From the moment we arrived at Buxton station, we were in
the hands of our three very experienced guides who seem to cycle from Lands End
to John O'Groats almost weekly, climb mountains and made us all feel rather
urban and unfit!
We walked up Shark's Fin, scrambling up sheer rock (well,
big boulders anyway) until we saw an astonishing view for miles. This is a
beautiful national park and in the glittering sunshine of a June afternoon, we
saw it as its best. Finding our way through fields full of drying hay, sheep
and rather large bulls, we ambled happily, some of us dreading the next
vertical climb! Mr Henwood referred to the cows' "bladders being full of
milk" which caused hilarity to the more countrified Latymerians.
Now we are at a rather grand hostel called Hartington
Hall, an old manor, now owned by the YHA. Tired and hot, we have collapsed
after a hearty meal. Blister plasters are at the ready for tomorrow's
expedition, this time with Mr. Goodhew to encourage us!
