope it would go in the water, no such luck! Tried the same with pebbles, again, no luck. Text John to see if he could come back with a loaf of bread. Whilst waiting, had a brainwave, I had an apple in my bag. Started throwing bits of apple towards swan and the canal, aha, a little interest. Just when we had a moment to rush past, Nero sat down again and went on strike. Back to the drawing board! Had just enough apple left to try one more time. Eureka! Just when it dipped it's head in the river, dragged Nero past before he knew what was happening. Cancelled the cavalry and proceeded to the end of the canal without further incident. Lancashire canals now finished. Cheshire here we come!
Tomorrow - Rest Day and preparation to move to Chester on Friday
2nd September - Hurray a rest day! Another beautiful day, lazed about, short dog walks, sleepy dogs, laundry done, annexe down and roof boot loaded in preparation for tomorrow'w move to Chester. This has been a lovely site. ( Bridge House Marina and caravan park www.bridgehousemarina.co.uk ).
Tomorrow - Moving to Chester
3rd September -said goodbye to the lovely neighbours on the caravan site and made our way to a Caravan Club Certified Location outside Chester. Beautiful setting, nice shady corner, some fabulous horses and a very 'lively' Labrador. Walked Nero down the lane when we arrived and he decided to accompany us and made amorous overtures to Nero en route! Poor old Nero spent his time either jumping in the air or sitting down. Sorted it out by squirting our lab friend with some water and told him to "Heel!" which he did (obviously has been trained), and we all walked back up the lane in a much more relaxed fashion, until I found his chain and attached him to it for a while. Good job it wasn't Saffi, she would have died of fright, she won't be impressed that there is a Jack Russell here as well. Cleo thinks it's great.
Tomorrow - hope to leave the Boat Museum at Ellesmere Port by 11 am at the latest. We hope to get there about 10:30 am.
4th September - Ellesmere Port Boat Museum to bridge 122A (where the A41 crosses the canal, east of Chester): well, what a day! We arrived at the Boat museum just after 10.30 (well on schedule for a change) and were delighted to be met by Clare Steve, Sylvia, Kath (nice to meet you), Lee, and then joined by my sister Cathy, niece Sophie, Jacky, Trevor, Catherine and Alex. Wow! What a turn out, I was very touched. Introductions were made laughter and stories exchanged and then it was time to start. OOPS!!!!!!!!! Not a single dog lead in the car. We had everything else, but no leads. John and Sophie came back to the caravan and the rest of us trooped into the Boat Museum coffee shop () and enjoyed a cuppa and a natter until they came back and after a 'photo shoot' finally set off at about 12.15pm. Cathy, Sophie, Jacky, Catherine, Clare, Lee, myself, Pearl and Cleo enjoyed a pleasant walk towards Chester, Trevor and Alex joined us for a short distance before all but Clare, Lee and myself had to make for home. We continued until we had walked 7.3 miles and then Nero and I finished the walk through and past Chester. Hi to the lovely cycling family with the black spaniel, and anyone else we met that I've forgotten to mention. A truly memorable day, good walking, plenty of miles done and lots of fun.
Tomorrow - starting at bridge 122A at approximately 11.00 am
5th September- Bridge 122A to Bunbury(11.5 miles): another long standing friend joined me to walk today. Jane and I go back a long way and don't get a lot of opportunity to catch up, so this was a great opportunity. Got going about 11.10 am and made steady progress through the day. Saw lots of people around the canals today. Hi to the people from Manchester who used to have a Dane and their friends. Hi also to the many people on boats and walking dogs we met en route, particularly the couple with the lovely Old English sheepdog and the ladies with the two lovely Labradors at the lock gates with Nero. Thought we were going to have another swan experience with Nero. Jane and I were chatting happily when we heard a hissssss. One had sneaked up alongside us on the canal, just grabbed him and hustled him along before he could decide to sit down and go on strike. We finished the day at the Twirl of Hay at Broughton, Chester, where we had kindly been allowed to leave Jane's car whilst we walked and had a tasty supper to round of the day, thanks for joining me Jane. After all that I slept like a top.
Tomorrow - Wirral Way (West Kirby 10.30 am)
Couldn't update last night, weather seemed to be stopping the signals or something! I have just done a lovely update for yesterday and today and the ******** computer has eaten it!!!!! So apologies, this version is probably not as good.
6th September - Wirral Way ( West Kirby to Hooton) 12.3 mles:I probably shouldn't admit to this, but I can remember being in the playground at primary school and waving with the other children when the steam trains went past to go into West Kirby station (I think they were probably goods trains as I think the passenger line was already finished). It is where the track was, that makes up this lovely walk through the Wirral. It was lovely to be met by my sister, Cathy and friends Julie and Brenda (my lifelong friend) and a delightful Border Collie by the name of Dino, borrowed by Brenda specially for the occasion. He and Cleo got on like a house on fire. Brenda could only join us for a short while as she had other commitments, but Cathy and Julie continued with me until we got to Thurstaston before they had to take their leave. After a dog swap I continued for a further few miles, and a final swap left me with Nero to finish the lion's share. We were pleased to see John at Haddon Road station, as 'Hurray' there were toilets!!! (Beautifully clean and well looked after ones too). The last bit went much faster and we soon met John and continued back to Hooton and the car. We met a lovely couple (sorry I forgot your names, my brain is hopeless), had a really amusing chat and look at life. Hope you enjoyed your meal at the Hooton Hotel. Just as we were about to leave, along came Brenda, hoping to catch us to make arrangements for Wednesday's walk from Bunbury Locks, this done we went our separate ways. Back to the caravan to soak my feet (how elegant )and sleep like a top yet again. The earplugs work - I don't hear John snoring (or the dogs).
Tomorrow - Rest Day
7th September - Spent a lovely day visiting old friends and family.
Tomorrow - hope to leave Bunbury Locks between 10.30 and 11.00 am
WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK YOU ALL FOR THE E MAILS, VISITORS BOOK MESSAGES AND FOR YOUR GENEROUS SPONSORSHIP/DONATIONS. WE WILL TRY AND REPLY AS SOON AS WE CAN, SO PLEASE BEAR WITH US. Lesley and John
8th September - Very long day walking didn't get back till nearly8.30 so didn't do our update tonight. Apologies and look for tomorrow's entry.
8th September - Bunbury Locks - Middlewich (13.7 miles): met Brenda at Bunbury Locks around10.30 ish. Bless her she had a wonderful home grown/cooked parcel for us (it was fantastic Bren thanks). Had a quick coffee and loo stop at the Anglo Welsh (canal holiday)office/cafe (www.anglowelsh.co.uk). We prepared to walk with Pearl and Cleo, just walking onto the path we met two chaps walking the canal path, thanks guys for your generous dontation. The weather was fantastic again, really hot. Made a discovery on the canal that we can get a key to the facilites, thanks to the couple who told us and to the chandlery that donated one to the walk. Met John at the Middlewich canal junction and here we were going to part company with Brenda, Saffi was taking over from Pearl and Cleo. Saffi was ready and suddenly a Staffy appeared (on lead), which she didn't notice, unfortunately, Nero (in the car) did and gave a hearty "Woof!" Saffi jumped sky high slipped her collar (but fortunately not her headcollar) and Brenda and I promptly fell in a prickly bush. Apart from still having an armful of prickles and a broken nail, we were unscathed. Thank goodness the cameras were in the car! This stretch of the canal was extremely busy; Hi to all the people we had chats to along the way and thank you to those who donated en route. We were going to finish at bridge 19, but the end of the footpath had a locked gate and stile. Thanks to the new landlord at the nearby pub who offered to help us lift Nero over the stile. I decided to walk a bit further and not take the risk. John met me at Bridge 23 at 6pm and we decided to try and finish, so shedding a few water bottles and a bum bag, Nero and I carried on to the end. This was not without incident, as in the front of the penultimate bridge, sat a swan and her (almost fully grown) cygnets! Deja vu! Determined not to have a repeat of the previous swan standoff, I hustled the big fella up the steps of the previous bridge, did a detour round a short road and back onto the other side of the bridge circumnavigating the swans and back onto the path, thus being able to finish the walk. Phew! Half a shandy and a packet of crisps served to revive me for the 45 minute car journey back to the caravan.
Contrary to popular belief, I do not spend all my time in coffee shops, marinas and pubs eating and drinking and let the dogs walk alone. My visits are always brief and necessary and it is always nice to sample the local cuisine!!!!!
