JOGLE A summer saunter

The Journey Home

2009-08-29T03:08:00.000-07:00

After spending a few days relaxing in Brixham, Paignton and Torquay we set off home only to end up 8 hours sitting on the m5 3 miles north of the Avon bridge watching kids playing football and hockey on the fast lane and people walking dogs and babies on the hard shoulder, because some idiot decided to spoil our day by trying to jump off after 3 months on the road with very few problems it was a shame to end up in this ............ but wouldn't have missed any of it. So it goes.......
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The End Post

2009-08-27T10:54:00.001-07:00

At last as i walked into lands about 4.20 and 66 days on the 25th August a voice over the tanoy welcomed me in and people applauded it was a real nice feeling. A great sense of acheivement and at last it was done.

It is so different to John O Groat very touristy with little amusements and coffee shops. Attractions and lots of people. At the post a picture and another spontanious round of applause

The End 25th August 2009

The Start 1st June 2009

A glass of champagne to celebrate and to raise a toast to all the people who have raised money for cancer research a big thankyou to all the campsites and superstores for the donations.

And a special thankyou to sherpa dennisterlee could not have done it without you xxx.

This has been a summer to remember a wonderful adventure. Time now to reflect and decide on the next big adventure.

Cheers

Halsetown - LANDS END August 24th Day 64

2009-08-27T08:47:00.001-07:00

The day has arrived today i will arrive in lands end its 16 miles away and i can taste it. A nice walk in sunshine through Zennor, Pendeen Sands and St Just. I finally had a cornish past in St Just very nice it was.

A sight to behold. 64 days over 1100 miles really not sure how i feel at the moment just want to get there and touch the post.

Walking the last bit down past the airport i could see the end of the coast.

It was nice to finish this with sunshine. A real sense of acheivment.

Portreath - Halsetown August 24 Day 63

2009-08-27T08:44:00.000-07:00

Back on the road and right decision to get off the SWC path. With sea on my right all the way i headed for Hayle and then onto St Ives a very hilly busy place.

But only one day to lands end. Staying at a nice little campsite for free again very busy.

Perranparth - Portreath August 22 Day 62

2009-08-27T08:43:00.001-07:00

This is a beautifull coast line and the path is a nice walk although sometimes hard work. With sea breeze i plodded on to Portreath. The last part of the cliff path had been closed due to coastal erosion. So a little walk on a lane. To a campsite called Cambrose and a day off tomorrow. Thankyou very much for free camping and a very nice campsite it was. I think i'm going to get off this coast path it is such slow going and the end post is in sight. And barring accidents i can be there in two days by road.

St Columbus Major - Perranporth August 21st Day 61

2009-08-27T08:40:00.000-07:00

With Newquey just 7 miles down the road off i went into tourism hell. Pass the airport. There was a spitfire in a garden and various other bits of aircrafts in others. Arriving in Newquey was a shock to the system people everywhere wondering aimlessly round shops full of tatt. Surf boards and beach bums everywhere. What a place. One redeeming feature was a pub called Leadbellies. Here i was going to join the Southwest Coastal Path for my final walk into lands end. but first i had to get to perranporth. This path although beautifull scenery can be testy at times. It was so nice to see the sea after so long. It was a long old slog to the campsite in and out and up and down.

Cardinham - St Columbus Major August 20th Day 60

2009-08-22T06:18:00.001-07:00

By passing Bodmin on the lanes down through Victoria walking into the wind all day. Walking on the old A30 with new one just to my left. That was busy busy. A long straight road with very little to look at. The camp for the evening was called Trekening just by St Columbus Major. It was very busy full of kids and noise. The saving grace was it had Baths wow lovely a nice soak. Well worth the £1 in the water meter.

Minions - Cardinham August 19th Day 59

2009-08-22T06:16:00.002-07:00

Waterproof day to day it was very misty and damp. Walking across the top of the moors across Browngelly Downs and through St Neot down to Cardinham Woods to a campsite that was awful. It had one toilet no basin and the showers, well the solar bags hung up in the barn left a lot be disired and they charged £10 wont be going back there. It was wet night on the side of a hill and in the morning the fog so thick you could not see the woods across the field.

The view from the tent in the evening

Tin Hay - Minions August 18th Day 58

2009-08-22T06:16:00.001-07:00

From Tin Hay i left the camp and just up the road was the sign i wanted to see.Yippee the last County Cornwall. After 58 days the home stretch was in front of me. On the B3254 a nice walking day weather wise walking on the edge of Bodmin Moor with the wild horses and open area very nice. Looks like 66-1 shot one joe would back.

The open moors a lovely with the Hurlers Stone Circle in view and lots of chimney type building dotted about these i think are something to do with tin mining. The Evening camp was behind yet another pub a 16th century inn. Who let people camp behind it and we were not alone as there was a community of travellers living there. In the evening over a pint i met a fellow Steve who had made his living mainly picking. He told me about his last job which was picking nettle leaves that were used to cover cheese. Amazing £11 a kilo he said after a while he could not feel the ends of his fingers what a charactor. And a woman who called herself a Prayer Mother called Megarry who offered to do any washing we had and donated £5.00 thankyou. And a thankyou to nobby the landlord who let us camp for free.

Oakhampton - Tin Hay August 17th Day 57

2009-08-22T06:15:00.002-07:00

On the lanes again through Bridestowe a nice little town with the river West Okement running through. A long walk to the camp mainly up hill. A nice little site thanks for the Donation. There were a couple of little camper with fella's in who had been working in the area.

