Beannachd Scotland, Hello England

Yesterday I crossed the border at the river Sark into England.

Two distillery tours, visits to Glasgow, Inverness, Stirling, numerous towns and villages; hotel stays, eight campsites, many, many nights wild camping and 400 miles (644km) of walking later Scotland is now behind me.

Yet again I find myself reflecting on the experience so far and would like to share it with you.

Four nights ago I was camped underneath a train bridge, every 30 minutes a train passing over my head, the A74 motorway just beyond the bridge, it was not the most peaceful night’s sleep I’ve had but it was a milestone for me; Before starting this hike I had just returned from Germany and essentially closed down the life I had there for ten years, I had since my arrival felt a little deflated, Should I have left earlier? Should I have stayed? Have I pursued the career/life that I wanted? Have I done enough to preserve my health? Have I payed attention to the things that matter? Under that bridge I finally owned my decisions good and bad, it’s the only way we can move on.

Scotland has been very hospitable. Met and spoken with some fantastic people along the way both local and fellow hikers/bikers. Spent four excellent days in Glasgow, sight seeing and eating out, a great place to visit.

Most challenging day in Scotland was walking from a campsite outside Inverness to Carrbridge. Originally I planned to reach Carrbridge in two days, wild camping after 10 miles (16km) of hiking. Entering the Cairngorms national park the geography was cliff edges, steep mountain/hill sides, I couldn’t find anywhere to wild camp, after walking 16 miles (26km) I found a cheap hotel room in Carrbridge, booked it and commited myself to walking the last 3.5 miles (6km), feet swollen, ankles inflamed, legs ached, shoulders and back in pain, thighs swollen and rubbing the skin of one another, stomach beginning to cramp. After 19.5 miles (31km) I made it to the hotel, my room was a tiny box, with a shared bathroom, I didn’t care, I showered which was painful, I walked to my room, climbed into bed and about three or fours hours later the pain in my feet stopped, I slept very well. That was an interesting day 😁.

Anyway, for the next few days I’m resting in Carlisle before starting my next leg to Manchester. Stay tuned.