Tomorrow - Rest Day and moving preparations
9th September - rest and pre-removal day: spent a pleasant morning touching base with long-standing friends and then had a pootle round the shops in Chester, one of my favourite cities, which evokes lots of childhood memories for me. Came back to the van and took down the awning annexe and sorted the roof boot for tomorrow's move.
Tomorrow - moving day.
10th September - moving day and my son-in-law's birthday: moved from Chester and the lovely Caravan Club CL site at Thornleigh Park Farm (see caravan club website for more details).It was a lovely site and the owners Peter and Rowena Siddorn were fantastic. We are now at a lovely site in Oswestry.
11th September - a busy day, grocery shopping, dog walking and masses of laundry now clean and stored.
Tomorrow - back to the Shropshire Union Canal, starting at Barbridge Inn around 11.30 am
12th September - Barbridge Inn by Bridge 100 to Bridge 76 (by lock 3 at the Audlem Locks /10.6 miles): after a drive of an hour and a half to get there, we set out on yet another sunny day for our canal walk. The canal was quite busy with boats going in both directions, it is a very friendly atmosphere on the canals with most people waving or passing the time of day from the boats, both moving and moored on the banks. Hi to Bryony and the two ladies with her, who were busy fishing and seemed to like Pearl very much. Hi, also to the family with the boat called Hannah- Lu, Saffi and I had a nice chat with them. In fact we did a lot of chatting today, on the banks, at the locks, under the bridges there were so many friendly people about it really was lovely. Nero met a chocolate Labrador puppy and a young German Shepherd, which was fine till the puppy followed us and had to be called back. John walked back and met me before the end and we had a shandy and a packet of crisps outside The Shroppie-Fly a real canalside pub. Thanks to the little girl with the adorable labrador puppy who kindly gave us a donation, and hello again to the couple we chatted to there. Nero hasn't had a cat experience before, but he did today, four people sitting by their moored boat admired him when all of a suddent their cat appeared. I think Nero must have jumped about four foot in the air. Not sure if it was fear or anticipation of a good meal!!!!! He gave them and us a good laugh anyway. My money was on the cat!
CHECK THE ROUTE PAGE FOR SOME UPDATES (12/09/10)
Tomorrow - we hope to leave Bridge 76 (by Audlem Locks) at approximately 11.30 am. We hope to walk to Market Drayton to finish the Shropshire Union section of our canal walks. Time and weather permitting we then hope to move to the start of the Llangollen Canal at Hurleston Junction.
13th September - Audlem Locks to Market Drayton (5+ miles) / Hurleston Junction to Wembury Lift Bridge (6+ miles):managed to set off about half an hour earlier than hoped as it was an hour from the caravan site to Audlem Locks. Pearl and Cleo were very lucky as they escaped the rain. Thanks to the people we met by the locks your sponsorship was appreciated. Compared to yesterday, the canal was practically empty. Went to swap dogs and the heavens opened so the waterproofs came out and dog coat too for Saffi. We had a very squelchy walk to Market Drayton. The feet were quite boots were quite wet and muddy. We have now finished the parts of the Shropshire Union Canal that we wanted to walk and so a short drive took us to Hurleston Junction (Bridge 1/1A) for the start of the Llangollen Canal, where Nero and I managed to walk to the Wembury lift bridge (Bridge 20). The wind had increased, but at least it kept the rain away this afternoon. Hi to the gang on and off the boat that was going through the locks and thanks again for the donation, hope the photo didn't break the camera. As I write this all the dogs are sleeping soundly. Gave Nero a time off lead on the canal, but put him back when he kept going too near the edge for comfort, at a rate of knots. He was very good coming back when called, but I could envisage trying to fish him out of the canal.
Tomorrow - We hope to leave Wembury Lift Bridge at approximately 11 am.
14TH SEPTEMBER
********CHANGE OF PLAN - POURING FIRST THING SO TAKING A REST DAY TODAY INSTEAD OF TOMORROW*********
Tomorrow - We hope to leave Wembury Lift Bridge at approximately 11 am.
15th September - Wembury Lift Bridge (20) to Morris Lift Bridge (45) / 12.4 miles - I have just spent 20 minutes on tonight's blog - pressed update and the whole lot disappeared. Haven't got time to re-input now, so will do so tomorrow!!!!!!!!
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15th September - Wembury Lift Bridge (20) to Morris Lift Bridge (45) /12.4 miles:started fairly promptly after a quick coffee and use of facilities at the Cotton Arms, Wembury, and a brief chat to some holidaymakers. Pearl and Cleo were eager to start and enjoyed some play and off lead time for Pearl on the wider parts of the path. Unfortunately the Danes seem to have a death wish on a canal path and always try and roll in the grass near to the water. I then have visions of me trying to drag them out, and put them back on a lead. A cheeky grey squirrel came scampering towards us, seemingly oblivious to the dogs' presence, with a loud "LEAVE IT!" they stopped (miracle) but wanted to go after it through the hedge, and were most disappointed when I made them walk on. It has been nice to see people in their boats, more than once along the way, as we leapfrog each other along the canals. Saffi and I had a nice peaceful walk which finished at the Grindley Brook, Lockside Cafe, where John and I had coffee and a teacake. John spilt his coffee all over himself and the floor, which was very entertaining, so a second was needed. Nero and I set off to do the longest stretch of the day, finishing at the Morris Lift Bridge (45), alongside the Whixall Moss Nature Reserve. After enjoying a bottle of water and a sticky bun in the car, we started the hour long journey back to the caravan. After supper I did the blog which suddenly disappeared into the ether, which is why this is not as good as the one I wrote last night.
16th September - Morris Lift Bridge (45) to the Hindford Bridge (11) near the Jack Mytton Inn / 13+ miles : HURRAY! TODAY WE HAVE COMPLETED OVER HALF OF THE WALK - DOWNHILL FROM HERE ON. The day started on a very positive note, when a friendly couple on site made a generous donation, for which we thank them, and wish them a safe journey home toYorkshire on Monday. The weather was mainly kind to us during the day, with only one or two short, sharp, showers. The canal was much busier today, but the path was quite a challenge in places. Nero and I had to come off and find the next way on. Oh dear a stile! However, the gate next to it was locked. Fortunately, it was falling to pieces and the two bottom bars were missing. Unfortunately there are no photos to record the event of me trying to get Nero through the gap flat on his tummy whilst missing two hacked off bars either side of his head, with me kneeling on the floor offering him treats, after several false starts, he did it. Bless him! That had got us into the field, however, it did not get us back on the bank. A call to the 'map man' had us going back and changing sides, which was fine, but we had to get out of the field!!!!!! Yes, we had to go through the whole performance again, in reverse. Although this took a chunk of time we decided to continue to our pre-arranged rendezvous at Bridge 11.
Tomorrow - We hope to have a change of scene from canals and walk the Dolgellau-Barmouth Railway Walk (Mawddach Trail).
We plan to have Saturday as a rest day and hope to continue with the Llangollen Canal on Sunday
17th September - Dolgellau-Barmouth Railway Walk (Mawddach Trail)- 10 miles: rain overnight gave way to a cool, but bright morning as we set off for Dolgellau, a town we often visited in our 'courting days.' The sat nav took us the country route, which included lots of high roads, with no fences and vertical drops into the valley below. The views were amazing, and as long as I kept my eyes closed. fingers crossed and my foot hovering over the imaginary brake pedal, I knew we would be fine. On arrival at Dolgellau we had a quick coffee in the car park and after meeting a lovely couple who lost their son to cancer, kindly made us a donation when they heard what we were doing. Hi to the large family who came and fussed the dogs and took photos and departed in a large mini-bus. It was just after 12 when Pearl, Cleo and I started the trail. From start to finish it was lovely, from the tree-lined shady avenues of the first few miles of the walk to the open path overlooking stretches of sand and marshes of Afon Mawddach, which being tidal was slowly filling during the afternoon, so by the time John, Cleo, Nero and I crossed the causeway to Barmouth it was almost full. Very dramatic sitting between the tree filled mountains surrounding the area. During the afternoon, we met a lot of really friendly people, "Hi to you all." Thanks for the donations, from several couples, that we met more than once, particularly the lady who had suffered from cancer herself. To all the holidaymakers we met, we hope you enjoy the rest of your holiday. It was a lovely day, poor John had a long drive to and from the venues, but to save a huge journey to Barmouth, he met me at the station and we crossed the causeway together, arrived at Barmouth and came back, which is why the walk is slightly longer than published mileage, we crossed the causeway twice. A good day.
