Getting into my stride

Day 2 really delivered the stunning vistas promised in the Coast to Coast book which Don gave me as a gift all those years ago and made me want to do this walk.

We started the day on a challenging path which hugged  the coast of Lake Ennerdale before emerging onto the beach at its furthest point where you could finally pause to appreciate the full impact of the view.

There we fell into step with Brian and Inge, a lovely couple who kept us excellent company for the remainder of the day. 

Refreshments were a little easier to come by today and after a reviving cuppa at YHA Ennerdale, we set off along a much easier track with another our next target. We’d heard that YHA Black Sail also offered sustenance and was perfectly placed at the foot of today’s big climb.

After another pause in what would have to win best situated youth hostel in the world (if you are a fan of ‘scenery’), we started the slow slog upwards to the top of the mountain having also picked up Seung from Korea, who was walking on her own. This is where I really bemoaned the lack of exercise I have been able to do recently - my lungs and legs seemed to be in competition for which could find it harder!

At the top though, all feelings of exhaustion were forgotten and I could simple breathe in the open space that went on for miles and miles around me.

The final stop of the day was at Honiston slate mine (for lemon drizzle cake) before the last few miles into Rosthwaite.

Our B&B here was properly stuck in a time warp but we dutifully turned up in the dining room at 7:30 as instructed for a supper of vegetable soup, roast pork and chocolate roulade! And you know what? It was surprisingly tasty!


Day 2:
Walked: 39,904 steps (14.5 miles)
Stayed and ate: Royal Oak Hotel, Rosthwaite

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