This was our longest walk on the programme so far this year and would take us around Herrington Country Park before heading towards Penshaw Monument and down to walk along the River Wear.
As we started we spotted another group of Nordic walkers who we would see later on in the morning.
We started walking in the Country Park, around the lake and visiting the Miners Memorial Garden and sculptures along the way. Various group photos were taken at these points.
Crossing the main road and heading up the hill towards Penshaw Monument there were a few cows and bullocks who are obviously used to people and dogs as they didn’t even lift their heads.
There is a well placed seat half way up the hill and an opportunity for a group photo with the iconic Penshaw Monument as the backdrop. We walked down to the River Wear.
Anne had been walking along the River earlier this week and had seen a kingfisher. Kiirsty was so excited and hoped we would see it again. Otters and seals had also been spotted along and everyone kept their eyes wide open in the hope of spotting them, unfortunately with no luck.
As we stopped for lunch down by the River there were squeals of delight from Kirsty, Anne, Chris and Diane as they had spotted the kingfisher.
Following the River we passed a boat which had been wrecked during the Beast from the East.
Part of the route was the old railway line and the pace was picked up especially by Kirsty and Chris. The beauty of a disused railway line is that it is flat which was just as well as we were about to have a challenge walking up the hill to Penshaw Monument.
We ended the walk back at Herrington Country Park with a cool down and stretch. Some of us went to Penshaw Tea Room where we had to wait a while for a table but we were rewarded with our delicious sandwiches and cake.
Well done everyone on a difficult walk you all did brilliantly.
Look forward to seeing you soon.
Julie x
