After arriving at the ODG my foot problem worsened. My right foot, from the ball to the toes erupted into one large deep-seated blister. I treated it as best I could and retired to bed, hoping the rest would relieve the problem. By morning it had, if anything, worsened.
Over breakfast I considered my options: further progress on foot that day was impossible. I could have a rest day, get the bus to Keswick and hope to continue the following day to Caldbeck or I could recognise my position, forgo the accommodation deposits (a more painful proposition than walking on glass, let alone blisters) and go home.
I admitted defeat and slunk away from the hotel to catch the morning bus. I pretended to myself that I was postponing my final decision until arrival in Ambleside. I knew then, though, that the trip was over and an “early bath” was inevitable.
In the event the decision to abort was sound; it would be several days before I could walk without discomfort.
As on my last trip in the Dales, I was pleased that the physical challenges of the walk presented no problems. With my history of foot problems I had taken an imprudent risk in walking the trail in new boots, and lost. I hoped to resume the walk early in the New Year.
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