“It will be seen at a glance that the finest territory in the north of England is traversed by it. Surely there cannot be a finer itinerary for a long distance walk”.
A Wainwright, A Coast to Coast Walk, 1973
Whilst the Pennine Way was rather an endurance test for Wainwright, walking and writing about his own Coast to Coast route was a far more enjoyable experience. His 194 mile route is based on existing rights of way and crosses three major national parks. The scenery is truly wonderful and having Betty as his companion and (in a significant change of permitted practice!) car driver, must have contributed to his good humour!
The song reflects the uplifting and challenging nature of the walk. It takes you along the route and also incorporates some of the walk’s traditions around starting and completing it. For those of you who have undertaken the walk (me included) I hope it brings back some good memories!
lyrics
It's from St Bees by the Irish sea
that your journey begins this day
Take your time and wet your boots,
breath in deep that salt sea air
Many footsteps lie ahead
before you on the way
For when you view the sea again
it will be at Robin Hood's Bay!
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