Day1

 What can I say about today? Wow, wow and thrice wow! 

I slept well in my hotel and had a hearty cooked breakfast. I started walking at just before 9am.  As I said yesterday, the start of the path was right next door to the hotel. There was a large sign giving details of the route ( click on the picture to read the details). 

Within no time at all, I was out in the countryside. The path followed the River Wharfe and was very easy going. 

I soon reached Bolton Priory, where the estate had created some wonderful paths and trails. Eventually, I crossed this bridge where there was a great cafe. I was gasping for caffeine, so had two coffees and a flapjack. 


After that, I walked to a part of the river called ‘The Strid’. This is where the river has gouged a course through the limestone rock, leaving some very deep pools. 
The views just kept coming thick and fast. It was a nice sunny day with a gentle breeze, so that just added to the prettiness. 

I continued on past Appletreewick and came to Burnsall, where I was forced at gunpoint to stop for a pint! 
After that little pick me up, there was another 3 miles to go, with some more stunning scenery, alongside the river. I then  had to cross over on a rickety suspension bridge! 



 


After 16.7 miles, I reached my campsite on the edge of Grassington. 


I’ve now headed into the village where I’m having a meal at the Devonshire Arms. Some of you may recognise it, if you have been watching the Channel 5 version of ‘All Creatures Great and Small’.

In fact, the film crew are currently in the village, hence the ‘Dovers Arms’ sign, but I think they have finished for the day, because I haven’t seen them. 
I feel fine after my exertions and no blisters or aches to report. 
The weather forecast is for heavy rain overnight and strong winds, so I just hope the tent stays upright! 


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