Stage 8 Horton to Hawes

Breakfast wasn’t until 8! I reduced how much I ate as my trousers are getting tight, then it was a car ride back to the Pennine way. We started the day in shorts and t-shirts but soon had full waterproofs on that remained in place until we reached Hawes although it was more drizzle than rain. It did mean the absolutely stunning views of pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough remained hidden from view. We did come across beautiful Ling Gill nestling in a hillside. Today’s walk was a gentle incline almost until the end when you drop down into Hawes. The start of the walk was really busy with three-peak walkers but we soon diverted and saw no other walkers. It’s more gentle moorland here not like the earlier moors. My feet were really bad after the climbs of yesterday and for the first time I resorted to pain killing gels, I so hope tomorrow they are more settled.

Hawes is a small market town heaving with tourists making memories, which is what Hawes is for me. I spent every school holiday just along the Dale. Hawes was were we brought the cows and sheep to market, with fish and chips on the way home. It’s one of the places I “hung out” on the days the bus ran. It will always be a special place for me.

Middle Studland Farm B&B, Horton. Nice people, lovely deep carpets, just right for sore feet, and shoes weren’t allowed so going to the dining room didn’t mean digging in the suitcase for shoes. The whole place was nicely presented and we were welcomed with cake and tea in the garden. Food was very good. The only thing I didn’t like was it was a bit too prim with the no-shoe policy and squeegees for use on the shower etc.