DAY 14 : ENGLAND : CLAY BANK TOP to BLAKEY RIDGE - 13kms - 3 1/2 hours

There was much deliberation at breakfast amongst various groups of walkers about whether to believe the weather forecast of heavy rain or not. I put on my waterproof gear and it was obvious as we got into the hotel car, to be delivered back to Clay Bank Top, that rain was definitely on the agenda.

All decked out in our waterproof gear

We climbed up the penultimate steep climb of the Coast to Coast Walk from the road to the top of Urra Moor. Here it became flat track along the last stage of the Lyke Wake Way on large pavement stones and then on to a former railway track, now a flat drained elevated walking route. We were grateful for this because as soon as we started climbing there was wind and driving rain. We all just put our heads down and pushed forward. We could see the moor and the bordering farms on the valleys below but as we progressed the fog closed in and visibility became very limited.





Ancient grinding stone

Waymaker denoting ownership of land

Mist rolling on to the moor

Zero visibility

                                                                                                                                                                   
We made good time to our destination,The Lion Inn on Blakey Ridge. From a distance it was the only sign of civilisation and we were pleased to arrive safely, albeit sodden. It looked from the moors as if it was isolated but as we climbed the hill and entered from the front of the building we realised it was on a main road, and was a popular stopping point for many travellers.

Lion Inn, Blakey Ridge

The White Lion has an interesting past. During the reign of Edward 111  a house plot and 10 acres of land on Farndale Moor were given to the Order of Crouched Friars. It is thought that the friars founded the inn between 1553 and 1558 to relieve their poverty.
Today, it still has has a very historic feel, with low ceilings and exposed beams but the accommodation is first rate, with comfortable rooms and ensuites. We have appreciated such a cosy retreat from the forbidding weather and enjoyed wholesome meals and an opportunity to dry out.

PS Actually some of the meals have been totally over the top - the helpings are enormous - everything comes with mountains of chips, unless you request otherwise, and is greeted with disbelief. Here are two examples from last night. Julie was given 9 potatoes and Mark's accompaniment to his steak and kidney pie.

Only 9 potatoes!

Chips anyone?

M&M

PS Click on photos to enlarge.