Day 13 Baldersdale to Langdon Beck : Follow the river, follow your nose.

Day 13 Baldersdale to Langdon Beck 17 miles 8 hours

We left the beautiful Clove Lodge early for a walk along the River Tees with a small detour into Middleton-in-Teesdale as we heard there was a shop and a chemist which is very exciting when you have effectively been living in a bog for 13 days! 

For those that remember the TV programmes on Hannah Hauxwell, who lived without running water, electricity and only £250 a year for living expenses, we walked past her now slightly more modernised farm  and designated preservation site - - as I understand she is now living somewhere more comfortably in the village. (I guarantee there still won't be wifi!) 

We were back on familiar terrain, although somewhat less boggy than the day before, climbing up Mickleton Moor to Grassholme Reservoir and up again through Harter Fell. Although a detour to Middleton in Teesdale would add further miles onto a long day, the promise of tea, cake and a top up of supplies was too good to deny. 

The village was positively bustling compared to the expansive bleak and remote environment we have become used to! Once we had made all the necessary purchases (yes cake is a necessary purchase) we picked up the River Tees where we spent the rest of the day. Walking alongside the river, we would eventually reach High Force which is the "highest uninterrupted waterfall in Britain". The drop is 21 meters and it is quite a sight when the path gives way to views over Low Force and then on to High Force. 

We parted from the river, temporarily, just past Cronkley Scar through a beautiful valley and into Langdon Beck. It felt like a long day walking and the realisation that the hotel was another 3/4 of a mile down the road was compensated for in great company and a few cheeky ales.  Steward Smith, Sue and Jim Smith had all kindly made the trip over from Co. Durham to join us for a meal and some more ale! A later night than usual (9.30!) but it was fantastic to catch up.  

Hannah's farm

Picking up vital supplies..

Low Force

High Force

Final walk along the river Tees

Day 13 done