Day 38: Hadrian’s Wall campsite to Alston
📍 Distance: 17.33 miles (28.79 km) 🌤️
Weather: Sunny to start, then cloudy and chilly
🕘 Start Time: 08:41 | 🕓 Finish Time: 16:15
After the first couple of miles today was a day of level walking. From Haltwhistle, I picked up the South Tyne Trail, a former railway line that’s now been converted to a cyclists’ and walkers’ route. It was long, slightly monotonous in parts, but certainly direct and easy to follow.
At Slaggyford I left the main trail and followed the restored single-track private railway line past Kirkhaugh. For a change of scenery, I then crossed the river and joined Isaac’s Tea Trail, which led me into Alston. A more scenic finish to the day, even if the Tyne Valley wasn't quite shining in its best light—cloudy skies can really mute its usual charm.
One of the highlights of today wasn’t the scenery, though, but the people. I met a couple of fellow walkers along the way, both of whom had personal experiences with Alzheimer’s and generously offered to donate.
Speaking of generosity, last night when I arrived at the Hadrian’s Wall campsite, a couple clapped me in as I walked through the gate. They too said they’d like to make a donation. There really are some lovely people out there.
Tomorrow will be a slightly shorter day and a bit of a change from the original plan. I’ll be heading to Ousby, then on to Appleby the following day, and Kirby Stephen after that. From there, I’ll rejoin the Pennine Way at Hawes.
