C2C Day Eight - Orton to Kirkby Stephen

Today’s journey started bright and early, leaving the cozy George Hotel in Orton around 8:30 in the morning. 

The skies were still holding back after a night of thunderstorms, but my shoes and socks, despite the gaiters, got an early morning soak as I crossed those first few fields. 

The weather teased a bit of rain, but once I geared up in my wet-weather gear, the clouds decided to hold off, much to the benefit of all my fellow coast-to-coasters!

As I made my way deeper into the Dales, the landscape opened up into those classic, expansive fields of sheep and more deliberate farming. One thing I noticed walking along one such field that had been recently cut, the path seemed to be greener than the rest of the field. I'd have thought it would have been the other way around? Any explanations in the comments would be appreciated!

One of the highlights of the day was visiting the Gamelands Stone Circle, an ancient Bronze Age site that added a mystical touch to the day, especially with the looming clouds overhead. And just for a bit of fun, my sat-nav had a humorous moment, insisting I was off-route, which for once, was actually true!

I also had the pleasure of meeting Shannon and Ian, a lovely couple from the US with roots in the UK. We spent a good part of the walk together, sharing stories and enjoying the camaraderie that comes with these long-distance treks. The roughly 13 miles soon passed, as we talked about life, family and adventures! It turned out Ian was once on the books for Leicester FC!!

All in all, it was a day full of character, history, and great company!