Walking the wall

Getting out onto the wall is one of the delights of visiting Newcastle. Not just any old wall but Hadrian's Wall, the former northern frontier of the Roman Empire built between AD 122 and AD 130. Every time I walk along side it (never on top as this could damage it) I think about those soldiers in their skimpy attire and sandals. They must have been freezing. 

From five months of Canadian winter to this?

I have walked this wall in many weathers with many different friends. The days it actually felt warm could be counted on the fingers of one insulated glove. We headed for one of my favourite sections - Steel Rigg, famous for its views of the structure stretching out across the countryside. This time with snow on the tops. I had been hoping for Spring flowers and gamboling lambs but all we saw was one hardy looking sheep and a lot of the white stuff.

A Spring day on the Roman Wall

But whatever the weather walking the Roman Wall is a real treat. It gives you a sense of freedom like nowhere else in Northumberland as you battle the wind and drink in the views of this rugged landscape - built for hardy northerners. The Secret Kingdom lives on - we hardly saw a soul up there. 

Beach huts at Blyth

Back down at sea level and a visit to fish and chip restaurant The Coastline at Blyth. Recommended by my mum and definitely not skimping on the portions, we tucked in. The husband even ordered mushy peas (hot of course - take note Montreal restaurants!). Big steel teapots of tea (no teabag garnish with hot water) and a cake display which brought back fond memories.

Compulsory fare on a trip to England

I'm not sure if these little babies below are a Northern delicacy or not but I've never seen them outside the UK. The chocolate and coconut exterior hides a soft centre something like a melted marshmallow. No idea how they do it and these ones the size of tennis balls surely deserve special mention. A taste of my childhood.

More on the North