Twice Brewed to Bellingham.

Hard to believe two weeks ago I was walking in a ceaseless downpour on my third Pennine Day.

Now it is so hot there are weather warnings for heat. I left Twice Brewed at 7am to cover as much ground as possible before the serious heat set in.

The terrain undulated. Up and down most of the way, but not steep. Good given the weather. A mixture of forest and farm land.

Looking at the map I thought I might be walking through the mono culture of conifers much of the day.

But much in the area had been cleared. The foxgloves had regrown and a lot of deciduous trees had been planted. The increase in bird song in the regeneration areas was noticeable.

I found a stream to cool my feet in. Not much water. Only a few days and so much has dried.

Just over 5 miles from Bellingham the Pit Stop sign appeared. At, I think, Horneystead. I sat in the shade and contentedly watched the swallows.

Although I had started with 2 litres of water I realised at Shitlington farm I had run out! There was no one about but lucky an outside tap. So thank you farm! I wouldn’t have wanted to do even the short distance I had in the heat without water.

Once over Shitlington Crags it’s a bit of a tedious trek down to Bellingham. Mixture of track and rough pasture, with a stretch on a busy road side. The river looked inviting. St Cuddys Well, the local claim to religious fame.

Only 3 days to go. 🤞