Day 15: Northumberland National Park

Start: Gilsland

End: Greencarts campsite

Distance: 18 miles

I was awoken by the sound of farm animals and birds which told me it was time to start the day. There was another long stretch ahead, through the Northumberland National Park. The route today would join up with the Pennie Way, so there was significantly more elevation gain than the previous days. The stretch was remote but with large sections of Hadrian's Wall well preserved, with information signs at sights of interest such as turrets or forts.

The route today was remote so we decided to make a brief diversion from the path in order to get lunch at a pub. In contrast to yesterday there were no provisions or honesty shops, due to most of the route following higher ground. The rain was patchy throughout the day, but we were rewarded with a rainbow that added a splash of colour to the grey skies. After a descending from the wall to the road, we arrived at the pub to refuel. They were so welcoming to walkers and I fuelled up on a huge roast dinner that came with not only roast potatoes but also mash potatoes. You can always rely on Northern food not being stingy with their carbohydrate portions! We were a little tired after lunch but still had 9 miles remaining. I encouraged Sam, telling him it gets easier after today and he replied saying, "It's hard to be positive when I'm in agony" as his left ankle and shoulders were complaining. But despite this he managed to push through and continue moving forward, which I know after all these miles is not easy.

The afternoon continued to follow the wall and the route undulated along until we eventually reached the campsite. The views today were lovely, although the moorland is a little bleak in parts, it has it's own charm. The skies in the afternoon and following a raised route allowed us to see further. The path is relatively busy, especially around sights of interest and seems to attract people from America, Australia and Europe. The big push today allowed me to get over halfway through the route, meaning we were only two days away from Newcastle where a full rest day awaits.