Day 12

The Cleveland Hills

And North Yorkshire Moors.

I have always liked this section of the trail, sure there are some steepish ups and downs (5 of them) but the walking is easy on a good path and the views fantastic, from the moors ahead and to the south and the farmland set out below to the north, right to the industrial area of Tyneside with glimpses, at last, of the North Sea, our eventual goal.

As we were leaving we saw the Californian couple. She had done her knee in a few days ago and had missed 2 legs but was rejoining again – not an easy leg for a gammy knee.

Then a climb up through Arncliffe Woods with view back over the Mowbray Plain and the last two day’s route.

Once on top we met up with Steven again but he soon left us in the dust.

Down Scarth Moor, losing all the height we had gained, the first of five times this would happen today, then a gentle climb through woods before another steep climb up to Round Hill and Carlton Moor

Over the whole route today we were walking concurrent with the Cleveland Way and the Lyke Wake Walk

Down a steep descent and a leisurely break for lunch at the renowned Lord Stones Café, a favourite with C2Cers.

A steep climb up to Cringle Moor followed

Near the top we stopped to look at the viewpoint and memorial to Alec Falconer who was one of the pioneers of the Cleveland Way

Time for a rest for two old farts

Another steep descent and climb to Kirkby Bank, down again and then up to the Wainstones

With great views north to Great Broughton, our bed for the night and also east to tomorrows initial climb.

I have not said much about the weather in case I angered the rain dogs (and cats?) but today was another gorgeous one, some cloud, some sun, not too hot and no rain. In 12 days of walking we have needed rain gear for one hour in the misty drizzle going around Ennerdale Lake on Day 2. Forecast for tomorrow is also OK with possible rain for the last two days but they are off the hills so few views will be spoilt.