Today was a day of chores. Washing had to be done, massages had and cracked windscreens fixed. With all jobs done, we headed off to Richmond. We had no idea how long it would take as distance signs in Kirby Stephen are all in furlongs. Fine if you’re on a racehorse. We have enough problems with miles let alone eighth of miles! Sad as we are, we decided to take the back roads and get a feel for the next part of the walk and check out our upcoming accommodation. Why? Why not. This is desolate country and you wonder how the people who originally farmed the land coped in their cold, stone barn houses during those long, long Winters. It was bad enough today in the height of Summer..…grey and drizzly. We did find a brilliant cafe though in Thwaite. You drive through nothingness and then wonder where a place like this came from. It was positively 5 star.

It’s a bit disheartening arriving in Richmond after about an hour’s drive knowing that it’s going to take you about three days to walk. Why does it take so long?? I just can’t work it out! Richmond is a medieval market town with the ruins of a super little castle perched on the hilltop overlooking the Swale River, complete with lovely little waterfalls. Word of advice though….when someone recommends The Turf Hotel for a meal, don’t listen. Go to The Kings Arms instead. The food is better and it’s good for a laugh. After much observation, we decided that it was the place in town for either internet dating first dates or affair central. Nothing like a bit of people watching.

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