Hello Wild Ones! 🤗So sorry this took so long.. my literal blood, sweat & tears and 5 solid weeks of editing went into this one 🫠🫠🫠 my first ever long-distance hike and my first feature-length film! 🍿I couldn't have attempted this one without help. A huuuge THANK YOU to.. Every kind stranger who stopped to chat, refilled my water, offered me food and drink, or advised me as to where the next shop or pub might be The wonderful staff and locals of.. Brinklow Fish Bar • Brinklow Easy Greek • Rugby Braunston Village Community Cafe • Braunston Maltsters Country Inn • Badby New Inn • Abthorpe The Shoulder of Mutton • Little Horwood (No affiliation with any, they're just great. Great people, great food and so helpful too) Ash @AshOutdoorsUK - for creating the start locations and the blind draw, agreeing to drop me off, picking me up after, always being there on the end of the phone and believing that I could do this when I didn't believe in myself Friends & family - for cheering me on and keeping tabs on me, even though you thought it was nuts Nik @NikMitchellWild an environmentalist who was also filming a time-lapse on a certain hill and gave me tea and a biscuit, thanks, it was so lovely to meet you MSK Doc H.M. for advising me which muscles to strengthen and which to lengthen. With your advice, over the months prior I was able to correct my hip impingement and adductor tendonitis. I wouldn't have been able to even attempt this without your expert guidance (GP on the other hand just told me to 'stop hiking'.. helpful) Most of all, thanks so much Wild Ones for coming along on this adventure with me. If it weren't for you guys watching, I wouldn't be able to take the time to do this mad stuff in the first place. You allow me to live my weird lil dreams. Thank you 💚 Ooh yes, and links to the cow articles I was looking at (these are just what came up when I searched the subject, there’s lots of info out there if you’re interested): 🐄www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/killer-cows-named-uks-most-30956262 🐄www.thetimes.com/uk/environment/article/killer-cows-the-one-tonne-menace-bringing-fear-to-the-footpath-ppw6tg92k 🐄www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/cows-officially-the-most-deadly-large-animals-in-britain-a6727266.html Back to business as usual now with the regular, shorter videos :) although I may give my brain a rest from this computer screen for a couple days first haha. Hope you guys are good! Much love, CB 🌿
WELL done Claire and that was some adventure you undertook, as an ex squaddie I know how you felt at times. But your great personality came through shinning bright. lol and you did it in shorts braver than me. Hat off to you big style and well done a true inspiration to all. Despite chronic conditions which I also have it just shows the power of the mind and what we can accomplish, bless you and plz never stop making your videos as they motivate me in some down and dark dark times x (ps the guy in the car and him wanting you to sit on his lap you should have showed his reg plate, with so many subscribers I would be sure his wife would get to find out ...awkward).
Tip for water: even if a village doesn't have a shop or pub, there's usually a church nearby and they almost always have an outside tap connected to the mains. So if you get low, head for a church! Audaxers (long distance cyclists) and hikers use them regularly, and you can spot churches from miles away. Fantastic video, really inspiring. Love how you show both the highs and lows, and your photography/videography is top-notch! Stranded 2 ? Yes please!
I googled water drinking fountain 💦 but they are all gone only empty packs of old positions of what once was. I remember marble ones in the uk but no more
As kids, out on our treaders, always used to stop at churchyards or cemeteries to get a drink out the taps, usually usually easily spotted from the little collection of watering cans. Let it run for a bit. Good as gold. Water never tasted so good. Good times 👍
It takes something special to hold people’s attention for more than 20 minutes these days, especially on social media. This was really special, you made it so relatable with your fantastic storytelling and filmmaking skills. Brilliant! Thank you ❤
Hi Clare a tip for cows i was told by an old farmer, its always worked for me. Get a good stick and thump the ground in front of you as you walk along. He said that they feel the vibration and think the ground is moving and step away. It has worked when I was surrounded by a herd. Also they don't seem to like caps so maybe remove your cap and they may not get inquisitive. Keep up the videos I love them all
I was in the infantry and the way you pushed through your problems and carried on is a reminder of my service. The smile on your face as you cracked on was legendary Claire!! Keep on doing what you are doing you are such an inspiration
Heyy oh I can't imagine what you will have endured! My jaunts can't compare to that but I'm so pleased I did this :) thank you so much for sharing it with me 🌿 have a great weekend
@@WildBeareClaire you would have been alright in the army especially as you love sleeping out when it’s raining and honking weather. You’re stronger in many ways than you know. Keep it up.
Have you no better apps for navigating? I use tactical nav at work it’s great satellite imagery for tracks and route planning. Also send your drone up for quick recce of routes you plan to use.
@@leeevans6213 TacticalNav is based on MGRS so any references made in the app wouldn't really transpose across onto a UK OS map particularly well in this situation. May as well just use google earth for the sat Images since it's the google api TacticalNav calls to pull its satelite view map layers.
Cut the cable in the nineties. Haven't looked back. It was challenging finding content to watch in the early days. There was not much of it and what there was, had the size of a postage stamp and very low resolution. But it was much more satisfying when finding something to watch. On top of it, more time for doing other stuff instead of vegging out in front of the telly every evening. Now there is a wealth of quality stuff to watch and this video (and all the others by @WildBeare) are very high quality. Commercial telly, as I remember it, can't even begin to compare in my view.
With all the backtracking and diversions you had to do due to cows, brambles and other impediments , I wouldn't worry too much about riding a short distance in the farmers quad. What a wonderful video. Thank You.
Not to mention if your safety is in danger or you’re in need of assistance, there’s nothing wrong with pulling a few strings. This is such an incredible effort regardless.
Grew up in S. Texas in the country. Never frightened by cattle, but I HAVE been charged by a protective mom cow. It's not reassuring to be trapped in front of a corral fence with an angry cow mom coming at you full speed. But, like with dogs, never (I've been told) RUN AWAY. If it's only one cow, you can outmaneuver it. All bets are off if it's one of those "hairy" British things, esp. with horns! Yikes!
At 1:12:22 you trudged by one of the most complete Norman churches (a 3 cell building) poking up above the hedge. Stewkley is one of the best-preserved of all the Norman churches in England. It is believed to date from 1150 and its building to have been ordered by one Geoffrey de Clinton. The architecture is superb especially for such a relatively small church. You are doing amazingly well. I'm off on a 6 mile walk on the Wiltshire Downs very soon, with others which is just as well as I'm pushing 80, but I usually walk into town once a week and its a brisk walk 25 mins each way. And then from there you passed by the magnificent and celebrated Anglo-Saxon church at Wing! I've not been there for 15 years but visited it twice as I have its "sister" at Repton. And you did it, 94 English miles, in beautiful England and met some of the kindest of people who helped with much needed H2O and some good old pub food! Well done!!
I completely agree, it's wonderful, and it's content like this thats turned me from watching TV - its SO much better than 90% of films and TV, it just leaves it standing. I've been watching RUclips only for my entertainment for 5 or so years, I have no desire to go back, I love watching real stuff made by real and extraordinary people like Claire. It's top quality, the very best you can ask for, it's just real and gorgeous. ❤
Sad to see the overgrown state of so many public footpaths. And the deliberate blockages on several. Saw the same in Kent and Sussex when I lived in Kent, even on a couple of national trails. Now I'm on the edge of the Peak District the paths here are rarely blocked or overgrown.
During lockdown some members of the public actually cleared a trail that led to an old nature reserve, both the path and the reserve had long been neglected but tell people to avoid social gatherings and suddenly people cared about having access to trails that won't suddenly swallow you up in stingy nettles
This couldn't come at a better time. I'm a 54 year old woman about to summit my first mountain and feeling so unsure of myself. Good job, I'm so proud of you.
We are so lucky in Sweden. Everyone has the right to hike, pick mushrooms, berries, etc and camp anywhere, even on private property as long as they stay out of someone's garden, out of sight of houses and leave no trace. I kind of want to try something similar to this now but without the not knowing where I'm starting bit.
I'd love to visit Sweden as an adult. I spent the summer as a kid near Goteborg visiting my gran who married a Swede. Just spent my time watching TV and cycling around the local cul de sac. Now I'm into outdoor hobbies, it's really one of the places to be!
Stranded 2 ... YES PLEASE!!!!!!!!! You really took us on the journey along. Made us feel the struggles and more important the ending was perfect. Keep making these videos, it workes for calming. Your lovely voice and kindness really helps in that proces! More important I really think you are real hero, walking alone these ammount of KM's, sleeping in the wild and open, the cow-meetings ... and many more things. Sending a lot of love and appreciation from the Netherlands!
Oh this made me cry a bit! What a journey! Thank you so much for taking us on this journey with you. The english countryside reminds me a lot of my home here in northern Germany. I have become very ill last year at the age of 29 and have had costant surgeries and recovery time since then. I am currently gaining some strength back after my colostomy but my next surgery will happen soon and most likely make me bedbound again for one or two months. I don't want much from life but I would love to be able to go on such a journey someday. Dealing with serious and life changing health issues really puts things into perspective. Being in nature, being able to walk, meeting kind people and eating some good food... that's the meaning of life to me. It seems so simple to many people but it's endlessly valuable and wonderful.
True,but times have changed,as a child of the fifties you could wander anywhere but the girls certainly didn't, they might try to thumb a lift late at night but as I said you are in the one percent!
I suffer from anxiety and this journey is truly inspirational; so well done - I hope the guy in the car is recognised by all his family and friends and called out, what a 🔔 end 😮. Hope you feel strong enough to do another longer journey like this ❤
Aw thank you 💚 I blurred him out, I've no interest in getting anyone in any trouble but it does annoy me people saying stuff like that. Hope you're having a nice day today 🌿
Take a day to visit a dairy farm and get a dairyman to teach you about cattle (or even better a local agricultural college). Cattle see differently to humans, think differently and react differently, they aren't "dangerous" but their behavour can be if you don't understand them. Walkers are at limited risk (perhaps one death per year in the UK) and mostly associated with stupidly trying to protect dogs. Cattle associate humans with food and being milked, that's why they usually approach you (and they have wierd eyesight with terrible depth perception.
Pretty good advise really. Once on a hike I was stopped to do some watercolor, and a bunch of very playful calves went right at me. Didnt know what to do, but it turned out alright in the end :) Being a citydweller the "bodylanguage/behaviour" is pretty alien. Went over a field with a huge bull a couple of years ago on a day-hike...that was pretty intense, but the bull didnt seem to care.
It's when they start bucking and crowding I get scared, then I try and scare them away? But I'm always worried the see me as a predator and just want to stomp me to death. It's good to hear that might not be the case.
@@SunsetBoundIt's worth noting that if you are not involved in the agricultural industry then the big "large animal" killers are deer closely followed by horses. The first involve completely innocent travellers, the second their users.
Top tip - churches often have taps for looking after flowers in graveyards. If they are open , they are usually quite cool in the hot and often have sockets for charging stuff. A good peaceful place to hang out for an hour.
@@Mossywoodland there is something called champing, where you camp in historical churches. My friend and I did this last year in the summer and it was amazing
Another tip, go to an old church in the spring time, you will find loads of hibernating ladybirds inside, scoop em' up and drop em off in a greenhouse for a free aphid eating service.
Last year I traveled solo to and through South England, from Germany. Had so many worries beforehand, but in the end, it was one of my best experiences. Met a few niece people, saw beautiful places. Definitely helped me do more solo travels that I have been afraid to do before. Great video, thank you.
