Just what is it about Osmotherley

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(Our little weekend escape in the North Yorkshire Moors)

As you all know by now, most weekends we pack up and head to Osmotherley— our small bit of heaven tucked into the western edge of the North Yorkshire Moors. But just what is it about this place that keeps us going back and makes us bang on about it so much 😂 

Osmotherley is a place that quietly gets under your skin in all the best ways: peaceful, full of character, and surrounded by some of the most beautiful countryside we’ve ever come across. The love affair started in 2021 when we decided to buy a touring caravan but wanted it sited in a permanent location. We got lucky buying a nice Swift Challenger from Preston and then I found a lovely little village site called Cote Ghyll Caravan Park & Campsite. It looked amazing on the website so we drove up to see what North Yorkshire was all about. As we drove in to Osmotherley we both instantly knew we hit the jackpot and Linda declared “this is the place” before we had even reached the caravan park. Needless to say the site also matched the stunning beauty of the village and before we had left we had signed up to a month on a pitch (it was the end of September so only a month of the season left) and had our names down for a permanent pitch for the following year. Three days later the caravan was on its way to its new home and 2 days later we were up there and settling in. As of writing this we are at the start of our 4th year and just cant see us moving the caravan anywhere else. It really does feel like home.

The caravan site is a beautifully maintained site with first class facilities, amazing staff and is set in a dip with Cod Beck river running through the heart of it. The site is surrounded by trees and the ‘Ledge’ where we are located has trees in abundance with so many birds as neighbours. Probably one downside is the lack of internet but I suppose to some this can be a blessing. This day and age though we rely on the internet more and more so it is a little inconvenient that the signal here is poor. Other than that I really cant find anything to fault. The site has lots of other seasonal caravaners as well as families that come for a break or holiday. There is no clubhouse which keeps the noise down at night and keeps the site a peaceful place sat in the heart of nature. 

From the top end of the park, it’s a short walk to Cod Beck Reservoir, a two-mile loop that’s an absolute favourite of ours. The path takes you through woodlands and along the water’s edge, where you’ll spot everything from ducks, geese and woodland birds to roe deer if you’re lucky. It’s the kind of place that’s peaceful all year round, but especially special on early misty mornings.

Now to the village of Osmotherley, life centres around the old market cross, with four roads leading out from it—North End, South End, East End, and West End—each defining a different part of Osmotherley. It’s a proper village setup and gives it a charm that hasn’t changed in years. 

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Despite its size, Osmotherley packs in quite a bit with the weekends bringing in cyclists and walkers from all over with it being on the Coast to Coast path, the Cleveland Way and also the start of the Lyke Wakes Walk, as well as having hundreds of miles of tracks and trails surrounding it.

There are three pubs, The Golden Lion, Queen Catherine and The Three Tuns, each with its own vibe and good pub grub. The village shop is a classic—small but handy—and then there’s the coffee shop, appropriately called ‘The Coffee Shop Osmotherley’.  We spend lots of time in here with the owners Kate and Trevor who actually moved into the village and shop at the same time as we arrived. The food is great and the cakes are just stunning. Far too many sampled and i’m sure far more in the future.

History-wise, Osmotherley has plenty of it. The church dates back to the 12th century, and nearby is the Lady Chapel, a pilgrimage site that’s still visited today. There’s also a long connection with John Wesley, founder of Methodism, who preached in the village several times. Just a couple of miles out north west are the ruins of Mount Grace priory, a 14th-century Carthusian priory with 13 acres of gardens.

From Osmotherley, you’ve got options in every direction:

  • Head north and you’ll reach Swainby, another peaceful village that’s great for a change of scenery.
  • Go south and in just over two miles you’ll find Thimbleby, a tiny hamlet that looks like it belongs on the front of a biscuit tin.
  • Walk east and you’re on the Cleveland Way, straight into the heart of the North Yorkshire Moors—perfect if you’re up for a proper walk with serious views.
  • And if you head west, you’ll soon be in Northallerton, a great market town with shops, restaurants, and all the essentials.

What we love most is that Osmotherley offers that classic countryside calm without being completely cut off. Northallerton is only 5 miles away, so you’re never too far from a bit of bustle if you need it and Northallerton boasts railway connections to get you anywhere in the UK. 

For our Saturday Parkrun needs we are again spoilt with no less than 6 of them within 30 minutes. Northallerton, Thorp Perrow (Bedale) and Darlington. Then three in Middlesbrough, Albert park, Stewart park and Flatts Lane. Every weekend its a difficult decision on which to go to.

