Aycliffe Fell Walkers had been looking forward to the club’s annual outing and when it finally came, last Friday, there was lots of enthusiasm as members headed for Kettlewell Village in Wharfedale, anxious to make the most of the weekend ahead.
Some elected to camp in a farmer’s field just outside the village and had their tents pitched well before the planned meeting in the village pub, whilst the remaining members chose the comfort of the local hostelries. The Friday evening get-together in the Blue Bell Inn saw walkers greeting each other like long-lost friends, before they sat together to enjoy the customary reunion dinner, with lots of drink flowing during and after the meal. Despite the celebrations most retired at a reasonable hour, keen to get a good night’s sleep in preparation for the next day’s walking.
The sun shone brightly on Saturday morning and members set off to walk in different directions, depending on their aspirations. The ‘A’ team decided on an arduous 14+ mile circuit, taking in Buckden Pike and Wharfedale; the ‘B’ team chose a direct ascent of Great Whernside, putting 12 miles behind them before descending to take refreshments at the Fox & Hounds in Starbotton; the ‘C’ team chose a shorter but no less interesting 7 mile route over Old Cote Little Moor to Arncliffe in Littondale, returning via Knipe Scar. All enjoyed day-long, high-level views over the glorious Yorkshire Dales countryside.
The highlight of the Saturday evening was a barbeque organised by the campers, in the nearby farmer’s field. Sausages, burgers and chicken wings with lots of relish were washed down with wine & beer, and thankfully not a kettle in sight! Strawberries and cream, with passion fruit cake on the side, proved the perfect choice to accompany the main courses. A most enjoyable evening for all! The day’s labours resulted in everyone sleeping soundly and contentedly during the night, regardless of whether in a sleeping bag or in a four-poster!
Sunday after breakfast saw the ‘A’ and ‘B’ team walkers taking on the walk that the ‘C’ team had undertaken the previous day, whilst the ‘C’ team elected to walk to Starbotton, returning to Kettlewell via the well-trodden Dales Way footpath. All in attendance voted this one of the best annual club outings in memory and vouched to return on next year’s trip; thank goodness for some decent weather this time round!
If you’re feeling constrained or ‘kettled’ you can escape by joining our friendly fell walking club. Contact our secretary on 01325 488225 or visit afwc.org.uk and find fresh air again!
