We’re not actually getting to the starting point today because there’s a running event in the area and no accommodation available at our start, so we’re staying in Hexham overnight and will taxi back to the start of the walk tomorrow morning.
But first things first. We spent the morning in Edinburgh. We did not eat breakfast at the hostel as usual. Instead we went to The Elephant House which calls itself the birthplace of Harry Potter, because JK Rowling wrote there. That’s not why we went there though. We’re not big HP people.
Nice place and good food, though the bathrooms were covered in fan graffiti. I guess everyone wants to write there.
Next it was a visit to Greyfriars Bobby. I love a good dog story.
We wandered around town after that, until it was time for a bit of tea, we popped into a Prêt a Manger and I am happy to report that they make an excellent croissant.
We then picked up our luggage and said one last farewell to the lovely people at Castle Rock, then slid down the hill to the train station.
Our train was on time. There were three entertaining men to visit with in our sitting area, and the connection at Newcastle was successful, though not without stress.
There I am heading to the ladies room while DH records it for posterity.
We arrived in Hexham. There are signs we’re in the right part of the world.
We walked from the train station to the hotel. Here’s the hotel.
It’s very nice. good job Mickledore! We treated ourselves to a really nice meal.
I had my first bath in over a week. For a bath person, not having access to a tub is the definition of roughing it!
Tonight we sort through things so our day packs contain rain gear, head cover options, first aid kit, dry socks, and lunch – especially lunch. Tomorrow we start walking. I can’t wait!
Keep smiling!
Wandering 