Last evening we met other Pennine Way walkers in the dining room and had a good laugh about our various experiences along the way.

After a light breakfast we set of at 7.45am with the almost immediate ascent of Bryness Hill. This is a straight climb gaining height very quickly and after a short scramble over rocks towards the top the summit was reached with views back to Kielder and onward to a different eerie world in the early morning mist and low cloud. At times it was boggy under foot as we negotiated Houx Hill and Ogre Hill along the Border Forest fence eventually reaching the first crossing into Scotland and a photo opportunity not to be missed.

The rolling hills provided unique scenery all around us spoilt only by the limited visibility. As we approached Chew Green the Army were on the moved and we watched a convoy of heavy artillery moving up the hill away from us. Finding a spot out of the wind we took an early lunch break with the packed lunch prepared by The Byrness Hotel. At the Yearning Saddle Refuge Hut we read and left a message in the logbook. Thanks again to Ben & Penny for there kind words of encouragement.

Climbing again up Lamb Hill, Beefstand Hill, Mozie Law and finally Windy Gyle we were now very tired and pleased at the improvements to the paths. At Clennel Street we phoned Valleydene where we are staying tonight and preceded down to Cocklawfoot to be collected. Unfortunately The Border Inn has suffered a recent fire so it’s a mile walk to The Plough for our meal tonight.

Only one day to go.