We awoke feeling somewhat battle-weary this morning, but have been doing lots of stretches to prevent the muscles from seizing up totally. Breakfast did not disappoint - omelettes and accessories rather than full English.
We set off for our morning walk at around 09.45, a shorter and more gentle route than yesterday. About 2 miles (3.2 km) with far less up and down hills. We took in the scenery, stopping to "talk" to the farm animals and take lots of photos. I discovered that the local horses and chickens are not great conversationalists!
We returned to the room for a cuppa and change of clothes, after which we went for a drive around some of the famously picturesque countryside, moving into areas where the hills became much more pronounced. Stopped in a town called "Castleton" which obviously only exists to support the visiting hikers and cyclists. We estimated that 80% or more of the local enterprises are restaurants, tearooms and some B&B-type hotels.
We strolled through the beautiful town, taking more photos of the stream running through and the stone buildings. Ended up in one of the tearooms for a delicious "cream tea", complete with warm, freshly baked scones smothered in strawberry jam* and cream. (*jam = jelly for my American readers.) The downstairs seating area was full, but there was more available upstairs. Forgetting momentarily that this was an old building dating back to the days when people were a lot smaller, I did not notice the overhead beam half way up the staircase and gave my head an almighty crash, resulting in a small graze to the skin and a sizeable lump that will probably remain for several days. Yes, it was very painful; no, I did not cry, but I did lap up all the attention from the waitresses!
One of the tourist attractions in Castleton is a cave that was previously inhabited by troglodytes who earned a living making rope for the local mining trade, but also served as a hideout for thieves and rogues. The cave system, which boasts the largest cave entrance in Britain is officially known as "Peak Cavern" but the locals have given it a name referring to a certain region of the devil's anatomy ... see the sign in the photo!
We returned to the room for a nap and shower before heading out to one of the local watering holes in the nearby town of "New Mills". The food was tasty, but some of the nearby patrons were noisy. Nevertheless it was a pleasant meal overall. Hoping for another good sleep tonight.
Enjoy the photos!
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