A Rural English Indian Summer - Cumbria, Durham & Northumberland

Wow!  If I had superpowers and controlled the weather, this would be exactly the kind of weather I would have chosen for my rural tour!  There I was worrying about wellies and the like and here we are in glorious sunshine and the perfect weather to enjoy the spectacular views in beautiful Cumbria.

Dufton

Kate and I had a great time at the first of our gigs last night.  A full house turned out and we had lots of lovely comments and positive feedback on our performance.  We are staying in a gorgeous B&B with amazing foods and very welcoming and knowledgeable hosts.  Couldn't ask for more really.

Dufton Village Hall

The audience

This morning, after a very hearty breakfast of freshly baked bread and local produce, we headed off for a walk along the Pennine Way.  Absolutely stunning views.

The view!

More stunning views

And yet more...

Kate - Pennine Way

And after the long walk I felt a cream tea in the cafe on the village green was more than justified. :-)

Village Green

UPDATE:  Sunday 2 October

We've had such a great time!  Cumbria was absolutely wonderful.  After Dufton, we had gigs in Boldron (technically Durham) and Armathwaite.  Full houses at both gigs again and absolutely lovely audiences as well as very gracious and helpful hosts.  All the great things you hear about northern hospitality are all true!

Dry stone wall and fells are typical of the Cumbrian countryside - stunning!

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We encountered several streams... and lots of mud! Those sequinned wellies wouldn't have stood a chance!

Then last night we drove to Wooler in Northumberland and played to a packed and very warm (in both senses of the word!) audience.  The weather was so warm that I didn't need a coat or jacket even at midnight.  Once more we were looked after very well but the well organised hosts.  The weather has turned a bit today but the views and autumn colours are truly spectacular.

Tonight is our last show in Stocksfield.  It will be sad to leave the countryside but I'm looking forward to having a break before my band and I head up to Wakefield Jazz Club on the 14 October.  I just can't keep away from the north these days!