So early this morning set of on what will hopefully be a journey of parts, visiting areas well frequented in the past but from new directions, also areas not walked through. Part of the idea is simply to get away from my desk, to reconnect with nature, to reflect. I also want to look at the impact we have, especially on areas we regard as special. I'll be walking through two national parks and carrying everything I need on my back.
The journey by train to the start of the walk in Ilkley, was interesting itself. Travelling through places I'd never heard of. What is the large factory in Bentham? why is the station at Hellifield so big? Why does Ilkley now have so many shops that are part of major chains, so looking like any other town? Is this a message for other small towns facing development? If we are mindful of our surroundings, do we feel better with the common, the familiar, or do we offer variety?
On the journey it was great to travel through wonderful scenery, passing Ingleborough, pen-y-ghent and Pendle hill, though interestingly while passing many birds with young the first wild mammal seen was a roe deer outside Keighley!
Still, had a good breakfast (with free WiFi' thanks) and now time to disconnect with technology, reconnect with nature and start walking.
