“I’d rather have cows laughing at me than ask for help,” I tell my decidedly unimpressed fiancée. “Besides, this is part of the adventure.”
There’s only one thing for it – we have to go back to where we started and figure out where it went wrong.
As we make our way back into town, this time bypassing the 1m-high stinging nettles that may have contributed to my fiancée’s tempestuous mood, it’s immediately obvious where we went wrong.
Just before the path of nettles there are some clearly marked arrows pointing us in another direction. This time I take the hint. With the path clearly worn from ramblers who have trodden before us, the feeling of being back on track lifts the pall hanging over us.
For the next four hours we meander through fields of wheat, and drift down the silent country lanes that surround the tiny village of North Dalton.
With threatening clouds gathering overhead, we unfortunately fail to catch a glimpse of the impressive Beverley Minster, the spire of which normally pricks the area’s skyline. But in any case it’s the North Dalton cricket field we stumble across that encapsulates the region better – small, quaint and very English. And only twice on our journey do we come across fellow ramblers who are also exploring the countryside.
Despite our inauspicious start, the footpath signs and our trusty map keep us heading in the right direction. And in the end, we finish back where we started – with fresh air in our lungs and hearty appetites that need to be addressed. The cows aren’t laughing now.
More rambling in the UK
The UK is covered in public footpaths, and there are dozens of websites that offer suggestions for good walks. Give these areas a go – the websites provided have detailed directions for walks and downloadable maps.
The Lake District
With some of the England’s finest scenery, the Lake District has walks to suit all abilities. For self-guided trails see www.lake-district.gov.uk, which also has details of free guided walks in the area.
The Cotswolds
Rambling in the Cotswolds you’ll find the picturesque England you imagined. The area is only a few hours from London, and easy to get to. See cotswoldsaonb.org.uk.
East Yorkshire
You can walk for hours in East Yorkshire and not see a soul – no mean feat in the UK. See walkingtheriding.eastriding.gov.uk.
The Isle of Skye
Scotland’s Isle of Skye is as close as it gets to rambling nirvana. There’s mountains for the serious and easier walks along the coast. See walkhighlands.co.uk/skye.
» Krysten Booth travelled with Visit Hull & East Yorkshire. New Yorkshire Wolds Walking Packs are available local tourist information centres, or contact Louisa Walker on 01482 486563 or email louisa.walker@vhey.co.uk