As a farmer I've not minded some people camping on our land. Individual campers are fine. Groups though are always a bit iffy for me as they usually leave a mess. We've had a few solo campers and I just let them be as long as they're not on the crops or hassling the stock. Plus I'd like people to ask permission then I know you're there. Also the cows pick up on if you're nervous. Just take it until you get out. Walk with confidence. There might have been a bull in the field previously but instead of taking the sign off every time we move our stock we just leave the sign up until next time.
@@WHRBERT Apparently - "Section 59 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 bans the keeping of bulls in fields crossed by a right of way, except if they are: - under the age of 10 months; or - not of a recognised dairy breed, provided that they are accompanied by cows or heifers."
As an ex-farmerboy I can tell you those cattle were completely peaceful. They were just curious about you or maybe expecting some snack. However, no matter what the circumstances are, dont run, as they will start to run also. Still no bad intentions from them, but they are heavy, so it may get dangerous if they run near you.
Mm I'll not start the running but if they run at me first and I think I can outrun them, I'm going for it haha! I don't know, I had a bad experience a few years ago where it definitely would have gotten nasty if I hadn't escaped over a barbed wire fence, and even then they were screeching and digging at the ground with their hoofs. They were very angry for some reason. I don't trust them at all now. But I think they're lovely from the other side of a fence 🐄🐄
As a fisherman who is always using cow fields to access my clubs beats.... why do you guys put heards of young, crazy bulls in them? 😂 I've had to use my landing net poles as deterants sooooooo many times, and often abandoned fishing days coz them cows are scary 😅
@@SonOfVulkan Bulls arent allowed in fields with public rights of way unless they are less than 10 months old.....of coarse if there isnt a right of way then youre trespassing and farmer has right to keep bulls somewhere
@neoaliphant well, I've definitely been chased by young bulls. It is only a right of way for fishing club members. I guess the farmer didn't like that we had access 😕
It was emotional watching your highs and lows as you struggled through. You really shouldn’t never doubt yourself ever again, you are so strong and determined. Absolutely amazing, well done girl 👏👏👏🍾 Please don’t leave it too long before you’re next vlog 🙏thank you.
Aw thank you. Second day was hard but I settled into it after that. Back to the shorter videos now that are faster to put together :) thanks for watching, have a great weekend 🌿
Really enjoyed that! It's important somebody walks those public footpaths, despite the landowners' attempts to obstruct them, in order to keep them open.
Agreed! Here in the US, we have no such thing. To be fair, it's not often _needed_ , but if you wanted to hike in "name a location," you couldn't just do it. I suspect most farmers would be quite happy to allow you passage with advance notice, but it only takes one or two and you're really in trouble. I'm in awe of this sort of thing in other countries.
Absolutely incredible and inspirational. I thought I'd watch the first 10 minutes but found myself totally absorbed and ended up watching the whole 80 minutes. What a fantastic journey that was, and what a brilliant presenter you are Claire, I felt as if I was with you all the way, sharing your experiences both good (helpful people, amazing countryside, friendly pigs) and bad (cows, annoying cat, cows, sleazy driver, cows, stinging nettles, cows). Why aren't you on the BBC? You should have your own series, it would be complusive viewing. And now I can't wait for Stranded 2!
Thank you so much, means a lot to me, so glad you enjoyed it :D haha the cows.. they were everywhere, I'm gonna have to get braver with them if I'm able to attempt #2 at some point😄 thanks so much for sharing this with me 🐄💚🌿
You’d love geowizard’s videos then! (Unless you’re aware of him, he’s pretty famous and kind of ‘invented’ this type of content). Would have a look if you weren’t aware of him!
I've been surveying and had a herd of cows charge at me in the corner of a field where there was literally no escape. I just had to stand there, arms wide, whilst they surrounded me. They were all young and boisterous, curious really, and because i didn't react they got bored and ran off and no harm was done. But I've seen cows surround an injured Jackdaw and paw at it with their hooves until they trampled and kill it. These animals should be respected. Not feared if possible! I swear they can sense that... Epic adventure. Thanks for filming it!
Ah God yeh I've had an angry heard do that hooves digging the ground thing at me in an angry fashion, after they'd sent me over a barbed wire fence. They were furious for some reason. I was never scared of them before but I am now, not sure what I can do about that really. I think they're lovely as long as they're on the other side of a fence, haha Thanks so much for watching :) hope you have a great weekend 🌿
@@WildBeare Maybe you can find a friendly cow farmer, that will give you some help with time around them and advice. I grew up in Wales, have worked with them from time to time, so I never got scared of them, however they can be dangerous. Getting rid of the fear is an important step. They (all animals) do sense it...
Hello again, Claire. Just a thought regarding aggressive/overly curious cows... many years ago my brother and I were cycling in the countryside with a school friend when we found ourselves completely surrounded by cows. We couldn't cycle forwards or back the way we came. Fortunately our friend Glyn had strapped to his crossbar an air horn that used a compressed air canister. I think it was supposed to be used as an emergency fog horn on a boat. He sounded this air horn and the cows scattered in all directions. If you ever feel threatened by cows in the future maybe you could sound your personal alarm. That might send them packing. By the way, it also worked on another occasion when we stopped outside a boys public school to buy some snacks from a little shop. While my brother was in the shop, Glyn and I were surrounded by aggressive and threatening public schoolboys. Glyn let off his air horn, the public schoolboys jumped out of their skins, my brother came out of the shop, and we got out of there asap!
I was a farmer. If you stand very still in a field of cows or bullocks (steers) they will naturally surround you and come very close until one of them licks you - which is an experience in itself. Its what cows do. They are just curious. It is very frightening if you are not used to it though as they are big beasts but they will back away if you walk calmly through them. Your friend didnt need the air horn. They will actiually move away if you wave your arms. They will back away even if you gently reach out to touch them. Its very dangerous only if you have a dog and they have calves. By the way, fun fact. Cows have friendship groups in a herd. The friends walk around together and wait for each other if one is lagging behind. As a herd they also follow certain patterns of walking in certain directions at certain times of day, laying down, chewing the cud and so on. The friends become quite distressed when one is giving birth and stand guard. Cow society is very complex.
@@brianthesnail3815 100% agree. The circle is just them saying hello. You can just talk to them and push through. Horses on the other hand. They're the real menace. Sod those lunatic woolly horrors.
@@zogworth To be fair, I grew up with cow, horses, sheep and pigs. I rank pigs as lethal as they will eat you. I have only ever been injured by a ram as they hit hard for no reason. Horses next and then cows (ex their calves). I also used to walk among a herd of young bulls until they got a bit too playful one day. 🤕
@@brianthesnail3815 I'm so glad to read your post - I learned the arm waving thing from farm workers as a child but with all the publicity about tramplings I was starting to worry that cows might be more dangerous than I'd thought for the past 50 years.
@@myotherchannel2729 Sadly, I think the publicity about tramplings although always horrific and tragic comes from two causes. First, I think that we are a far more urban society now and people are simply not as aware of the dangers and treat the countryside as a theme park. Second, I think there is very concerted attack from the left of politics to enforce 'right to roam' and shut down farming and rural way of life in general. It started with the hunting ban and it will never stop. My father, had to deal with this a lot from people who abused footpaths on his land.
As a through-hiker, overgrown paths are why I never walk in shorts. Always long trousers, no matter the weather. Bare legs in my experience do nothing for helping against overheating. But anyway, well done, you did amazing and this is a brilliant idea really.
Congrats, Claire! What an excellent adventure! Right when you were having your adventure, I was having a similar one of my own. I hiked the 200-mile Mason-Dixon Trail in the US. My wife dropped me off on the side of a road many miles from home. I laughed with you crawling under fences, bushwhacking, getting stung by nettles, road walking, worrying about water, receiving help (and water) from complete and lovely strangers along the way, dodging cows, trying to find a wild camping spot, and getting soaked because I was doing the exact same thing at the same time in May/June. Even my training runs in March were hampered by knee pain. I am so impressed you overcame all those physical obstacles. Your description of how you felt along the way mirrored my own, and I'm just so glad I'm not the only crazy one doing stuff like this. Thank you for being so good at capturing the journey and making it a captivating story. I have tons of raw footage you've now inspired me to edit. Carry on and I'm looking forward to Stranded 2!
Hey Rob! Thanks so much, ahh that's mad haha! Fellow traveller :D it's such fun isn't it, and also awful before your body decides to cooperate 😄 200 miles is soo far! Congratulations to you too. Memories we will never forget :) 🌿💚🐄
I know everyone is saying Cows are fine and “just curious” but I am very grateful that Claire values her life enough to do her best to avoid unnecessary risks. Cows do indeed kill people all over the world, especially bulls. Animals are all naturally good and kind natured, but animals are just as unpredictable. This was an incredible watch thank you and well done Claire!!!! You are seriously a powerhouse of a woman. Im 23, and I look up to you highly. Recently walked my first circuit trail after having a pacemaker put in a few months ago, after being diagnosed with a heart condition at the beginning of the year, that has unfortunately been diagnosed as “panic attacks/anxiety since the age of 15. I always felt like something was holding me back since I can remember. Now Im so excited to have this body, and to use it to see parts of the world not many lay eyes on. Truly my life has changed and my goals and aspirations naturally have to now ive seen what this body is capable of. Take care!! ❤
As a 61 year old, whose just getting into hiking and camping again, (the last time I did stuff like this was when I was a sqaddie 35+ years ago), you are an absolute inspiration and legend.
You're a real gutsy lady. Yes it's all in the mind. I was an infantry soldier and found that there are 3 to 4 pain barriers to push through. when you get through them you feel like superman and you can go on for ever. Well done Claire.
Thank you so much :D wow I can't imagine the things you must have had to endure. Definitely amazing how the body gets on board, eventually haha. Thanks for watching 🌿
I paused at the end of the first day of this video because I couldn't help but think of the Confidence Obstacle Course the US Army makes all new recruits do. There is a ruck march at the end of basic training, but one of the first events, as I remember it, is the COC. It's a tower climb, wall climb, a rappel tower, the whole works... It's an event designed to promote team work, and help build character. You look at it as a civilian, and assume you can't do it. But you do. It teaches you to push yourself further than you knew you could. This video reminded me so strongly of that milestone moment. @WildBeare is a more experienced hiker than I am, but damn, I felt like I was watching a new recruit push through the final week of boot camp in this video. Pride isn't a sin in those moments. Personal growth is something worth celebrating. It's just fucking uplifting. Kinda gives you hope.
@WildBeare You wrote 'Definitely amazing how the body gets on board ..eventually' I remember on my thruhike in the Pyrenees, and I suffered health problems and went through many days stuck in a town in a rut, depression really. I spoke with my mum on the phone and she said 'Can you see the hills from your hotel?' .. I said 'Yes', and she said 'Well this is your opportunity. You're there and the time is now, so do it!' I checked out the next morning feeling really rough physically and mentally, made it to the next refuge, a stranger there took me under his wing for a couple of days giving me rehydration salts and paracetamol. I set off the next morning and spent the next few weeks enjoying the best time of my life, making it to the Mediterranean Sea, paddling and smiling. I'm on the brink of a ten-week thruhike, but I'm stuck in that same rut as I was back in the Pyrenees, but my late mother's words, and yours Wildbeare, will kick my arse into action.