Crediton - Oakhampton August 16th Day 56

2009-08-22T06:15:00.001-07:00

On country lanes all day through Yeoford to wards South Tawton. A nice little village where i got a cuppa of the WI very nice too. The only campsite for miles was closed in 2006 so a wild camp would have been nice so pitching up the tent in a feild only to be told that i had to move on because the cows were going to be released there. There is one thing i have noticed since arriving in Devon the free camping is few and far between the stores are less eager to give gift vouchers. And in the middle of nowhere the post offices and shops are porta cabins again like in scotland. This one is in Thoreverton.

Tiverton - Crediton August 14th Day 55

2009-08-22T06:13:00.001-07:00

Leaving the canal behind i attempted to walk the River Exe path which i must say is none exsistant so backon the road i went. Its sad that these paths are not maintained because they would make lovely walks. And walked to Bickleigh to the bridge over trouble waters which i am told is the inspiration for the Simon and Garfunkel song. A very nice sight too.

The roads here are so narrow and quite busy so off to the lanes for me. Although much quieter but nothing but high hedges on either sides. It was like being a giant maze. Tonights camp was in a place called No mans Land. There was one other camper there who had a party on the evening to meet the new inlaws as there daughter was getting married the next day in Exeter. Thanks again for the free camp.

Wellington - Tiverton August 13th Day 55

2009-08-22T06:12:00.000-07:00

Today i arrived in Devon mainly along the A38 a busy road getting on the canal at Sandford Peverell and a nice walk to Tiverton. A very hot day and a long walk. Much nicer by the side of water. Luckly there was a lot of shade. Funny not seeing one boat on the canal all day. Tonights camp was very nice at the back of a pub in Sandford called the Merrymead that used to be a family home a massive place. A few beers in the evening in the pub very nice too. Thanks for your hospitality. At the weekend there was to be a vintage car rally so four or five blokes tidying the ground all falling over each other very funny.

The end of the canal at Tiverton

Bridgwater-Wellington August 12th Day 54

2009-08-22T06:11:00.001-07:00

Todays walk was mainly along the A38 the weather is sunny perfect walking weather. Just before Taunton on to the river Tone which went right through the town. A busy little place. Tonight staying at a little campsite for free thanks very much. Well i've see some things in my time but this made me laugh. A man who was visiting from Hong Kong with his wife hired this

Campers r us from london £40 a day it was really funny watching them trying to sort out where to put everything so they could sleep.

Soon after arriving we met up with a Dutch Couple who were cycling and shared a meal of jacket spuds cooked in the bucket. A very pleasant evening.

Just outside the camp was this Varda with a an old gypsy lady and her horse it was a lovely sight.

Churchill - Bridgwater August 11th Day 53

2009-08-11T10:39:00.002-07:00

Thanks West End Campsite for two nights free camping. It was nice to have my son come and stay on sunday we had a good evening catching up and then seeing the princess on monday was a real treat.
So todays walk the weather was sunny with a gently breeze a pleasant days walking. All on the A38.

Bristol - Churchill 9th August Day 52

2009-08-11T10:39:00.001-07:00

Out of the city it was nice to see countryside again. Passed Bristol Airport on right. Passed car storage places. The landscape is becoming a bit more hilly moving towards Devon

Having Day off tomorrow for daughters birthday so a day spent in Weston Super Mare awaits.

Falfield - Bristol August 8th Day 51

2009-08-11T10:37:00.002-07:00

Because i was staying another night at Hogsdown i made my way back to Bristol. The traffic on A38 was horrendous bumper to bumper for miles i thought it funny that i was walking faster and getting futher than anyone else sitting in their cars on a red hot sunny day. In Bristol there was a cider festival hard to walk past but i kept my head down and carried on. Also Bristol Rovers where playing at home so the streets were full of people sitting outside little bars all merry. And to add to the traffic problems a balloon festival was going on too. There had been some accidents on the M5 so all traffic had ended up going right through the town. I was pleasantly suprised Bristol is a nice cosmopolitan place.

Moreton Valence - Falfield August 7th Day 50

2009-08-11T10:37:00.001-07:00

Back on the A38 and nice weather. Its a long straight road going through villages i feel ok my feet are healing nicely thanks to compeed. These new boots ripped my feet to bits the first day so walking has been a little bit uncomfortable the last couple of days. Tonight stayed in a smashing campsite called Hogsdown and there Jenny and Neville the owners made us very welcome even inviting us to stay another night for free and join in a 70th Birthday party being held the next night. A nice time thank you and guess who turned up Sofie minus Patch the dog who had been sent home due to trouble with cows so it was nice to see she was ok and still getting on.

Shuthonger - Moreton Valence 6th August Day 49

2009-08-11T10:36:00.000-07:00

Down through the nice little market town of Tewksbury on a sunny, at last day. Plenty of blue rinse getting off coaches. Lots of people pottering about. A long day today. Because i intend to get through Gloucester. Ended up back on the canals for a short time a very nice day. Stayed in a funny campsite called Gables Farm. I think it was a place for workers of the land mainly foreign. There were two lovely big old Campers on the site. There was a beautiful sunset that night.

Kempsey - Shuthonger 5th August Day 48

2009-08-11T10:34:00.000-07:00

At last on the road A38 with the Malverns on my right. This may not be everybodys ideal route but some of the paths leave a lot to be desired. And with the weather being up and down its best for me.
Any way the countryside is very nice with farms and little villages along the way. This road walking is more enjoyable. Stayed on a lovely site just opened called Sunrise Camp Site. Very nice and clean and for free thankyou.