We’ve been coming here most weekends for nearly 4 years now, and it still hasn’t lost its magic. Whether it’s the walks, the wildlife, the friendly faces in the coffee shop, or just the peace of sitting outside the caravan with a brew, Osmotherley always delivers.

So thats is what Osmotherley is about………Our little piece of Heaven 😍

Aysgarth and West Burton Falls

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(Stunning countryside with a real hidden gem)

If you’re looking for a fantastic outdoor experience, Aysgarth and West Burton should be at the top of your list. The adventure began at the Aysgarth Visitor Centre and I made myself across the Bridge and up a short incline through the church grounds

From the Visitor Centre, take a leisurely stroll towards the bridge that arches beautifully over the Upper Falls. This picturesque crossing offers stunning views of the cascading water below, making it an Instagram-worthy moment. Once you’ve soaked in the sights, continue your trek steeply up through the church grounds, where the serene environment is bound to invigorate your spirits.

As you cross the main road with care, the path leads you down through open fields, filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers. The sounds of chirping birds will accompany you as you follow the river to West Burton. This quaint village offers a charming atmosphere with its stone cottages and friendly locals, which adds to the overall appeal of your walk.

West Burton and the Enchanting Cathedral Cauldron Falls

While exploring West Burton, don’t forget to check out the hidden gem located at the bottom corner of the village – the Cathedral Cauldron Falls. This mesmerizing waterfall cascades down with grace, creating a tranquil spot perfect for reflection and relaxation. The falls are framed by picturesque rocks and greenery, creating a magical scene that feels straight out of a fairytale.

After you’ve taken in the beauty of the falls, retrace your steps back to Aysgarth, where you can treat yourself to a well-deserved coffee and cake at a nearby café. There’s nothing quite like a hot drink paired with a slice of cake after a refreshing walk!

Exploring Freeholders Wood: A Hidden Wildlife Paradise

If you’re up for more adventure, consider taking a short 3-mile loop through Freeholders Wood. This scenic trail will take you past both the Middle and Lower Falls. You’ll be immersed in the sights and sounds of nature, with various bird species flitting about, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.

The loop is relatively gentle and provides a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the natural landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned walker or a casual strollers, the combination of beauty and tranquility in Aysgarth and West Burton is sure to leave you refreshed and inspired.

In summary, your day spent wandering through Aysgarth and West Burton is bound to be filled with stunning views, delightful encounters, and plenty of lovely memories. So grab your boots, and let’s hit the trail!

Virtual Spine Day 31

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Virtual Spine Day 31


Distance Covered Today – 3.00 miles

Total Distance covered – 302.92 miles


Virtual

A very cold day with strong winds building later

So today I just needed a 1-minute walk to reach the 300-mile target but instead did a lap of Holy Island and finished at the castle. A memorable, if not very cold, place to end this awesome challenge. Some unbelievable weather but worth every step.

Reality

A very cold day with strong winds building later

Walk 3.00 miles – Another cold day but it was just a short walk to my mums and back as I passed 300 miles in one month. Think I deserve a day off tomorrow  🙂

 

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consider sponsoring me for this mammoth challenge, it’s for an incredible cause and inspired by an incredible person in Laura Nuttall 🙂

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gd20in20

My motivation for this has come from a very special person called Laura Nuttall who in late 2018, was diagnosed with terminal multiple brain tumours at the young age of 18. Her determination and positive attitude to not only live her life to the full but also to help others as an ambassador for the charity is just incredible and I’m proud to join the fight in whatever way I can. You can read Laura’s story at the following link. Please be generous and help this great charity to raise much-needed funds for researching a cure.

https://www.facebook.com/DoingItForLaura/

The Brain Tumour Charity is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, we’re moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour. We’re set on finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change. And were doing it right now. Because we understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really can’t wait.

 

 

Virtual Spine Day 30

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Virtual Spine Day 30


Distance Covered Today – 11.38 miles

Total Distance covered – 299.87 miles


Virtual

A very cold day with strong winds early on

Timing the departure from Fenwick depends on tide times, so its a check of the time table and it tells me its safe between 6-30am and 1-30pm so its a bright start.  The route from Fenwick on St. Cuthbert’s Way heads to the coast along historic paths and tracks, passing Fenwick Granary, crossing the main east coast railway line and Beal Cast Burn, past World War 2 coastal defences. Having reached the Causeway at low tide I now choose my final approach to Lindisfarne by taking the Causeway Road across to Holy Island. My legs aren’t up to the alternative which is to follow the posts of the historic Pilgrims Path across the sands. With a lap or two of the island to go, I think I’ve chosen wisely.

