The North Downs Way was a bit of a mini epic! Starting off on Easter Monday I set off with all my kit and tried to make fast progress however the crowed paths made the going slow. The first night was spent in the garden of Tanners Hatch YHA. It was a pretty peaceful night as I was the only one camping there.
The following day most people were back at work so I managed to make good progress to Downe Scout Activity Centre where I spent the night in the Crew Hut. The day was another scorcher and with all my kit it took quiet a lot of effort to complete the 25-mile day.
Wednesday was spent at Gatehouse Wood Touring Park. This was a bit close to the M20 and M26 for my liking as it was very noisy. Then I was on to Dun Street Farm Camping. The weather was beginning to turn and there were storms and heavy rain forecasted for the Friday. I decided I would press on and finish the route on Friday.
The rain was hammering down as I walked along above the Eurostar Terminal in Folkestone looking for the 'White Horse' as a marker as to how far I had left to go. When reaching it I went into 'head down marching mode' until I turned the page in my guide book and saw I had a further 15Km to go so fell into a mindless wonder along the white cliffs. As coming down the final cliff I managed to fall over for the first time only 2km from the end.
I finished in central Dover at the water fountain in the town square. 4 1/2 days 125 Miles!
I have recently spent a week at the Kent Mountain Centre developing my leadership skills and getting experience working in the outdoors with highly qualified instructors. I helped lead on Tryfan N ridge, Gorge Walking, Climbing and Kayaking/Canoeing. It was a very useful week as I learnt from the instructors and teachers their leadership styles.
I have finally finished putting together definite plans for my expedition this summer to Scotland. You can read more on the Summer Expedition 2009 page.
Having just finished my exams I'm hoping to get my climbing grade up before my course at Glenmore Lodge.