Ne'erday Lunch and Hike in Weardale

[cessna152towser]

I set off for my New Year's Day lunch at Stanhope, where the past two ne'erdays 2008 and 2009, I had enjoyed the traditional menu of home made vegetable soup, followed by steak pie and veg and potatoes and then sweet mince pie for desert, finished off with coffee.
A heavy fall of snow overnight caused problems on the roads and a few miles into my journey I found that the road over the Carter Bar into England was closed. However,lunch awaited across the border, and one of my new year resolutions is to Go Boldly Forward, so undaunted I retraced my steps to Hawick and then took an alternative route.

I had to make a very substantial detour via Toronto, adding many miles to the journey, and I paused to consider whether to call in and visit McMurdo.

Eventually Stanhope was reached after a four and a half hour drive for a journey which normally takes an hour and three quarters. The railway station should have been busy with hikers, riding the train one way along the dale, but the train was cancelled because there was no driver, and the meals were cancelled because there no train passengers. However the stationmaster had made the station look welcoming with the festive lights glowing under the awning.

Fourteen hours into the New Year and at last I found another human being to greet and to exchange wishes for a Happy New Year. Three people actually, the young stationmaster and two younger lads in his office. He was very helpful and directed me to a snack bar in town.

It was fortunate there was a snack bar open in the main street as I was getting very hungry. Cheeseburger and chips washed down with a cup of coffee, not what had been planned for ne'erday lunch but at least it was sustinence and it was tasty.

Stanhope Castle was nearby. It was built in 1798 on the site of a mediaeval castle and extended during the nineteenth century.

In the limited remaining daylight I managed to go for a two to three mile hike

My walk took me by a footbridge across the River Wear.

Next year's kilts perhaps?
My left leg began to ache and I was glad to be finished walking. After a gruelling drive home which took over three hours, I dropped my car key into the snow when I stepped out onto my driveway. I will probably not find it till the snow melts. Luckily I have Ann's key for the car which I can use meantime. Nothing but a tin of spaghetti for my evening meal, must re-stock the fridge and food cupboard tomorrow.

[McMurdo]

Alex
You should have dropped in, I've got the kettle on for you.

[Darkislander]

Have a very happy new year Alex. These scenes are lovely but be careful not to do too much as you don't want to hinder the healing process. I extend good wishes to all xmarkers - keep it kilted.

[Mael Coluim]

Quite an adventure, Alex. All's well that ends well.

[Standard]

Quite the start to the new year. But, it sounds like you made the best of the day. Thanks for once again taking us along on your adventures out and about your beautiful countryside.

[RB51]

Thanks for posting the pictures, that's quite an adventure. Glad to see that you're able to put on the miles that you can after your leg issue. Hope you have a great New Year!

Laurie

[Highlander31]

Quite a long day you had Alex. Great photos, as usual. Good to see you are healing well. Happy New Year to you.

[SFCRick]

Great set of pics, have a grand New Year