The first day under our belts but it wasn’t easy.  We always knew it would be an odd walk with the first two thirds in urban environments. The first third of the route took us from Segedumun Fort, the official start/end of the wall walk in the east. There is evidence of Newcastle’s previous and declining shipping industry all the way along the Tyne.  The second third took us through modern Newcastle including impressive views of the Sage and Baltic Arts Centres on the opposite bank and the iconic Tyne Bridge which we walked under.  Quite a lot of riverside flats on show, some with nice-looking views.

The final third takes you to the outskirts and out into the countryside.  We were able to see Heddon-on-the-Wall on top of a ridge to our right indicating we would be climbing at some point and the eventual climb was more severe than I imagined!  However, when we got into the village, we had a well-deserved drink.  It was here we said goodbye to our friend Nick Naylor who had walked with us all the way.  Nick was a work colleague from 1995-96 and also a close neighbour.  We very much appreciated Nick’s company and it was fantastic of him to give up his bank holiday.  What a nice guy!

We then set off to find our lodgings which was a further 2 (hard) miles down the route which runs parallel with the ‘Military Road’ (B6318).  Had to sniff out the Wi-Fi though, only works in certain places.

I think Chris has completed the day in a better condition than me, I’m feeling pretty sore and stiff.  Hopefully I’ll be able to walk off these problems tomorrow.  Looking forward to meeting up with Dave Taylor tomorrow night ready for Day 3.

Hopefully will be able to update you all again tomorrow (depends on good access to Wi-Fi!).

Thanks

Ronny & Chris