Tomorrow - Rest Day
18th September - Rest Day: woke up to beautiful blue skies after a little lie in (well earned we reckon)! Left the site at about 11 after the usual tidy ups and laundry today. We decided to go the Shrewsbury, where we haven't been for quite a number of years, but on the way passed the Percy Thrower Garden Centre, where we decided to stop and have a look, lovely parking for the dogs and super inside, sat for about an hour and a half with coffees and newspapers. Bliss! Met some lovely people while we were there. Some really friendly members of staff, Clare, who was parked besides us and never noticed the dogs, because they were so quiet, (asleep as usual). Also the guy who fell in love with Nero. Hi to the two families we met, one with the two little girls who were a little in awe of Pearl; and the second with their son, who all really fell for the Danes. Good luck with the new puppy next week, we hope you really enjoy him. The dogs had a good run in the field nearby before we moved on to Shrewsbury, where we spent a pleasant afternoon and went to Morrison's on the way back to the site for supplies. When we had finished shopping we were giving the dogs a leg stretch around the car park when we met a man who came to see them, he was parked nearby and had a Merle Dane in his car. How about that for a coincidence! He was a beautiful animal called Zeus, and made Nero look like a wimp! He was 7 years old and had a lovely temperament. Thanks to his Mum and Dad for their kind donation. Had a text from my lifelong friend Brenda, who hopes to join me for the walk tomorrow, hope the rain which is pouring down at the moment, stops by then.
Tomorrow - we hope to start from the car park of the Jack Mytton Inn by Bridge 11 on the Llangollen Canal at approximately 10.30 am.
19th September - Bridge 11 to Bridge 38 on the Llangollen Canal (10.6 miles): started from the car park of the Jack Mytton Inn by Bridge 11 at approximately 10.50 am. As promised yesterday, Brenda and Graham were waiting for us and had decided to take it turns, one to walk with me and the other to move the car around with John. Apparently Graham had sent in a request for us to Aled Jones on his Sunday morning radio show at 6.30 am, unfortunately we hadn't heard it. It had been a damp start and we were all kitted out in our waterproofs, which fortunately, as the day progressed we needed, less and less. Brenda and I set off with Pearl and Cleo, it was a busy morning on the canal, and lots of people greeted us along the path. Hi and thanks to the couples with the two Border Collies on the 'S Mine too', who kindly gave us a donation and kept overtaking us and vice versa all the way to Bridge 16, where we left the canal for a coffee and loo break at the local garden centre. Brenda and Graham did a swap and I now had Saffi, as we set of for the next section. Sometime when we were in the garden centre, all the boats on the canal seem to have been swallowed up. The canal was as quiet now, as it had been busy when Bren and I set off. No matter. We had a lovely walk and met up with John and Brenda just after we crossed the Chirk aqueduct, with the huge viaduct carrying the railway soaring above us. www.chirk.com/aqueductWe gave the Chirk tunnel a miss, as we thought it a bit too low and dark for Saffi, and went over the top, rejoining the canal further up. She was a star going through the Whitehouses tunnel and never batted an eyelid bless her. Nero was well and truly ready for a walk when his turn came, Brenda swapped again and Graham was once more in the driving seat. I think they were both amazed at how much John has to do to find access to the bridges, and what is involved. I only know this walk would not have been possible without John as my 'back-up team.' Bren and I met a lot more people down this end of the canal as we were getting near Telford's amazing feat of engineering ' the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct' (1007 ft long and 121ft above the River Dee with 19 arches). For those of you out there who know of my love of water and heights, you will be aware of how much I enjoyed these aqueduct experiences. It was at this point we said our goodbyes to Brenda and Graham, and Nero and I continued to Bridge 38 on our own. We met quite a few boats along this section, which was a pleasant end to another day of canal walking.
Tomorrow - we hope to start from Bridge 38 at approximately 10.45 am.
20th September - Bridge 38 to the end of the Llangollen Canal. Frankton Junction to Bridge 83 on the Montgomery Canal (11+ miles): we left bridge 38 and after a brief chat to a canoe instructor we got on our way. There were a few boats about, but not very many, and the clouds threatened rain, but none came. We made good progress and apart from chatting to a couple of ladies on a bench, and several gentlemen doing community service litter picking along the canal bank, we made excellent time to Horseshoe Falls, where the water enters the canal from the River Dee. Hooray! The Llangollen canal completed!!! A celebration lunch of tomato soup and coffee at the Chainbridge Hotel, right by the side of the Falls, ( www.chainbridgeehotel.com) and then we were on our way to Frankton Junction, and the start of the Montgomery Canal. Saffi got herself in a bit of a twist when a Labrador on the far bank of the canal started barking and bouncing about at her. However, she was soon her old self and walking as good as gold. The afternoon, became very warm and sunny, and the peace and tranquility of this canal was just what was needed for a lovely walk. At bridge 76 Saffi went for a snooze and Nero took over, and we made good time and met few people finishing at bridge 83, where John had walked out to meet us. This is the end of the section of the canal with water, from here on for several miles there is only path and no canal. Restoration is taking place, but slowly as it is dependant upon volunteers to carry out the work. (www.thewaterwaystrust.org.uk )
Tomorrow - we hope to leave bridge 83 at approximately 10.30 am
21st September - Bridge 83 to Welshpool (with lots of comings and goings in between) -11 miles:we awoke to a beautiful morning and made our way to Bridge 83, do we or don't we try the waterless section? We decided to try - our first deliberate mistake! Checks had indicated that though the canal section was waterless the towpath was open to walkers, which it was. Pearl, Cleo and I set off in an optimistic fashion. It was a bit depressing to see weeds and rushes in a marshy mess where the canal should have been, however, we continued on our merry way. Snag number 1 arose when we came upon a stile!!!!!!!!!! It was a lovely modern one with a special gate at the side to get your dog through. This was fine if you have a normal sized dog, but Pearl couldn't manage it. Do we ring for 'Map Man,' (John the route planner) to come and collect us? No fear. Dobbin (Les the work horse will succeed). I found a gap further along under the wood and barbed wire and good old Pearl crawled through - what a star! We continued to walk when I noticed several cows beginning to look at us and move towards us, this would not normally bother me, but when you have a dog that resembles a calf, there is some cause for concern. It was at this point I noticed the second stile, which unfortunately did not have a gap by the side for Pearl to crawl through!! Botheration! However, nil desperandum, there was some wire at the side tied on with baler twine. I haven't lived in Cumbria for 25 years without coming into contact with baler twine, so after breaking a nail, I finally managed to undo the knots in the string and pull back the wire and wood. Eureka! Pearl crawled through again, bless her! You will be pleased to note I replaced the wood, the wire and tied up the fence with the baler twine. Oh ye woman of many talents. Informed Map Man of our progress (or lack of it) and continued on our way. Just when things seemed to be going well, lo and behold - another stile. This one was a slightly different structure - the dog gate was a flap, that was a bit more promising, lifted it up and Pearl obliged by crawling through. Chatted to a man with a lurcher who assured me there was only one more and we would, "Manage it fine." He was right the next one was similar and it was a doddle. We fought our way through the brambles, nettles and thistles, I am sure you can imagine how much I was enjoying this walk. I was grateful that the dear friends and family who have walked some of the walks with me, were not with me today, or it would have put them off all together. I reached Pant Wharf and walked under the bridge ............... "Botheration!" You guessed - another stile, with the new fangled useless dog gate. No rubbish wire fence here - a brand new wooden job, no Dane would get through this one. At last I admitted defeat and rang Map Man - who at this time just happened to be out of signal!!!!!!! As he hadn't heard from me, he had started to walk back towards me knowing I had been having stile difficulties. I waited a while, chatting to a very friendly gentleman in the village of Pant. By now the sun was very hot and the dogs and I were really feeling the heat. At last a call from Map Man, my messages had finally got through and he was on his way. The dogs and I made our way to the main road, pausing to chat and photograph a field full of Alpacas. (So cute!)All this before lunch!!! We drove to the village of Llanymynech and comforted ourselves with an excellent toasted sandwich and coffee in a fantastic little cafe called the Village Pantry (thanks for your donation); after this Saffi and I set off from Bridge 92 at a cracking pace trying to make up for lost time to Bridge 102, thankfully without incident until, Map Man text to say come off at bridge 100 - no way through at 102!! Doesn't this day just get better and better????? John drove us to bridge 103, where we could hopefully continue on our way. Nero came out at this point and off we went, aiming for bridge 115. Things went a little better along here for a while, chatted to a lady with a lovely lurcher and carried on our way. John walked back and met us at bridge 112, where we continued and met three canoeists, having a pleasant time on the canal. We hope they enjoyed their cup of tea at Pool Quay. Then things having been too quiet for too long, more entertainment was laid on for us in the shape of pheasants!!!! They were in the field alongside us, on the path in front of us, everywhere, in fact! Have you ever tried holding back an 8stone dog when he want to go, go, go and play with the running things on the path? Bless him, treats did stop him so we didn't lose our arms, and the pheasants flew off, so we didn't lose those either. At last Welshpool was in sight, left John at the car park, by bridge 115 and walked with Nero to bridge 118 in the centre of town. It really was a very long and tiring day. Came back to the van for a celebration supper, as we have today completed 302 miles.
