URC Northern Synod: Synod Pilgrimage Day 1

Source of the Swale - Keld - Tan Hill

It was the meeting up again that seemed to take the time to begin with. Just eight of us walking today (others still to follow) – but by the time we’d gathered at the splendidly crenelated Youth Hostel on the hill above Grinton, and told one another of our individual morning pilgrimages to get that far – and eaten lunch as well…. But before we were ready to start, we spent time thanking God for what might lie ahead and for one another to share our journeys, as Mary led us in a time of worship outside the hostel, looking down the long expanse of the dale towards Richmond.

And then there was the long drive in the minibus right up to the head of the dale (and did anyone realise Swaledale was quite that long?) – and it was easy to grasp by now that somehow we were starting to walk at least an hour later than intended.

The first few miles from the so-called source of the Swale (in fact the point where two streams meet) as far as Keld were present. Some of our number did not know Keld, which came as a revelation – and the others of us rejoiced over the fact that our Church has succeeded in keeping a presence that is clearly central to the village. As ever the chapel was open and welcoming, with simple summer flower arrangements forming a focal point. We just missed there being a minister in residence living in the manse, but we saw a couple of holiday makers enjoying their holiday let there. And the Resource Centre was open, giving us more information about the village and its surroundings, and a hint of the plans – if finance can be found – to develop the rest of the Institute building and the school building next door.

The well-being garden

And then outside the chapel we lingered in the well-being garden, drinking in the quietness and the views down the dale. And it has to be said we lingered quite a long time over a cup of tea and cakes served at the farm, before it was time for Henry and Linda to sort out transport matters, and ensure the minibus was where it was going to be needed by the end of the day.

Keld from the Pennine Way

Leaving Keld at 5.30 was seriously behind schedule – but never mind. At least the day was getting cooler as we struggled up the hillside, looking back over such splendid views of the village. And the two hours solid walking over the moors soon passed as we flushed out the occasional grouse and heard the cry of the curlew overhead. At last Tan Hill Inn appeared over a rise, and a final burst of energy got us there. A good hearty meal and refreshing drinks saw us far less concerned at how much of the day had gone, and how little of it was left. The minibus made short work of the road down through Arkengarthdale and back to Grinton.

Soon we were booked in at the hostel, had breakfast ordered for the morning – and at least for those of us who have done little in the way of serious walking since last year’s pilgrimage, we were more than ready for the good night’s sleep that now is promised us.