Reality

A very cold day with strong winds early on

Run 11.38 miles – WOW!!!! That was one cold wind today. My usual Saturday morning run with Ed but in an icy blast. Ran from my house down to Barrowford by which time we had warmed up a little and the drag up to Blacko wasn’t too bad. From there we dropped down to Roughlee and then up to Noggarth shop and along to Harper Lane. This is where it started getting very cold. The bypass and home was a 4-mile slog into a really strong wind that was so cold it was hurting. This was actually tougher than the hills we had done earlier. A bit of walking and running but we got there in the end.

       

 

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consider sponsoring me for this mammoth challenge, it’s for an incredible cause and inspired by an incredible person in Laura Nuttall 🙂

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gd20in20

My motivation for this has come from a very special person called Laura Nuttall who in late 2018, was diagnosed with terminal multiple brain tumours at the young age of 18. Her determination and positive attitude to not only live her life to the full but also to help others as an ambassador for the charity is just incredible and I’m proud to join the fight in whatever way I can. You can read Laura’s story at the following link. Please be generous and help this great charity to raise much-needed funds for researching a cure.

https://www.facebook.com/DoingItForLaura/

The Brain Tumour Charity is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, we’re moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour. We’re set on finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change. And were doing it right now. Because we understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really can’t wait.

 

 

Virtual Spine Day 29

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Virtual Spine Day 29


Distance Covered Today – 11.27 miles

Total Distance covered – 288.50 miles


Virtual

A drier and milder day today

Today I start by running through woodland and a good track along the Cheviot foothills, heading for Yeavering Bell (361m), Northumberland’s largest Iron Age fort.  A lovely path then leads through the heather over Gains Law down to the small market town of Wooler. From Wooler, St Cuthbert’s Way takes me over Weetwood Moor and past some prehistoric rock carvings. Dropping back down to cross the River Till via the 16th Century Weetwood Bridge, quiet lanes lead to Horton, and onto another section of typically dead-straight Roman road: the Devil’s Causeway, which once linked Corbridge and Tweedmouth.  Farmland and woodland tracks lead me up to St. Cuthbert’s Cave, where monks took St. Cuthbert’s body in 875AD as they fled from Viking raids on Lindisfarne. Above the cave on the rocky ridge of the Kyloe Hills, the first tantalising views of my final destination come into sight with Holy Island clearly visible above the glittering sands, and Bamburgh Castle just to the south.  It’s clear to see why this part of the Northumberland coast has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  St. Cuthbert’s Way joins here with St. Oswald’s Way, another long-distance route, following an enjoyable track through Shiellow Wood towards the village of Fenwick.

Reality

A drier and milder day today

Walk 6.58 miles – Felt like a change today and took advantage of a later start, so in daylight, and walked up through Marsden Park and carried on up the hill to the Shooters Pub. Then it was over the tops through Catlow Bottoms, Briercliffe and dropping back down Harle Syke to my office. A tough start with some steep uphills but better than the mundane traffic walk I usually do.

Walk 4.69 miles – Back to a bit more boring route tonight as I head up and over Reedley Hallows before dropping down Chapel House Road and up Larch St, along Glenfield Road and home. That will be my last walk to and from work as part of this challenge. I think I may do this a bit more often in the future though, just not every day 🙂

         

 

 

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consider sponsoring me for this mammoth challenge, it’s for an incredible cause and inspired by an incredible person in Laura Nuttall 🙂

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gd20in20

My motivation for this has come from a very special person called Laura Nuttall who in late 2018, was diagnosed with terminal multiple brain tumours at the young age of 18. Her determination and positive attitude to not only live her life to the full but also to help others as an ambassador for the charity is just incredible and I’m proud to join the fight in whatever way I can. You can read Laura’s story at the following link. Please be generous and help this great charity to raise much-needed funds for researching a cure.

https://www.facebook.com/DoingItForLaura/

The Brain Tumour Charity is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, we’re moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour. We’re set on finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change. And were doing it right now. Because we understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really can’t wait.

