Coast-to Coast - Day 10

Reeth-Richmond (12 miles, 5.5 hours). Reeth looked rather sunnier this morning, with a slightly improving forecast, although the chilly north wind was still in evidence.  

We walked out of Reeth to re-join the River Swale at Grinton Bridge, after which there was more pleasant riverside walking to reach Marrick Abbey (now an outdoor activity centre).   

The path then swung away from the river through the village of Merrick, then across farmland to the village of Marske, where we paused for lunch.  We took advantage of the refreshments on offer at the village church (St. Edmund's), operating on an 'honesty box', donation system. We found this arrangement at a few churches on route, and very welcome it was too. Beyond Marske, the path crosses more farmland then climbs slightly to reach the prominent feature of Applegarth Scar, the start of a long series of limestone cliffs high above the Swale valley, that continue towards Richmond. 

A cairn marks the top of the climb to Applegarth Scar, before the final 2-3  mile walk into Richmond itself. 

The last part of the day's walk was along pleasant tracks fairly high above the Swale, until eventually the town of Richmond came into view.  

We walked into town and checked in at our accommodation - the Old Brewery Guesthouse. This was excellent, and probably the best overnight stay of our trip. A lovely clean room with good bathroom, pleasant staff and a good breakfast. They do not offer evening meals, but a short walk up into the old part of town will present you with a wide choice of eating places.