Tomorrow - a well earned rest day.
22nd September - Rest day.A quick visit to Morrison's and Tesco and a revisit to the Percy Thrower Garden Centre, that made such a good impression on us on Saturday, the dogs enjoyed a good romp on the fields there. We then returned to the site and enjoyed a chat with a couple from Grange-over-Sands, thanks to them for their donation. Then sorting out for a trip home.
Tomorrow - Return home
23rd September - Travelled home: via Ikea for some bits and pieces. Thanks Tanis for your message on visitors book, you were most helpful with the new 'dog bed.' It was lovely talking to you. We arrived home to a lovely cooked meal by our girls.
Domestic issues will be filling our time over the next few days, so the next blog will probably be on Wednesday, when Danewalk 2010 gets under way again.� We will fill you in on the details.
29th September - Back on the Danewalk again: Just a few notes to let you know what we have been up to whilst we have been away:
Thursday 23rd Sept -Made our way back home to Cumbria, to sort the transportation of our daughter no 4 and all her worldly goods to university. Arrived home early evening and enjoyed a lovely meal made by daughter no. 1.
Friday 24th Sept - Up early to walk all the dogs, before taking them to our local kennels for a few days holiday. Quick hair chop to keep it in order for the rest of the walk. The rest of the day was spent packing, phoning and hosting loads of friends who popped in to say goodbye to Hannah, she had a really lovely day. We then attended a most enjoyable Rotary Club Function (Thanks to all those who generously gave us donations towards our chosen charities.
Saturday 25th Sept- Finally managed to pack the car and set off to the Wirral and my sister's house where we were staying overnight. Had a really enjoyable visit.
Sunday 26th Sept- Left my sister's around 10.30 ish and the three of us and all her family met at Goredale for a coffee, before parting company and us wending our way to the university. The afternoon was spent unpacking the car and making Han's room homely, before having supper at a nearby pub and leaving her to sample the delights of a Freshers' Party on campus, (where, we found out later, she had enjoyed her evening). We drove back to Cumbria, arriving home about 10.30 pm.
Monday 27th Sept - Spent the whole day running about; kennels to collect the dogs, local vets for routine vaccinations, Penrith vets for Pearl's skin tablets, Dog Food suppliers in Tebay, laundry, updating and printing a new batch of leaflets and collecting all the stuff together to come back with us. Several friends visited for a cuppa to see us on our way. Finally fell into bed around midnight.
Tuesday 28th Sept - left home just after 11 and drove with Lu (no. 1 daugher) to Barton Grange where we met John for a sandwich and coffee, before us separating - one north one south. We stopped to deliver all the forgotten things to uni daughter and them made our way to the caravan, where, after dismantling the awning, walking the dogs, we fell into bed. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!!!!
Wednesday 29th Sept - up and about fairly handy to hear the rain dancing on the caravan roof YUK! Left the site about 11ish and drove further south to Milton Keynes ready to start walking there tomorrow. The rain came with us and we got soaked putting up the awning and sorting ourselves out. However, as I type this, it seems to have stopped now, so fingers crossed for a better day tomorrow.
Tomorrow - hope to leave Stoke Bruerne around 10.30 ish. (We have decided to walk north to south on the Grand Union canal, as this gives us more flexibility).
30th September - Stoke Bruerne to Bridge 77 (12.3 miles):awoke to beautiful blue skies and a glorious morning, which was a great relief after the appalling weather yesterday. We started walking from Stoke Bruerne at about 10.45, there was quite a bustle on as a fairground was building it's attractions, ready for opening. Initially the canal was quite busy, but quietened down as we moved further south. The canal paths were much better than some we have been on, quite wide and in places with solid surfaces, although I prefer the grass for the dogs' feet. Had a coffee stop at the Barley Mow a canalside pub, which we accessed through a quaint little tunnel called a 'horse tunnel.' Thought we were in for another swan moment with Nero..... Just as we started to make progress there on the banks was a pair of swans and a group of Canada geese. As there were no cygnets this time, I rummaged in my bag and found a cereal bar which I chucked at the swans whilst dragging Nero past. While Saffi and I were walking we saw no less than 3 cats, which fortunately I spotted before she did. Never a dull moment! Hi to the lovely group of people I met by their boat later on this afternoon with their dogs, who took a liking to Nero (thanks for your sponsorship). Hi to the two gentlemen I met a little further along who were very taken by Nero and had a good laugh at this antics. Met John at bridge 77 at the end of a good day's walking. Went into Milton Keynes Xscape, where we met number 3 daughter (Nikki) and her husband (Andrew) and had supper together at Frankie & Benny's.
Tomorrow - hope to leave Bridge 77 (Milton Keynes) weather permitting at about 10.30 ish.
1st October - Bridge 77 (Milton Keynes) to The Plough Inn/Past Bridge 91 (5.2 miles) :awoke to the sound of heavy rain on the skylight windows of the van. We then did the only thing possible in these situations and turned over and went back to sleep. When we awoke about an hour later, it was still pouring, so a full walking day was out of the question. After our morning tasks, John set off for Tesco and a weekend food shop and took Pearl, Saffi and Cleo in the car. I remained at the van with a snoring Nero and set to with cloths, cleaner and polish and gave the van a good clean. On John's return, we decided to try and get a few miles done along the canal. We set off from bridge 77 at about 2.30pm Nero and I wearing our waterproofs, and walked at a fair crack until about 4 pm. Not many people about, apart from a drunk with a puppy who wondered if I would like it to play with Nero, said no thanks it would be better if we just passed him, smiled sweetly and carried on our way. Don't know who was staggering the most, him or the dog!!!! I have noticed that on this canal, there seems to be far more residential craft and less holiday boats and quite a few being worked on or renovated. There are also some larger craft than I have seen on the other canals, which is interesting. Came back after the walk and made ourselves comfortable for the evening.
Tomorrow - hope to leave The Plough Inn at about 10.30 am, hopefully in dry weather.
2nd October - The Plough Inn Milton Keynes to Bridge 121 (Horton Lock) / 13.5 miles: a beautiful sunny morning greeted us when the alarm went off today. We made our usual walkday preparations and then had a text message from some dear friends (Jan and Roger) who used to be our neighbours in Cumbria, could they join us for part of our walk today? Indeed they could and did, for five and a half miles as far as The Three Locks, where we had coffee together before going our separate ways. During the walk we had lots of catching up to do and the time went really quickly, we were all amazed at the amount of anglers out this morning and the phenomenal amount of expensive equipment they all seemed to possess. We spent lots of time, dodging poles, nets and lines, but most anglers were very sporting about moving their tackle out of our way. After we left the Three Locks, Saffi and I made our way on, noticing again, that the nature of the boats on this canal are definitely more house and work boats and not just pleasure boats, as they had been on the other canals. Met a few people by the locks and thanks to the lady with all the shopping and the Jack Russell, your donation is much appreciated. Nero and I finally finished at around 5.30, when we made our way to Jan and Roger's home for a delicious supper. You have certainly not lost your touch Jan - a delicious meal. Got back to the caravan just as the rain became quite heavy, so hoping it stops overnight, as we need to walk tomorrow to keep up the mileage.
