2010 Club Experience - Cheap Weekend Walking Breaks Enjoy the High Pennines, Hadrian’S Wall & Durham on Our Annual Short Summer Break

“Outdoor activities for all”

2010 Club Experience - Cheap Weekend Walking Breaks Enjoy the High Pennines, Hadrian’s Wall & Durham on our annual Short Summer Break

Thursday 1st to Monday 5th July 2010

John Hillaby’s Journey through Britain: “No botanical name-dropping, can give an adequate impression of the botanical jewels sprinkled on the ground above High Force. In this valley, a tundra has been marvellously preserved; the glint of colour, the reds, deep purples, and blues have the quality of Chartres glass.”

High Force

Booking Information & Form High England – Hadrian’s Wall and The North Pennines, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, for much of its history a wild and dangerous frontier zone until the union of the crowns in 1603 largely ended centuries of war with Scotland. Today, it is sadly an area often overlooked by walkers as we head further north to the mountains of Scotland or to the Lake District.

On our Club Experience summer short breaks we seek remoteness, the lure of hills, trails and paths to suit all abilities, places of culture and history and a destination that can enable us to escape for a short while from the stress of work and enjoy the social fun and community we all crave.

Blackton Grange www.blacktongrangefarmhouse.com I promise will surprise - surrounded by rolling uplands, quiet lanes, dry stone walls and scenic reservoirs it is the perfect destination to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a relaxing break, with the comforts of home in a spectacular setting.

This great venue can sleep up to 45 persons, but for our club experience long weekend the maximum number accommodated will be 28 persons, giving us a minimum of 6 double/twin rooms available and no more than four persons will share the other spacious bedrooms (these shared rooms will be allocated on a single sex basis unless booked by couples or friends who may wish to share).

We have space and freedom to roam, to enjoy a lovely summer setting and the facilities to relax and dine well and we even have a piano for the musicians amongst us to enjoy.

http://www.teesdalediscovery.com/whattodo.htm

Our Destination

Blankton Grange & Hury Reservoir During the weekend we aim to introduce you to the joys of an area that has with some justification been described as “England’s last wilderness” and its excellent walking. It offers huge expanses of wild and open moorland including some of the highest peaks in the Pennine range, sparkling rivers that wind their way through lovely dales and across lush lowland pastures to the sea. We have remote and unspoilt villages such as Alston which is the highest in England and often cut off during a hard winter and fine market towns including Barnard Castle, http://www.touruk.co.uk/county- durham/Barnard%20Castle.htm with its magnificent Norman castle and home to the Bowes Museum www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk The museum brings to life John and Josephine Bowes romantic life story and is housed in a beautiful building that provides inspiration and enjoyment. We have plans for iconic walks on sections of the Pennine Way www.nationaltrail.co.uk/Pennine way/ that weaves its way across the North Pennines, making use of both the river valleys and high moorland routes in places. We promise the spectacular – for example the dark columnar-jointed crags of High Cup Nick – our very own grand canyon. The fabulous Teesdale Way that winds its way along the river Tees, hear the thundering 21m water fall at High Force, the largest waterfall in England, see the river plunging into the gorge as it has done for thousands of years. Wander around the historic castle town of Barnard Castle and the impressive ruins of Egglestone Abbey that provided inspiration for the artist J.M.W.Turner (the Meeting of the Waters).

The Pennines We also have easy access to a network of former railway tracks that have been converted into footpaths and cycle ways and bicycle hire is available at Blankton Grange (to be booked in advance).

On Monday we will visit Durham, a world Heritage site for a short taster of its magnificent cultural history – you can visit Durham cathedral www.durhamcathedral.co.uk place of pilgrimage and prayer for centuries and one of the greatest churches ever build or Durham Castle www.dur.ac.uk/university.college/history on its prominent hill top site, encircled by the delightful wooded slopes of the meandering River Wear, overlooking the medieval City of Durham with its fascinating narrow streets.

Other options could include a walk along Hadrian’s Wall Path http://www.hadrians-wall.org/ See its ancient walls and roman forts, designed to keep the so-called northern “barbarians” from entering the civilised world. We can visit the most well preserved fort at Housesteads and the Sycamore Gap, a famed back drop in the Robin Hood Film. Alternatively closer to home we could enjoy a walk and visit to Raby Castle http://www.rabycastle.com/categoryRender.asp?categoryID=3886 . This is a dramatic mediaeval Castle set within a large deer park with walled gardens and home to Lord Barnard’s family since 1626. It was the site where hundreds of northern knights plotted the “Rising of the North” in 1569 – a rebellion to dethrone Queen Elizabeth 1.

