Swaledale 11-13 March 2016

I wasn't going to do another blog but it became evident that one or two people were waiting for it so here goes!

Friday 11 March

We set off from Bradford at 9.00 a.m. with a full coach, some staying in B&Bs in Reeth and the remainder in the YHA Grinton Lodge. This was originally a hunting lodge and from the outside it has a rather austere appearance. However there has been extensive refurbishment since the last time we stayed and the showers and toilets are all new. The self-catering kitchen has also been refurbished but is very small with only two small domestic fridges and not much work top space. Fortunately there were only three of us self-catering this time so we managed. A tip worth remembering when staying in a hostel is to take as little as possible that needs refrigeration and take food that needs little preparation.

Once we reached Swaledale we had a choice of three walks 'A', 'B' and 'C' . I opted for the B walk led by Keith and after being dropped off at Langthwaite we climbed up onto Fremington Edge and walked along the ridge before dropping down into Reeth with a short time for refreshments. We were very lucky with the weather, just a bit misty and some good views along Swaledale with the river snaking its way through the valley below.

Booze

There was still a little bit of snow here and there and on the higher tops where the A party ventured.

I was looking forward to a cup of tea in the Copper Kettle in Reeth but unfortunately it was closed when we got there so we had to make do with a cuppa in the ice cream parlour instead.

Reeth

Most people went to one of the pubs for drinks or cream teas before we departed for Grinton Lodge. Sometimes we have to feel sorry for Steve the driver as he has a bit of a boring time hanging around all day waiting for us to finish our walks and fill his coach with mud! However on this occasion we were all rather envious of his accommodation in the tower. He wasn't open to bribes of any amount to use his bath!

Refurbished to a high specification in 2012, the beautiful building also boasts a gorgeous honeymoon suite complete with a free standing roll top bath on the top floor – a great place to stay for couples or if you enjoy your privacy.

The evening finished with a quiz from Jackie Hotchen that apparently was rather difficult and had people scratching their heads.

Saturday 12 March

There were another three walks available on Saturday and once again I opted for the B walk led by Val and Ann. We took the coach to Gunnerside and did a circular 12 mile walk via Keld and Muker. Once again the sun shone and we had splendid views of Swaledale from both sides of the valley. Lunch was taken at Kisdon Force.

Early morning at Grinton Lodge

Ivelet Bridge

Swinner Gill

Kisdon Force

The Pennine Way path

 We arrived back in Gunnerside to find the tea room closed but the pub has re-opened and there was time for refreshments before we departed.

I had a wander around Gunnerside and took a few photos before boarding the coach.

Village green

Millenium Clock

We picked up and dropped off in Reeth on our way back to Grinton Lodge. It was Frank's 84th birthday today so there were two celebration cakes and a round of 'Happy Birthday to You' after the evening meal plus several bottles of beer and wine were consumed. A good day was had by all.

Sunday 13 March

In no time at all it was time to pack up and leave but not before we were lucky enough to experience a beautiful morning in the sun looking out over the swirling mist in the valley bottom.

One or two of us managed to snatch a few peaceful moments in the garden before the mist rolled over us and it was time to depart.

Once again I chose the B walk which started in Reeth and finished in Richmond. It was a fairly level walk apart from one climb up tp Marrick and followed the Coast to Coast route for the most part.

Marrick Priory now an outdoor centre

We saw a few of these!

Lovely lunch spot

The black sheep of the family!

 The mist never really cleared today but at least it didn't rain and the temperature was idea for walking.

Richmond town square

 Nearly everyone turned up in Wetherspoons in Richmond for food and drink before catching the coach home. We were rewarded with a beautiful sunset as we travelled home arriving in Bradford just after 7.00 p.m.

 Many thanks to all the walks leaders, Jean Galthen for organising the weekend and  Steve the driver for getting us around safely. Our next weekend away is in Stratford on Avon in May and as I write this there are still a few places left on the coach and in the hostel so hope to see you all there.

PS. Sheila has provided the following photos from the C walks, thanks Sheila.

Booze village

Calver Hill