I can’t wait for Stranded 2! There is magic in the long journey, in how our appetite and energy returns in Day 3, in the feeling of accomplishment that is bittersweet: grateful to be done, longing for more. I’m so thrilled for you! You did this through grit and determination, rejecting your body’s complaints because you believed fitness would overcome frailty. Come to America for wilderness long walks. Seriously! My wife and I would be happy to host and shuttle. In my backyard (figuratively speaking), I have a 64 km trail and a 122 km trail, the latter of which carries you past endless waterfalls, a mountain lake, and a wild river! If you’re lucky, you might even see a bear! I don’t recall seeing any cows. 😉 Thank you for sharing! I so enjoyed this!
Wow that's so amazing! Honestly I am in awe of your wilderness and scenery. I watched the lovely Dixie (Homemade Wanderlust) walk the AT, PCT and CDT, it's just so beautiful. We have lil pockets of nature over here but no big, vast wilderness like that Thank you so much for sharing this with me, means a lot 🙂 hope you have a lovely weekend! 🌿
@@WildBeare I’m in awe of your highland rambles. Nature is awesome, whether in the UK, the US, or elsewhere! Dixie has done some epic things (I think I’ll skip the Florida Trail, though-I prefer bears to gators!). So glad your body is resolute and letting you roam and share your ramblings!
You’d love geowizard’s videos then! (Unless you’re aware of him, he’s pretty famous and kind of ‘invented’ this type of content). Would have a look if you weren’t aware of him!
What an incredible idea for a video. I'm a grandpa from Oregon who loves your beautiful country that allows you to hike through private property. Combine that with your tenacity and willingness to bare your feelings and you have created an incredible piece of work. Well done Claire, thank you for including us in your amazing life.
Thank you so much 💚 we have to have our public rights of ways because most of England is farmland, without them we wouldn't be able to go anywhere haha. Hope you're having a great weekend :)
You’d love geowizard’s videos then! (Unless you’re aware of him, he’s pretty famous and kind of ‘invented’ this type of content). Would have a look if you weren’t aware of him!
Claire, you did absolutely amazingly! I have watched your videos for a few months now, and I really admire you. Just everything about you is delightful and your positive attitude is a joy to watch. Bless you 🙏 ♥️
You took a challenge and proved to yourself how mentally strong you need to be... you possibly feel that you are outside your comfort zone doing this stranded challenge . The feeling and strength you gain will stay with you for life...stay safe on your adventures, Claire ..
you are amazing!! Thank you so much for sharing. I am a woman and I go camping by myself. I am 55 and people often tell me how brave I am. I just can't imagine doing anything else! Thanks for the inspiration!!
That was amazing, Claire. Literal blood sweat and tears shed, but you did it, and you should be so proud of your achievement. You are an inspiration to us all. Thank you for sharing.
It's a sad reflection on the state of land ownership in England that just simply sleeping outside in the countryside without doing any harm is illegal. The right to roam should be enshrined in law.
I absolutely agree. The excuse I've heard from government is that there's too many of us.. well outside of the towns etc I didn't see anyone on these paths, at all. In my opinion stupid rules are meant to be broken :)
Somebody owns the land. Nobody who owns a house thinks that somebody else should walk on their garden so why should somebody walk on a farmer's land? Only people that don't suffer the disbenefit think people should roam everywhere. Unlike America or other very unpopulated countries, the UK is largely cultivated land. Sadly as an ex farmer right to roam is rooted in a belief that land should be expropriated from farmers. It has nothing to do with people wanting to enjoy the countryside. Footpaths and truly wild uncultivated land above a certain altitude is fine.
@@brianthesnail3815surely there's quite a difference between walking along the edge of a field and walking across someone's garden though? One is part of someone's home, and one is for growing crops. Don't get me wrong, I believe camping should always be done respectfully, quietly and following leave no trace principles. But to say camping is just not allowed at all seems insane to me
EPIC, EPIC, EPIC!!! Absolutely brilliant Claire 👊 Held my breath watching cow field dash 😧. Definitely NOT a fail. Thanks for doing this and sharing with us. 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏❤️
Absolutely brilliant effort,, well done got to say one of the best videos ive watched in a long time, please do another,, such a strong lady and a true inspiration to all.
@@WildBeare Just saw (on RUclips) how to scare-off a bear using a big trash bag, inflating it by scooping air in an upward (or downward) motion in front of them!
there is a picture on the wall in Braunston , has a person , looks like a lady sitting on a box with a backpack and a hiking staff . Claire thank you so much for bringing us along . IN , USA
Many congratulations darling it’s a great feeling finding your way back home,it’s like pure elation just having the confidence to follow the map, people are nice it’s just a matter of trust, again well done xxxxx
I used to walk long distance footpaths and thoroughly enjoyed all of them regardless of the blisters, lost toenails and shivering in the rain. It’s the best way to get a true feel for this lovely country we live in and fortunately for me being brought up on a dairy farm cows don’t worry me one bit. Sadly I suffered a life changing accident and struggle to walk at all now, which makes me all the more thankful I did what I did while I was able to. Well done and now you’ve conquered this it’ll hopefully open up your horizons to great future adventures.😊
I'm gratified you showed the psychological toll this trip took on you. Village local women behaved as I remembered villagers in the late 70s. Lovely green countryside. 1st doggo was smashing, the farmer's dog was rather ill tempered but that service dog was great! The wildflowers were superb, that little terrier liked you quite a lot! All in all an ADMIRABLE adventure for you.❤❤❤
I am genuinely impressed by your bravery and resilience in facing the challenge of being stranded blindfolded and abandoned 100km from home. Your determination to make it back on foot demonstrates incredible strength and resourcefulness. Your ability to overcome such extreme circumstances is truly inspiring. And I am Floating Village Life.
Absolute 100% hats off to you lass. That was incredible. It's wonderful how the kindness and hospitality of strangers can make a journey. A bike packing trip in Wales proved that to me a couple of years ago. My mental health was on its knees and that experience completely reinstated my faith in human nature. Bloody well done.
youtube randomly recommended this to me and I just watched it through, and only at the end realized that it was over an hour long! so captivating and interesting. and now I feel the urge to do something similar myself 😅
You’d love geowizard’s videos then! (Unless you’re aware of him, he’s pretty famous and kind of ‘invented’ this type of content). Would have a look if you weren’t aware of him!
This is similar to an army ex I did once. All in a bus blind folded and dropped off at different locations across the country. We wasn't allowed wallets (it was b4 the days of mobile phones) or cash and we had to "blag" beg and borrow our way back to camp at RAF Lyneham. First ones back got a long weekend off work. Funnily enough, if you took long enough you got a long weekend anyway 😂
Rock on girl from this solo hiking chick in the Pacific Northwest U.S. I absolutely loved watching this! Especially the renegade cows lol! I would love to see a Stranded part 2! Well done! ⛺🌄
Ive had to wait to sit and watch this in one go and it was worth every second! Absolutely love your storytelling & im so proud for you putting yourself through this and sticking with it ❤
Dear Claire What a wonderful adventure you have had and not just the journey but the people you met on the way.Despite the aching bones it's something you will remember for ever. Thankyou for sharing this video obviously a lot of time and effort went into making this and it's much appreciated. Kindest Regards Michael ❤
First of all big ups to this wonderfully courageous human, it takes so much bravery to know your going to be okay even though you are in such a random location and have to make your own way back. Honestly you are a huge inspiration to me thanks Claire for always letting us go with you on your treks and journeys ❤
Dyiiiiiiiiiing here. 😂 like not minimizing the danger of a cow at full speed, but holy crow your reaction is very universal and brought back the memory of my gold medal fence vault 😅 they can be really mean, those bovines.
Thank you for showing the beauty of our countryside and presenting in your wonderful uplifting way. I always find watching you puts me in a better place. You are are so lovely and such a pleasure to watch on these great adventures. 😊
I know someone has already used the word "epic" in describing this video, but it was truly epic. I enjoyed all of it, cringing and wincing and laughing (I assume) with you and everyone else (probably) who watched it. This was a trip that is not at all like all the other "go to pub, hike up a hill and camp for a night, go back to pub" videos I've watched from a bunch of great RUclipsrs in Britain who love the "peak district". You have outdone yourself on this one! I spent the entire video walking on a treadmill to stay "in tune" with your travails. :^D
I absolutely adore this type of content and it is the type of content I could binge the hell out of as it's so real and authentic. I constantly crave adventure, exploration and challenges like this, while watching it through a screen isn't the same, it's still a thoroughly enjoyable experience and definitely makes me want to do something similar. Also a huge bonus of the video being super long! Truly a hidden gem of youtube, thank you!
You’d love geowizard’s videos then! (Unless you’re aware of him, he’s pretty famous and kind of ‘invented’ this type of content). Would have a look if you weren’t aware of him!
I’m proud of you! I think the most touching part of your film were your moments of uncertainty and vulnerability and tears. Those were the moments that made you stronger. I’m an older man now but my longest backpacking adventure was 200 kilometers ( 12 days) high in the Rockies Mountains of Canada. Hiking at an average of 6,000 feet above sea level. Didn’t see another single person on the hike; all wilderness. In those days one simple drank untreated glacial water from mountain streams. Thank you for evoking those memories! ❤️
This was absolutely EPIC Claire! Both your adventure, as well as this amazing feature length video. You really outdid yourself my friend! I'm so happy for you that you got to do this... I've no doubt that it's an experience you'll cherish for the rest of your life :) Thank you for sharing it with us all :) Now for STRANDED 2.... 👍 I hope that you have a wonderful week dear friend :) As always.... Stay wild 🐻 -John
Hey John! Aw thanks so much for sharing this with me, yep I still can't believe I did it 😄 I always thought that longer distance was something other people could do but that I wouldn't be very good at so it meant a lot to me to be able to do this. I'll deffo never forget it. Hope you're good and having a really lovely summer friend! ☀️💚🐄🌿
Often they are just curious or wanting to chase you around because it's fun or they want food, but they can also be aggressive especially when they have young with them (not the cows fault of course, they're just being good mamas). Trouble is they're so big and heavy things can go wrong. Thank you, I'm not really, I do my best haha. Thanks for watching and have a lovely weekend 🌿💚
That was one amazing journey, truly impressive. My biggest fears are cows, farm dogs and busy roads, so I spend hours poring over maps to check terrain and alternatives when planning a walk. Thank you for sharing your adventure. I'll let you off the quad bike.
Heyy, thanks so much! Yep my fears are similar to yours it seems. It's strange as walking around in England probably seems like it should be easier than the mountains, but I found it scarier 😄 Thanks for the free pass on the quad bike 💚 happy trails
I saved this video Claire to watch with my family this weekend when visiting my mum. It's been such a good watch and we all have so admiration for you. What a great accomplishment and you're a huge inspiration for anyone with outdoor aspirations. I grew up in Nuneaton and now live in Coventry, so it was a nice surprise to see you started in this neck of the woods.
Hi Claire I love your channel it has helped me with my mental health issues. And you walked through my garden just before towpath closed. Take care and safe journeys in the future Stride. 😊 7:16
Cows usually only charge if they think their calves are in danger, just walk normally and don't shout and wave your arms about. They may get close but they rarely come right up to you.
