We left Northumbria today , planning to return in October- so much more to see.
Drove across the top of England . England at the north end is only about 80 miles wide. Emperor Hadrian built his wall across from coast to coast after his arrival in 112 AD. John had searched for it once before, in 1989 but failed to find it!! Amazing considering how large it is. Went to the National Park Office at Once Brewed, (next to the pub at Twice Brewed!!) Apparently the local General found the beer weak and demanded it be "Twice Brewed" in time for his return from fighting off Scottish Jacobite raiders.

We then found the wall and started a walk along it. ( actually next to it, you cannot walk ON an ancient monument.) Folk "walk" the whole wall, 73 miles. Walk described as "moderate" but rain and mud made it more like "strenuous". After several km., in appalling wet weather and very slippy steps, turned back. Theresa and David went west; we went to look at Temple of Mithras and then Housesteads Roman hill fort and museum. Lots of history here but, soaked through, we decided to call it a day and headed towards the lakes.

Settled into a lovely cottage near Derwentwater, in the beautiful Lake District. Bird feeders in the garden guaranteed entertainment - red and grey squirrels and numerous birds just outside the windows on a lovely sunny evening. Dinner at the local pub to end a great day, despite the rain.