 

 

Virtual Spine Day 28

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Virtual Spine Day 28


Distance Covered Today – 6.64 miles

Total Distance covered – 277.26 miles


Virtual

Heavy rain early in the day easing in the afternoon

So with me extending this challenge I now find myself leaving Kirk Yetholm eastwards along the St Cuthberts Way. The day starts by climbing up from Halterburn around Green Humbleton (287m) – the first of many hillforts along St. Cuthbert’s Way – before reaching the national border between Scotland and England.  A short diversion to Eccles Cairn rewarded me with my last views of the Borders and the Eildon Hills.  At the border I crossed into Northumberland National Park, one of Britain’s best-kept secrets and somewhere that over the last few years has become one of my favourite places in the UK. St. Cuthbert’s Way then drops back down via Elsdonburn to Hethpool which is where today’s running comes to an end.

Reality

Heavy rain early in the day easing in the afternoon

Run 6.64 miles – So today I had to go to a school in Blackpool with work. I thought it would be good to take advantage of the opportunity of being somewhere different in this lockdown and do today’s run here. So after id done at the school, I plotted a route taking me from Stanley park northwards to the Tower then back down the seafront before looping back to the park. From there I did one lap of the Autumn Breaker 10k giving me a nice 6.64-mile run. Really enjoyed that despite the rain.

 

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consider sponsoring me for this mammoth challenge, it’s for an incredible cause and inspired by an incredible person in Laura Nuttall 🙂

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gd20in20

My motivation for this has come from a very special person called Laura Nuttall who in late 2018, was diagnosed with terminal multiple brain tumours at the young age of 18. Her determination and positive attitude to not only live her life to the full but also to help others as an ambassador for the charity is just incredible and I’m proud to join the fight in whatever way I can. You can read Laura’s story at the following link. Please be generous and help this great charity to raise much-needed funds for researching a cure.

https://www.facebook.com/DoingItForLaura/

The Brain Tumour Charity is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, we’re moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour. We’re set on finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change. And were doing it right now. Because we understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really can’t wait.

 

 

Virtual Spine Day 27

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Virtual Spine Day 27


Distance Covered Today – 10.12 miles

Total Distance covered – 270.61 miles


Virtual

Very mild today with light cloud and no rain

This is it, the final day and a climb up then drop down to the finish at Kirk Yetholm. It doesn’t take too long and there it is……………the finish line. No fanfares, no crowds, just a small village and people going about their normal day to day lives. I guess they see this all the time but for me it’s magical and I’m so proud of what I’ve achieved. Even the weather was good today with the mildest temperature of the whole journey and no rain or snow.

Reality

 Very mild today with light cloud and no rain

Walk 5.34 miles – This morning may have been the boring route again but I didn’t care because this morning was the moment when I completed this mammoth quest. 268 miles in 26.5 days at bang on 10 miles per day average. I reached work with a huge smile on my face, what an achievement 🙂

Walk 4.78 miles – With the challenge complete I set off home with a spring in my step. A message and donation from a fellow runner had me extending the challenge to try and hit 300 miles before the end of the month. So off we go again.

       

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consider sponsoring me for this mammoth challenge, it’s for an incredible cause and inspired by an incredible person in Laura Nuttall 🙂

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gd20in20

My motivation for this has come from a very special person called Laura Nuttall who in late 2018, was diagnosed with terminal multiple brain tumours at the young age of 18. Her determination and positive attitude to not only live her life to the full but also to help others as an ambassador for the charity is just incredible and I’m proud to join the fight in whatever way I can. You can read Laura’s story at the following link. Please be generous and help this great charity to raise much-needed funds for researching a cure.

https://www.facebook.com/DoingItForLaura/

The Brain Tumour Charity is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, we’re moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour. We’re set on finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change. And were doing it right now. Because we understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really can’t wait.

 

 

Virtual Spine Day 26

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Virtual Spine Day 26


Distance Covered Today – 6.22 miles

Total Distance covered – 260.48 miles


Virtual

  Cool and bright day

Today is much like yesterday, only marginally superior for scenery, less boggy but some good sunny weather. It’s up to the top of the Cheviots and back, so a tougher day but that leaves me just 7.5 miles tomorrow to achieve glory as I make my way to the finish at Kirk Yetholm. So close now 😀

Reality

 Milder day than of late with a chance of snow or rain

Run 6.22 miles – Really good run tonight in some very cold wet rain. But the weather didn’t spoil things and me and Ed did the Firemans 10k route which includes the very tough Mount Lane. Its the first time Ed has run up non stop but even better, he did the whole route non-stop. A brilliant run which he finished with a superb downhill sprint. Wish all runs felt that good.