I must be special because whenever I walk through a herd of cows they not only follow me but have on occasion licked my hands, but had a rowdy but friendly bull gently butting me. All they wanted was some attention. What a great concept, I live in Bedford, so I think I will travel 50 miles and then walk back home one weekend. Keep smiling.
Hmm see I never used to be afraid of them, but then a herd (led by a bull, I think - very big and muscular and horned anyhow) randomly started after me one day. I was just wandering along minding my own business without a care. The bull was angry and huffing and the cows followed. They chased me toward the edge of a field where I had no choice but to throw myself over a barbed wire fence. Then the big one continued making angry noises and digging at the ground with its hooves while i tried to find an alternative way out. So I don't trust them now unfortunately. Maybe it's just me, but the temperament of cows seems to have changed of recent years, I used to wander among them as a child and they would either have no interest, or wander up to you peacefully.. nowadays they seem to chase you around everywhere haha
@@WildBeare cows are always curious, i dont trust bulls though, i have encountered a big white muscled bull once that looked like it wanted protein lol, no thanks, not worth the risk.
The horse with his sausage hanging out 👀wow 😂😂I’m still laughing over that one and well done that was some hike true some overgrown hedge and some lovely countryside
You’d love geowizard’s videos then! (Unless you’re aware of him, he’s pretty famous and kind of ‘invented’ this type of content). Would have a look if you weren’t aware of him!
You're a strong woman in more ways then physical. The mental fortitude to not go crazy without the daily conveniences you have at home is a feat that not that many people have. I hope understand how much impact you have on everybody who watches and especially for girls out there, who have a hard task these days picking out the good role models.
Hi Claire just wanted to say thankyou your channel has truly inspired me to get out into the wilds just hiking for now but.had a hell of a year and nature is a great healer Keep on keeping on 😊
@WildBeare ive got the OS app and want to do a hike that takes in the ivinghoe beacon can you recommend one as theres a good few on there but dont know the area well 🤔
I’m up for stranded 2. I just loved every moment of this journey. It had everything. You’re a fair dinkum champion. Your videos are real. We all need more “real”. So thank you! 😊
Thanks. I've been waiting for the right moment to watch this and it was absolutely worth the wait. I grew up with Arnie and Stallone but after watching you battle through the bovine hordes and deadly nettle forests i think i will add another hero to my list. You are an inspiration. I loved every minute.
As a backpacker myself, i can relate to some of the struggles you faced (apart from the cows, they dont bother me 😄) I really hope you will do more multi-day hiking, its so fulfilling. The south west coast path and the pennine way were some of the best days of my life and there's still so much more of this country to see, parts of it you would never see by road or rail. Just an fyi regarding water...you came across a few cattle troughs and mentioned filtering water...at one end of these troughs is a ballcock and spigot. Press the ballcock down and fresh water comes out. Im sure the farmer wont be too unhappy at sparing a litre. Also, churches will have a fresh water tap somewhere around the building for people to water flowers on the graves. Just tips if you get desperate ;) Loved this video Claire, i really hope the next installment will happen, and maybe even more (i nearly put hope number 2 will happen 🤣)
Ahh man, I wish the cows didn't bother me 😄 it's funny in retrospect but at the time it feels harrowing haha! I've heard good things about those trails, so great you got to experience them Ohh yes! Ash actually told me about the ballcock thing too! I had a look at one but I didn't really know what I was looking at and didn't want to go fiddling around in case I broke something. I'll try to figure it out as it'll be really useful to know. The church thing is also great to know thank you, I had no idea they had taps but it makes perfect sense Thanks so much for sharing this journey with me, so glad you liked it :) have a great weekend
@@WildBeare ps: I meant to add, there are videos on RUclips that show you how to deal with cows, it's worth checking them out, it'll make your rural hiking adventures a bit more pleasurable. Enjoy your weekend too, Rob 😊
a word of advice from a long distance walker who has gone through many cow fields,walk at a reasonable pace, do not talk to or wave your arms or poles at them and all will be fine, they are curious animals and like to investigate
I always talk to them so they aren't spooked when you get closer but apart from that this is the same advice I'd give I would be more weary of the horses
@@kevinsaward2005 tell that to the horse that approached the fence I was walking past acting like it wanted some attention then started kicking the wooden fence when I was close enough I don't fancy being kicked by a horse tbh
This video kept coming up on my feed this week and I've ignored it. I'm watching it now, when I needed to. You are amazing and you made me feel human again. You did your Spirit Walk! I wish I can one day. Much love x
Exploring your country is a great sign of love and respect for it and for yourself... wherever you come from... [I'm a Greek-Australian myself and I had my share of explorations... still do!...] The first cows you came across when you had to run, the ''cow'' that was blocking your way, was actually a young bull... young bulls have the size, curiosity, and playfulness to cause an accident!... but you made it through... next time get something more than an alarm with you... a multitool is useful to carry... and you can look out for a ''self-defense'' whip... is made of a short [50cm?] steel wire that can be useful clearing your way through the bush... when you need to... the multitool has a little saw blade that can cut branches... none of these are considered as ''weapons'' so you can carry them easily... I get it that your goal was to ''face'' you, not animals... and you did great with that... but animals are real... so learning more about them is good... cows and horses are not beasts... no more than sheep and cats... you're young... you have a lot more to learn and discover... enjoy it!
Your views on cattle are hilarious. Your first instinct was correct, they are curious (they don’t get out much so you might understand). While any animal can be dangerous you were safer than you thought.
That's nonsense. Yes they are curious I agree. However, they are territorial and will defend the herd. They are also massive and struggle to stop if they are running at you and the ground is wet. People are hurt and killed across the world by cattle every year. My family are dairy farmers and we were told to be very careful.
I'm thinking you may not have been charged by angry cows before. I've been chased and had to throw myself over a barbed wire fence while cows dug the ground with their hooves still trying to get at me. Many people are killed by cows each year, including farmers. Cows need to be treated with caution, and should be avoided when they have young, if possible
@@WildBeare I think it's mostly farmers that are getting killed actually. It's super dangerous to be between a bull and a solid wall, that's usually what gets them. The squish kills! Sometimes even unintentionally. You could've definitely been injured in the field, but I think survival instinct would've saved you from worse. You're quite resourceful! I do have to say, these cows seem so undomesticated! In Belgium they're much closer to the farm and in daily contact with humans. These uk ones seem almost feral!
So what is the point of being blind folded when you can immediately look at your GPS to see where you are? I thought this was going to be a blindfolded challenge. A true test would be for you to get dropped off somewhere and to find your way back without using any maps or GPS. Maybe something that GeoWizard would be up for.
Could make it even more hardcore. Start off only with a knife, flint and steel and a water bottle. Anything else has to be acquired/scavenged from the environment. No buying stuff on the way.
What an amazing adventure! I love getting to see the tiny pretty villages and off the path places. Such a great achievement and fantastically put together and edited. Thank you for bringing us along with you, I can't wait for the next one!
Hello Wild Ones! 🤗So sorry this took so long.. my literal blood, sweat & tears and 5 solid weeks of editing went into this one 🫠🫠🫠 my first ever long-distance hike and my first feature-length film! 🍿I couldn't have attempted this one without help. A huuuge THANK YOU to..
Every kind stranger who stopped to chat, refilled my water, offered me food and drink, or advised me as to where the next shop or pub might be
The wonderful staff and locals of..
Brinklow Fish Bar • Brinklow
Easy Greek • Rugby
Braunston Village Community Cafe • Braunston
Maltsters Country Inn • Badby
New Inn • Abthorpe
The Shoulder of Mutton • Little Horwood
(No affiliation with any, they're just great. Great people, great food and so helpful too)
Ash @AshOutdoorsUK - for creating the start locations and the blind draw, agreeing to drop me off, picking me up after, always being there on the end of the phone and believing that I could do this when I didn't believe in myself
Friends & family - for cheering me on and keeping tabs on me, even though you thought it was nuts
Nik @NikMitchellWild an environmentalist who was also filming a time-lapse on a certain hill and gave me tea and a biscuit, thanks, it was so lovely to meet you
MSK Doc H.M. for advising me which muscles to strengthen and which to lengthen. With your advice, over the months prior I was able to correct my hip impingement and adductor tendonitis. I wouldn't have been able to even attempt this without your expert guidance (GP on the other hand just told me to 'stop hiking'.. helpful)
Most of all, thanks so much Wild Ones for coming along on this adventure with me. If it weren't for you guys watching, I wouldn't be able to take the time to do this mad stuff in the first place. You allow me to live my weird lil dreams. Thank you 💚
Ooh yes, and links to the cow articles I was looking at (these are just what came up when I searched the subject, there’s lots of info out there if you’re interested):
🐄www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/killer-cows-named-uks-most-30956262
🐄www.thetimes.com/uk/environment/article/killer-cows-the-one-tonne-menace-bringing-fear-to-the-footpath-ppw6tg92k
🐄www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/cows-officially-the-most-deadly-large-animals-in-britain-a6727266.html
Back to business as usual now with the regular, shorter videos :) although I may give my brain a rest from this computer screen for a couple days first haha. Hope you guys are good!
Much love, CB 🌿
Thank you for your work 🙏 it is good hun ❤
Full SAS survival mission training
I don't think the quad bike counts. I absolutely enjoyed this adventure of yours. Amazing 👏 👏 😎👍
@@paulosborne4632 she said friend in the intro.
WELL done Claire and that was some adventure you undertook, as an ex squaddie I know how you felt at times. But your great personality came through shinning bright. lol and you did it in shorts braver than me. Hat off to you big style and well done a true inspiration to all. Despite chronic conditions which I also have it just shows the power of the mind and what we can accomplish, bless you and plz never stop making your videos as they motivate me in some down and dark dark times x (ps the guy in the car and him wanting you to sit on his lap you should have showed his reg plate, with so many subscribers I would be sure his wife would get to find out ...awkward).
On behalf of all of us at the Braunston Cafe, thanks for the mention and very glad to have been part of your journey. Come back and see us soon.
Tip for water: even if a village doesn't have a shop or pub, there's usually a church nearby and they almost always have an outside tap connected to the mains. So if you get low, head for a church! Audaxers (long distance cyclists) and hikers use them regularly, and you can spot churches from miles away. Fantastic video, really inspiring. Love how you show both the highs and lows, and your photography/videography is top-notch! Stranded 2 ? Yes please!
I googled water drinking fountain
💦 but they are all gone only empty packs of old positions of what once was. I remember marble ones in the uk but no more
Cemeteries too.
is that safe to drink though?
@@divided_by_dia446 from a mains supply, yep. Maybe let it run for a few seconds first. From a water butt (captured from roofs), nope.
As kids, out on our treaders, always used to stop at churchyards or cemeteries to get a drink out the taps, usually usually easily spotted from the little collection of watering cans. Let it run for a bit. Good as gold. Water never tasted so good. Good times 👍
It takes something special to hold people’s attention for more than 20 minutes these days, especially on social media. This was really special, you made it so relatable with your fantastic storytelling and filmmaking skills. Brilliant! Thank you ❤
Thank you so much, I have a short attention span myself haha so that means a lot :D have a great weekend 🐄🌿💚
Thanks for posting and sharing. Great to follow the trip via the video and narration.
