"Morning is the best part of the day for walking. The air is freshest then, the earth sweetest." - Alfred Wainwright

 Today forecasted rain and cloud cover for our trek from Buckden to Oughtershaw (9.5 km), but we had very little rain. I began the day by slipping down the last few steps of our B&B and bruising some toes. However, I snugged up my boots and away we went. I may have to tape them together tomorrow as they are a bit tender. We set off around 9:30 and Andrew wanted me to lead the day, but first thing, I turned the wrong way to get out of Buckden - I don't have the best built in navigational system.

Our first stop was at St. Michael and All Angels Church in Hubberholme. A simple, beautiful church and just to bring up the TV series "All Creatures Great and Small" once again, this is the church that Helen and James were married in. If you look closely at the pews there is a wee mouse carved on the side of one. Robert Thompson, known as the mouseman, was a master carpenter who left this as his signature on everything he made.

From there, we made our way along the dale, encountering fellow walkers and upon hearing us talk, asked if we were American, to which we promptly replied - "No, Canadian" and they immediately apologized. Kind of funny. We arrived in Oughtershaw early afternoon and from there caught a car hire to transport us to Hawes for overnight. He will pick us up and deliver us back to Oughtershaw in the morning to continue our walk. So, we are tucked away in another cute Yorkshire village filled with all sorts of touristy things.

This little guy is called a roe deer - smaller than our deer at home and couldn't figure out how to get out of a fenced in area. 

Such a pretty walk along the river and the rain is holding off.

These 2 little guys belong to the mama with 46 on her back - so much sweeter without the paint on them, but a good way to keep track of them.

True Dales Way vistas - I never get tired of looking at this.

St. Michael and All Angels Church in Hubberholme.

Incredible doors leading into the church.

This 12th century church is noted for the rare wooden rood loft - look up near the roof. This platform was used for supporting the rood (crucifix) and it could also act as a small gallery for musicians or clergy. Also the candelabras were once the only source of light in this church. 

And we found the church mouse! Explanation above.

Along the riverside were several coppiced alder trees. The trees are cut close to the ground every few years to stimulate many new stems, used for fires, crafts, and to create a good wildlife habitat.

Can't beat the views.

Cuter lambs without the markings - but mama is close.

Yet another well known homestead if you watch "All Creatures Great and Small". Helen's family farm.

There must be an easier way? Thankfully, not nearly as many stiles today!

Thistle

A very old post box - note the initials GR for King George VI. Most others have ER.

The yummiest chocolate milkshake and such a treat after a day of walking.

And the view from our bedroom window tonight.