Date: 15th May 2014
Route: Langdon Beck -High Force
Distance: - 9 miles
Weather: - Hot & Sunny
So breaking with tradition the Jolly Boys (FAC) decided to swap their Summer camp at Kettlewell and spend a couple of days in Teesdale. Due to work commitments (bad planning on my part) I was only able to make the first days walk and even then only the afternoon part.
However, I duly arrived at Langdon Beck at 12.30pm, grabbed a pint from the bar and sat to await the arrival of the Hull lads. It wasn't long before the first of them appeared around a corner with the rest of the gang snaked out behind them.
Suitably knackered after a mornings walking they hit the bar for liquid refreshment and a tirade of abuse for the youngest person there who could only manage half a walk! After a couple of beers, some dubious exchanging of money (for what favours I shudder to think) they were ready to leave. Their high spirits had been slightly dampened by the Victor Meldrew attitude of the bar man reluctant to top up flasks with hot water!
So off we set heading to High Force, following the lovely river Tees and drinking in the beautiful Teesdale countryside. We soon arrived at Whatgarth Bridge, and began the short but tiring climb up to the tops where we settled for lunch. This has to be one of my favourite views around here and the weather was superb. So out came the plastic bags to sit on, various butties and cakes and another opportunity to abuse the half-dayer!
From here it was a sort walk back to High Force, which was as impressive as always followed by the descent down to the bridge. Then the killer steps up to the High Force Hotel which had chosen to close its doors - so no refreshment for us then!
To scupper our evening plans there had been a serious accident on the road to Barney and the police had shut it off. The only route back to Barney, and in my case Bishop, was a long detour through Alston. The upshot of this meant I was unable to join the gents for their evening meal (which they had to put back to allow for the drive time back).
So after hitching a lift back to Langdon Beck to collect my car I began my scenic extended ride home. Despite the end to the day it had been another spectacular and beautiful day.