Tomorrow - hope to leave Bridge 121 (Horton Lock) at approximately 11.00 am
3rd October - Bridge 121 (Horton Lock) to Aylesbury Basin (10.4 miles) : so much for yesterday's sunshine, the day started grey, but dry and just as we arrived at Horton Lock the heavens opened. Out came the waterproofs and dog coats, and undaunted, we set off at a spanking pace. Made reasonable progress, not many people about, a few on the locks, and a few anglers dangling worms. Came upon a proud Dad, taking photos of his son and the 14lb carp he had just caught. Biggest catch I've seen during the walks, only seen tiddlers up to now. Rain got heavier, so stopped at bridge 126 at the cafe alongside Grebe Canal Cruises, where we dried off Pearl and Cleo and warmed ourselves up with coffe and home made soup. Got Saffi togged in her raincoat and carried on to Bridge 132, where a further coffe at the White Lion warmed us up again and by the time we came out the rain had stopped. Nero and I started our trek to Aylesbury, which started out at some rather attractive locks and then proceeded to one of the muddiest tracks we've walked on so far. It did dry up later but led onto paths with almost a tunnel effect of 8-10 feet of hedges and brambles on the left side and high reeds and brambles on the right. Very scenic! We never passed a moving barge and met about 4 people along the way. Finally arrived in Aylesbury at about 5.20 pm. and found John had been chatting to a gentleman from a nearby narrowboat moored in the marina. (Thanks for the kind donation). Went and met Nikki and Andrew for supper at the Horse & Jockey at Aylesbury, before returning to the van and sorting ourselves out for the night.
Tomorrow - hope to leave Bridge 132 at approximately 11.00 am.
4th October - Bridge 132 (Marsworth) to Bridge 147 (The Three Horseshoes / Outskirts Hemel Hempstead - 7+miles): a better morning weatherwise, I didn't fancy another soaking, so we were pleased to see the change for the better. It took us about 40 minutes to get to bridge 132 where the next leg started from, parked up at the sister pub to the White Lion (The Anglers' Rest), where we enjoyed a coffee, before getting the dogs ready to walk. Hi and thanks to the ladies from the pub we spoke to in the car park and thanks for your donation. The weather held out throught the day thank goodness, but the paths were really wet and slippy in places, thanks to yesterday's rain. Should have worn the gaiters! The Tring resevoirs are amazing and have their own walks and paths around them. Used one of the paths to avoid (guess what? Yes!) a swan and had a really good view of them. Not a lot of people about, but enjoyed a chat with two local gentlemen, who knew the canal quite well. Walked as far as Cowroast, where a quick coffee at the Cowroast Inn revived us and Saffi and I set off towards Berkhampsted. I have taken quite a few photos along the way of the names of some of the canal boats, today I saw, Lady Claire,(daughter no. 2), Hannah,(daughter no. 4), Bright Eyes (the song that came out when no.1 daughter was born). Nothing for daughter no. 3, but no matter, we were meeting up at the end of the walk, so she was 'in the flesh' so to speak. Arrived at Berkhampsted station along the canal path and just by the exit my way was blocked (yet again) by birds, large white geese and ducks being fed by a lady - dodged off the path and managed to miss them. However, by the time we had exchanged Nero for Saffi and went to start on the opposite side, they had been enticed to our side again by someone feeding them!!! Walked down the road and managed to get on the canal path there. Quite quaint along this stretch. All of a sudden a flash appeared in front of me - an urban fox, shot onto the bank just ahead, jumped into the canal and swam to the other side and got out and ran into the undergrowth. Grabbed the camera, but it was so quick and I was so slow, also hanging on to Nero, who fancied a closer look, so missed it I think. Got chatting to two very pleasant ladies for quite a while and suddenly realised Nero was sitting like a good boy and not fussing, I was really pleased, the training is obviously beginning to work. I have worked quite hard with him while we have been away and he is now starting to go down when a dog appears and not being so bouncy. Result! Not complacent though - early days yet! Finished about 4 pm. and met Nikki at the Three Horseshoes for a drink, lovely oldy worldy atmosphere with an open fire and smell of wood smoke. Said our goodbyes, as we won't see Nik any more this trip and returned to the van for a well earned rest. Fell asleep after supper, so didn't get the blog done! Sorry to those of you who are now regular readers.
Tomorrow - rest day.
5th October - rest day: have done well this morning, bed stripped, laundry done, dogs walked and fed. We had a lovely chat with some dog-loving folk on the site. They had a good old fuss with the Danes and Cleo and we then came to Dobbies Garden Centre in Bletchley, where I am updating the blog, between sips of delicious coffee. I think I should write a connoisseur's guide to coffee shops when this trip is finished. Shortly we will be going back to the van to take down the awning, walk the dogs and prepare to move off to Norfolk tomorrow.
6th October - move from Gulliver's World Campsite to Sandringham, Norfolk: fortunately we managed to get the awning down last night, in fine weather, because it rained overnight. We didn't put the alarm on as the dogs are always awake by 7.30 - not so this morning. We woke at 9.15 am. OOPS! However, we soon got our acts together and got everything ready to go. Hi to the lovely couple we had a chat to from Norfolk, thanks for the route advice and for your kind donation. We hope your daughter's health continues, to improve. We arrived on site after just a short stop for coffee at a Little Chef where my handbag got covered in coffee by the waitress, when she accidentally spilt the cafetiere and it all dribbled off the table onto my bag. I felt quite sorry for her, she had been so helpful and was obviously very upset by it. Arrived at the site just after 3 pm, we were given a lovely pitch amongst the trees. Cleo's OCD started immediately as we passed rabbits and squirrels straight away and she wouldn't take her gaze from the windows. As I type this in the awning she has her head between the curtains, hoping to catch a glimpse of them. We were almost finished, and I had just walked the dogs at the back of the site, very pretty and through trees. This is all part of the Sandringham Estate. John went to the wash block and came back and said there were notices on the door saying, some dogs had been ill and advised to stay on paths and open spaces as it seemed to be a viral infection. Great!!! That's all we need is huge dogs with upset stomachs!!!!! I was a bit miffed actually, as I feel they should have said something when we arrived and we would have seriously considered going elsewhere, as if they do get ill, it could make a difference to the walk, which at this stage, would be awful. As we had already walked them in the area, any damage was already done, and as the awning was all up and pegged, we've decided to risk it, just hope we don't live to regret it.
Tomorrow - hope to start Peddars Way (near Knettishall Heath Country Park) at approximately 11.00 am. Don't know how I'll cope with this one as there are no bridge numbers!!
7th October - Peddars Way (starting at Knettishall Heath Country Park) / 10+miles:it took longer than we expected to get from the site to the start of the walk, so it was about 11.40 when Pearl, Cleo and I set off with myself armed with a map and the sat nav (who says I have no sense of direction). As expected with recent rain it was quite muddy underfoot, but the gaiters did their job well and we made good progress, despite having to get P and C over a boardwalk and stepbridge over a bog. Neither of them are very keen on wire under their feet (understandable), however they did really well and we reached the first rendezvous point before John, who was busy trawling Tesco's for supper. Saffi, keen as ever to start, was very flighty at the beginning of this section, as we were in a wood, she could hear all sorts and was very jumpy. I should maybe add at this point that there were masses of rabbits, squirrels, and wretched pheasants, that kept popping out of the undergrowth, screeching as only a pheasant can. Having taken our lives into our hands crossing a dual carriageway, we progressed to a railway crossing, that negotiated we had a lovely walk up a very wide track, where we were greeted by a simply beautiful donkey. It really was the friendliest creature, with massive ears and lovely eyes. It just wanted to be fussed. I managed to stroke it a few times, when Saff actually approached it and they spent several minutes gently sniffing at each other - so sweet! She was in a lovely mood as we progressed along the path, when all of a sudden - barking started and about 20 Jack Russells and small terriers, a couple of Border Collies and a Labrador, ran up and down a huge enclosure along the side of the path. 'Guard dogs!' Fortunately after the initial shock, a quick reprimand and she settled down and walked well past them, I think she realised they couldn't get to her. Never a dull moment! The next field was full of mixed coloured sheep and a line of them just started to walk towards us, I had to get a photo, as they reminded me of the sheep in Babe. At last at the end of the lane, John was waiting to whisk me off to the local garden centre to examine the facilities and enjoy a coffee. On arrival back at the end of the lane, Nero was ready to go, so off we went in yet another style of path, that led us to a village and then a normal road for a couple of miles and finally to a closed gate and an army range. Following the path for a couple of hours we finally met up with John, more by good luck than management, because I had been out of mobile signal for a good hour, only getting it back just before we met up. I think I prefer canals!!!! I saw about 2 people all day on the actual walk, which is ok, the problem being, that if we don't meet people, we don't get sponsorship, so we will either have to rethink the route or spend some time with Pearl and Nero (the publicity dogs), in some of the town centres and see if we can get some support that way.
Tomorrow - hoping to start at the junction of Sparrow Hill & Peddars Way at about 11.30 am.
