Pennine Way day 11. Tan Hill - Middleton in Teesdale 19th August 2024

 We drove up to the area on Sunday and had an aftermoon exploring Richmond Castle, before driving to Tan Hill. We decided on the luxury of  a room at Tan Hill rather than the camper van. After a nice breakfast I set off around 9.00 and Anne left to drive home via her sister in Lincolnshire.

Temperature was mild and visibility good, so the trek over Sleightholme Moor was straightforward following the white tipped posts. Also, there had't been  much rain recently so it wasn't too boggy.

Before, I reached the A66 I met up with a fellow Pennine Wayfarer who had camped at Tan Hill the night before. I walked with him for a while up to the shooting cabin which doubled for a shelter.

Sleightholme Moor

Line of Grouse Butts

Sleightholme Beck

God's Bridge

God's Bridge

Subway under the A66

The path across Cotherstone Moor was indistinct and I took the wrong turning at one point which cost me some time. It was great to arrive at the farm at Clove Lodge where there was a superb honesty tuck shop. I met my fellow walker there who had also got lost on the moor. I had the most fantastic cup of tea and Mars bar there.

There was about 6 miles left to Middleton in Teesdale from Cove Lodge. Just after that the PW meets the Bowes loop which is an alternative route from Tan Hill through to the town of Bowes. The route from this point was pretty straightforward.

Grassholme Resevoir

I had decent accomodation in Middleton in Teedale at the Teesdale Hotel. After a pizza  it was an early night ready for tomorrows epic 20 miles.

Here is a link to a few video clips from the day:-

Day 11 Vids

A great start for this 4 day section with two tough days to come. About 16.5 Miles