What a day was had as Aycliffe Fell Walking Club journeyed to the Yorkshire Coast last Saturday. Three small groups started from Cloughton, Burniston and Scalby Manor Hotel to the north of Scarborough whilst most set off from Peasholm Park to all walk the coastal path to Filey. The majority had not walked this section of the Cleveland Way so there was genuine excitement on the day and the weather was absolutely perfect with brilliant sunshine throughout.
The routes were fairly easy-going on the whole, which afforded us time to admire the scenery and the wildlife. Whilst one group took an inland route to the villages of Cayton and Flixton, most stuck to the coast path being careful to avoid areas of recent erosion. Many spotted seals in the shallow waters as the tide turned but others even saw kestrels and one large bird, possibly a buzzard, surveying the cliffs for eggs whilst being attacked by a defending army of seagulls.
Some walkers ventured down to Filey Brigg (a narrow strip of land reaching out to the sea), whilst most were so tired by the end and made straight for the comfort of the local pubs and fish & chip shop. The town itself was a quaint throwback to times gone by and in stark contrast to the glittery lights of modern Scarborough! There was not much time to explore it before it was back on the coach and heading home really happy.
Next month, AFWC makes its second trip to the Lakes, this time with walks between Patterdale and Ambleside. It should be another exciting day whatever the weather, more details are on the website.
It should be noted that AFWC outings involve enough choice so, if you are new to walking, you can choose a shorter walk whilst braver and more experienced walkers may choose the longer and more demanding routes. The walks are not ‘led’ as such, but there are enough walk suggestions for everyone’s needs at a cost (to cover the coach) of only £15 per person per outing.
Annual club membership is only £10/ person. The coach picks up walkers in Darlington, Aycliffe Village, Newton Aycliffe, Middridge, Shildon, South Church and Bishop Auckland and frequently Barnard Castle and the Premier Inn at Stockton if on route.
If you are interested in joining us on one or more of our walks, visit our website www.aycliffefellwalkingclub.com and book a seat on the coach using the online form.