Wainwright's Coast to Coast Walk (West to East) — Stage 6

The century has been notched up. 100 miles, which is 4.5 miles more than if we had followed Wainwright's low-level route. In fact, Deke and I added over two miles onto the total today by heading off route at Ravenseat in Whitsundale towards the Tan House Inn in order to bag Robert's Seat. My left leg and foot are still really bad, but I have now invested over £15 in false skin, bandages, and support stockings to keep me going. Today's leg was forecast fine and sunny. It was fine I suppose, but sunshine was very limited. Once again, as five years ago, Nine Standards was windy, cold, and bleak.

The bogs were a little more supporting than when Steve, Dave, and I encountered them five years ago, but only just. Nevertheless (and considering the condition of my left lower limb) we made good progress and I managed to keep Deke company this time. It was still a hard slog and I had to concentrate on every step I took. I expect better soon.

I don't know if it's just been hard luck on my two crossings of the Pennine watershed, but the clouds just seem to hang about on there all the time. It makes the walking very difficult for a while and I can almost guarantee your boots will get a soaking. The stretch of moorland between Nine Standards and Whitsun Dale is not only wet underfoot but featureless. It serves a purpose though in creating many of the splendid rivers of Northern England.

Note: Due to the wet going and erosion on the watershed, there are three designated routes over the moor. The one you take is determined by season and by the Yorkshire Dales Park Authority.