Friday 2 September 2022 - The Dales High Way - Day 2 - Ilkley to Skipton

Last night's Korean style meal at Host Restaurant was delicious. Cauliflower bhajis to die for! 'Best of Doors' helped the ambience.

Today we returned to White Wells after a superb breakfast, on a newly laid path under a leaden sky.

Morning fell runners bounded past us.

Luscious blackberries lined the path, along with tormentil and rock roses, thistles and yarrow, and not forgetting a large expanse of mint.

Soon after reaching the Swastika Stone, pictured above, the sun rejoined us for the rest of the day, and more sun tan cream was duly applied.

A long stroll atop the escarpment brought us to a lovely elevenses stop just before the descent to Addingham. 

Delightful field paths took us down to and around the village of Addingham. 

Lunch was taken on a bench by some allotments, then we proceeded through the rest of the long village before ascending a long, straight lane up onto the moors above Skipton.

A pair of red kites were quartering the freshly cut fields, searching for victims. We found the remains (feathers) of what had possibly once been a grouse.

After another break to finish our remaining supplies of water on this humid day, we continued down to the rapidly expanding town of Skipton.

The descent was completed in pleasant woodland. Just a smattering of people were seen today. 

Rehydration took place at the Greenwood Café Bistro. Thanks, Helen, for the extra hot water, and as you can see, the cakes were delicious!

Then we adjourned to the comforts of Town House B&B, where the owner, Mick, is the spitting image of our friend and neighbour,  Rick!