"Loz and her boots" Coast to Coast walk 192 miles: Arrival to St Bees and meeting the others

Most of today was spent on the train to Carlisle and then we went in a 50 year old train, Mary Queen of Scots, onwards to St Bees.

This train set the group of trainspotters at Carlisle station into a spin as it had recently been renovated and they were all running around trying to get the best photos of it.

We met Howard, our leader for the two week hike, on the train and as we travelled along the coastal railway line we exchanged stories of past walking experiences.

At St Bees we met up with everyone. 14 of us in total and surprisingly only 4 men.

It included a group of 3 ladies from Canada and a couple who had come all the way from Australia. I felt almost local in comparison.

So a quick photo stop and wander round before heading off by taxi to The Shepherd Arms Hotel in Ennerdale Bridge where we will be staying for 2 nights.

Tomorrow we will be driven back to St Bees to start at the sea and do the customary toe dipping into the water before setting off.

The three course meal we were served was delicious and such huge portions. At this rate I will be putting weight on during the trip if every night has similar.

Then retiring to our room to prepare our bags for tomorrow and think of foot strategies. Do we wear plasters before we get blisters? Talc? Vaseline? Compeed Gel? Oh gosh too many desicions so maybe lets sleep on it and decide in the morning.

My boots are waiting at the end of my bed. Sitting quietly and waterproofed and itching to get going.

Not long now.