Hi Clare a tip for cows i was told by an old farmer, its always worked for me. Get a good stick and thump the ground in front of you as you walk along. He said that they feel the vibration and think the ground is moving and step away. It has worked when I was surrounded by a herd. Also they don't seem to like caps so maybe remove your cap and they may not get inquisitive. Keep up the videos I love them all
Had no idea cows were so hazardous
@@PlatinumPirate They are very big animals and work as a herd so need respect but I've walked fields of cows all my life
Fantastic tip/knowledge, thankyou for passing it on.
I was in the infantry and the way you pushed through your problems and carried on is a reminder of my service. The smile on your face as you cracked on was legendary Claire!!
Keep on doing what you are doing you are such an inspiration
Heyy oh I can't imagine what you will have endured! My jaunts can't compare to that but I'm so pleased I did this :) thank you so much for sharing it with me 🌿 have a great weekend
@@WildBeareClaire you would have been alright in the army especially as you love sleeping out when it’s raining and honking weather. You’re stronger in many ways than you know. Keep it up.
Have you no better apps for navigating? I use tactical nav at work it’s great satellite imagery for tracks and route planning. Also send your drone up for quick recce of routes you plan to use.
@@leeevans6213Sand Hilton with computer scouts. Get a map and compass.
@@leeevans6213 TacticalNav is based on MGRS so any references made in the app wouldn't really transpose across onto a UK OS map particularly well in this situation. May as well just use google earth for the sat Images since it's the google api TacticalNav calls to pull its satelite view map layers.
Who needs a TV licence when you can watch fantastic content like this. Epic journey 🙂.
Thanks so much 🙂
Exactly, I got rid off my telly years ago.
I have not watched TV for atlesat 10 years.
Cut the cable in the nineties. Haven't looked back. It was challenging finding content to watch in the early days. There was not much of it and what there was, had the size of a postage stamp and very low resolution. But it was much more satisfying when finding something to watch. On top of it, more time for doing other stuff instead of vegging out in front of the telly every evening.
Now there is a wealth of quality stuff to watch and this video (and all the others by @WildBeare) are very high quality. Commercial telly, as I remember it, can't even begin to compare in my view.
What a great watch
Well done girl 👍
With all the backtracking and diversions you had to do due to cows, brambles and other impediments , I wouldn't worry too much about riding a short distance in the farmers quad. What a wonderful video. Thank You.
Ahh thanks! I was pretty gutted when I realised haha! Thanks for sharing this with me :)
Not to mention if your safety is in danger or you’re in need of assistance, there’s nothing wrong with pulling a few strings. This is such an incredible effort regardless.
6:58 that's what she said
I second this, not a problem at all 😊
Grew up in S. Texas in the country. Never frightened by cattle, but I HAVE been charged by a protective mom cow. It's not reassuring to be trapped in front of a corral fence with an angry cow mom coming at you full speed. But, like with dogs, never (I've been told) RUN AWAY. If it's only one cow, you can outmaneuver it. All bets are off if it's one of those "hairy" British things, esp. with horns! Yikes!
At 1:12:22 you trudged by one of the most complete Norman churches (a 3 cell building) poking up above the hedge. Stewkley is one of the best-preserved of all the Norman churches in England. It is believed to date from 1150 and its building to have been ordered by one Geoffrey de Clinton. The architecture is superb especially for such a relatively small church. You are doing amazingly well. I'm off on a 6 mile walk on the Wiltshire Downs very soon, with others which is just as well as I'm pushing 80, but I usually walk into town once a week and its a brisk walk 25 mins each way. And then from there you passed by the magnificent and celebrated Anglo-Saxon church at Wing! I've not been there for 15 years but visited it twice as I have its "sister" at Repton. And you did it, 94 English miles, in beautiful England and met some of the kindest of people who helped with much needed H2O and some good old pub food! Well done!!
This girl needs recognition, for her endurance, strength of character and bringing these gorgeous videos to us , love them x
I completely agree, it's wonderful, and it's content like this thats turned me from watching TV - its SO much better than 90% of films and TV, it just leaves it standing. I've been watching RUclips only for my entertainment for 5 or so years, I have no desire to go back, I love watching real stuff made by real and extraordinary people like Claire. It's top quality, the very best you can ask for, it's just real and gorgeous. ❤
Trust me when I say 340k subscribers in 2 years is very high recognition.
Sad to see the overgrown state of so many public footpaths. And the deliberate blockages on several. Saw the same in Kent and Sussex when I lived in Kent, even on a couple of national trails. Now I'm on the edge of the Peak District the paths here are rarely blocked or overgrown.
During lockdown some members of the public actually cleared a trail that led to an old nature reserve, both the path and the reserve had long been neglected but tell people to avoid social gatherings and suddenly people cared about having access to trails that won't suddenly swallow you up in stingy nettles
This couldn't come at a better time. I'm a 54 year old woman about to summit my first mountain and feeling so unsure of myself. Good job, I'm so proud of you.
You can do it!
Ahh amazing, you got this! Have the BEST time 💚
Same age as you, I’m impressed, best wishes and good luck
Best of luck
Take it at a pace you're comfortable with and enjoy the amazing experience 😊
We are so lucky in Sweden. Everyone has the right to hike, pick mushrooms, berries, etc and camp anywhere, even on private property as long as they stay out of someone's garden, out of sight of houses and leave no trace. I kind of want to try something similar to this now but without the not knowing where I'm starting bit.
I'd love to visit Sweden as an adult. I spent the summer as a kid near Goteborg visiting my gran who married a Swede. Just spent my time watching TV and cycling around the local cul de sac.
Now I'm into outdoor hobbies, it's really one of the places to be!
Indeed! I'd love to do this in the US, but... getting shot is a real concern. I wish I were joking, but it happened to my grandfather.
Stranded 2 ... YES PLEASE!!!!!!!!! You really took us on the journey along. Made us feel the struggles and more important the ending was perfect. Keep making these videos, it workes for calming. Your lovely voice and kindness really helps in that proces! More important I really think you are real hero, walking alone these ammount of KM's, sleeping in the wild and open, the cow-meetings ... and many more things.
Sending a lot of love and appreciation from the Netherlands!
Thank you so much 💚 much love from UK :D 👋
Oh this made me cry a bit! What a journey! Thank you so much for taking us on this journey with you. The english countryside reminds me a lot of my home here in northern Germany. I have become very ill last year at the age of 29 and have had costant surgeries and recovery time since then. I am currently gaining some strength back after my colostomy but my next surgery will happen soon and most likely make me bedbound again for one or two months. I don't want much from life but I would love to be able to go on such a journey someday. Dealing with serious and life changing health issues really puts things into perspective. Being in nature, being able to walk, meeting kind people and eating some good food... that's the meaning of life to me. It seems so simple to many people but it's endlessly valuable and wonderful.
You young lady are amongst the one percent of the population who would even attempt to do this and I am in awe of you ! Well done!!
Ahh haha thanks! It was a bit mad considering it's just going for a walk in England 😄 I loved it
True,but times have changed,as a child of the fifties you could wander anywhere but the girls certainly didn't, they might try to thumb a lift late at night but as I said you are in the one percent!
Brilliant as ever Claire. This is a prime example of why we cannot allow the green belt on this island to be destroyed anymore.
Sadly there is no stopping it, unless you have billions of pounds to pay off the conglomerate companies that want to throw up thousands of houses.
@@stuart23969 Endless seas of unaffordable housing, where green hills once rolled as far as the eye could see!
I suffer from anxiety and this journey is truly inspirational; so well done - I hope the guy in the car is recognised by all his family and friends and called out, what a 🔔 end 😮. Hope you feel strong enough to do another longer journey like this ❤
Aw thank you 💚 I blurred him out, I've no interest in getting anyone in any trouble but it does annoy me people saying stuff like that.
Hope you're having a nice day today 🌿
Take a day to visit a dairy farm and get a dairyman to teach you about cattle (or even better a local agricultural college). Cattle see differently to humans, think differently and react differently, they aren't "dangerous" but their behavour can be if you don't understand them. Walkers are at limited risk (perhaps one death per year in the UK) and mostly associated with stupidly trying to protect dogs. Cattle associate humans with food and being milked, that's why they usually approach you (and they have wierd eyesight with terrible depth perception.
Pretty good advise really. Once on a hike I was stopped to do some watercolor, and a bunch of very playful calves went right at me. Didnt know what to do, but it turned out alright in the end :) Being a citydweller the "bodylanguage/behaviour" is pretty alien. Went over a field with a huge bull a couple of years ago on a day-hike...that was pretty intense, but the bull didnt seem to care.
I've heard of cow tipping. What's the correct percentage?
It's when they start bucking and crowding I get scared, then I try and scare them away? But I'm always worried the see me as a predator and just want to stomp me to death. It's good to hear that might not be the case.
@@SunsetBoundIt's worth noting that if you are not involved in the agricultural industry then the big "large animal" killers are deer closely followed by horses. The first involve completely innocent travellers, the second their users.
@@jakester455; you’ve got to get their center if gravity past the 45 degrees mark - then the rest goes by itself…
🐄 møøø! 😅
Top tip - churches often have taps for looking after flowers in graveyards. If they are open , they are usually quite cool in the hot and often have sockets for charging stuff. A good peaceful place to hang out for an hour.
Great tip. I think some allow you camp inside too.
@@Mossywoodland there is something called champing, where you camp in historical churches. My friend and I did this last year in the summer and it was amazing
Another tip, go to an old church in the spring time, you will find loads of hibernating ladybirds inside, scoop em' up and drop em off in a greenhouse for a free aphid eating service.
Yep. Water taps in cemetaries. Often the only public water source in town.
Can vouch for this. I recall refilling my water bottle on a bit of a trip like this through Kent about nine years ago. Is a good tip to know!
Last year I traveled solo to and through South England, from Germany. Had so many worries beforehand, but in the end, it was one of my best experiences. Met a few niece people, saw beautiful places. Definitely helped me do more solo travels that I have been afraid to do before.
Great video, thank you.
As a farmer I've not minded some people camping on our land. Individual campers are fine. Groups though are always a bit iffy for me as they usually leave a mess. We've had a few solo campers and I just let them be as long as they're not on the crops or hassling the stock. Plus I'd like people to ask permission then I know you're there. Also the cows pick up on if you're nervous. Just take it until you get out. Walk with confidence. There might have been a bull in the field previously but instead of taking the sign off every time we move our stock we just leave the sign up until next time.
Are you allowed to keep a bull in a field if it has a public footpath crossing it?
@@WHRBERT Yep! I'm not a farmer but I grew up surrounded by farmland. It's not unusual to have a bull in a field with a footpath through it.
@@WHRBERT Apparently - "Section 59 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 bans the keeping of bulls in fields crossed by a right of way, except if they are:
- under the age of 10 months; or
- not of a recognised dairy breed, provided that they are accompanied by cows or heifers."
As an ex-farmerboy I can tell you those cattle were completely peaceful. They were just curious about you or maybe expecting some snack. However, no matter what the circumstances are, dont run, as they will start to run also. Still no bad intentions from them, but they are heavy, so it may get dangerous if they run near you.
