In this episode, I recount day seven and day eight on the Wainwright Coast to Coast trail. We wake beside a stream at Rukins campsite, dodge incoming rain, and share breakfast with fellow hikers. The unpredictable weather and challenging terrain test our gear and spirits, but camaraderie and scenic beauty keep us going.

En route we chat with hikers from Canada, compare trails, and reflect on foot care and logistics. A luxurious hotel stay offers welcome respite before we press on, energised for the next stage. This episode highlights the joys, challenges, and connections found on a long-distance UK hike and our arrival at Danby Wiske, possibly the best campsite in the whole coast to coast.

Dawn by the Stream & Morning Routine (00:00:20 )

Waking up by a stream, morning rituals, weather check, and packing up before rain on day seven.

Farm Facilities & Meeting Simon (00:01:59 )

Using campsite facilities, waiting for the farm café, and chatting with Simon about route choices.

Weather, Route Choices & Equipment (00:02:48 )

Discussing weather forecasts, route safety, equipment, and stories about fellow hiker Ruth.

Breakfast & Trail Plans (00:03:08 )

Waiting for breakfast, planning the day’s hike to Reeth, and reflecting on trail pace and weather.

Trail Companions: Karen & Nicole (00:05:22 )

Walking with Karen and Nicole from Vancouver, comparing UK and Canadian hiking experiences.

UK vs. Canada Hiking (00:05:41 )

Karen describes differences in terrain, views, and trail conditions between the UK and Canada.

Trail Challenges & Impressions (00:06:14 )

Discussion of trail difficulty, underfoot conditions, and overall impressions of English hospitality.

Trail Logistics & Pub Hours (00:07:05 )

Challenges with accommodation and pub opening times for walkers, and the impact on daily routines.

Nicole’s Experience & Comparisons (00:07:49 )

Nicole shares her impressions, compares the trail to the West Highland Way, and discusses wildlife differences.

Village-to-Village Hiking & Comfort (00:09:15 )

Advantages of UK/European hiking: village-to-village walking, B&Bs, and shelter from rain.

Trail Community & Weather (00:10:03 )

Meeting people on the trail, evolving friendships, and experiencing all types of weather.

Gunnerside & Lower Route (00:10:40 )

Afternoon update from Gunnerside, pub and café stops, and decision to take the lower route due to wind.

Following the River Swale (00:13:37 )

Walking along the River Swale, enjoying wildflowers, meadows, and the beauty of the landscape.

Approaching Reeth & Trail Reflections (00:14:16 )

Anticipating arrival in Reeth, reflecting on route choices, resupply logistics, and previous taxi ride.

Arrival at Burgoyne Hotel (00:16:16 )

Arriving at the luxurious Burgoyne Hotel in Reeth, enjoying a soak, and foot care routines.

Foot Care & Trail Shoes (00:18:08 )

Detailed discussion of foot care products, trail shoes, socks, and the pros/cons of waterproof linings.

Toe Socks & Blister Prevention (00:20:18 )

Rose shares her experience with toe socks and blister prevention; more on foot health.

Evening in Reeth & Social Plans (00:21:30 )

Evening plans in Reeth, meeting other hikers at the pub, and reflections on the day’s walk.

Day Eight: Early Start & Accommodation Thoughts (00:22:42 )

Leaving the hotel early, comparing hotel vs. guesthouse experiences, and planning a long day to Danby Wiske.

Morning Walk to Marrick (00:23:54 )

Setting off before 8 a.m., walking towards Marrick, and describing the changing weather.

Richmond Arrival & Trail Companions (00:25:05 )

Reaching Richmond, meeting Simon and Ruth, café stop, and feeling stronger after rest days.

Richmond to Brompton-on-Swale (00:28:45 )

Walking through Richmond, riverside paths, ash dieback warnings, and enjoying cool, rainy weather.

Brompton-on-Swale & Simon’s Departure (00:30:26 )

Passing Brompton-on-Swale, Simon leaves for his pub stay, and the group pushes on to Danby Wiske.

Final Push to Danby Wiske (00:32:03 )

Leaving Ruth in Richmond, saying goodbye to other hikers, and walking through wet fields and brambles.

Road Walk & Arrival at Campsite (00:33:39 )

Switching to road walking for the final miles, feeling tired, and reflecting on the day’s challenges.

Arrival at Church Home Campsite (00:36:24 )

Arriving at 7:30 p.m., warm welcome at the campsite, facilities, and plans for a restful evening.

Gear Review: Sleeping Pad Pump (00:37:32 )

Using a rechargeable pump for sleeping pads, its usefulness, and end-of-day routines.

Day Recap & Supper (00:38:40 )

Recapping the 12-hour, 22-mile day, landscape changes, and looking forward to supper and rest.

Closing Thoughts & Next Episode Teaser (00:39:53 )

Reflecting on the long day, the campsite’s hospitality, and previewing an interview with the campsite owner.

Podcast Outro (00:40:56 )

Thanking listeners and directing them to the podcast’s website for more content.

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