Holwick Barn Weekend

Holwick Barns are situated in a superb isolated location in a field fronting onto the River Tees and yet less than half a mile from the pub (very important) and only a quarter of a mile from the Farmhouse Kitchen. Nice one! Not everyone stayed for all three nights that the barn was booked for so there was a continual flux of inhabitants over the weekend, with a few day visitors also coming to join in the various activities. Friday night was wet and dismal (well it was a bank holiday) but a few drinks and bawdy jokes saw the night out.

Saturday started a little damp and dismal but a hardy group of five walkers set out lead by yours truly leaving the cyclists to do whatever it is that cyclist do. We followed the track out of the top end of the village passing Holwick Lodge and headed for the river near to High Force. The river was very full from the previous day's rain and the falls were spectacular. Following the river upstream we came to Langdon Beck where lo and behold we met our very own cycling section out for a ride. From this point we made our way along the slopes of the north side of the valley crossing pastures grazed by sheep and cattle including several bulls! Thankfully they paid us no heed and we arrived safely at the Bowlees Visitor Centre for a welcome cuppa. Leaving Bowlees we crossed the swing bridge close to Low Force before climbing back to Holwick where the pub beckoned.

Returning to the barn and the queue for a wash (the shower was out of order) before our evening meal. Some cooked and ate in and some retired to the pub again for vitals.

Sunday brought a bright start and we walkers set off under the guidance of Hugh's leadership. Climbing from the village up and over Cronkley fell we enjoyed the super views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Glimpses of Cow Green reservoir with Cross Fell, the birthplace of the Tees, in the background made the climb worthwhile as did the beautiful blue gentians which were just coming into flower. After dropping down to the river we made our way downstream keeping close to the waters edge passing High Force again and so on to Low Force where a group of canoeists (not SOC) were having fun. The short climb to Holwick ended the walk with another well-deserved pint in the pub.

Other commitments meant that I had to leave on Sunday evening so my report must end here. Many thanks to John who organised the weekend and to those present for their good company.

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	Swaledale Outdoor Club

Holwick Barn Weekend

Alan Turner