Mm I'll not start the running but if they run at me first and I think I can outrun them, I'm going for it haha! I don't know, I had a bad experience a few years ago where it definitely would have gotten nasty if I hadn't escaped over a barbed wire fence, and even then they were screeching and digging at the ground with their hoofs. They were very angry for some reason. I don't trust them at all now. But I think they're lovely from the other side of a fence 🐄🐄
As a fisherman who is always using cow fields to access my clubs beats.... why do you guys put heards of young, crazy bulls in them? 😂 I've had to use my landing net poles as deterants sooooooo many times, and often abandoned fishing days coz them cows are scary 😅
@@SonOfVulkan Bulls arent allowed in fields with public rights of way unless they are less than 10 months old.....of coarse if there isnt a right of way then youre trespassing and farmer has right to keep bulls somewhere
@neoaliphant well, I've definitely been chased by young bulls. It is only a right of way for fishing club members. I guess the farmer didn't like that we had access 😕
@@SonOfVulkan farmer is at fault if theres any right of way.....
It was emotional watching your highs and lows as you struggled through.
You really shouldn’t never doubt yourself ever again, you are so strong and determined.
Absolutely amazing, well done girl 👏👏👏🍾
Please don’t leave it too long before you’re next vlog 🙏thank you.
Aw thank you. Second day was hard but I settled into it after that. Back to the shorter videos now that are faster to put together :) thanks for watching, have a great weekend 🌿
Really enjoyed that! It's important somebody walks those public footpaths, despite the landowners' attempts to obstruct them, in order to keep them open.
So glad you liked it :D yes I agree, thanks for watching 🌿🐄💚
Maybe bring some secateurs on walks for bigger stuff and a stick to beat down nettles, lve done that x
Agreed! Here in the US, we have no such thing. To be fair, it's not often _needed_ , but if you wanted to hike in "name a location," you couldn't just do it. I suspect most farmers would be quite happy to allow you passage with advance notice, but it only takes one or two and you're really in trouble. I'm in awe of this sort of thing in other countries.
Absolutely incredible and inspirational. I thought I'd watch the first 10 minutes but found myself totally absorbed and ended up watching the whole 80 minutes. What a fantastic journey that was, and what a brilliant presenter you are Claire, I felt as if I was with you all the way, sharing your experiences both good (helpful people, amazing countryside, friendly pigs) and bad (cows, annoying cat, cows, sleazy driver, cows, stinging nettles, cows). Why aren't you on the BBC? You should have your own series, it would be complusive viewing. And now I can't wait for Stranded 2!
Thank you so much, means a lot to me, so glad you enjoyed it :D haha the cows.. they were everywhere, I'm gonna have to get braver with them if I'm able to attempt #2 at some point😄 thanks so much for sharing this with me 🐄💚🌿
You’d love geowizard’s videos then! (Unless you’re aware of him, he’s pretty famous and kind of ‘invented’ this type of content). Would have a look if you weren’t aware of him!
I've been surveying and had a herd of cows charge at me in the corner of a field where there was literally no escape. I just had to stand there, arms wide, whilst they surrounded me. They were all young and boisterous, curious really, and because i didn't react they got bored and ran off and no harm was done. But I've seen cows surround an injured Jackdaw and paw at it with their hooves until they trampled and kill it. These animals should be respected. Not feared if possible! I swear they can sense that...
Epic adventure. Thanks for filming it!
Ah God yeh I've had an angry heard do that hooves digging the ground thing at me in an angry fashion, after they'd sent me over a barbed wire fence. They were furious for some reason. I was never scared of them before but I am now, not sure what I can do about that really. I think they're lovely as long as they're on the other side of a fence, haha
Thanks so much for watching :) hope you have a great weekend 🌿
@@WildBeare Maybe you can find a friendly cow farmer, that will give you some help with time around them and advice. I grew up in Wales, have worked with them from time to time, so I never got scared of them, however they can be dangerous. Getting rid of the fear is an important step. They (all animals) do sense it...
Hello again, Claire. Just a thought regarding aggressive/overly curious cows... many years ago my brother and I were cycling in the countryside with a school friend when we found ourselves completely surrounded by cows. We couldn't cycle forwards or back the way we came. Fortunately our friend Glyn had strapped to his crossbar an air horn that used a compressed air canister. I think it was supposed to be used as an emergency fog horn on a boat. He sounded this air horn and the cows scattered in all directions. If you ever feel threatened by cows in the future maybe you could sound your personal alarm. That might send them packing. By the way, it also worked on another occasion when we stopped outside a boys public school to buy some snacks from a little shop. While my brother was in the shop, Glyn and I were surrounded by aggressive and threatening public schoolboys. Glyn let off his air horn, the public schoolboys jumped out of their skins, my brother came out of the shop, and we got out of there asap!
I was a farmer. If you stand very still in a field of cows or bullocks (steers) they will naturally surround you and come very close until one of them licks you - which is an experience in itself. Its what cows do. They are just curious. It is very frightening if you are not used to it though as they are big beasts but they will back away if you walk calmly through them. Your friend didnt need the air horn. They will actiually move away if you wave your arms. They will back away even if you gently reach out to touch them. Its very dangerous only if you have a dog and they have calves.
By the way, fun fact. Cows have friendship groups in a herd. The friends walk around together and wait for each other if one is lagging behind. As a herd they also follow certain patterns of walking in certain directions at certain times of day, laying down, chewing the cud and so on. The friends become quite distressed when one is giving birth and stand guard. Cow society is very complex.
@@brianthesnail3815 100% agree. The circle is just them saying hello. You can just talk to them and push through.
Horses on the other hand. They're the real menace. Sod those lunatic woolly horrors.
@@zogworth To be fair, I grew up with cow, horses, sheep and pigs. I rank pigs as lethal as they will eat you. I have only ever been injured by a ram as they hit hard for no reason. Horses next and then cows (ex their calves). I also used to walk among a herd of young bulls until they got a bit too playful one day. 🤕
@@brianthesnail3815 I'm so glad to read your post - I learned the arm waving thing from farm workers as a child but with all the publicity about tramplings I was starting to worry that cows might be more dangerous than I'd thought for the past 50 years.
@@myotherchannel2729 Sadly, I think the publicity about tramplings although always horrific and tragic comes from two causes. First, I think that we are a far more urban society now and people are simply not as aware of the dangers and treat the countryside as a theme park. Second, I think there is very concerted attack from the left of politics to enforce 'right to roam' and shut down farming and rural way of life in general. It started with the hunting ban and it will never stop. My father, had to deal with this a lot from people who abused footpaths on his land.
As a through-hiker, overgrown paths are why I never walk in shorts. Always long trousers, no matter the weather. Bare legs in my experience do nothing for helping against overheating. But anyway, well done, you did amazing and this is a brilliant idea really.
Congrats, Claire! What an excellent adventure! Right when you were having your adventure, I was having a similar one of my own. I hiked the 200-mile Mason-Dixon Trail in the US. My wife dropped me off on the side of a road many miles from home. I laughed with you crawling under fences, bushwhacking, getting stung by nettles, road walking, worrying about water, receiving help (and water) from complete and lovely strangers along the way, dodging cows, trying to find a wild camping spot, and getting soaked because I was doing the exact same thing at the same time in May/June. Even my training runs in March were hampered by knee pain. I am so impressed you overcame all those physical obstacles. Your description of how you felt along the way mirrored my own, and I'm just so glad I'm not the only crazy one doing stuff like this. Thank you for being so good at capturing the journey and making it a captivating story. I have tons of raw footage you've now inspired me to edit. Carry on and I'm looking forward to Stranded 2!
Hey Rob! Thanks so much, ahh that's mad haha! Fellow traveller :D it's such fun isn't it, and also awful before your body decides to cooperate 😄 200 miles is soo far! Congratulations to you too. Memories we will never forget :) 🌿💚🐄
Ah , bless you, what a fun thing to be doing in this mad and strange world we live in these days 😊
You were probably having the most fun of anybody this side of the Mason-Dixon line, oh wait...
Way to go Claire. What an expedition and all in lovely England.
I know everyone is saying Cows are fine and “just curious” but I am very grateful that Claire values her life enough to do her best to avoid unnecessary risks. Cows do indeed kill people all over the world, especially bulls. Animals are all naturally good and kind natured, but animals are just as unpredictable. This was an incredible watch thank you and well done Claire!!!! You are seriously a powerhouse of a woman. Im 23, and I look up to you highly. Recently walked my first circuit trail after having a pacemaker put in a few months ago, after being diagnosed with a heart condition at the beginning of the year, that has unfortunately been diagnosed as “panic attacks/anxiety since the age of 15. I always felt like something was holding me back since I can remember. Now Im so excited to have this body, and to use it to see parts of the world not many lay eyes on. Truly my life has changed and my goals and aspirations naturally have to now ive seen what this body is capable of. Take care!! ❤
As a 61 year old, whose just getting into hiking and camping again, (the last time I did stuff like this was when I was a sqaddie 35+ years ago), you are an absolute inspiration and legend.
Same! I'm just 60 and just getting back into hiking again after 25 years. Gotta use it or lose it I reckon. Good luck to you.
You're a real gutsy lady. Yes it's all in the mind. I was an infantry soldier and found that there are 3 to 4 pain barriers to push through. when you get through them you feel like superman and you can go on for ever. Well done Claire.
Thank you so much :D wow I can't imagine the things you must have had to endure. Definitely amazing how the body gets on board, eventually haha. Thanks for watching 🌿
From my experience, the breakthrough happens on the 3rd day. 2nd day is the worst.
Absolutely. It's amazing what we are actually capable of when the time comes.
I paused at the end of the first day of this video because I couldn't help but think of the Confidence Obstacle Course the US Army makes all new recruits do. There is a ruck march at the end of basic training, but one of the first events, as I remember it, is the COC. It's a tower climb, wall climb, a rappel tower, the whole works... It's an event designed to promote team work, and help build character. You look at it as a civilian, and assume you can't do it. But you do. It teaches you to push yourself further than you knew you could. This video reminded me so strongly of that milestone moment. @WildBeare is a more experienced hiker than I am, but damn, I felt like I was watching a new recruit push through the final week of boot camp in this video. Pride isn't a sin in those moments. Personal growth is something worth celebrating. It's just fucking uplifting. Kinda gives you hope.
@WildBeare You wrote 'Definitely amazing how the body gets on board ..eventually' I remember on my thruhike in the Pyrenees, and I suffered health problems and went through many days stuck in a town in a rut, depression really. I spoke with my mum on the phone and she said 'Can you see the hills from your hotel?' .. I said 'Yes', and she said 'Well this is your opportunity. You're there and the time is now, so do it!' I checked out the next morning feeling really rough physically and mentally, made it to the next refuge, a stranger there took me under his wing for a couple of days giving me rehydration salts and paracetamol. I set off the next morning and spent the next few weeks enjoying the best time of my life, making it to the Mediterranean Sea, paddling and smiling.
I'm on the brink of a ten-week thruhike, but I'm stuck in that same rut as I was back in the Pyrenees, but my late mother's words, and yours Wildbeare, will kick my arse into action.
I can’t wait for Stranded 2! There is magic in the long journey, in how our appetite and energy returns in Day 3, in the feeling of accomplishment that is bittersweet: grateful to be done, longing for more. I’m so thrilled for you! You did this through grit and determination, rejecting your body’s complaints because you believed fitness would overcome frailty. Come to America for wilderness long walks. Seriously! My wife and I would be happy to host and shuttle. In my backyard (figuratively speaking), I have a 64 km trail and a 122 km trail, the latter of which carries you past endless waterfalls, a mountain lake, and a wild river! If you’re lucky, you might even see a bear! I don’t recall seeing any cows. 😉 Thank you for sharing! I so enjoyed this!