Durham Cathedral This will be a weekend to relish, with its rich diversity of walks, remoteness, scenery and wildlife, its wealth of culture and history, a short summer break offering something for almost everyone. In fact, with some confidence, I suggest this may well be your first of many a visit to a destination largely unexplored by the majority of walkers. With Walkfree Breakfree – we promise to change your views – to get you outdoors and on this short break we will achieve that and much more.

At £245 for shared rooms, or £270 (doubles) per person ( LESS £20 discount per person and free minibus transport if you book by 3rd May) inclusive of accommodation, breakfasts, packed lunches, walks with voluntary walk leaders or independent walking, evening meals on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and a great celebration BBQ on Sunday. This club experience weekend offers us an exceptional destination, exciting and memorable experiences and simply great value for money.

BOOK by the 3rd May for your £20 discount and free minibus transport – booking after that date the full rate and a small £20 surcharge to travel in the minibus will be applied. Booking confirmation by email will be acceptable.

Deposit required on booking £100 – by cheque to Walkfree Breakfree Ltd or credit card payment can be accepted for the full sum due on this short break – this will be debited on 1st June 2010.

Bookings are now being taken so time to take action and arrange a well deserved long weekend break which is just the boost you need to start enjoying what we hope will be the long summer of 2010 – we certainly deserve one! This is a weekend for walks, views, fun, socialising and enjoying the remarkable companionship of our Club Experience weekends. Our Aims & Itinerary

Our Club Experience aim as always is to have a very enjoyable and social weekend break where we can enjoy walks, good food and great company in a pleasant location. It is really simple to enjoy walking in the High Pennines and Durham that suit individual needs and the weather on the day. On this trip we can walk in groups with voluntary walk leaders undertaking differing distances or simply stroll out individually. With the availability of our own minibus we will plan pick up points and options to visit places of interest and some walks can easily be extended by individuals should they wish to walk extra miles.

Our base at Blackton Grange offers walks direct from our doorstep and you can easily explore the quaint local villages and old railway paths if you prefer independent walking or be dropped off at Barnard Castle to catch public transport to allow you to spend a whole day exploring Durham.

As always our number one priority on all trips is to have fun and relax and if you want to do your own thing, be a tourist – and not even put on a pair of walking boots – just enjoy the food, the fun and companionship - that is fine.

For those of you who have not yet been on one of our residential club weekends and perhaps are a little wary of walking in groups I can assure you we welcome new members and encourage you to achieve that little bit more in respect of walking (pace will be adjusted to suit). So please, take this opportunity to join us, and remember if you have any concerns or general questions please do not hesitate to contact me. I am available on 07889165278 or email me [email protected]

Just let me know if you require information for example on group walking, walking equipment or clothing or wish to view our picture gallery.

Thursday 1st July

9 .30 am If travelling by minibus we depart from High Wycombe (additional pick up points to be agreed and confirmed with participants)

4.00pm Approximate arrival at Blackton Grange with a tourist stop on the route for a short walk (subject to travel and weather conditions)

5pm Early evening walk around the Blackton and Hurry reservoirs to enjoy the lovely hay meadows, wild flowers and ground birds.

8pm Dinner

Friday 2nd July

8.00am Breakfast

9.30am approx Depart for walks with packed lunch

4.00/5pm Return to Blackton Grange tea & cakes

8.00pm Dinner

Saturday 3rd July

8.00am Breakfast & packed lunch

9.30 approx Depart for walks with packed lunch

4.00/5pm Return to Blackton Grange for tea & cakes

8.00pm Dinner

Sunday 4th July

8.00am Breakfast & packed lunch

9.30 am approx Depart for walks with packed lunch

4.00/5pm Return to Blackton Grange for tea & cakes

8.00pm Celebration BBQ

Monday 5th July

8.00am Breakfast & packed lunch

9.30am Leave Blankton Grange for Durham Cathedral & Castle

3.00pm Depart Durham

9.00pm Return to High Wycombe

Please note all times are advisory only and as you are aware can be influenced by weather, traffic conditions and other eventualities! We will also attempt to fit in time for a number of optional visits to places of local interest. Those participating on long walks or some of the optional walks (Hadrian’s Wall) may be required to have an early breakfast and departure. Our Accommodation: Blackton Grange

