Walk Report

The seventh and penultimate leg of “The Pilgrimage of Light “ saw 32 walkers and two dogs, undertake the linear route from High Newton - by - the Sea to Belford, on a glorious day. We welcomed four new members to our social walk, Sophie, Christine, Sarah and Mari. The Northumbrian coastline did not disappoint and the largely empty beaches with an outgoing tide were enjoyed. A slightly circuitous route saw an inland excursion around the Tern colony reserve at Tughall Mill Links, before reaching Beadnell, thorough the caravan park. It was a relatively short distance to bustling Seahouses, on the dunes above Annstead Rocks and the lure of the chip shop; when lunch was enjoyed, the waft of curry sauce proved an interesting contrast to the sea air, as we sat in rows, theatre like, above the harbour. We ventured inland on St Oswald’s Way, across fields close to Shoreston Hall, taking a quiet Lane as we headed into Bamburgh and a break, below the battlements on the boundary of the cricket pitch. The views remained spectacular, particularly as we journeyed further, looking south near Harkness Rocks to view this most iconic castle, across the wide sandy beach. The English Coastal Path in this area has not been completed and of necessity, the St Oswalds Way route, is obliged to head inland from the golf links before Budle Bay. This in no way detracted from the walk and the cows encountered were remarkably well behaved on this occasion. There was a need however, to cross of the main east coast railway line and the A1, (does one venture to anticipate this section of the main arterial route north, maybe duelled if there is any money left for such projects, in the government coffers ! ) we then headed into Belford to finish and enjoy refreshments in the Black Swan. We are settling I believe, on 19 miles walked. Many thanks again to Paul Nellist for leading the walk and his foresight in devising the Pilgrimage of Light as our groups contribution to the LDWA 50th anniversary celebrations. All sections have proved extremely popular, with the finale to come on 15 October, when a towel may be a good addition to your kit, with a barefoot crossing of The Pilgrims Way. (Peter Ford)

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