Day 45: Horton in Ribblesdale to Eshton
📍 Distance: 16.42 miles (26.43 km)
☀️ Weather: Sunny and hot, with a refreshing breeze on the fells
🕘 Start: 09:06 | 🕓 Finish: 16:15
After a much-needed rest day in Horton in Ribblesdale, I was back on the trail this morning, feeling recharged and grateful. Yesterday we had a visit from my sister Jennifer and brother-in-law Neil, who came bearing fresh supplies—and more importantly, familiar smiles. It was lovely to see them both.
Today’s leg took me over the fells to Malham and then along the River Aire to Eshton, which lies just a couple of miles short of Gargrave. The climb over the fells was a bit of a challenge in the morning but it offered expansive views and a welcome breeze. From Malham onward, the terrain levelled out into a gentle, picturesque stretch of countryside.
Malham, as expected, was bustling with visitors to the famous Cove, but the rest of the trail was peaceful and quiet.
On arrival at the campsite, I was warmly greeted by Indi just as she returned from the school run. Indi and James have kindly donated the campsite fee to Alzheimer’s Research UK and even shared our flyer on social media. Indi mentioned that some of her friends and family have already made donations—my thanks to all of them.
As I made my way through the site, another couple, Wendy and her husband, also offered to donate and spread the word on Facebook. The kindness and generosity of people I have met along the way continue to be a source of inspiration and gives this journey an even more meaningful purpose.
I do wish the media would take more notice. Apart from a feature by BBC Oxford, there has been no coverage. I hope other regional stations might pick up the story in the coming days—it would help spread awareness and support for Alzheimer's Research UK even further.
Tomorrow I’ll be walking from Gargrave to Thornton in Craven with two old friends—surveyors I've known for over 50 years. I suspect it’ll feel a bit like an episode of Last of the Summer Wine... and I’m very much looking forward to it.
