25 April 2018
The lodge welcomed twelve guests over Easter to face the elements on our Easter Walking Break and a very uncertain forecast.
Even the meteorologists started the week’s summary with “There is very little confidence in this forecast!” – So Penny predicted that we would stay in the valleys and rather cautiously attempt some low level walks of 7 or 8 miles – but this group were having none of it! With wild enthusiasm and, it’s fair to say, a good degree of walking experience behind them, we covered 33 miles in the three days including Fremington Edge, Calver Hill, Gunnerside Gill and Melbeck Moor as well as some of the must see sights closer to home, namely Castle Bolton and Aysgarth Falls. They took it all in their stride and Penny had to extend each day to satisfy their walking appetites.
Walking in Wensleydale – Eastfield Lodge B&B
The group did experience one very wet morning but the Wheatsheaf was ideally placed for a warm up and hot coffee (or, for some, beer.) Steam was literally rising from the walkers as we took refuge in the Carperby hostelry but spirits were never dampened. Due to the weather and the distances walked, a fair number of cafés and pubs were visited during the three days and very well deserved they were too!
Despite the pessimistic predictions, we did have dry days, far warmer than the charts suggested and even allowing a picnic lunch in Reeth in intermittent sunshine on the first day as well as a packed lunch stop beside the Old Gang mines on Melbeck Moors.
Walking in the Dales never fails to provide beautiful views, friendly locals and an array of wildlife, particularly birds but as a group, it is also the banter, conversation and shared interests which make it so memorable. Within this group of twelve, it was remarkable the number of cross overs in employment, hobbies and past walking experiences. The constant buzz of conversation was a joy.
This wonderful group of capable hikers are already planning the next get together at the lodge with a view to completing the Yorkshire 3 Peaks over the three day break. Watch this space everyone – I’m working on it and getting an itinerary and route together challenging enough for you all.
Best wishes
Penny & Henry
Join us on our next walking break at Eastfield Lodge B&B in the Dales – Click here for more information.
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