Wow that's so amazing! Honestly I am in awe of your wilderness and scenery. I watched the lovely Dixie (Homemade Wanderlust) walk the AT, PCT and CDT, it's just so beautiful. We have lil pockets of nature over here but no big, vast wilderness like that
Thank you so much for sharing this with me, means a lot 🙂 hope you have a lovely weekend! 🌿
@@WildBeare I’m in awe of your highland rambles. Nature is awesome, whether in the UK, the US, or elsewhere! Dixie has done some epic things (I think I’ll skip the Florida Trail, though-I prefer bears to gators!). So glad your body is resolute and letting you roam and share your ramblings!
Maybe a Stranded in Wales sometime in the future too.
You should go ! 😊
You’d love geowizard’s videos then! (Unless you’re aware of him, he’s pretty famous and kind of ‘invented’ this type of content). Would have a look if you weren’t aware of him!
What an incredible idea for a video. I'm a grandpa from Oregon who loves your beautiful country that allows you to hike through private property. Combine that with your tenacity and willingness to bare your feelings and you have created an incredible piece of work. Well done Claire, thank you for including us in your amazing life.
Thank you so much 💚 we have to have our public rights of ways because most of England is farmland, without them we wouldn't be able to go anywhere haha. Hope you're having a great weekend :)
You’d love geowizard’s videos then! (Unless you’re aware of him, he’s pretty famous and kind of ‘invented’ this type of content). Would have a look if you weren’t aware of him!
Yes, please, for Stranded 2.
Serious respect going through all those sticking nettles.
You did a wonderful job of filming our beautiful countryside.
Claire, you did absolutely amazingly! I have watched your videos for a few months now, and I really admire you. Just everything about you is delightful and your positive attitude is a joy to watch. Bless you 🙏 ♥️
Ahh thanks so much, so glad to have you here :) hope you have a lovely weekend 🌿💚
You're one of a kind Claire, you really are, I have so much respect and admiration for you!
You took a challenge and proved to yourself how mentally strong you need to be... you possibly feel that you are outside your comfort zone doing this stranded challenge . The feeling and strength you gain will stay with you for life...stay safe on your adventures, Claire ..
Thank you 🤗 yep I think we gotta come out of that cosy comfort zone occasionally :) have a great weekend
you are amazing!! Thank you so much for sharing. I am a woman and I go camping by myself. I am 55 and people often tell me how brave I am. I just can't imagine doing anything else! Thanks for the inspiration!!
Wonder Woman has nothing on you Claire. You have been forged by fire, you're amazing. Well done!
Ahh bless you thanks haha! 🤗
A true inspiration, thanks 🙏
@@mervynbason818💯. Hello from the Polish countryside 🏡🐕 and channe!
That was amazing, Claire. Literal blood sweat and tears shed, but you did it, and you should be so proud of your achievement. You are an inspiration to us all. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much :D so glad to have done it, thanks for sharing it with me :) 🌿💚🐄
Well done, top girl you have a good PMA🙏
It's a sad reflection on the state of land ownership in England that just simply sleeping outside in the countryside without doing any harm is illegal. The right to roam should be enshrined in law.
it is in Scotland 🏴
I absolutely agree. The excuse I've heard from government is that there's too many of us.. well outside of the towns etc I didn't see anyone on these paths, at all. In my opinion stupid rules are meant to be broken :)
@@MrLoverofallthingshow it should be :) 💚
Somebody owns the land. Nobody who owns a house thinks that somebody else should walk on their garden so why should somebody walk on a farmer's land? Only people that don't suffer the disbenefit think people should roam everywhere. Unlike America or other very unpopulated countries, the UK is largely cultivated land.
Sadly as an ex farmer right to roam is rooted in a belief that land should be expropriated from farmers. It has nothing to do with people wanting to enjoy the countryside. Footpaths and truly wild uncultivated land above a certain altitude is fine.
@@brianthesnail3815surely there's quite a difference between walking along the edge of a field and walking across someone's garden though? One is part of someone's home, and one is for growing crops. Don't get me wrong, I believe camping should always be done respectfully, quietly and following leave no trace principles. But to say camping is just not allowed at all seems insane to me
Don't worry about the single ride. What you accomplished was amazing. The vid was breath taking and those overgrown trails were horrific.
EPIC, EPIC, EPIC!!! Absolutely brilliant Claire 👊 Held my breath watching cow field dash 😧. Definitely NOT a fail. Thanks for doing this and sharing with us. 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏❤️
Ahh thanks! Haha the damn cows.. 😄 thank you so much for coming with :) have a great weekend 🌿
@@WildBeare right back at ya 😻🌞🕶
Absolutely brilliant effort,, well done got to say one of the best videos ive watched in a long time, please do another,, such a strong lady and a true inspiration to all.
Aw thank you so much, means a lot 💚 I may do another, maybe have some cow therapy first haha 🐄🐄 have a lovely weekend :)
@@WildBeare Just saw (on RUclips) how to scare-off a bear using a big trash bag, inflating it by scooping air in an upward (or downward) motion in front of them!
Probably would work on cows (& heifers) too.
Not Bulls!
there is a picture on the wall in Braunston , has a person , looks like a lady sitting on a box with a backpack and a hiking staff . Claire thank you so much for bringing us along . IN , USA
Many congratulations darling it’s a great feeling finding your way back home,it’s like pure elation just having the confidence to follow the map, people are nice it’s just a matter of trust, again well done xxxxx
That cafe was such a lovely stop
I so loved it in there! ☕️ Perked me right up that cuppa haha
I usually don't watch videos over about 45 minutes, but I couldn't resist your latest adventure. Entirely worth while. Thanks.
Ah yay, thanks so much 🙂🌿🐄 back to the shorter ones next
I used to walk long distance footpaths and thoroughly enjoyed all of them regardless of the blisters, lost toenails and shivering in the rain. It’s the best way to get a true feel for this lovely country we live in and fortunately for me being brought up on a dairy farm cows don’t worry me one bit.
Sadly I suffered a life changing accident and struggle to walk at all now, which makes me all the more thankful I did what I did while I was able to.
Well done and now you’ve conquered this it’ll hopefully open up your horizons to great future adventures.😊
I love how you thanked every campsites!! So wholesome
Brilliant, I never doubted you could do it. Would love a stranded 2. xx
I'm gratified you showed the psychological toll this trip took on you. Village local women behaved as I remembered villagers in the late 70s. Lovely green countryside. 1st doggo was smashing, the farmer's dog was rather ill tempered but that service dog was great! The wildflowers were superb, that little terrier liked you quite a lot! All in all an ADMIRABLE adventure for you.❤❤❤
I am genuinely impressed by your bravery and resilience in facing the challenge of being stranded blindfolded and abandoned 100km from home. Your determination to make it back on foot demonstrates incredible strength and resourcefulness. Your ability to overcome such extreme circumstances is truly inspiring. And I am Floating Village Life.
Absolute 100% hats off to you lass. That was incredible. It's wonderful how the kindness and hospitality of strangers can make a journey. A bike packing trip in Wales proved that to me a couple of years ago. My mental health was on its knees and that experience completely reinstated my faith in human nature. Bloody well done.
youtube randomly recommended this to me and I just watched it through, and only at the end realized that it was over an hour long! so captivating and interesting. and now I feel the urge to do something similar myself 😅
You’d love geowizard’s videos then! (Unless you’re aware of him, he’s pretty famous and kind of ‘invented’ this type of content). Would have a look if you weren’t aware of him!
@@CeeJayDee94 I've actually been following him for a long time! I love his straight line missions and geoguessr stuff
This is similar to an army ex I did once. All in a bus blind folded and dropped off at different locations across the country. We wasn't allowed wallets (it was b4 the days of mobile phones) or cash and we had to "blag" beg and borrow our way back to camp at RAF Lyneham. First ones back got a long weekend off work. Funnily enough, if you took long enough you got a long weekend anyway 😂
Rock on girl from this solo hiking chick in the Pacific Northwest U.S.
I absolutely loved watching this! Especially the renegade cows lol! I would love to see a Stranded part 2! Well done! ⛺🌄
Heyy, friend! Thank you so much, so glad you liked it :D happy trails and have a great weekend 🐄💚🌿
@@WildBeare Thank you! You have a great weekend as well! 😊☉
Ive had to wait to sit and watch this in one go and it was worth every second!
Absolutely love your storytelling & im so proud for you putting yourself through this and sticking with it ❤
Dear Claire
What a wonderful adventure you have had and not just the journey but the people you met on the way.Despite the aching bones it's something you will remember for ever.
Thankyou for sharing this video obviously a lot of time and effort went into making this and it's much appreciated.
Kindest Regards
Michael ❤
Hey Michael ahh yeh I'll never forget it :) thank you so much for coming along, hope you have a great weekend! 🌿
First of all big ups to this wonderfully courageous human, it takes so much bravery to know your going to be okay even though you are in such a random location and have to make your own way back. Honestly you are a huge inspiration to me thanks Claire for always letting us go with you on your treks and journeys ❤
Aw thank you I so appreciate you coming along for the journey :)
Dyiiiiiiiiiing here. 😂 like not minimizing the danger of a cow at full speed, but holy crow your reaction is very universal and brought back the memory of my gold medal fence vault 😅 they can be really mean, those bovines.
Thank you for showing the beauty of our countryside and presenting in your wonderful uplifting way. I always find watching you puts me in a better place. You are are so lovely and such a pleasure to watch on these great adventures. 😊
This was an epic watch!! Loved every second of it!
So glad, thanks so much for sharing it with me :D 💚
I know someone has already used the word "epic" in describing this video, but it was truly epic. I enjoyed all of it, cringing and wincing and laughing (I assume) with you and everyone else (probably) who watched it. This was a trip that is not at all like all the other "go to pub, hike up a hill and camp for a night, go back to pub" videos I've watched from a bunch of great RUclipsrs in Britain who love the "peak district". You have outdone yourself on this one! I spent the entire video walking on a treadmill to stay "in tune" with your travails. :^D
I absolutely adore this type of content and it is the type of content I could binge the hell out of as it's so real and authentic. I constantly crave adventure, exploration and challenges like this, while watching it through a screen isn't the same, it's still a thoroughly enjoyable experience and definitely makes me want to do something similar. Also a huge bonus of the video being super long! Truly a hidden gem of youtube, thank you!
You’d love geowizard’s videos then! (Unless you’re aware of him, he’s pretty famous and kind of ‘invented’ this type of content). Would have a look if you weren’t aware of him!
@@CeeJayDee94 haha yes I absolutely love Geowizard! Watched all of his adventure videos more then twice over. He's probably my favourite youtuber.
I’m proud of you! I think the most touching part of your film were your moments of uncertainty and vulnerability and tears. Those were the moments that made you stronger. I’m an older man now but my longest backpacking adventure was 200 kilometers ( 12 days) high in the Rockies Mountains of Canada. Hiking at an average of 6,000 feet above sea level. Didn’t see another single person on the hike; all wilderness. In those days one simple drank untreated glacial water from mountain streams. Thank you for evoking those memories! ❤️
This was absolutely EPIC Claire! Both your adventure, as well as this amazing feature length video. You really outdid yourself my friend! I'm so happy for you that you got to do this... I've no doubt that it's an experience you'll cherish for the rest of your life :) Thank you for sharing it with us all :)
Now for STRANDED 2.... 👍
I hope that you have a wonderful week dear friend :)
As always.... Stay wild 🐻 -John
Hey John! Aw thanks so much for sharing this with me, yep I still can't believe I did it 😄 I always thought that longer distance was something other people could do but that I wouldn't be very good at so it meant a lot to me to be able to do this. I'll deffo never forget it. Hope you're good and having a really lovely summer friend! ☀️💚🐄🌿
I never thought in 1 million years that cows could be so aggressive. I’m looking at them in a totally different light from Canada . You are so brave.
