Coast to Coast - Day 1

St Bees to Ennerdal Water - 15.5 miles

Following a small incident yesterday that involved swimming, a camera and a big wave my phone refused to charge ... it was at 4%. I managed to beg for 2 separate charging cables and a power bank from reception but it didn't help one iota. I went to bed worried sick and kept waking every half an hour checking at hoping. At 2pm it luckily showed 15% and by 4am it was 45%. I can't tell you how relieved I was at 5am to see 100% and all this before doing a single step. To ensure I had enough power for at least 2 days I set my phone to flight mode and reduced my picture reflexes .... the last one was a bit painful I admit

After an early breakfast I set off at 7.30am to sunshine and some gentle breeze. The weather was literally perfect: sunny but not hot, breezy but not blow-you-off-the-cliff kind . Due to this lovely day the views to Scotland and Isle of Man were simply superb, definite AH moment. I was planning to have a long day and walk to the other side of Ennerdale Water but decided against it once I climbed Dent hill and looked at the views. Savouring and enjoying the moment was today's agenda.

I jave to say all the locals were ridiculously friendly and helpful: from offering bottled water, gooseberries and cake, to stopping the car in the middle of the road and giving me directions because I was looking at my map absolutely loved it.

I wasn't sure whether I could wild camp by the water so I did the next best thing ... simply asked a local and so I was told which side was more popular Finding a small spot with its private beach was a blessing, going for a freezing splash just amazing and eating a hot meal absolutely wonderful. As I got to my camping spot by 5pm I had plenty of time to just chill, read and enjoy the view to the water and valley. My phone finally decided to accept a charge and that definitely was the cherry-on-top of my amazing-day cake . After last night I should be sleeping like a baby ... which will start very soon