Holt Fleet to Kempsy 4th August Day 47

2009-08-10T05:30:00.001-07:00

Along the river severn but this is not enjoyable would prefer to be on the roads so at the Ketch i climbed out the bog and onto the roads and in new boots set off again pounding the roads. As you can see these ones are slightly worn out .

Wolverly - Holt Fleet July 29th Day 46

2009-08-10T05:26:00.000-07:00

Following the canal through Kidderminster onto stourport then picking up the river severn and the severn path. Not really a path at all. All over grown and boggy i am looking forward to having the weekend off. Going to stay at the Wharf which used to by my local when i lived in Worcester say hello to some old friends and visit some family and people raising money.

Coven to Wolverly July 28th Day 45

2009-08-10T05:19:00.000-07:00

All the way along the canal at last a nice day. So many boats along this stretch and many in need of repair. The path was boggy and i slipped my way there. At some points i was more like bambi than a walker.

Rugeley - Coven July 26th Day 44

2009-08-10T05:07:00.001-07:00

A very long day across cannock chase on the heritage trail to coven and two days by the canal i just wish the weather would brighten up it just makes it so miserable. I would like to say a very big thankyou to the Wolverhampton Boat Club who gave a warm welcome and a safe camping spot by the side of the canal. Looks like tomorrow off the weather is awfull and weather warnings everywhere. Will see you phil on the way back up thanks for looking after some things see you soon.

Marchington - Rugley July 25th Day 43

2009-08-10T05:05:00.000-07:00

Along Blithfield Resovoir nice and flat getting a pace on now not a lot to say about this section the countryside all seams the same now.

Alton - Marchington July 24th Day 42

2009-08-10T05:00:00.000-07:00

Towards Uttoxeter along country lanes another wet miserable day. Thanks to Tesco and Morrisons for the vouchers. And Argos for the new tent. All the wet weather had made a real impression on the the old tent and it leaked like a sieve. Spending two nights on this campsite for nothing again so thankyou for that.

Warslow - Alton July 23rd Day 41

2009-08-10T04:55:00.000-07:00

A very hilly day to day towards Alton Towers weather not bad. Passed the world headquarters for JCB massive place. Tonight camped in a lane next to another dairy farm and the farmer sent out an electric extention so i was able to get everything dry. Thanks for that.

Buxton - Warlsow July 22nd Day 40

2009-08-10T04:52:00.000-07:00

A miserable wet day again it can get to you after a while everything soaking wet. Across the peak district mainly farming land the country side all seams to blend into one on wet horrible days when is the weather going to break where's the summer they promised ha anyway on and on i came across a big bookshop in the middle of nowhere how do they stay open..

New Mills - Buxton July 22nd Day 40

2009-08-10T04:48:00.000-07:00

Today was really nice my brother did the 13 miles with me along the canal to Whaley bridge then following the river Gowt Valley Resovoir it took out alot of climbs and as i finished the heavens opened again. Stayed at a nice little campsite. The camps have been good also mostly not charging so thank you to them.

Denshaw - New Mills July 20th Day 39

2009-08-10T04:36:00.000-07:00

I had a long day to day i wanted to get the new mills where my brother dave lives so it was good slog. Again the rain came. I walked through Delph and D0bbs Cross it was pretty miserable some summer this has turned out to be but got to get there and day off tomorrow. Taking the canal path from Greenfield to Stalybridge and up on a good climb to New Mills via Roweth. Staying at my brothers for two days get some washing done and relax.

Hebdon Bridge - Denshaw July 19th Day 38

2009-08-10T04:22:00.001-07:00

Todays walk through Sowerby across saddleworth moor was a nice day the weather being kind makes a change i've really enjoyed this walk and this part of the country is very pleasant camping in a farmers field again to night. The only problem with wild camps is the weather but all the way farmers have been very good. Also the supermarkets Asda, Tesco etc have donated money cards to buy freash food so a very big thank you to them.

Oakfield - Hebdon Bridge July 17th Day 37

2009-07-20T06:44:00.000-07:00

After all the rain and wind todays walk was very pleasant. Mostly up hill moving out of the dales and into the pennines. I met an old fella 82 and walked with him for awhile. He said he walked about 6 miles a day everyday. He showed me a pathway into Hebdon and a nice little town it is. With lovely little stone buildings and a lovely bridge in the middle of the town. An earned day off tomorrow to watch the golf.

Skipton-Oakfield July 16th Day 36

2009-07-20T06:35:00.000-07:00

It started raining about 7 oclock last night and it just didn't stop all day and through the night the wind was blowing really strong the worst day since begining this walk. Today's walk was a real slog. I walked through torrents of water on the road because the drains had not been cleaned out for years and all the water just ran down the sides of the road.
Went to a campsite called Upwood who were great only charged one night and being as the rain was so bad and i was due a day off i stayed for three nights. On the saturday went into the club house and the lovely people there took a glass round and raised £40 so a big thank you to them.

Kettlewell - Skipton July 15th Day 35

2009-07-19T08:40:00.000-07:00

You can tell when your getting near big towns the roads become so busy and today was not exception. A quick thank to Tesco for the food voucher and Morrisons for the gift voucher.

Hawes - Kettlewell July 15th Day 34

2009-07-19T08:31:00.000-07:00

I have not walked the Pennine way and without maps would be silly, i am glad i didn't go that way i have walked mainly on b roads since leaving Scotland and its been really nice. Todays walk was really nice along side a nice river most of the way.

