Day 6/6 Northumberland 151km Circular Walk - Alwinton to Rothbury - 20 Mar 2008

The final leg of the circular walk would eventually lead back to the starting point on my 1st day - Rothbury. It was much less challenging as compared to the previous day's one. For the first time, I did my walk within the expected time duration as stated in the guide book (6-7 hours). Probably due to better experience and it being the last day of this long-distance walk. I was highly motivated to go home! I missed home! Being out in the countryside alone for 6 days was not a joke. I never did anything like this in my life before. It was an adventure, a CRAZY adventure! Something that would add colours to my life! I love peace! I always wanted to get out of the bustling city!

Anyway, back to storyline for Day 6. Full English Breakfast was served in the B&B: Bacon, egg, sausage, tomato, coffee, toast, cornflakes. I love it! 'Dumped' everything into my stomach - Precious energy which I would need for the remaining leg of the journey. The lady owner drove me back to Alwinton where I could carry on my walk. :) "Thanks!"

It was a pity that the weather was very bad. Heavy downpour! It continued for the entire day. Was drenched! Jeans got very wet and SUPER muddy! Every step I took, some mud would just splatter onto my jeans. I couldn't care any more. I just wanted to get home so badly! Feet was hurting every step I took. Blisters!!! Something which couldn't be avoided even with very comfortable shoes.





Along the way, I was very excited to see the formation of Ox-Bow lake. I love Geography in secondary school. All the erosion and deposition of soil...which will eventually increase the meandering of the river...and...blah blah blah...an ox-bow lake is formed. HAHA!!!


The climb up to the top of Rothbury Terraces (240m) was tiring but rewarding. It was named as such due to the series of relatively flat shelves of land that rise up in steps above the town. The Simonside Hills which dominate the Coquet Valley and form a familiar landmark in Northumberland can be observed from the top. With reluctance, I left the Terraces to begin the steep descent into Rothbury - limping.









A walk is all about the journey, not the destination. Lots of valuable lessons to be picked up from my first walk. I felt an unexplainable sense of achievement and relief that I've made it to the end. It's time for rest and heal!