8th October - the junction of Sparrow Hill & Peddars Way to junction of Southacre Road and Palgrave Road near Great Palgrave (12.7 miles): left the start at approx 11.30 am and proceeded along a narrow path alongside more agricultural land. Which came out on very muddy lanes, which we followed to the main road. After crossing this the path ran alongside the road in the neighbouring fields. We eventually met up with John at the village of Little Cressingham and swapped dogs. Saffi was eager to start, but the sun was quite hot by this time so we had a pleasant plod along some very long country lanes until we met John again. A swift coffee break followed at the nearby Waitrose and we recommenced with Nero, along a field path, between an electric fence and a tall hawthorn hedge. This path covered several massive fields and then as we turned a corner we came upon the inevitable....a stile. I climbed over it and tried to persuade him to jump, but knew I was on a losing wicket. When I realised there was a thin side gate, I removed his back-pack and with the temptation of a few treats ahead of him, he came through, bless him. On we tramped until.....yes, another one. Fortunately we were able to repeat the process and continued on our way. At one point we walked past some huge wind turbines and along an old Roman road, which as you would expect, was as straight as a die and seemed to go on forever. We finally met up with John and returned to camp, where after having a pleasant chat with some nearby caravanners, we eventually sat down to a fish and chip supper (the van visits the site on Friday nights). We have now completed half of Peddars Way.
Tomorrow - hope to start junction of Southacre Road and Palgrave Road near Great Palgrave at about 11.15 am.
Sorry for the gap, on Friday night had a catastrophe with the site, but fortunately our ace IT advisor Ian has got it all sorted for us again - don't know what we would do without him.
9th October - junction of Southacre Road and Palgrave Road near Great Palgrave - junction Peddars Way and A148 (10.6 miles) :at first the walk was quite uneventful, apart from when I tried to take a photo of a ladybird on a blade of grass for my neice, and Pearl decided to roll and it flew away! Exchange took place in the beautiful and historic village of Castle Acre where we enjoyed coffee and scones in the most delightful teashop before gettingt Saffi out and carrying on with the walk. At this point most of the walk was in fields behind the roadside hedges and it was only when we got to the end and found that we got out by a stile (ha,ha), which had no dog gate and we had to walk all the way back up again, and then all the way back down again on the road. Hey ho! John departed to Morrison's for the cheese and wine for supper and Nero and I strode on. We had been walking about 10 minutes when a blue car pulled up just ahead of us and then moved into a nearby lane. A man got out and started walking back towards me, and then I saw why - a lady was getting a very handsome fawn Great Dane out of the back of their car - wow! He was lovely. We introduced them to each other and Nero was a good boy and lay down and let Scooby examine him. It was a pity we were near a main road and not where we could let them have a run together. Nice folks. We then walked forever up a very boring track until we met up with John. Another successful days' walking.
Tomorrow - rest day.
10th October - have had a lovely lazy day. more laundry, a tidy up and them went to Sandringham visitors centre for coffee and a walk around with the dogs. Lovely. Met a nice couple who own two Dobermans, had an interesting chat about headcollars. (Dogmatic). We then went for a drive to Hunstanton another lovely area.
Tomorrow - hope to leave junction of Peddars Way and A148 at about 10.30
11th October - junction of Peddars Way and A148 to the end at Holme next the sea (13.2 miles): another lovely start to the day, lovely blue sky, but enough breeze to keep things comfortable. Set off to the A148 which was not too far from the site and commenced our walk. The terrain today was probably the best so far, lots of nice grass paths and not too much road walking and much less mud. John discovered a lovely village pub for coffee, (The Kings Head: www.the-kings-head-bircham.co.uk ) very traditional on the outside, but the interior was amazing, very modern, yet extremely tasteful, with lots of very interesting art displayed around the walls. All that and good coffee too. Walking was quite uneventful - no stiles anyway. Nero and I set off and caught up with four ladies also walking Peddars Way, we exchanged pleasantries and Nero wanted to be off at a cracking speed, so away we went. I was having a pleasant chat with a local gentleman (thanks for your donation) with his Spaniel and Labrador, when we were overtaken by the ladies. Carried on going until eventually reaching Ringstead, an attractive small town, where we again met up with the ladies, they got ahead of me when I bought a Mars bar from a local shop and caught them up the hill, we were getting quite well aquainted by this time. We were now on the home run and Nero put on a burst of speed and we overtook them again, and walked down to the sign post marking the end of the walk, after having a nice chat to a couple who had been birdwatching and gave us some information on the coastal paths. We decided to celebrate at the local pub with half a shandy and a packet of crisps. On entering we met up with the ladies walking group. What a laugh - Hi Yvonne, Yvonne, Della and Sue thanks for your company, it was lovely meeting you all, thanks for your donations, much appreciated and thanks for taking the leaflets for us. Congratulations, you did really well. Look forward to hearing about your next adventure. Hi to Anthea from yesterday, got your message off the Visitors Book - thanks for contacting, hope you find the headcollars as successful for you as they have been for us.
Tomorrow - hoping to walk some of the Norfolk coastal path, but not decided which bits yet. Watch this space!
12th October - Overstrand to Sheringham via, Cromer (7.7 miles):can't believe it we have now walked over 400 miles and we are now well and truly on the downhill run. A cooler day today, but thankfully still dry so still good walking weather. Over an hour to get us to Overstrand, so it was a later start today. Had a chat to a lovely lady in the car park, who was very taken with Pearl and Cleo, (thank you for your donation). A man paragliding overhead certainly caught the attention of the dogs, but he was soon forgotten as they were let off - the first section was a beach walk, which we all enjoyed immensely, particularly Cleo, and her love of rabbits and not returning, she is great on a beach and had a great time in the waves and chasing stones. We checked our route at the Tourist Information office, (Hi to the lady I met in the loo, and thanks for your donation). Saffi got the road walk today, but it was all pavement so a cracking pace was the order of the day. Nero got the cliff top walk and back down to the promenade, this time in Sheringham itself. He also managed a run off on the beach, a fairly new experience for him, but one he enjoyed nevertheless. Started off on the cliff path and had a lovely chat with two ladies along there, and Nero won them over with his charm - or should I say lack of it. John text to say he would meet us at the end of the prom, so had to retrace our steps a short way and leave the cliff path for another day. Back to the site and fish and chips for supper.
Tomorrow - rest day
13th October - rest day: usual things, laundry, sorted the next caravan site bookings, leisurely lunch and went to Sandringham Visititors Centre, had a ride around the estate on a tractor and trailer - very interesting. Finished with tea and cake.
14th October - Sheringham to Blakeney (10.9 miles):said goodbye to our site neighbours for the last week, hope they had a safe journey back to London. The early morning mizzzle gave way to a dull but dry day as we arrived at Sheringham, after a brief stop at a delightful coffee shop called 'The Pretty Corner,' a most unusual and attractive venue. Pearl, Cleo and I set off at a pace with them on short leads as we were rather too close to the edge of the cliff path for comfort. There was a lovley view from the coastguard lookout point, and then we made our descent with Pearl on her side pulling herself down the grassy hill - what a dog! Cleo was playing her usual jumping game - how far have these dogs walked? Hello to the two ladies who took a liking to Pearl. It was lovely walking along the cliff path, although it was a challenge at one point, when I had hold of two dogs, a bag of poo and was trying to send a reply to text messages from my daughter. Good job women can multi task!!! Arrived at the rendezvous in a car park near the beach which was made up totally of stones. We have notied that loads of the local houses and buildings are covered in large pebbles, some with very attractive effects. Seeing how manyof these large pebbles are on the beach, I can see where they must get them all from. The beach effect is very dramatic, just like sand dunes, but totally made of stones. Saffi and I didn't know it, but we had 4 miles to walk on this lot - we were pretty fed up by the time we met up at the next car park, it took us twice as long as usual to walk the distance, and it was very tiring on the legs and feet. Saffi was a star, bless her and plodded along beside me all the way. The only good thing about it was we didn't meet any dog - 4,000 birdwatchers by the marshes, but no dogs! A much needed comfort stop took us to Cley next the sea, where we discovered an amazing delicatessen, and the compulsory coffee shop, which was very attractive. Nero and I set off much later than our usual time, but cracked a pace throught the marshes, meeting several friendly people along the way. Hi to the lady with the delightful puppy and rather nervous spaniel, and to the lovely couple I had a chat to just outside Blakeney. A fulfilling, but rather tiring day.
