"It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living." - David Attenborough

THE YORKSHIRE DALES - 2026

Seven years ago we finished up St. Cuthbert's Way and felt like we were on a trend to accomplish many more of these long distance hiking holidays in the UK (thinking one every 2 years). However, a world wide pandemic and a hip replacement had us on hold for a bit. 

So now is the time. We flew on an overnight flight to Gatwick, England and have spent the bulk of today travelling via train to the little town of Ilkley in northern England where we will begin our hike on Saturday. The weather in London was an unusual balmy 34 C, so our energy waned quite quickly. However, we powered through, catching our connections. I did have a moment of 'what the heck are we doing this for' when Andrew and I got separated in a very busy train station. 

Still crazy after all these years. 

We were switching trains here and this is the British Library, which we were interested in taking a browse through, but time wasn't on our side.

Harry Potter fans will recognize this at Kings Cross station - now a popular money making venture.

And our first home away from home for a few nights before we start walking The Dales Way.

We are both exhausted from today and will likely be tucked away before too long. This post is short as the brain is a lot tired, so we'll have more pics tomorrow and a bit more of a write up.