Met a man called John Davis who owned a little gallery in Kettlewell and he paid for the camp site tonight so thankyou John. The village was very small it had a tea shop and a pub thats it. Dont know what people do out here. It had lots of little holiday cottages most empty.

Kirkby Stephen - Hawes July 14th Day 34

2009-07-19T08:24:00.000-07:00

Today was up and down dales. It is very pretty out here i thought Scotland spectacular but the Yorkshire Dales are really very nice. Saw a wonderfall river running through a place called Gayle. Up and over the butter tubs which i found out to be holes in the ground that had

water falls some were so deep you could not see the bottom.

Tonight was spent on some waste ground at the back of a very nice family thankyou for that it was very peaceful. One thing about travel you meet some nice people.

Appleby-Kirkby Stephen July 13th Day 33

2009-07-19T05:36:00.000-07:00

Leaving Appleby

Todays walk was mainly down lanes the weather was nice. With the north Yorkshire Dales in sight and more open spaces and big hills a nights rest was required and in a nice little cove on the edge of the dales gave good shelter. Just in time tent up before a down pour.

Catching a rainbow

Plumpton Head – Appleby July 11th Day 32

2009-07-13T05:07:00.000-07:00

Through Penrith a nice market town. Busy little place with lots of little alley’s full of shops geared for walkers. Thanks Cancer Research for the new shorts and t shirt.

Onto the A6 then a nice little country lane to Bolton and a weekend just outside Appleby famous for the Gypsy Horse Fair this weekend there was a carnival. A a day off camping in the garden of 17th century cottage besides the river.

Carleton – Plumpton Head July 10th Day 31

2009-07-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

Starting today walking along side the River Petteril that runs through Richards land. A nice stroll on a public footpath that cut out a large section of the A6 through Wreay Woods to Wreay village with one pub and a nice church. Then through Southwaite toward Penrith a short walk to Plumpton Head Farm and the owner another dairy farmer called John. Thanks for the milk and another night in a field. Would like to say how nice the farms are kept along the way.

Gretna – Carleton July 9th Day 30

2009-07-13T04:55:00.000-07:00

ippeeeeeee Today I arrived in England that’s Scotland done roughly 380miles behind me. The last man I spoke to in Scotland was phil cutting his hedge at the last hotel in Scotland. As I crossed the border into England you could notice the difference in landscape it just seemed to stretch out in front of me. Off on to a now almost disused A74 since the opening of the motorway that runs along side. This was a nice road to walk not to busy and relatively flat. The weather was nice just right for walking. My straw hat came in handy. The lake district was off to the right and looked very nice. Arriving in Carlisle about lunch time the traffic was awful so I avoided the city and headed out on the A6 towards Penrith. A quick thanks to Asda for the £15 worth of food vouchers.

Tonight was spent in a field owned by Richard Workman from Beeches Farm a very nice man and I quote ‘the only farmer with a bull firing blanks ‘ he’s a dairy farmer and had some lovely cows but was having trouble with his bull. Thanks Richard a peaceful night. Hope you got the bull sorted.

Lockerbie – Gretna July 8th Day 29

2009-07-13T04:50:00.000-07:00

Still walking the B7076 through Ecclefechan the birth place of Thomas Carlyle. Another nice day with mainly farmland for scenery. I notice there were five modes of transport on this section the M74 the railway the river the cycle path and the road. I was surprised to meet Donald again coming towards me on his bike after a quick chat he told me he went to find his mate in Gretna which I thought was really nice of him. He couldn’t but told me the pub he would be in later. Blogsy is not a hard person to find as everyone in the village knows who he is and another night in a back garden was very welcome. His wife Pauline comes from Blackheath and seemed to have three different accents Black country, geordie and Scottish. Unfortunately Blogs was busy with his birds so did not get to spend much time around. Thank you Pauline for the drink and the washing. Hope you had a nice weekend back home in Blackheath.
Gretna Green and Gretna itself just seems to be all geared up for weddings the Old Blacksmith where there is a museum and it proudly boasts its reputation for being the place for runaway weddings since 1775. Every where you look its wedding stuff. Flower shops bridal shops wedding cars and photographer’s advertising . Thank you Jim for the tour of the museum.

Beattock – Lockerbie July 7th Day 28

2009-07-13T04:34:00.000-07:00

Today I headed for Lockerbie the scene of such Devastation back in 1988 when an Aeroplane exploded over this peaceful little village. I walked mainly along the cycle path nice and flat. The weather was fine if not slightly overcast. The night was a pleasure spending it in the back garden of a local mechanic and biker Donald who spent the night chatting and pouring the Scotch. Thanks Donald it was a pleasure. I told him I was heading for Gretna the next day so he suggested I find a friend of his called Blogsy who he thought wouldn’t mind a tent in his back garden. Hope to meet up again.

Donald having a tot

Blogsy and Pauline

The garden of remembrance is just outside the town in the local cemetery and it is really nice. I did not realise how many people died in this disaster 277 the youngest being only 2 months and the eldest 82. I was told that a family who lost three members also lost another son some 15 years later to suicide. He had gone to his friends to mend his bike when part of the plane fell on the house and sadly couldn't live with it.

