DALES to LAKES, Day 1: outward

Wow, it’s been a bit of a bizarre day, a rollercoaster in some ways!

I usually like to leave early in the morning when I go away for any big trips but decided to sleep in and rest. I just felt very tired, as I do a little now after a slightly exhausting day. In hindsight I think this was a sensible move, particularly as I’ve driven over 300 miles to get here! Why rush things and make my drive unsafe + more hard work?!

I do miss riding my motorbike. I could cover more distance for longer periods and feel less tired, whereas being in a car, particularly on the motorway, can get tedious.

Plotting

Now I’m in the Yorkshire Dales, I’ve got settled in this evening, got my gear organised and done a precise sketch of locations to explore whilst I’m here, which is great! I just need to plot the specific routes now but I feel a lot more confident about the next few days, which is a relief!

The weather looks dry + clear, and there may be the odd quick blast of rain like there was on the way up here but I’m ready for it. Now I think I’m going to take each day as it comes! I managed to get food sorted for the next few days, and although I didn’t manage to grab the grub I was initially eyeing, what I have will suffice indeed.

YHA

I must be the youngest person at the hostel I’m staying at bar the few family children I’ve heard, which is a great shame! The YHA was setup for young travellers yet you either see old school hikers or just families these days. I wish this would change, not in response to these demographics, but so that more young people have the chance to explore + experience outdoor spaces from affordable lodgings.

I’m glad all those years ago I invested in my lifetime membership and have tried to maintain the spirit + ethos of the YHA in what I do. For me there’s often been something special about staying at their spots whilst travelling. They very much add a vintage + curious energy to my activities and demeanour and often make an adventure complete. Come to think of it, it’s often been the case with many of their locations I’ve stayed at, especially their rural spots! Their city ones unfortunately tend to be forgettable as the YHA essence is drained and they just resemble cheap, commercial budget hotels.

Peace + best wishes, goodnight X