The Farm House Blackton Grange www.blacktongrangefarmhouse.com is a traditional stone built farmhouse enjoying fabulous views over the picturesque Teesdale Valley. Tastefully furnished, it has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment programme. A roaring log fire, beautifully decorated lounge and dining rooms, is ideal for the social fun and conversation we so enjoy. It offers us the perfect opportunity to enjoy a wonderfully relaxing break with our club experience members, guests, family and friends. Adjacent to the Pennine Way, in a tranquil tributary valley, Blackton Grange nestles deep in the heart of a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Home to some of the country’s best walking and an absolute abundance of wild flowers and bird life, we are guaranteed to leave with a sack full of happy memories. Blankton Grange

Shared rooms

Full details on the accommodation including descriptions are available on the Blackton Grange website www.blacktongrangefarmhouse.com and I would encourage you to read this carefully prior to booking. Double or Twin Rooms

Please note duvet and sheets provided but please remember, towel, suitable outdoor clothing and as usual during our club trips help will be required with chores and feel free to bring along a bottle of wine or a few beers for the communal dining table. As usual all meals except whilst travelling are included in the price but no admission prices (optional) are payable.

Please remember to bring along towel, suitable outdoor clothing, sturdy footwear, (please remember that weather conditions can be bitterly cold and wet!), and flasks if hot drinks on walks are required.

Travel Arrangements Minibus Travel is available direct to Blackton Grange In accordance with our green travel policy we offer free travel by minibus from High Wycombe or pickup from stops on the way to Blackton Grange (if practical) for those booking by 3rd May – after which a small charge of £20 will be levied. A real bonus for those of you who return your booking forms quickly (by email if you wish). Should you wish to travel by public transport and require picking up from a local transport stop at Barnard castle or require or want to offer a car share please let me know and I will try to coordinate the necessary arrangements. Please try to be as environmentally friendly as you can and travel in the fewest number of vehicles possible, or use public transport. Address Blackton Grange Blackton Baldersdale Co Durham DL 12 9UP

Tel No 01833 650629

ORDANCE SURVEY Grid Reference NY 930 179

NB DO NOT USE SAT NAV FOR DIRECTIONS AS IT TAKES YOU DOWN THW WRONG SIDE OF BLACKTON RESERVOIR

Lounge MENUS

Dinning Room Breakfast

Porridge, home-made muesli and a selection of cereals

Orange/Apple Juice & Boiled eggs

Toast with jam/marmalade/butter

Tea/Coffee

Packed Lunch (Saturday, Sunday & Monday))

Sandwich x 2 (self made)

Cake or Chocolate Biscuit

Bag of crisps

Piece of fruit

Tea & coffee available for your flasks

Dinner Thursday 1st July

Ballindalloch Mince & Cheesy Potato Pie

Red Onion & Goats Cheese Tart

Served with seasonal vegetables

* Selection of Desserts

Coffee

Friday 2nd July Evening Meal

Chick Pea, mango & coconut salad with Nan bread

Kochi Chicken Curry

Watermelon curry with Black beans and tofu

Served with rice and accompaniments

* Selection of desserts * Coffee Saturday 3rd July Dinner

Spiced Red Lentil, Orange & Ginger Soup * Beef & wild mushroom stroganoff Or Pasta rags with Chestnuts, courgette slices and wild mushrooms Served with seasonal vegetables

* Highland Brulee or Pears poached in five-spiced plums in red wine * Coffee

Sunday 4th July BBQ

Starters – a selection of: Asparagus & Mint prosciutto wraps Barbequed Sweet Corn Aubergine Toasties with Mozzarella

Mains – Your choice of: Seared Salmon with salt and crushed summer herbs Chicken breasts with Thyme, garlic & ginger Local sausages and the big burger or Barbequed Haloumi Charred red peppers with couscous Homemade Mushroom Burgers

With: Baked Potato, peppers and Chorizo salad Pasta Salad Three Bean salad New potato salad with Chives Tossed Green, Tomato & Onion salad A selection of dips & French bread * Caramelised fruit kebabs and pineapple slices with cream * Coffee

The above menu is subject to availability of ingredients and may be changed a little – as usual during our club trips help will be required with chores and feel free to bring along a bottle of wine or a few beers for the communal dining table. We are many mile from the nearest pub!