Tomorrow - we hope to leave Blakeney at about 12.oopm
15th October - Blakeney to Holkham Nature Reserve via Wells next the sea (10.9 miles):weather reasonable this morning as we left for the hour's drive to Blakeney, where we parked up at the Blakeney Hotel ( www.blakeney-hotel.co.uk) and enjoyed a leisurely sit, watching the world go by, whilst enjoying a pot of delicious coffe and home made scones. At about 12.15 Pearl, Cleo and I set off and continued on our way across the marshes, meeting several people along the way. Hello to the lovely couple we had a chat to, particularly the gentleman who Pearl decided to lean against with all her weight, whilst looking adoringly at him. Hi also to the two ladies accompanied by a delightful Curly Coated Retriever called Dolly, also the young man, birdwatching who was so pleased to have had a sighting of a seldom sighted bird, well done. Our first section was a very pleasant walk, Pearl had some time off lead, on much better terrain than yesterday, although Pearl did turn her nose up at some rather muddy bits and always seems to show me the dryest route through, whereas Cleo finds the wettest bits and sploshes through. Saffi was walking well, when along a narrow path, we were faced with a couple of people and four or five dogs off lead, I led her into a bramble bush, which we both enjoyed, but they were very understanding when I explained her 'love' of dogs, we had just got back on the path, when one of hers came back and she followed, we spent more time in the bramble bush, than I would have liked, but it worked, Saffi had treats, no barking and we were able to continue on our way as if nothing had occurred. Had a good text message from Andrew my son-in-law during the afternoon, to say their new house had completed and they were in. We made really good time across the marshes to the dyke on the outskirts of Wells next the sea and at the end went into a field which gave Saffi an opportunity for an off lead romp. After a comfort break, Nero and I started to walk towards the Lifeboat station along the dyke, unfortunately just before we got to the end, the heavens opened and the rain came down with a vengeance. Oh joy! Oh rapture! (We have just been so lucky with the weather, we have hardly had any really wet walks). We followed the coastal path signs which led us to a nature reserve path, which was good as there was some shelter to be had from the trees covering the paths. Finally met up with John and we returned to the car park, and made our way home via Tesco's for supplies. Enjoyed a cosy chat with Claire and sorted emails etc. Hi Linda, thanks for the visitors' book message, thanks for the encouragement, much appreciated. This was the last walk in this part of Norfolk, as we move nearer to Norwich on Monday, for some more walking in that area. My statistical advisor (John), tells me we have now walked for 40 days and have only another 72 miles to go.
Tomorrow - rest day
16th October - rest day: Had a leisurely start, and then in lovely weather, we went to meet some friends of long standing who are holidaying in the area, it was lovely to see Gilly and David and their friends, (who we haven't seen for years). We had a tour around Fellbrigg Hall, which was a lovely National Trust property in pleasant grounds.Dogs had a good romp in the fields. We parted company and returned to the van and a cosy supper.
17th October - pack-up day: changed beds, laundry annexe and awning down and then went to see the gardens at Sandringham. What a lovely place. Early night ready for moving from Sandringham to a Caravan Club site at Ludham near Norwich.
18th October - move day: had a good journey and got the van, awnings etc set up, Tesco's for a quick shop and an early night. We are in a mobile and internet desert, and may have difficulty blogging until we leave the area. Will do our best to keep you up-to-date. We will fill in more details when we move to the next caravan site next week.
19th October - Oustskirts of Potter Heigham to Acle (10+miles): what a day, every time we set off on a walk, we were diverted due to river bank repairs. We got lost, we changed routes, we found stiles and I managed to get Nero through two tiny gates, bless him! We are now in a Little Chef trying to update the blog. The staff have been so kind letting us do this for so long.
Tomorrow - hoping to leave Acle at appproximately 11.30.
20th October - heavy overnight rain didn't stop, so decided to call this a 'rest day ' instead of tomorrow.
21st October - Acle to Great Yarmouth via Stokesby (11+ miles): Left Acle at 11.00 am and made a brisk journey to Stokesby, where we enjoyed lovely coffee and toasties at a small village cafe (The Riverside Tearoom and stores). All the walks were on dykes today all very flat landscape and windmills, old and some still in use. It was a bit like Holland actually. Thought I had a problem with a bull and cow on the path, but thank goodness it out to be two cows. Knew my eyes were hopeless!!!! I think Saffi was relieved too. Nero and I had a lovely walk actually into Great Yarmouth, and apart from a rather large, lively Rottweiler growling and barking at him, (which, bless him he ignored, with the aid of a biscuit or two) it was uneventful. Updating in Sainsbury's today.
Tomorrow - hoping to leave Cantley at about 11.30 am
22nd October - Cantley to Reedham, then heading to Berney Mill, but had to divert and then some of Angles Way (10.8 miles): Started well at the sugar factory with Pearl and Cleo, walked along the riverside walk and then, 'Surprise! Surprise! A Diversion.' Off we went through the factory amidst the lorries etc until we came to a railway crossing, which we crossed and came into a lane - no idea where I was going, but followed the signs for Reedham, should come out somewhere. Map seemed to show it was ok. Followed the roads and passed a house with a huge sign saying GUARD DOGS - no sign, till we walked past, then two barking and slavvering Rottweillers appeared. Pearl and Cle, gave them a glance but didn't really bother (thank goodness I didn't have Saffi with me). Carried on down the road, no more signs, dead end - great! Went back and found another road, that seemed to be in the right place and carried on; phoned John and he agreed, so off we went , just arriving in Reedham, and guess what? Two guys pulled up in a car and asked me how to get to the sugar factory in Cantley. Me who couldn't find my way out of a paper bag. Well I gave them directions and they are probably still looking. Finally found John and we had coffee in a lovely little place called 'Cup Cakes.' It was full of Hallowe'en stuff and every time you moved or spoke something screeched, quite amusing. Moved on to Wherryman's Way and made really good progress with Saffi, weather was lovely, all was right with the world, got a call from John, no car access at the Berney rendezvous point. Off we came, over another railway line and walked up a loooong road, to find cows (again) blocking the road between two fields. To cut a long story short, John came through with car as they had all gathered at the gate to see Saffi, so didn't dare take her through. Eventually escaped and decided where to take Nero. Found Angles Way on edge of Great Yarmouth and actually managed an uneventful walk to finish the day and our walks at Norfolk. We have done all or part of the following walks in Norfolk: Peddars Way, North Norfolk Coastal Path, Weavers' Way, Wherrymen's Way, Angles Way. We now only have 40 miles t0 do. Just updating in Tesco's.
23rd Ocober - rest day: wet start to the day and showery on and off all day. Went into Norwich and had a quick look around, not enough time to do this historic city justice, but did get chance to have a look around some of the well known landmarks.
24th October - moved from Norfolk to Lincolnshire, weather vile in the morning, but improved during the day so we were able to get the awnings up in dry pleasant weather. Lovely site in a wood. Slightly better signal here, not wonderful, but better. We can at least use the computer here, which is a big bonus.
25th October - Boston to Kirkstead Bridge via Langrick ( omitting a section from Langrick to Chapel Hill) / 10+ miles: woke to a beautiful, cold autumn morning with a brilliant blue sky. Drove to Boston where Pearl, Cle and I started walking along the River Witham towards Lincoln, a lovely walk, with various information points along the way and several sculptures too. Met a very friendly couple with a lovely Bedlington Terrier and a Staffyand had a nice chat. Saffi had a good walk from Anton's Gowt to Langrick, where we availed ourselves of the delicious coffee and teacakes at the Station Cafe. John had a lovely chat with the proprietor prior to our arrival and we took his advice on the route and omitted the section between Langrick and Chapel Hill. This was good advice (thank you for that), and Nero and I had a pleasant uneventful walk to Kirkstead Bridge. On leaving Chapel Hill there were several Eurofighter (Typhoon aircraft from RAF Coningsby) overhead, a beautiful sight against the azure blue sky. There were loads of swans on the river, and it was lovely to see that a lot of the youngsters are now getting their white plumage. After the walk we drove to Woodhall Spa where we saw the Dambusters' memorial and a beautiful tudor style building which is now the Petworth House Hotel, formerly the Officers' Mess for 617 Squadron (The Dam Busters, who were stationed nearby).
Tomorrow - the forecast for tomorrow is not good. If it is very wet, we will not walk. It is is ok we hope to leave Kirkstead Bridge at approx 11.00 am. Watch this space!
