Pennine Way Day 12 Middleton in Teesdale - Dufton 20/08/2024

 An epic day on the PW. 20 miles, 3 waterfalls, the River Tees and High Cup Nick.

I set of (in the dark !) at 5AM. The first couple of miles were mostly across farm fields fairly close to the Tees. After that the walk became far more interesting and spectacular as I reached the first waterfall of the day - Low Force.

Low Force

Next up was High Force (in the rain). I was having problems with both my feet by this point and was beginning to wonder if I was going to be able to continue after today. The rain stopped shortly after High Force and I maanaged to find somewhere to stop for breakfast. It's amazing how food and rest can lift the spirits !!

Bridge near Low Force

Low Force

High Force

Breakfast stop

The next section continue to follow the Tees and after a tricky descent to Cronkley Farm I crossed the Tees.

The next stretch was a beautiful trek on the along he north bank of Tees with great views both of the river. Eventually I reached the rocky section before Cauldron Snout, and the going became slow and careful as I picked my way across the rocks and boulders. I was eventually rewarded with a brilliant scramble up the side of Cauldron Snout which in my estimation was the most spectacular of the days waterfalls.

The magnificent River Tees

Cauldron Snout

       

Dam Wall - Cow Green Resevoir

Crossing the footbridge just above the falls and below the dam wall of Cow Green Resevoir the walk then followed Maize Beck ( atributary of the Tees) all the way to the magnificent High Cup Nick.

Bridge over Maize Beck

High Cup Nick

From the High Cup Nick the trail drops (quite steep in places) a few miles down to Dufton where I had booked a 'hobbit hut' at the camp site fot the night. On the way down I was treated to the sight of some wild ponies.

Here is a link to a few video clips -

Day 12 Vids

After fish and chips in the pub I was soon back at the camp site and fast asleep after an unforgettable 20 mile epic.

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