Event review

Pub Walk

Having never been on a proper 'ramble' as such, this was my first experience of an IVC great outdoors event, but having recently acquired some hiking boots and a very sexy outdoor jacket (with detachable fleece!!!), I was determined to put them to good use. After meeting at Nunnery Lane car park to arrange lift sharing, we set off in an IVC convoy up to a lovely village called Oldstead, just on the edge of the North York Moors. On arriving, I quickly learned what a total novice I am at this walking lark when the others produced a change of boots, waterproofs, rucksacks, something to eat/drink etc, etc. They were all ready for a fight with a muck-spreader and there was me in my jeans with a handbag. Oh dear. I'm a Dartford girl. Enough said! We set off on a 6 mile walk with Shaun leading the way, across fields, along paths, until we reached Byland Abbey where we took a pit-stop. Then on further uphill (puff, pant, wheeze - that was me anyway), until we reached the Mount Snever Observatory at the top, where I was struck by how peaceful it was. We walked a little further (downhill - yeah!) until we reached the The Black Swan pub, where we rewarded ourselves with Sunday lunch - I chose Roast Beef and Yorkshire pudding, sticky toffee pudding (great!), washed down with Guinness (needed that). So, all in all, everyone had enjoyed it for (a) the fantastic weather, (b) the beautiful autumn scenery and (c) the top nosh at the end. It is a great way to keep fit and get to know other club members. Just make sure you leave the handbag and stilettos at home! Thanks to Shaun for organising.