Bank Hol Monday - Hike around Stanhope Common with Jane

Forecast was for more sun and heat so Jane wanted to go and do the hiking loop around Stanhope. We were up and out early'ish. Just as we parked up the air ambulance helicopter flew overhead and landed in the show field on the opposite side of the river. We set off on our hike through the back streets of Stanhope then onto the climb from the quarry and onto the moor. It is a canny climb up but it was lovely and sunny / hot. Once onto the open moor we had a lovely chilling headwind all the way across. The next wooded section was more sheltered and no wind but still warm. The track through the woods is bone dry. This takes you out at the garage end of the village then it was down to the railway station café for a cuppa and cake. From there along the riverside, over the bridge then back over the stepping stones at the ford. When we were walking back to the carpark the police had the area closed off near the Chinese takeaway with forensic scientists examining the scene of crime! Not sure what had gone on but sure that is why the air ambulance landed earlier in the morning. Once back at the van it was time to change out of our walking boots and we had a walk down to the village for some shopping. We also called in past the park at Wolsingham for the ice cream van on the way home! below are some sunny snaps, enjoy and hopefully more soon -