Walking Routes

For those of you who have not yet been on one of our residential weekends and perhaps are a little wary of walking in groups our summer break to the High Pennines and Durham offers a great opportunity to enjoy walking with flexibility in respect of distance.

It is our intention to offer walks that appeal to regular participants and walks designed to encourage new members to achieve that little bit more in respect of walking (pace will be adjusted to suit). So please, take this opportunity to join us, and remember if you have any concerns or general questions please do not hesitate to contact me. The routes we hope to take (subject to weather conditions) this weekend will once again be the usual mix of the spectacular and breathtaking but will be confirmed at the start of the weekend so that we can consider the weather conditions and availability of walk leaders.

Numbers on each walk will also be determined by minibus capacity – please note some car sharing may be necessary. The suggestions below therefore are an indicative guide only and programme can be agreed nightly.

Thursday 1st July

• On Thursday we shall ain for a short stop enroute at a National Trust property if possible prior to arriving at Blackton Grange (depending on traffic and weather conditions). Followed by a walk around the Blankton & Hury reservoirs although these short local walks can be taken at any time.

Friday 2nd July

• The iconic traverse of the Pennines from Langton Beck to High Cup Nick & Dufton (11 miles) • Langton Beck to the Cauldron Snout waterfall and Cow Green reservoir (7.5 miles) & a visit to Egglestone Hall – the secret gardens of the north • Walk to Cow Green nature reserve and visit to Egglestone Hall

Saturday 3rd July

• The northern (Cotherstone 8.5 miles) or southern (Whorlton 9 miles) section of the Teesdale Way around Barnard Castle and a visit to the Bowes Museum and market town. • Or the figure of eight Teesdale Way walk around Barnard Castle (17.5 miles)

Sunday 4th July

• High & Low Force and a visit to the Bowless visitor centre (8.5 miles) • Baldersdale, Bowes and Stainmore Forest (16 miles • Visit and walk along Hadrian’s Wall (7.5 miles – Note 1hr plus minibus journey) • Walks around Ronaldskirk or Middleton-on-Tees which can be taken on any day

Monday 5th July

• Visit to Durham

The importance of good boots and waterproof clothing has to be stressed and remember - to gain maximum enjoyment from the experience, all members of the group need to be "walking fit". We do have a small equipment store if you need to borrow any waterproof clothing or boots, just let me know.

Walk Summaries:

Cauldron Snout 7.5 miles

Starting at Langton Beck we will walk into the Moor House and Upper Teesdale National Nature Reserve – the largest in England – including the memorable Cauldron Snout waterfall cascade. Most of the route is straightforward underfoot, but reaching these remote, austere acres amidst England’s last great wilderness means that sections of the route are challenging, particularly below Falcon Clints and beside Cauldron Snout which includes a scramble up the Whin Sill beside Cauldron Snout. Cow Green reservoir and the national nature reserve is a haven for ground-nesting birds and is also scarred by countless old rakes and shafts from the mining of lead ore and barites. The upland pastures and hay meadows will be rich with Teesdales renowned wildflowers and birds.

High & Low Force 8.5 miles

Starting from the Lovely Bowlees Visitor centre http://www.northpennines.org.uk/index.cfm?articleid=12975 which contains an exhibition illustrating the natural and human history of the area. We can enjoy a walk on the River Tees upstream from Low to High Force which is one of the best-known footpaths in the north. It is a superb riverside walk and the return leg is on little-used paths and byways along the north side of the valley

Barnard Castle, Cotherstone and the River Tees 8.5 miles & Bowes Museum

Almost the whole of this walk is along the well-way marked Teesdale Way. The outward route keeps above the south bank of the river to the attractive village of Cotherstone and its lovely village pub, and crosses the Tees a little further on. The return leg is above the north side and after descending the steep wooded banks, the last 1.5 miles is beside the river itself, a delightful and relaxing finale. With magnificent views up and down Teesdale, beautiful woodland and grand riverside walking, this is an outstanding and memorable route.