26th October - Rest day: the weather was atrocious when we woke up, so we decided to make this a rest day and walk the rest of the week, whatever the weather may be. John downloaded a pile of photos and we went into Woodhall Spa to the Petwood Hotel (which was the Officers' Mess for 617 Squadron/The Dambusters, during the second world war). There was a very intersting room of memorabilia of the squadron's activities. The whole place was beautiful, a large tudor styled house, now a hotel and function centre which still has strong links to the RAF in this area. We then went to RAF Coningsby to the Battle of Britain, Memorial Flight Museum, which was really interesting. We then went back to the site and did the laundry, which, alas, was a disaster, as the tumble dryer didn't work. John had to take it to one in a nearby town, which fortunately I had noticed when we had passed earlier in the day.
Tomorrow - we hope to leave Kirkstead Bridge at approx 11.00 am
27th October - Kirkstead Bridge to Five Mile Bridge, via Southrey and Bardney (11+ miles): Left Kirkstead Bridge around 11.10 am after chatting to various dog walkers. Hi to the owners of the Standard poodle, Golden Retriever and Westie. The weather was glorious, beautiful clear blue skies and a slight breeze. Had a chat to a nice couple with a pair of Miniature Schnauzer pups from Southrey, and a couple who were also walking in my direction along the Water Rail Way. This is a path that runs along the side of the river and is on the site of an old railway, it is lovely. Stopped for lunch in Bardney and then set off for the last stretch. There are some interesting information boards of the area along the way and also some new sculptures, some traditional, some modern. Met up with John at 5 mile bridge and drove back to the van for supper. Only 17 miles left to walk!
Tomorrow - hope to leave Torksey Lock (the junction of the River Trent and The Foss Dyke and Witham Navigations) at about 11.30 am. (Walking the Foss Dyke back towards Lincoln).
28th October - Torksey Lock to 5 Mile Bridge (with a section of approx' 3 miles missing as no tow path) / 13+ miles: We awoke to the sound of rain, however, by the time we were up and about, it had stopped and the day improved and apart from slight drizzle later in the afternoon for a very short period, we were extremely lucky with the weather. The day started well, as before we even left the site, one of our neighbours gave us a generous donation. (Thank you for that.) Thank you also to the lady in the Caravan dealers, who kindly donated when John went for more gas. Instead of continuing from 5 Mile Bridge, where we finished yesterday, Map Man decided it would be better for both of us if we began beyond Lincoln at Torksey Lock and walked back to 5 Mile Bridge. This meant the longer drive (about an hour), was at the beginning of the day instead of the end, when we want to get back to feed the dogs. On arrival at Torksey Lock it was 11.30, so we sampled the coffee at a delightful little coffee shop on the banks of the river. Pearl, Cleo and I set off at a brisk pace along the path, which eventually led us to the top of the dyke. The weather was warm at this point, so it was very pleasant, apart from the nettle beds, we had to walk through. Do nettles affect dogs? They never seem to bother them. I thankfully was wearing my gaiters, so I was OK too. John met us at the point where the towpath ended and drove us the 3 miles down the road to the next point. Saffi and I set out and she walked really well. We met a lovely little family under the road bridge, enjoying a cycle ride in the half-term holiday, Saffi enjoyed a fuss from them. " Hi Thomas, Betsy, Mum and Dad, enjoy the rest of your half - term." Met up with John on the outskirts of Lincoln and swapped for Nero. He was an absolute star going through the centre of Lincoln, along the canal. He didn't bat an eyelid at the Fire engine and it's crew doing a mock rescue in the canal. He was petted and patted along the way and even when some manic dogs, barked at him, he just carried on. I do wonder what the reaction would be if I let Nero bark at other dogs, the way some small dog owners allow theirs to bark at him. This is what made Saffi a nervous wreck around other dogs. We plodded on and finally met up with John at about 5.30 pm. The pair of us, well and truly shattered. As I type this, all the dogs are draped around the caravan, fast asleep and snoring loudly (but not quite as loud as John). Thanks for the visitors book message Linda, great to hear from you. Only 4 miles to do tomorrow - all being well.
Tomorrow - we hope to round off the 500 miles with a local walk starting at The Dam Busters' Memorial in Woohall Spa, following the Viking Way and Spa Trail to Horncastle. We hope to leave at about 11 am.
29th October - The Dambusters' Memorial, Woodhall Spa to Horncastle Square (6+ miles): Thanks to more neighbours on the site who have made generous donations. A dry, but grey day, with some breeze saw us depart from the Dambusters' Memorial (www.woodhallspa.org/heritage_aviationmemorial ) on theViking Way to Horncastle (www.lincolnshire.gov.uk ). Met a very friendly man with his lovely dog Lily and had a good old chat about the walks in the area and the incidents of dogs with sickness, because of fungi or similar, his had had to have an operation and nearly died. Apparently the Queen has had to call for investigations at Sandringham, were we were warned when we were in that area. It is quite worrying. I haven't let our poor things off lead for fear of them eating something that may harm them. Yesterday there were even signs for rat poison when we were walking. The walk took Pearl and I across the golf course and through the woods, until we met John. Saffi had had a walk at the start of the day, so now it was Nero's turn. We walked the Spa Trail, which was lovely, with many beautiful sculptures along the way. http://www.woodhallspa.org/leisure_waterrailway met John at Horncastle and bought some yummy danish pastries to take back to the caravan, which we enjoyed with coffee and snoozed away the afternoon (dogs included). We celebrated with champagne with supper tonight. WE HAVE FINISHED! 502.63 MILES WALKED OVER 47 DAYS WALKING SINCE 1ST AUGUST 2010.
THANKS TO MY WONDERFUL HUSBAND, WITHOUT WHOSE SUPPORT, I COULD NOT HAVE CONTEMPLATED THIS PROJECT AND TO MY WONDERFUL DOGS, WHO HAVE DONE ALL WE ASKED OF THEM DURING THIS WALK. THEY HAVE LOVED IT, CERTAINLY SEEM TO HAVE DONE. THEY ARE ALL STARS.
THANKS TO YOU ALL FOR YOUR DONATIONS.
30th October - Rest day: Thanks to everyone for your kind messages on Visitors' book, personal email and text messages. We had a lovely lie in this morning and when we awoke it was a beautiful day, the wind had died down and the sun shone in a cloudless blue sky. Thanks for further donations from neighbours on the camp site. We had a leisurely breakfast and walked the dogs and then took down the annexe awning, one job less for tomorrow. We then drove into Lincoln where we spent a relaxing afternoon walking in the park and around the cathedral, which was magnificent. We refreshed ourselves with a pot of tea in Lesley's cafe in the cathedral approach. We gave the dogs a further short walk around the town and then returned to the caravan for supper.
Tomorrow - pack up day ready to move homewards on Monday.
31st October - pack up day: thanks to Ryan and his family who were on site for their donations, pleased you liked our dogs. Thanks to other site neighbours for their donations too. Packed the awning away successfully in dry weather, which as any caravanner will tell you is a real bonus. Walked the dogs and John took laundry to be dried nearby as dryer on site still out of action. John took me for afternoon tea to celebrate finishing the walk at the Petwood Hotel, Woodhall Spa. Very Yummy. All set to start the journey home tomorrow.
1st November - set off for home: woke to a lovely morning, had a leisurely breakfast, packed the final things and left the caravan site at Kirkby on Bain near Woodhall Spa and had a pleasant drive to Beechwood Grange, York arriving about 3.30 pm (a site used often by us as a family at this time of year). Lovely welcome from the staff here and thanks for your generous donation. Visited our favourite Garden Centre in this area, and got a couple of Christmas presents, and did similar at the Outlet Village. I have at least made a start, because it will be ages before I get another chance as their is so much to catch up on when we get back.
2nd November - HOME! We awoke to a pleasant, but extremely windy morning, breakfasted etc and took the dogs into the field on this lovely York site. They all had a lovely free run and settled down to sleep the journey home. We were welcomed back to Cumbria in true fashion, with rain, rain and more rain. We did manage to get over Stainmore, by travelling slow and steady which saved us a detour taking an extra couple of hours. It feels strange to be back, but it is nice sitting in an armchair, and we are looking forward to sleeping in our own bed tonight. It has been an amazing experience which we have both enjoyed, the dogs are fit and lively and they seem to have enjoyed it too, but they are happily scattered in front of the fire and on the sofas this evening. It has been lovely meeting so many people along the way, and seeing so much beauty in nature, art and in many other forms.
The sponsorship arrangements will remain in place until the end of the year, so if you know of anyone who would like to donate, it isn't too late the site is still active.
KEEP READING THE SITE, WHEN I HAVE DOWNLOADED AND SORTED ALL THE PICTURES I HOPE TO PUT SOME OF THEM IN THE GALLERY & MORE DETAILS OF THE ACTUAL WALKS.