Abington – Beattock July 6th Day 27

2009-07-13T04:27:00.000-07:00

Along the B7076 a very nice road for walking so anyone thinking of doing this walk then I suggest they use this road. I decided against the Penine Way after listerning to a few people I had met. I do not have the maps, the weather can change at any time and I don’t feel I would see a great deal more going this way. The night before had been very wet and luckily today only caught in one shower.

July 4th,2009 Day 27

2009-07-08T08:13:00.000-07:00

Back to where I finished yesterday and a pleasant 12mile walk along a nice country lane via Roberton towards Abington which is Scotland’s highest village with a gold panning centre so Henderson grab your bucket and spade. Going to have the day off Sunday to watch the tennis.

Lanark – Abington July 3rd, 2009 Day 26

2009-07-08T08:10:00.000-07:00

A walker or lost yodeller you make your own mind up

What a change in weather today setting off in relatively calm skies up a steep hill to the village of New Lanark. Quite a nice place nothing more than a high street. Passing Lanark Race Course alas no more its now a Rugby Ground. Back on the A73 that was so busy I had to find another way its not funny playing dodge ball with Hgv’s. Then the heavens opened so off to a Caravan and Campsite club field nice and cheap thanks for that. Best off finishing today’s walk tomorrow as the rain was pretty relentless.

Cleland – Lanark July 2nd, 2009 Day 25

2009-07-08T08:09:00.000-07:00

Today was a nice walk following the river Clyde through Rose Bank, Hazel Bank and Kirkfield Bank with the garden centre’s there were a good few of them. Lots of green houses lined this road. Again very hot. To a Campsite by the Clyde. Thanks for the reduction in fee’s nice site. And at last the donation of a bottle of Skin so Soft from a lady who lived on the site.

Rigg End – Cleland July 1st, 2009 Day 24

2009-07-08T08:08:00.000-07:00

I know in Scotland there are no Trespass Laws and you can camp anywhere its always nice ask permission so a peaceful night spent in a farmer’s field thank you Robbie the beautiful morning views of lochs and mountains had been replaced with Council Estates and Skip Hire Sites as this was a farmer who had a tip for building rubble on his land. Still nice and quiet and a chance to try the solar shower and it was worth every penny at £4.99.

Through Airdrie
The biggest town for sure full of people and cars and A roads. This was not a nice walk to start the sun blazing and cars zooming around. It was very busy around here. And the first part of the morning had me walking along the A73 toward Wishaw this day was again hot. And the constant traffic made it difficult to get on.

Carron Valley – Rigg End June 30th , 2009 Day 23

2009-07-08T08:05:00.000-07:00

Walking towards Kilsyth in terrific heat I knew I was heading for humanity because there was more rubbish along this relatively short country lane than I had seen all the way since leaving John o Groats. Passing a couple of fella’s on the road drinking cans of beer about eleven and throwing the cans on the side of the road. Why I ask myself.
Through Kilsyth
This place seemed another run down little town. Lots of boarded over shops and not being funny but the first time I’d seen an Asian shop and there a few of them here, all with broad Scottish accents. But the amount of people and cars is mind boggling after being out in the sticks for so long its so in your face. Camped in a field

Aberfoyle - Carron Valley Reservoir June 29th, 2009 Day 22

2009-07-08T08:03:00.000-07:00

Very very hot today, draining and strength zapping out of Aberfoyle away from the comfy bed and relaxing bath along a busy A road for a while then on to a much quieter B Road a pleasant walk through mainly farm land. Through Fintry hills to the reservoir and the wind farm on the hill.
A Fisheries Bailiff pointed out a good place to camp for the night cheers Frasier right in the middle of midgy den.

Hotel Inversnaid to Aberfoyle June 26th Day 21

2009-06-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

Today I was heading for Aberfoyle to take Bruce and Emma’s offer of a stay in the Inchrie Castle Hotel an ageing beauty set amongst the trees and a weekend off. Yippee a soak in a bath and three nights in a bed wonderful, but first the walk there. This was pleasant enough along three lochs Arklet, Katrine and Loch Ard. On a B road. Steady climb and the only road out of Inversnaid. It was sunny again today but with a gentle breeze a nice stroll. The midges had turned to flies and I felt like Jackie Chan constantly waving them away. I am going to enjoy this break and put my feet up.
Having a weekend off in such a nice place, looking back over the last few weeks and having time to reflect there are a few things you forget to mention like the fact that it never seems to go dark its so bright and even when the sun does go down how light the sky stays. In John o Groats the sun went down about ten but at two in the morning it was still as bright. But I am told that in the winter its dark by 3 pm and stays that way till 9 am. Lucky if you get 6.7 hours of daylight. And the wind is so powerful it knocks you off your feet.
The amount of right handed gloves I have noticed by the side of the road and footpaths and why this has LEFT me thinking and Midges, they are evil little blighters, you don’t notice them they can’t be seen very easy but when they strike you know it. No amount of lotions and potions seem to work. They get in everywhere and there have been times when you just get eaten alive. Or should I believe that they don’t bite they Pee on you which causes the sting so if anyone knows the truth and any cure please leave a comment. Skin so Soft by Avon seems to be the Scots choice but its hard to get hold of in the middle of nowhere with no postal address. And the odd places I have seen post offices in like, grand houses belonging to the estates, leisure centre’s, tatty old portacabins and a pub. Also the people who I’ve met doing this walk or similar and the amount of money they’ve spent on equipment like Maps £300 pound a time, gps’s, lightweight hiking clothes and boots at £200 at time. Mine were £35 and are doing just fine. I’m using a £1.99 map from the Works and its ok. The best map you can have is your mouth, just ask someone the way.
The weather also plays a big part in a walk like, too hot makes it hard work, too wet makes it miserable as everything gets soaked. But all in all the weather up to now has been kind. Well the next week should see Glasgow well behind, the border and England ever closer. As nice as it has been in Scotland it’s time to get a move on.