Bowes Museum

Barnard Castle to Egglestone Abbey, Paradise, the Meeting of the Waters and Whorlton 9 miles & Bowes Museum

From Barnard Castle we walk alongside the lovely River Tees as it flows majestically past crags and rocks through woodland and farmland. There are monastic ruins, an ancient tower and a grand country-house along the route. On every inch of the path we are treading in the footsteps of great painters and writers from the Romantic age who included Sir Walter Scott and the painters Turner & Cotman. We cross over Diary Bridge, a spectacular leap over the limestone gorge of the River Greta and the remarkable cast-iron, chain suspension bridge with wooden decking at Whorlton built in 1831. You could if you wish do both sections of the Barnard Castle walks for a spectacular figure of eight 17.5 mile summer thriller

An iconic cross-Pennine Walk from Langton Beck to High Cup Nick & Dufton 13 miles

From Langton Beck we walk the Cauldron Snout route and up and along the Pennine way as it crosses Dufton Moor and stroll along vast tracts of England’s brownest and least-cultivated countryside on the way to High Cup Nick. The deep, narrow, perfectly U-shaped and almost geometrical chasm of High Cup Gill is one of the great natural wonders of the Pennines. On the descent down to Dufton and its lovely village pub (where you can relax as you await your transport) there are superb views ahead across the Eden valley and to the Lakeland fells on the horizon.

Baldersdale, Bowes and Stainmore Forest 16 miles

Sombre though the moors are, there’s a real sense of drama in this North Pennine region, especially when the sun flickers across the purple heather and the wind ruffles the rushes. Starting from Blackton Grange we head towards Bowes, and its Norman castle, whose keep one of the largest in the country, totters above the dark grey rooftops. It was once visited by King John, but earlier settlers were the Romans. On many parts of this walk there are seemingly endless vistas across wild, open and often bleak moorland,

A visit and walk along Hadrian’s Walk 7 miles (Note Minibus Journey time approx 1hour 10 minutes)

Hadrian’s Wall – an epic Roman monument which was a colossal feat of engineering that created a stunning “necklace” of wall and forts across the north of England: Rome’s border control and line of military defence.

This walk provides an opportunity to view one of the most dramatic sections of Hadrian’s Wall and the beautiful Crag Lough and a famous Sycamore tree! The return leg on the North side of Hadrian’s Wall is pleasant walking, with wonderful vistas of the wall and the whinstone ridge on which it was build. We will have an opportunity to visit one of the most popular, interesting and best preserved forts at Housesteads.

Holwick Scars

Many short walk options are available and a number are listed below.

Middleton-in-Teesdale

It has often been stated that Upper Teesdale is perhaps the most complete dale in England. This is because of its unique and comprehensive blend of landscape, landforms, history and heritage. During this weekend you have an excellent opportunity to sample some of its amazing delights in short walks centred upon the picturesque village of Middleton-in-Teesdale, the capital of Upper Teesdale.

The village itself possesses much of interest and appeal and has a quaint and traditional character. As a settlement of some 1000 people and also serving the surrounding farming community, it has plenty of services to satisfy the needs of visitors. There are two hotels, several inns, tearooms, a surprising variety of shops, plus a very helpful tourist information centre. Possible walks form the village include:

Walk 01 - Middleton-in-Teesdale - Scoberry Bridge - Newbiggin Circular 6 miles Walk 02 - Middleton-in-Teesdale - Aukside - Coldberry - Middleside Circular 6 miles Walk 03 - Middleton-in-Teesdale - Kirkcarrion - Bowbank Circular 3 miles Walk 04 - Middleton-in-Teesdale - Snaisgill - Monk's Moor - High Dyke Circular 6 miles Walk 05 - Middleton-in-Teesdale - Beck Road - Coldberry - Snaisgill Circular 6 miles Walk 06 - Middleton-in-Teesdale - Leekworth Farm - River Tees Circular 2.5 miles Walk 07 - Middleton-in-Teesdale - Grassholme Reservoir - Harter Fell Circular 7.5 miles Walk 09 - Middleton-in-Teesdale - Wynch Bridge Circular 7 miles Walk 10 - Middleton-in-Teesdale - Snaisgill - Beck Road - River Tees Circular 5 miles

Walks from ROMALDKIRK by Hector C. Parr

1. PRIMROSE LANE AND EGGLESTON BRIDGE

From the far end of Low Green, a "Teesdale Way" signpost directs you along the narrow track known as "Primrose Lane". At the bottom of the lane an old stone footbridge takes you over Beer Beck, and fifty yards further on you cross a stone stile on the left. Climb almost to the top of the field, and over a stile just beyond a gate in the wall. Continue along the same straight line and you will reach a wooden stile near a corner of the concrete block wall.

Go over this, and you will find a track, high above the banks of the Tees, which brings you down to the road not far from Eggleston Bridge and the old Collingwood Corn Mill. The imposing Eggleston Hall looks down on you from across the road.