Often they are just curious or wanting to chase you around because it's fun or they want food, but they can also be aggressive especially when they have young with them (not the cows fault of course, they're just being good mamas). Trouble is they're so big and heavy things can go wrong. Thank you, I'm not really, I do my best haha. Thanks for watching and have a lovely weekend 🌿💚
As a farmer who's been working with cows all my life I have seen some horrible accidents involving cow and human
That was one amazing journey, truly impressive. My biggest fears are cows, farm dogs and busy roads, so I spend hours poring over maps to check terrain and alternatives when planning a walk. Thank you for sharing your adventure.
I'll let you off the quad bike.
Heyy, thanks so much! Yep my fears are similar to yours it seems. It's strange as walking around in England probably seems like it should be easier than the mountains, but I found it scarier 😄
Thanks for the free pass on the quad bike 💚 happy trails
I saved this video Claire to watch with my family this weekend when visiting my mum. It's been such a good watch and we all have so admiration for you. What a great accomplishment and you're a huge inspiration for anyone with outdoor aspirations. I grew up in Nuneaton and now live in Coventry, so it was a nice surprise to see you started in this neck of the woods.
Hi Claire I love your channel it has helped me with my mental health issues. And you walked through my garden just before towpath closed. Take care and safe journeys in the future Stride. 😊 7:16
Ahh wow do you have a canal boat? :D so glad you like my videos. Hope you're having a nice day today 💚 thank you for watching 🌿🐄
Hi yes I do thank you for replying my garden is now classed as haloed ground😂😂 take care.
@@Vince-z4wthat's so cool! 🚤
Cows usually only charge if they think their calves are in danger, just walk normally and don't shout and wave your arms about. They may get close but they rarely come right up to you.
I must be special because whenever I walk through a herd of cows they not only follow me but have on occasion licked my hands, but had a rowdy but friendly bull gently butting me. All they wanted was some attention. What a great concept, I live in Bedford, so I think I will travel 50 miles and then walk back home one weekend. Keep smiling.
Hmm see I never used to be afraid of them, but then a herd (led by a bull, I think - very big and muscular and horned anyhow) randomly started after me one day. I was just wandering along minding my own business without a care. The bull was angry and huffing and the cows followed. They chased me toward the edge of a field where I had no choice but to throw myself over a barbed wire fence. Then the big one continued making angry noises and digging at the ground with its hooves while i tried to find an alternative way out. So I don't trust them now unfortunately.
Maybe it's just me, but the temperament of cows seems to have changed of recent years, I used to wander among them as a child and they would either have no interest, or wander up to you peacefully.. nowadays they seem to chase you around everywhere haha
@@WildBeare cows are always curious, i dont trust bulls though, i have encountered a big white muscled bull once that looked like it wanted protein lol, no thanks, not worth the risk.
The horse with his sausage hanging out 👀wow 😂😂I’m still laughing over that one and well done that was some hike true some overgrown hedge and some lovely countryside
He was displaying it rather proudly 🤭😄 thanks so much for watching :)
Do youtube demonetise if you show a horse's sausage I wonder? Guess you weren't taking that chance! lol
Along with the soundtrack. The countryside, the friendliness of (most of the) people, The narration. This was a truly beautiful video.
You’d love geowizard’s videos then! (Unless you’re aware of him, he’s pretty famous and kind of ‘invented’ this type of content). Would have a look if you weren’t aware of him!
You're a strong woman in more ways then physical. The mental fortitude to not go crazy without the daily conveniences you have at home is a feat that not that many people have. I hope understand how much impact you have on everybody who watches and especially for girls out there, who have a hard task these days picking out the good role models.
Hi Claire just wanted to say thankyou your channel has truly inspired me to get out into the wilds just hiking for now but.had a hell of a year and nature is a great healer
Keep on keeping on 😊
Ahh great 🙂 yes such a healer isn't it! Happy trails to you 💚🌿
@WildBeare wow thanks for the reply loved your movie im looking forward to the next one 😀
@WildBeare ive got the OS app and want to do a hike that takes in the ivinghoe beacon can you recommend one as theres a good few on there but dont know the area well 🤔
Claire you are awesome 😊 bravo. A fabulous inspiration. Never stop. Never give up & never ever give in. Take care you… kind regards, David
Thank you so much 🤗 hope you have a lovely weekend
I’m up for stranded 2. I just loved every moment of this journey. It had everything. You’re a fair dinkum champion. Your videos are real. We all need more “real”. So thank you! 😊
Good to see you again, Ash. It's a pity you've stopped uploading. I used to look forward to your vids.
Yes @AshOutdoorsUK get back on RUclips :D I miss his videos too
So excited to watch the adventure!!
"Behind me is Coventry." Best place for it.... 😀
😂
A bit like Barrow In Furness. Best seen in the rear view mirror.
@@fulcrumspigot455 Nonsense.
Behind me is the UK !!
Thanks. I've been waiting for the right moment to watch this and it was absolutely worth the wait. I grew up with Arnie and Stallone but after watching you battle through the bovine hordes and deadly nettle forests i think i will add another hero to my list. You are an inspiration. I loved every minute.
Hi, ahh bless you I'm so glad you liked it, thank you so much for watching :D hope you're having a great week 🐻
As a backpacker myself, i can relate to some of the struggles you faced (apart from the cows, they dont bother me 😄) I really hope you will do more multi-day hiking, its so fulfilling. The south west coast path and the pennine way were some of the best days of my life and there's still so much more of this country to see, parts of it you would never see by road or rail.
Just an fyi regarding water...you came across a few cattle troughs and mentioned filtering water...at one end of these troughs is a ballcock and spigot. Press the ballcock down and fresh water comes out. Im sure the farmer wont be too unhappy at sparing a litre. Also, churches will have a fresh water tap somewhere around the building for people to water flowers on the graves. Just tips if you get desperate ;)
Loved this video Claire, i really hope the next installment will happen, and maybe even more (i nearly put hope number 2 will happen 🤣)
Ahh man, I wish the cows didn't bother me 😄 it's funny in retrospect but at the time it feels harrowing haha!
I've heard good things about those trails, so great you got to experience them
Ohh yes! Ash actually told me about the ballcock thing too! I had a look at one but I didn't really know what I was looking at and didn't want to go fiddling around in case I broke something. I'll try to figure it out as it'll be really useful to know. The church thing is also great to know thank you, I had no idea they had taps but it makes perfect sense
Thanks so much for sharing this journey with me, so glad you liked it :) have a great weekend
@@WildBeare ps: I meant to add, there are videos on RUclips that show you how to deal with cows, it's worth checking them out, it'll make your rural hiking adventures a bit more pleasurable. Enjoy your weekend too, Rob 😊
@@Riverman2012hello 👋 from Poland 🇵🇱 and channe!😊
Oh my god! I am going to watch this later!
a word of advice from a long distance walker who has gone through many cow fields,walk at a reasonable pace, do not talk to or wave your arms or poles at them and all will be fine, they are curious animals and like to investigate
I always talk to them so they aren't spooked when you get closer but apart from that this is the same advice I'd give I would be more weary of the horses
@@RamblingReason horses are lovely, never had a horse get too close more scared of us. had some donkeys approach.
@@kevinsaward2005 tell that to the horse that approached the fence I was walking past acting like it wanted some attention then started kicking the wooden fence when I was close enough
I don't fancy being kicked by a horse tbh
Finally watched the full video and it was so worth it! Thanks Claire for bringing us along on your "little" (huge) adventure! ❤
Bloody brilliant!!!!!
The best 1 and half hours ive ever watched on you tube.
Ahh wow thanks so much that's so kind of you to say :) 💚 thanks for sharing it with me, hope you have a lovely weekend
such a cool idea!
This video kept coming up on my feed this week and I've ignored it. I'm watching it now, when I needed to. You are amazing and you made me feel human again. You did your Spirit Walk! I wish I can one day. Much love x
Exploring your country is a great sign of love and respect for it and for yourself... wherever you come from... [I'm a Greek-Australian myself and I had my share of explorations... still do!...]
The first cows you came across when you had to run, the ''cow'' that was blocking your way, was actually a young bull... young bulls have the size, curiosity, and playfulness to cause an accident!... but you made it through... next time get something more than an alarm with you... a multitool is useful to carry... and you can look out for a ''self-defense'' whip... is made of a short [50cm?] steel wire that can be useful clearing your way through the bush... when you need to... the multitool has a little saw blade that can cut branches... none of these are considered as ''weapons'' so you can carry them easily...
I get it that your goal was to ''face'' you, not animals... and you did great with that... but animals are real... so learning more about them is good... cows and horses are not beasts... no more than sheep and cats... you're young... you have a lot more to learn and discover... enjoy it!
Ask nearest stranger. Where am I and where is the nearest taxi service 😆
Your views on cattle are hilarious. Your first instinct was correct, they are curious (they don’t get out much so you might understand). While any animal can be dangerous you were safer than you thought.
That's nonsense. Yes they are curious I agree. However, they are territorial and will defend the herd. They are also massive and struggle to stop if they are running at you and the ground is wet. People are hurt and killed across the world by cattle every year. My family are dairy farmers and we were told to be very careful.
@@yeahbutytho126 agree, cows are big heavy animals and are potentially dangerous, particularly when they have young
I'm thinking you may not have been charged by angry cows before. I've been chased and had to throw myself over a barbed wire fence while cows dug the ground with their hooves still trying to get at me. Many people are killed by cows each year, including farmers. Cows need to be treated with caution, and should be avoided when they have young, if possible
@@yeahbutytho126about 20 people a year are killed by cows.
@@WildBeare I think it's mostly farmers that are getting killed actually. It's super dangerous to be between a bull and a solid wall, that's usually what gets them. The squish kills! Sometimes even unintentionally.
You could've definitely been injured in the field, but I think survival instinct would've saved you from worse. You're quite resourceful!
I do have to say, these cows seem so undomesticated! In Belgium they're much closer to the farm and in daily contact with humans. These uk ones seem almost feral!
What a fantastic challenge! Amazing inspiration you provide for folk to get up, get out and get going. Love your channel. X
So what is the point of being blind folded when you can immediately look at your GPS to see where you are? I thought this was going to be a blindfolded challenge. A true test would be for you to get dropped off somewhere and to find your way back without using any maps or GPS. Maybe something that GeoWizard would be up for.
Could make it even more hardcore. Start off only with a knife, flint and steel and a water bottle. Anything else has to be acquired/scavenged from the environment. No buying stuff on the way.
What an amazing adventure! I love getting to see the tiny pretty villages and off the path places. Such a great achievement and fantastically put together and edited. Thank you for bringing us along with you, I can't wait for the next one!
What a hike for some one who has never walked that far! Mush be a self discovering moment with one's self! I LOVE IT!! YOU ROCK IN MY BOOK!!