We left the way and headed to the edge of the horizon to see the marvellous vista of cliffs stretching into the distance of a U shaped valley with a river coiling down that valley. The surprise was worth the struggle across the shooting moor and as we wandered along the side of the valley it was a joy to see the light change as sun painted the steep sides. Someone had built a wall up the steep side, parts had fallen away as gravity and wind had won the challenge.

The path led to a waterfall which blocked the way and on slipping would see the slippee gazing upwards from the bottom of the valley. We chickened out and climbed further up to cross over what may have been the actual path with a pipe to stand on. The descent was down the Pennine Way which was still remarkably quiet for what was now a sunny day with little wind as we made our way downways on a rocky road into Dufton. 10.5 miles and over 6 hours later (the walk instructions rather downplayed the effort especially in the bogs) we hobbled into the Stag Inn for a delicious pint of Lakeland Ale and Shoulder of Lamb which fell off the bones faster than I could devour it. I got back for a bath and looked in the mirror to find I was sporting a wind sculptured Tintin quiff which Kim had omitted to tell me about during the entire day.

I had planned to take part in the Sunday Archery at Kirknewton and Kim was planning on a wee flight – but even after a relaxing swim and steam we ended up snoozing and relaxing in front of the telly for the rest of the day – generally sore all over. So High Cup Nick had taken its toll on us. Perhaps I should have gone to archery – instead I investigated why my sheep were bleating, popped into their field and within seconds had a highland cow running at speed towards me and on stepping back to close the gate stepped foot deep into one of her fresh highland cow pats whilst wearing my sockless sandals. Gross.

Photos of the walk here