To be honest, when we woke up in the morning we did wonder why we were walking. It was pouring down and blowing a gale. However that didn’t deter 16 of us from the planned walk and picnic, and we were proved right (or should that be the weather forecasters were proved right!). The weather cleared up so that when we all finally reached Carey Bridge to park and start the walk, the sun was shining and the threat of rain had gone.

We set off and climbed up beside the river, in a short space of timing gaining considerable height. From here we carried on up further, stopping to enjoy the emerging views and to study the remains of the bronze age settlements. We continued over the top, dropping down slightly and out of the wind along to walk along the top of the valley, looking across onto a patchwork forest of colour and texture. We then arrived at the site of Old Middleton where, conveniently, there were some disused buildings that provided adequate shelter and places to sit for our picnic. We managed to occupy 2 adjacent buildings and it has to be said, the quality of the neighbours just isn’t what it used to be…..

After the usual lunch banter, chocolate and apricots we were itching (or should that be stiff enough) to start off again. We dropped down onto the road and headed along until the ford and footbridge. At this point we decided the footbridge was the better option….. Over the river and through the wood where the sun shone dappled and peaceful on the water. Several pheasants scared us by taking flight at our approach and talk turned to scary animals, especially cows! The walk opened out into a grassy valley before heading into gorse and we saw a couple of buzzards circling above. Beyond the gorse we found the previously discussed cows, much to the “delight” of several of our group. We decided the best course of action was to bunch together and steer well clear, which we did by detouring round the pasture next to the river. Having safely navigated the cows, we found our cars exactly where we left them and decided to drive into Wooler for a well earned cuppa and cake!

The weather was amazing, the company entertaining and the area beautiful. Happy Valley was very peaceful and picturesque bathed in sunlight and all in all it was a lovely walk.