Tyndrum to Inversnaid 25th June Day 20

2009-06-28T10:28:00.000-07:00

Leaving Tyndrum behind in the sunshine again I set off through the Wigwam campsite which weren’t wigwams at all but wooden huts. For about four miles its was pretty flat farm land and nice to be on a flatish path. A very steep climb up over Ben Lul mountain heading for Crianlarich before turning off on to the Glen Falloch path which by now had become a rough farm track but nothing compared to what was coming. For the first two or three miles passing reed beds and in the shade it was quite pleasant. I had been warned by various people that the path ahead was rough and unforgiving I was shocked when I arrived at the start of Loch Lomond which I may add was a wonderful view but the path, well what path was a disgrace and a danger as far as I am concerned. This section in my opinion should be renamed The Worst Highland Way it was ridiculous with narrow foot space and upwards of forty foot drops into the loch below, climbing over boulders and bridges that were in need of repair and in places having to climb down using foot holes sheer drops of around 8 foot. In this day and age of health and safety I am amazed that the path is still open. I suggest that members of the West Highland Way Management Group take a day off from sitting behind their desks and having expensive lunches and attempt to walk this path it is a disgrace to the Scottish Tourist Board who promote it.
Inversnaid Hotel that is at the end of these sections should be a lunatic asylum for those who have walked there although I must say served a well earned pint of lager at a reasonable price.

FOOTNOTE** Rob Roy’s cave is along this section of path no wonder the English couldn’t find him.

Kingshouse toTyndrum June 24th Day 19

2009-06-28T10:18:00.000-07:00

Morning clouds hugging mountain tops

This morning I decided to start about 5.15am as it was a very warm night and I was awake. The mountains looked spectacular with the clouds hugging them like little bonnets. So off I headed on mainly military roads built by Telford. Quite an easy walk on flat but pebbled paths towards Inveroran Hotel where there was a steep climb to the top of yet another mountain, where I met Betsy from Seattle who insisted on taking my photograph and wishing me best of luck. Down the other side to the Bridge of Orchy for a rest and a soak of my plates in the river very nice too. It was only 11 o’clock by now and seemed daft to stop for the day so early so I decided to carry on another 7 miles and reach Tyndrum , so leaving the bridge behind I set off in the hot sunshine. This walk took me alongside the railway passing the village Post Office you have to see to believe it a green portacabin been there since 1972 and looked like a derelict builders shanty in the middle of nowhere. This route took me along side the Great Western Railway line which was pleasant enough until about a mile outside Tyndrum when the path became an assault course and not what I would call a path at all. I half expected to see Chris Bonnington handing out crampons. Which may I say was the last thing I needed having walked 18 miles is scorching sunshine. The village of Tyndrum if that’s what it was consists of a services called the Green Welly Stop selling over expensive outdoor wear and ice creams. One pub and a Little Chef which had been turned into a fish and chip restaurant . It has lots of coaches passing through so it was a busy little place where I watched people aimlessly walking up and down the road.

A break at the Bridge or Orchy 12 mile point

Kinglochleven to Kingshouse Hotel June 23rd Day 18

2009-06-28T10:07:00.000-07:00

Left about ten in morning a steep climb for about an hour to reach first sumit. Worth every step because the views were stunning. The path nice thank you Alcan but it was very warm. At the top the pile of rocks you see were placed by each walker that passed by so I duly placed my own. They must be cleared on a regular basis as I am told 52,000 walkers do this every year. Across the top of the mountain ridge with a few walkers passing. There was a stunning view of the Blackwater Reservoir near the top of Devils staircase and an even better view of all the people puffing and panting coming up the other side. People of all ages and nationalities. Some carrying massive packs and on such a hot day. Luckily for me I was skipping down like a mountain goat. Leaving me an easy flat walk to Kingshouse.

FOOTNOTE ** Thanks Jimmy and Linda for sorting out the corn my feet feel wonderful.

Fort William – Lochleven 21st June Day 17

2009-06-28T10:05:00.000-07:00

And now for you, the state of the path leaves a lot to be desired today I was on it for hours more like a dried up river bed than a path that left my energy low and very hard going having to watch where I walked all the time. The weather wasn’t too bad thank goodness cos to walk this path in bad weather would be awful. Its says look out for the wild life eg. Eagles, Red Deer and Feral Goats all I saw was sheep not one single sparrow. A young couple appeared from over the top of the mountain with a look of shock and bewilderment. To the young guys horror he could not believe he had got lost. Not a place to be lost in. I hope the path gets better cos this is not much fun.

A nice waterfall on the West Highland Way

At this point I must say thank you to the lady from Cancer Research at Fort William for the donation of Dry Warm Clothes so thank you for that much appreciated.

Gairlochy – Fort William 19th June Day 16

2009-06-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

Along the canal all the way to neptunes staircase into the wind but nothing too harsh. Met a few walkers along the way. Got a few tips about the West Higland way and once at the post that reads The End of the West Highland Way I watch the walkers hobbling in looking worse for wear. Back in civilization what a shock the biggest town I’ve come to and time to build provisions and repair various bits of kit. And a rest for the weekend. And prepare for the start of WestHighland Way on Sunday.