Return to Romaldkirk by the same route, or by road; the whole excursion will take less than an hour. 2. OLD RAILWAY LINE TO COTHERSTONE

Take the road towards Barnard Castle, and quite soon turn right along the Hunderthwaite road. Three hundred yards further on you will see a gate on the left taking you onto the old railway.

Half a mile along the track there is a road to cross, and after a further half mile you will find yourself on a splendid viaduct. You can look down on the River Balder and on the tops of the trees which line its banks.

A little further on, the next "level crossing" provides weary travellers with a short-cut to Cotherstone, but the intrepid will continue for another mile, coming out on the Moor Road near the church.

3. OLD RAILWAY LINE TO MIDDLETON

Walk up the Fell Lane (see below) to a point just beyond the old station, and you will see steps leading to the railway track. You can follow this most of the way to Middleton (about three and a half miles each way), but there are several places along the route where you can exit, and return by road.

The most interesting part of the walk is over another impressive viaduct just past Mickleton village, offering fine views of the tree-lined banks of the River Lune more than a hundred feet below, and onto the junction of the roads to Middleton and Brough.

4. FELL LANE

This walk offers numerous alternatives, and as it lies wholly on roadways you can wear whatever clothing and footwear suit the weather.

Fell Lane is the narrow road leading Westwards from the centre of Romaldkirk. In just over a mile it climbs 400 feet, providing fine views to the East, North and South, and exhilarating exercise if taken at a good pace.

If you are then not ready to retrace your steps, various options are open to you. Turning left, and left again through the little village of Hunderthwaite, will bring you back to Romaldkirk, a round trip of about three miles. Alternatively, turning right past the aerial mast will bring you down to Mickleton, from which you can return to Romaldkirk either by road or along the old railway track. The total journey time will be about two hours.

On the other hand, if you have a whole morning or afternoon to spare, after ascending Fell Lane you can go straight on, to the old farm at Botany. Here you may either turn left, and left again onto the Baldersdale road, and back by Hunderthwaite (total journey time two and a half hours), or you can turn right, and right again, and home via Mickleton (about three hours in all). Whichever route you choose there are splendid views to enjoy.

5. SENNINGS LANE and the FAIRY CUPBOARDS

This is a delightful walk, but parts of it are quite difficult. You should attempt it only if you have a good pair of walking boots.

In the South West corner of Low Green you will see a "Teesdale Way" signpost pointing South. Follow this along the shady Sennings Lane, and when you reach the gate at the end, keep on the track through three fields as indicated by the yellow Teesdale Way markers. After passing the derelict Low Garth farm follow the left hand way-marker, which takes you down into the wood, and eventually right down to the river.

If the water is low you can clamber down onto the rocks and see the little cupboards which the fairies have made for storing their provisions. (Non-believers may try to tell you that these are just natural features, formed by the action of the water, but the local folk know better.)

You may then either return to Romaldkirk (total journey time about an hour), or continue for another mile along the Teesdale Way, passing in front of Woden Croft farm, and on to Cotherstone.

6. TO COTHERSTONE AND BACK

This splendid walk takes you to Cotherstone along the North bank of the Tees, and brings you back along the South bank. You will need almost four hours, and you should wear a stout pair of boots. From the village proceed to Eggleston Bridge, either by road or across the fields as described in Walk No.1. Cross the bridge and immediately turn right along a metalled path past the cricket pavilion. At the end of the path you will see the outfall of the Kielder Tunnel, which was built in 1980 to transfer water from the River Tyne into the Tees. Just a few steps back is a waymarked track taking you up the Jubilee Steps, constructed to mark the Jubilee of the Ramblers' Association in 1985.

From the top of the wood the path is well signposted and provided with good stone stiles. Cross the first field close to its right hand side, then diagonally left across the next one, and then pass in front of East Barnley Farm. Continuing in a generally Southerly direction, you cross four more fields, not far from an isolated oak tree in the third of these, and alongside a fence on your left in the fourth. Continue along with a fence on your right, and at the next stile it is well worth while making a small detour to the right, and onto Percy Myre Rock. From here you can look down on Cotherstone and the Tees far below, surely one of the finest views in Teesdale. Cross another field, and immediately after crossing the next stream go over a stile on your right, descend alongside the stream for a hundred yards, then over a stile on your left to cross another field diagonally, and down into the caravan park. Go straight across this, proceed a short distance along the lane, and strike off right to cross the metal footbridge over the river.

