YC returned to The Pennines today to tick off a few more 2,000 ft hills in Weardale, namely Chapelfell Top, Fendrith Fell, and Westernhope Moor. Visibility was good today, with the Cheviots visible to the north and Cross Fell to the west. YC descended over Black Hill which took him past New Close, Westgate: the kennels of the Weardale and Tees Valley Beagles. Barry, the kennel huntsman, was at home and showed YC the new-born pups before giving him a cup of tea. On the return walk through Weardale, there were a pair of goldfinches on the lane - a beautiful sight.
On Tuesday YC visited Melmerby Fell and Fiend's Fell, near Hartside (Alston). Monday's warm sunshine had gone, and it was distinctly chilly with hail showers on the tops. Once again, there was nobody about.
Melmerby Fell - there were only curlews and golden plovers for company
Looking towards the Lakeland Peaks over the Eden Valley from Fiend's Fell