The West Highland Way

South Laggan – Gairlochy 18th June Day 15

2009-06-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

This was not a nice day a long drag through the forest a few nice views of Loch lochy walking in bad weather can zap your strength and it becomes hard work. Mainly forest tracks and a long bit on the road to Gairlochy soaked through and pretty miserable. Camped in a campsite tonight hot shower and warm tent.

Fort Augustus to South Laggan June 17th Day 14

2009-06-28T09:53:00.000-07:00

Mostly along the Caledonian canal very nice. As far as the the Bridge Oich and on the the Abercahalder estate which was quite nice but the footpaths were boggy . Along side Logh Oich and Loch lochy. And a welcome pint on the river boat turned into a pub with two more new friends who were totaly nuts Bruce and Emma who had been touring islands and were on they’re way home but decided to stay another night and putting tents up in force 8 gales is no fun. Spending a night having a drink and sing song and the offer of a stay in his hotel in Aberfoyle an offer I shall take up thanks Bruce see you the weekend with any luck.
Bruce and Emma aka Donald and Morag. With Oliver Reed Lookalike on a windy rainy night in the tent.

Invermoriton – Fort Augustus 16th June Day 13

2009-06-28T09:48:00.000-07:00

Ahoy Captain Tomorrow i set off for South Laggan

A drier day today on a nice path still with lochness in view through the trees a pleasant walk today arriving in Fort Augustus was a bit of a shock. Having spent so long away from people it felt like I’d walked into London there were tourists everywhere watching the boats going up and down the loch. Fort Augustus is a nice place and the Canal Loch keeper Lynne a very nice lady who gave me the key to the services and a place to camp. The services were really nice warm and spacious with loads of hot water . Here an evening spent with Tony and his mum Iris on their hired yacht thanks for the fish and chips. Tony over from oz to see his mum a very pleasant evening. A quick thank you to those people who donated a few pound to the Charity.

The glen way Drumnadrochit – Invermoriton 15th June Day 12

2009-06-28T09:41:00.000-07:00

First day on the great glen way having missed out the beginning at Inverness. A steady climb with lovely views of Loch ness and a few chats with other walkers. The weather started ok but soon turned into rain and for the next few hours rained steadily.

The Great Glen Way
The path was very good and mainly through forestry to a wild camp and the midges. A wet night but spent in nice company as a couple of young Australians who were visiting Scotland on route to Europe and then back to Australia so everyone warmed by the fire and fed on jacket spuds very nice too.

Buely – Dromnadrochit. June 12th Day 11

2009-06-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

Leaving Buely was the warmest day so far all road walking and a stiff climb nice countryside across the heath covered in gorse. The village was small and dedicated to the Lochness Monster with a museum and little shops and cafés. Staying on the campsite at an equestrian centre where Mr and Mrs Macdonald Haig run a lovely stables with around 50 horses for trekking. Giving me three nights for only fifteen pounds inclusive. Thank you for that. There was a wonderful electrical storm across the mountains that were nice to see. A day off on Saturday ready for Sunday and The Great Glen Way.

Electrical Storm over the mountains

Evanton to Beuly June 11th Day 10

2009-06-28T09:17:00.000-07:00

Beuly Village Centre Back out in the country side heading for Dingwall looking down onto the A 9 with glee as I walked along tree lined lanes that were peaceful and picturesque. Mountains to the right and Gromarty Firth to my left arriving into Dingwall for a coffee in Ladbrokes always good for a warm and ablutions. Pleasant village the biggest since Wick. Heading out to Connon Bridge luckily pavement so far the road from Connon Bridge to Beuly was tough due to the volume of traffic and the lack of walking space.
Arriving into Buely there were lots of industrial units and a nice golf course but hey why spoil a nice walk. I notice the further south I get the people and places change, it would appear that Beuly is not in economic decline or recession. It appears to be an affluent place with many expensive shops selling horsey type equipment . Spent the night in nice little spot by a farm with loads of sheep a very nice lady said if I didn’t spite roast an elephant I could have a fire. Thankyou for that.

Road to Connon Bridge

Barbraville to Evanton June 10th 2009 Day 9

2009-06-11T06:08:00.000-07:00

Today was a 12 mile walk throu Invergordon and the smell that hung in the air from the White & mckay distillary reminded me of wheatabix it was thick and heavy. Invergordon was an old naval port that used to be buzzing but now most shops are boarded up and very little is going on. There is there the biggest gift shop i've ever seen in my life, apparantly for the cruise liner tourist who end up docking there why i have no idea. In the middle of the loch is a oil rig awaiting repairs it sure is a weird place.

On to Alness only 2 mile up the road and a totally diferent feeling proudly boasting it numours Britain in bloom winnings a pleasant village and the 1st traffic warden i've seen since leaving John o Groats going about his business. Leaving Alness a winding walk to my camp for the evening a Evanton further along the Cromaty Firth. A what a smashing little spot i found besides a burial ground so fire light and food cooking i settled for the evening.

Dornoch to Barbraville 9th June 2009 Day 8

2009-06-11T04:17:00.000-07:00

So leaving Dornoch a quiet sleepy villege behind, passing the church and towards Cuthill along a quiet little lane where a golden stoat ran accross the lane infront of me and jumped over the wall. Heading for that A9 again and onto the Dornoch Firth Bridge and beautiful views of the black mountains in the distance. In the loch a disuesed ferry had become redundant and two fabulous storks fishing for breakfast.

