Traveller's Tales: Walking the Coast to Coast at 77

Traveller Peter Whitehead recently completed our Coast to Coast Guided Walk. This is his experience of walking one of the most iconic routes in the United Kingdom.

I have always wanted to complete a long-distance walk over many days. Walkers' Britain & Europe was ideal — there is a guide, no hassle with map reading, luggage is moved each day and good accommodation is arranged throughout.

After many years as a member of a local running club in Cambridgeshire, completing over 130 half marathons and nine marathons, I took up walking about five years ago. I walk at least six miles each day, and as preparation for the Coast to Coast I completed four walks of at least 25 miles. I also carried a rucksack packed with everything I would need each day on the trail — and this quickly taught me that everything can get wet if it is not put in plastic bags!

The first few days in the Lake District were tough, with very steep paths of rocks and tree roots, both up and down, and a good deal of rain. I felt my confidence increasing as the days went by — my legs felt strong and I did not get any blisters. Plenty of Vaseline on your feet each day is my top tip. Several members of the group found the terrain very strenuous and suffered with foot problems, so do not underestimate the early stages.

Our guide was excellent throughout — planning ahead, organising evening meals, accommodating the various fitness levels of the group and patiently answering our never-ending questions.

The accommodation was excellent, with B&Bs and small hotels along the way. The luxury of a hot shower at the end of a strenuous day was just bliss.

Our group of eight walkers from five countries blended together wonderfully. We all watched out for each other and a real bond developed quickly — one of the unexpected highlights of the whole experience.

The most challenging parts were the hills, but the views from the top made every bit of effort worthwhile. Looking back to see how far and how high we had walked was a great motivation to keep going.

The biggest surprise was how emotional it was to finally reach the beach at Robin Hood's Bay and throw that stone from St Bees into the sea. A surprise welcome from some of my family waiting there made it an even more special moment — one I will never forget.

Finally, I should add that I am 77 years old. It is never too late to take on the challenge. These two weeks will be a memory I will always treasure.

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