The Walk - Day 3

Day 3- Chollerford to Greenhead ( about 1 dot before Gilsland on the below) = 19 miles

This was the most "wally" day of the walk.  Taking in Steel Rig, Sycamore Gap, Crag Lough, Whin Sill and the vast crags and cliff faces giving us superb views over the open countryside to the north.

It would see us leaving Northumberland and venturing into Cumbria, and also crossing the half way point, which fell around Steel Rig. 

The alarm went off at 5am, fortunately We had not gone to Hexham last night for drinks so we were feeling fresh. Bacon sandwiches for breakfast and ham sandwiches made for Lunch, we were having a pork Day! 

Bags packed, we were sat ready for our 6am lift 24 mins early. We sat down and there was a knock on the door, the Ruperts were here to get us to the start by 6am! Ideal given the heat and distance today. 

We were dropped at Chollerford and with a very welcome Snickers gifted to us both from Rupe, we were away. 

A steady climb uphill on the road saw us eventually turn off through fields. The grass still wet from early morning dew.

The wall, military road (B6318) and some up and down hills laid out before us. After 2 days of mostly no wall, it was nice to walk along side this imposing structure.

We had waterproof jackets today as the forcast did not quite know, the clouds looked ominous above as we walked on. 

Dwix set a blistering pace ( literally, but we will both check them later) and we were soon passing Roman "stuff". We kept following the acorn and with Dwix on the helm, we had the route sorted.

The hills inevitably led to us walking along some cliff tops and crags. The views forward and behind kept us going.

A few more fishing spots passed us by, but today as before, there was no space for such luxuries. 

The time went quickly and after fours of walking it was time for lunch. We had planned this of course too and we had lunch in my favourite spot in Northumberland 

The terrain changed after Steel rig, the ups were more up and the downs were more down. The distance between me and Dwix grew, but he waited for me and we were a team all day!

Some other walkers thankfully taking us a pic together at the highest point of the walk, Winshields Crags at 345 metres. 

The sun was now high in the sky and the time between milecastles started to take a little longer. Dwix marching in front clearing the way of cows for me!

Greenhead was five, then three pages away, but passing walkers coming the other way it was two, three miles away. It must keep moving!

Dwix taking pics of me "moving" just! 

Several quarries and a few car parks with open tea shops came and went. There was no time to stop for ice cream.

Greenhead came into the distance as we skirted around Thirwell Castle, a few crosses of the railway and a sneaky footpath led us to the pub. 

13.30 again and the pints were ordered, could get used to this walking lark!!