Up the hill towards Tain along side to Barbraville with RAF planes zooming over head. In Barbraville is a retirement villege that resenbled an old fashion holiday camp with new plastic grey bungalows all in rows. Really odd. Anyway a nights rest besides the Cromaty Firth tonight. Still enjoying the saunter no problems to speak of weather ok odd shower but nothing to get down about. 15.5 miles walked today almost 100 completed.

Loch Fleet to Dornoch 8th June 2009 Day 8

2009-06-08T09:34:00.000-07:00

As short 8 mile trek round the Loch which was empty this morning it was a joy to walk off the main A9 road for the first time since leaving John o Groats now 79 miles approx behind me. Very flat for the first 4 miles and a steady climb over 3 miles and a descent in to the county town of Dornoch. A pleasant little town with not much retail therapy to be had. But a nice beach. A good long day rest in the sunshine. Feeling good feet fine. Stayed in a campsite got my washing done and a few supplies and enjoyed my afternoon.

Brora to Loch Fleet June 7th 2009 Day 7

2009-06-08T08:40:00.000-07:00

Leaving Brora behind i headed towards Dornoch. Today was overcast and a bit chilly the road was pretty quiet and it was nice not to be darting off into the edge all the time out of the way of Hgv's. The sea still on my left and i could see the beaches and a fairytale castle in the distance nestled in the woods, that was Dunrobin Castle every little girls dream. So forward into Golpsie you could be forgiven for thinking you'd arrived in a spanish town in the middle of a siesta it was deserted or could have it been that it was a sunday afternoon, maybe. Out of Golspie and its awarded winning beaches but no people. I was back on deathrace 2000 dodging speeding cars, i will never understand why people come to scotland one of the most scenic and greenest parts of the brittish isles and race round like lunatics. About 4 miles from Golspie is Loch Fleet a beautiful sea loch and nature reserve/bird sanctuary. Under the bridge a perfect place to camp for the evening. A lady who was from down south now living and restoring a railway station built 1830 on the edge of the loch came for a chat, thanks for the quided tour and the firewood. What a lovely place to live overlooking the loch, with plenty of wild life. The Loch is tidal with sluice gates and a bridge built by Thomas Telford in 1877. Well worth a look. Lots of bird watchers came and a young fisher man caught me a sea trout very nice too thank you.

Loch Fleet as the sun goes down
The sluice gates at Loch Fleet

Helmsdale to Brora 6th June 2009 Day 6

2009-06-08T07:41:00.000-07:00

After a days rest i was ready for Helmsdale to Brora 11.5 miles with the sea on my left and a railway a pleasant mornings walk on a relatively quiet A9. No blisters no sore feet, slight swollen ankle but nothing to complain about. Just a mile or so before Brora the skies turned grey and waterproofs were doned the road became quite narrow and winding but a mostly pleasant day. And to my campsite for the evening and a drink with a couple Kath and Jimmy who i'd met. They were co owners of the Belgrave Hotel in Helmsdale and having a break from work and was staying in a caravan originally from Warrington. Funny who you met when you travel.

Berriedale to Helmsdale 4th June 2009 Day 4

2009-06-06T08:48:00.000-07:00

Berridale to Helmsdale 10 miles at the bottom of a big hill i met up with sophie and patch. Today was all up hill for the most part. The sea to the left of me all day, i passed a nice herd of deer and no people, the road to day was ok and with helmsdale in sight down a very long steep hill a place i was happy to see and that was enough for today. My ankle was swelling so a rest day was in order for tomorrow.

Latheronwheel to Berriedale 3rd June 2009 Day 3

2009-06-06T08:40:00.000-07:00

Today was going to be a killer i had in the distance two very big hills one long steep down into Berriedale where i thought i would take a rest and leave the up for the following day. The north sea on my left the weather was wet and cold. The views were very nice with mountains in the distance this day i only did 8.6 miles it was a hard day but up was yet to come. The A9 is a main road to John o Groats so its quite busy so i have to keep my wits about me and it can be hard underfoot.

Wick to Latheronewheel 2nd June 2009 Day 2

2009-06-06T08:19:00.000-07:00

Wick to Latheronwheel, a total of 18.5 miles today the weather was fine warm so with kendal mint cake and fluid in my back pack off i set. Out of Wick on to the A9 a slow climb southwards. I was amazed at the amount of petrified rabbits laid at the side of road. Feeling fit and well with no foot problems and pleasing walk to Libster halfway for a well earned cuppa and a sit down. After setting off i found it to be a bit of a slog and was feeling the burn. The countryside was mainly barren with the odd farmhouse and very devoid of humans. Arriving at latheronwheel i headed for the harbour and a nice little place to set camp for the night. Over looking the harbour in a little cove. Set out with a picnic area and sun shining down a perfect end to a nice day.

John o Groats to Wick 1st June 2009 Day 1

2009-06-06T08:01:00.000-07:00

After years of talking about John o Groats to Lands End by foot i am finally doing it. Maybe raise a bit for cancer research and enjoy A summer saunter the length of Britain. The most northerly point is Duncansby Head so at 10am today i started heading for Wick which is 19 miles south. In thick rolling sea mist i set off. With the fog horns blarring in the distance the walk was a pleasant stroll taking about 5 hours. There are a few end to enders along the way some on bicycles some on moter bikes and a few walkers. A young girl called Sofie and her dog are walking for dogs trust carrying all her kit on her back. Arriving at wick campsite a hot shower and a sit down she arrived not long behind me. No doubt we will be passing and meeting up all the way down.