Boggy moors abound, boggier than further south. Although we didn’t get wet feet, some folk we met went in upto their knees. Use of walking poles and care recommended.
Definitely worth starting from Alston on the old rail line, to Slaggyford, but going down to the river just before as that is a good bit. Don’t rush the Wall, take a day and visit the military Museum near Greenhead, open just before 10; Housesteads fort; and get the special bus to Vindalanda, where currently a dig is in going on, and where the excellent museum shows recently dug “tablets”, or bark writings. Open till after 5, and the bus returns you to Housesteads, where we recommend Beggar Bog B&B, 200 yards down the road.
Padon Hill has a foul reputation, not justified, although the last mile to a forest track is very boggy. The alternative I think is worse: road or hard track.
Forest View Inn is excellent, enabling the pick up and drop off at half way over to the end, breaking up a 28 mile stretch. Their hospitality (and beer), is legendary, and there will be other walkers to have sociable evenings with.
As everyone says, cant see a thing from the Cheviot as the plateau is too broad and flat.
Also recommend Four Wynds B&B at Longbyre (Greenhead), very knowledgeable and hospitable. The picture outside the Border Hotel Kirk Yetholm was taken by a local who seems to make a living, or at least a drinking, from walkers finishing the Way, the payment for the picture being another pint!
Leave a Reply