     

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consider sponsoring me for this mammoth challenge, it’s for an incredible cause and inspired by an incredible person in Laura Nuttall 🙂

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gd20in20

My motivation for this has come from a very special person called Laura Nuttall who in late 2018, was diagnosed with terminal multiple brain tumours at the young age of 18. Her determination and positive attitude to not only live her life to the full but also to help others as an ambassador for the charity is just incredible and I’m proud to join the fight in whatever way I can. You can read Laura’s story at the following link. Please be generous and help this great charity to raise much-needed funds for researching a cure.

https://www.facebook.com/DoingItForLaura/

The Brain Tumour Charity is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, we’re moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour. We’re set on finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change. And were doing it right now. Because we understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really can’t wait.

 

 

Virtual Spine Day 25

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Virtual Spine Day 25


Distance Covered Today – 10.20 miles

Total Distance covered – 254.27 miles


Virtual

  Cold and bright day

Another lovely walking day today starting by going up Lamb Hill then through a bit boggy ground to Auchope Rigg. It’s following the England/Scotland border again and on the whole very pleasant walking in good weather conditions. The Cheviots really are stunning and a location I will be returning to in the future.

Reality

 Cold and bright day

Walk 5.31 miles – It was the boring route again but I actually quite enjoyed the walk this morning in the snow. Started in a blizzard but then just a nice bright crisp morning on soft snow listening to my Ska collection. Happy Days.

Walk 4.89 miles – Up over the tops listening to my Ska music and just head down. That was until my running buddy Edward Lee caught me up and walked down to Nelson with me. Nice to have a friendly face on the walk to break it up.

       

     

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consider sponsoring me for this mammoth challenge, it’s for an incredible cause and inspired by an incredible person in Laura Nuttall 🙂

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gd20in20

My motivation for this has come from a very special person called Laura Nuttall who in late 2018, was diagnosed with terminal multiple brain tumours at the young age of 18. Her determination and positive attitude to not only live her life to the full but also to help others as an ambassador for the charity is just incredible and I’m proud to join the fight in whatever way I can. You can read Laura’s story at the following link. Please be generous and help this great charity to raise much-needed funds for researching a cure.

https://www.facebook.com/DoingItForLaura/

The Brain Tumour Charity is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, we’re moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour. We’re set on finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change. And were doing it right now. Because we understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really can’t wait.

 

 

Virtual Spine Day 24

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Virtual Spine Day 24


Distance Covered Today – 7.83 miles

Total Distance covered – 244.07 miles


Virtual

  Cold and bright day

In a nutshell, this weekend was brilliant. around 24 miles along the top of the loneliest hills in the least-populated part of England. Route-finding is surprisingly easy and the path often follows the fence that marks the border between England and Scotland. There are bogs, of course, and up here they’re of the ‘where’s my walking pole gone?’ variety. It can be exposed, too, and this is also a military training area (blank firing only), so making sure I don’t touch anything strange, metal or bomb shaped is the order lol. I survived though and now its just one week left with only 24 miles to go.

Reality

Cold and bright day

Walk 7.83 miles – A lovely walk with Linda over the tops from home, down through Trawden, Winewall and back to Colne before heading home. Some lovely views with the snowy ground and blue skies. Found that a pleasure rather than the chore some of the recent walks and runs have been. Great weekend with this walk and cracking snowy run yesterday 🙂 Now less than 24 miles to go and a full week to do it in.

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consider sponsoring me for this mammoth challenge, it’s for an incredible cause and inspired by an incredible person in Laura Nuttall 🙂

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gd20in20

My motivation for this has come from a very special person called Laura Nuttall who in late 2018, was diagnosed with terminal multiple brain tumours at the young age of 18. Her determination and positive attitude to not only live her life to the full but also to help others as an ambassador for the charity is just incredible and I’m proud to join the fight in whatever way I can. You can read Laura’s story at the following link. Please be generous and help this great charity to raise much-needed funds for researching a cure.

https://www.facebook.com/DoingItForLaura/

The Brain Tumour Charity is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, we’re moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour. We’re set on finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change. And were doing it right now. Because we understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really can’t wait.