However, and sorry Richmond, it was a bit disappointing and we found little to do there. We did get the feeling that Richmond has fallen on hard times and around the castle walls was evidence of a significant street drinking problem. Our Bed and Breakfast, Frenchgate, however, was another good one, with fabulous conservatory views, and we had a peasant pub meal and a good night's sleep. What more does one need?
The next morning we reached another important milestone, this being the crossing of the A1. Actually we didn't cross it, we passed under it, which wouldn't normally be worth mentioning, except for the fact that our female minder reported vivid memories of crossing over the A1 on her previous Coast to Coast walk. She found it hard to believe that she had unknowingly gone 'off piste' before.
Being keen racing fans, as many of our readers will know, we were quite excited to find that the C to C route took us right past Catterick racecourse. Sadly there was no racing on that day, but as we had not yet ticked off Catterick, we stopped off to have a bit of a sneak preview.
By now the terrain was pretty flat so it was easy walking to Danby Wiske where we were to stay for the night. The village is blessed by an excellent Bed and Breakfast in the Old School House, where Frank and Doreen proved to be lovely hosts. There is also the White Swan Inn which offered a great range of real ales and served up a good meal later on. As we sampled our first beer, at about 3.30 p.m. we were pleased to be re-acquainted with some fellow C to C walkers. They were not stopping overnight and were doing the long 23 miles to Ingleby Cross, so had a long way still to go. They had blisters and were very envious of us, who had finished walking for the day, as they really did not want to set out again. We tried not to feel smug - actually we didn't, as they were lovely Australian ladies and we were quite worried for them.
Quite by accident we'd picked a good night to be at the pub, as the local sword dancing club, of which the Landlord is a member, were practising in the pub that night.
It was very entertaining and the music was good too. We like having authentic entertainment for free, and of course, being adventurous bears, we couldn't resist having a go. We took care to keep our paws clear of the blades as we needed them for the rest of the walk.
Lots of love
George, Yorkie, Gio and Wooly xxxx
1 comment:
Eating a "peasant" followed by sword dancing! My my my - Suffolk Branch can't wait for such excitement when they resume the C2C later in the year!
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