Day 9 in the UK: Rest and Recover

Day 9 in the UK: Rest and Recover. After a very challenging few days, I started today rested and refreshed. It was the first night since I got into the UK that I slept well, completely unaided. I think a part of that was because I knew I didn't have to get up and walk all day long in pain. Instead, I woke up feeling like the day was open for anything. 

So after a full English breakfast at the hotel, I ventured into Hexham, the closest town, to check out the bus schedule for tomorrow. I travel to Newcastle but of course, there will be a train strike. When I arrived, I found out about the bus strike that will also occur. So tomorrow, the plan is now to hire a taxi rather than fight for a spot on the only coach running to Newcastle. 

While in Hexham, I also wandered around. I found a market where I picked up some fresh Scottish raspberries and strawberries. And I dropped off my extra (and now unnecessary) trail mix and fruit bars at the Hexham Abbey, for the local food bank. 

Then I hopped back on the AD 122 bus (named for the year Hadrian's Wall began construction) to go to Housesteads Fort. This is the best preserved fort along the wall, most likely because of its location perched at the top of the hill. I had one more hill to climb on this journey. So, up I went. 

The fort is amazing and very exposed... it was so windy! I could also see what I would have had to walk yesterday if I had continued. 

Since getting into Chollerford by bus, I've spoken with many walkers and they all grumbled about the horrible walking conditions on yesterday's stage. Lots of hills and then lots of miles of boggy fields and aggressive bulls. These walkers all called their walks early. Hearing this, I honestly feel like my decision was best! 

So after a tragic day yesterday, today I feel at peace. I was able to explore the best forts (Vindolanda and Housesteads), I've been congratulated by fellow walkers on my accomplishment from Bowness-on-Solway to Sycamore Gap, and as awful as it is, I was able to witness but also grieve for Sycamore Gap Tree before the police and media descended. 

So today, I feel refreshed and content. I recognize the amazing feat I've accomplished, having walked the most challenging but the most beautiful section of Hadrian's Wall. 

I write this with a happy heart, looking over a peaceful scene, enjoying a cider and fish & chips. Cheers to Hadrian's Wall Walk, and now I have 7 more days in the UK to #EAThikeLOVE Thanks for joining me on this adventure!