Here, if thirst or fatigue so dictate, you could turn left, over another footbridge, and up into Cotherstone, where there are two pubs (and, let it be whispered, a bus service back to Romaldkirk). But the true walker will turn right along the riverside path. When this emerges from the wood keep alongside the fence, and cross it again at the stile. Stepping stones will take you safely over Wilden Beck, after which you strike off up the field, pass a stone enclosure on your left, and up to Woden Croft, reputed to have been in the nineteenth century a school like Dickens' notorious "Dotheboys Hall". After passing in front of the house, take the gate on the right and proceed between the farm buildings. After skirting the next field you may, if you wish, take the lane on the right down to the Fairy Cupboards, which are described in Walk No.5, but the direct route inclines left, and past an old barn. Then you follow the waymarkers back to Romaldkirk, tracing in reverse the walk described in No.5.”

Hector C. Parr

Its. Club Experience: Information for New Members

Club Experience – We truly welcome new members who seek to participate and enjoy our programme of weekend walks and share the fun and social experiences of our group. Community, support and encouraging participation at every level, for groups, singles and couples of all ages is at the heart of our company ethos. Every new member strengthens our club and improves the social experience for all so don’t delay – do join us.

Offering fantastic value our cheap weekend accommodation, walks and activities will enable you to get outdoors more often or help you make that new start you promised and will also enable you to discounts on Walkfree Breakfree - Simply Active and Active Learning short breaks and holidays.

Registration is free and a small fee of £25 is added to the first club experience trip you participate on during the 2010 programme and that will enable us to deliver cheap weekend walking trips. We are confident our Club Experience programme offers value for money even if you are already members of other walking groups and Ramblers Clubs. If we can deliver to you more walking and outdoor activity opportunities through our Club Experience programme we are happy.

“Outdoor activities for all”

Walkfree Breakfree – Club Experience

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION & REGISTRATION FORM (To be completed by everyone who wishes to join the Walkfree Breakfree Club Experience trips during 2010 – if already a member for 2010 no need to complete – move to trip booking form below)

Please return to: Iain Thomson

Walkfree Breakfree Ltd

Buckingham House

Desborough Road

High Wycombe

Buckinghamshire

HP11 2PR

MEMBERSHIP is on the understanding you and everyone in your party agrees participation is on the basis of “a participating adult” which is clearly defined in the British Mountaineering Council Participation Statement and on your acceptance of our terms and conditions (attached).

The BMC Participation Statement say that: The BMC recognises that climbing and mountaineering (which in our context includes walks, hill walking and other outdoor activities) are activities with a danger of personal injury or death. Participants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions.

To make your participation as simple and easy as possible you should fully understand your relationship with Walkfree Breakfree Ltd. During Club experience weekends and trips we are happy to offer information and opinions on walks and other activities and we will always endeavour to give accurate information and opinions, but we do not take any responsibility for them and if acted upon by you it is at your own risk.

You understand our walking and activity leaders are not qualified mountain guides and you join them at your own risk and your own free will to participate in club experience activities with like minded people.

During Club Experience trips you may be asked to drive (or accept a lift from) someone who is not in your booking party, to and from an excursion and you accept that Walkfree Breakfree Ltd will not accept any liability in the event of a road accident and that you enter into such an arrangement with another driver/passenger by mutual consent.

I fully understand and accept membership on the above conditions:

Signed………………………………………….. Dated …………………………………………….

Name……………………………………………………………………………

ADDRESS ......

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Home Tel No………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Mobile No………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Emergency Contact Number & name to be used in the event of an emergency arising during trips

: Name ………………………………………Emergency Contact Number…………………………..

Additional Members

Name Mobile Number Emergency Contact No (if not above)

Our very successful club experience breaks are achieved by one and all participating in chores large and small and volunteers assisting in other ways as detailed below. If you would wish to volunteer please indicate below: Please delete as appropriate)

I would be happy to offer car shares Yes/No

I would be happy to be a volunteer minibus driver Yes/No

I would be happy to lead walks Yes/No

I would be happy to lead mountain bike routes Yes/No

I would be pleased to volunteer in other ways…………………………………………………………......

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………......

Special dietary requirements: ………………………………………………………………………………. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

This application form will register you to join Walkfree Breakfree: Club Experience as Associate Members free of charge. Your membership will automatically be extended to full membership when you participate on your first event during 2010 when you will be charged the low membership fee of £25. All Associate and full members will receive details of Walkfree Breakfree Ltd activities including The Club Experience.

