Comments

Very muddy in places. Very nice walk along the river. Lots of pretty waterfalls. Bernie had her new rucksack (a Christmas present) with built-in plumbing (filled with lager?). Crossed over the River Bolder and down to the Tees - followed the Tees for about two and a half miles to Romaldkirk - very attractive - nice Anglican church. Lots of large houses. Met a very friendly dog. GG nearly fell in the river from the stepping stones. Came across four "half hunderthwaites" - purpose unknown. Ron and Sandy later discovered that Hunderthwaite is a small village between Romaldkirk and Cotherstone, so that's why the bridge stones had that name. Lunch on a very long Millennium seat at Egglestone.

Returned through Egglestone Hall grounds (as seen on tv) to a single track toll bridge across the Tees. Followed a high route back along the fields to the farm, passing the underground waterworks. At the farm came to a gate saying "Prohibited to Pass". Made a detour up a field and followed a tarmac road. The farmer had removed the way-markers. Cute puppy at a farm. Concrete stile with sheep eating behind it. There were people canoeing on the Tees. Found an escaped chocolate bar (fake Twix) on the path. Passed a pavilion which had a notice informing thieves that there was nothing of value inside. Visited a tea-room in Barnard Castle, and had toasted teacakes.

Wildlife: grey squirrel in a barn, second grey squirrel in a caravan park. Ducks, blue tits, grey wagtail, 2 buzzards, chickens, pheasant.

Evening meal

The Wheatsheaf, Callerton. Two for the price of one. Nice hot jaffa pudding. Generous portions - good value.