St. Bee's to Ennerdale Bridge

I had a pretty good night at the Fair Ladies Barn. Some people came in late but I had woken up and was just lying in bed. They quieted down quite quickly and I managed to fall back asleep. There was an Elvis impersonator at the Manor Inn that night and the owner told me he was going and would be in no fit shape to make me breakfast in the morning. I headed down to the Manor for supper that night. The dining room was separate from the bar. I had a leisurely supper but when I popped my head into the bar Elvis was between sets and I was too tired to stick around.

The next day, I got a late start. The only place for breakfast was Hartley's cafe and beach house which didn't open until 9. I didn't get started on the hike until 10. It was very foggy. No rain but the ground was very wet and the trail was muddy and slippery along the coast. No sign of Ireland or the Isle of Man because of the fog. It was slow going. I picked up speed after the St. Bee's headlands walking through lanes, on paths, through fields, alley ways, through farmers yards. All in the fog. There was a large hill called the dent which supposedly commanded wonderful views of the region but it was difficult to even see the trail. I joined up with 3 brothers Andrew, John and Roger who were on their yearly hike and hiked with them from the mid afternoon until Ennerdale Bridge. It was fun having some company. I had a drink with them at the Fox and Hound. I also ate this huge Roast beef supper. I have decided that the English don't do low cholesterol. There were no accommodations in Ennerdale Bridge when I booked things so I am staying with Peter and Nicky at their B and B in Cleator Moor. Nicky is a retired family doctor. They remind me of our friends the Schulz s. They seem to be running this place for entertainment rather than for economic reasons. Peter was even flying the Canadian flag on his flag pole in my honour. They have a menagerie of animals including roosters which I can't help but think will wake me up in the morning.

I will sign off now as I am quite tired for my first day of hiking.Read more