Northumberland Coast Path, day 1

Saturday 17th September 2016

The intention is for a holiday walk after my strenuous days on the South West Coast Path a few weeks ago.

There will be six days, supposedly easy walking and I have pre-booked all six nights ( five pubs and one B and B), and intend unrestricted indulgence. Bowland Climber told me he had stayed at the Old Vicarage B and B and gave it the thumbs up.

The walk starts at Cresswell, not an easy place to get to. The nearest railway station is about six miles away. I am staying at the Plough Inn at Ellington, still a mile's walk to the start proper tomorrow.

Today's itinerary:

Arnside, Lancaster - train 11 minutes late. Standing room only.
Lancaster, Carlisle - 5 minutes late
Carlisle, Newcastle- fortunately on time because I only had 9 minutes for the change.
Newcastle, Widdrington - on time
Widdrington,Ellington - Phoenix Taxis - excellent service. I phoned from train. Text message confirming taxi on the way. Then another saying it had arrived, and look out for silver Mercedes.

All is going rather well.

The dining room is heaving with large groups, one of twelve and another of twenty (celebrating a 90th) noisy, but a good atmosphere and friendly service.

Black pudding, goat's cheese, caramelised onion starter - a welcome innovation - slight crispiness to outside of black pudding added to the texture.

Chicken and leek pie - good of its kind, lots of chicken and good sauce.

Sticky toffee pudding cheesecake.

Well that was indulgence. I can't wait to get walking tomorrow.


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