Health & Fitness

Bookings are accepted on the understanding that all persons participating are normally in good health and physically equally to the minimum demands of the chosen trip. If this is in doubt the Booking Form must be accompanied by a doctor’s certificate stating that it is entirely safe for you to go on the particular trip you have chosen. To assess your level of fitness in relation to the various walks we undertake, completing the quiz on our website may be helpful and a useful reference point for your personal use.

Remember we are undertaking physical activity which at times may be in remote locations where assistance may not be readily available or in certain circumstances medical conditions may pose additional risk to activities being undertaken. If you or a member of your party have medical conditions you wish to be brought to the attention of voluntary leaders please indicate below:

……………………………………………………………………………………………….

……………………………………………………………………………………………….. “Outdoor activities for all”

PICTURE

2010 Club Experience - Cheap Weekend Walking Breaks Enjoy the High Pennines, Hadrian’s Wall & Durham on our annual Short Summer Break

Thursday 1st to Monday 5th July 2010

Booking Information & Form – TO BE COMPLETED BY ALL

Please return ASAP to: Iain Thomson

Walkfree Breakfree Ltd

Buckingham House

Desborough Road

High Wycombe

Buckinghamshire

HP11 2PR

Or email to [email protected]

Name of Person Booking: ……………………………………………………………………………..

Please sign booking form below confirming you agree to accept and comply with conditions of membership and fully understand the meaning of “a participating adult” and understand that you participate on walks and activities at your own risk and Walkfree Breakfree Ltd accept no responsibility or liability. You accept our terms and conditions as attached on behalf of all members of the group (a published copy can be made available on request)

Signature of person booking……………………………………………………………………………

ADDRESS ......

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Home Tel No…………………………………………………………………………………………………. Mobile No………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Emergency Contact Number & name to be used in the event of an emergency arising during the trip: Name ………………………………………Emergency Contact Number…………………………..

Names of others in group:

Name Mobile Number Emergency Contact No (if not above)

Minibus Transport required: YES NO (please delete as appropriate)

I understand a surcharge of £20 per person may be applicable in respect of minibus travel for all bookings made after 3rd May)

(Please note this charge will be confirmed after time of booking)

I would prefer a lift if possible YES NO (please delete as appropriate)

(I will endeavour to put members in touch with each other to encourage green travel)

I am making independent travel arrangements and intend to arrive on ………………at……………

And depart on ………………………………….. Please indicate yes/no if you can offer a lift (and share travel expenses) to others in the group who may prefer not to travel via minibus

Our very successful club experience is achieved by one and all participating in chores large and small and volunteers assisting in other ways as detailed below. If you would wish to volunteer please indicate below:

Please delete as appropriate)

I would be happy to be a volunteer minibus driver Yes/No

I would be happy to lead walks Yes/No

Vegetarian Food required: (Nos) YES NO

Number booked

Shared rooms £ 245 per person @ Total Due £

Double rooms £270 per person @ Total Due £

LESS £20 per person of booked by 3rd May @ £20 per person = £

ADD (If Applicable) 2010 Club Experience Membership Fee @ £25 per person (A fee totally dedicated to keeping club trip prices as low as possible)

TOTAL DUE £

Deposit due with booking form £100 @ £100 per person Total Paid Now £

Or total sum if paying by credit card – to be debited 1st June 2010) TOTAL PAID £

(Please contact me for credit card payment details)

Cheques made payable to Walkfree Breakfree Ltd

Health & Fitness

Bookings are accepted on the understanding that all persons participating are normally in good health and physically equally to the minimum demands of the chosen trip. If this is in doubt the Booking Form must be accompanied by a doctor’s certificate stating that it is entirely safe for you to go on the particular trip you have chosen. To assess your level of fitness in relation to the various walks we undertake, completing the quiz below may be helpful and a useful reference point for your personal use.

……………………………………………………………………………………………….

Please return booking form to Iain Thomson

Walkfree Breakfree Ltd

Buckingham House

Desborough Road

High Wycombe

Buckinghamshire

HP11 2PR

Or email to [email protected]

Please remember to bring along a, towel, suitable outdoor clothing, sturdy footwear, (please remember that weather conditions can be bitterly cold and wet!), and flasks if hot drinks on walks are required.