Day 4 took Andy and Josh from Patterdale to Shap, covering 16 miles and what felt like approximately 400 miles of uphill. The day consisted mainly of climbing, more climbing, and then some additional climbing just in case their legs were feeling too comfortable.

The weather was all over the place. One minute they were taking layers off, the next they were putting them back on again while questioning every decision that had led them to this point. By lunchtime they had experienced most of the seasons.

There were a few falls throughout the day. Nothing serious, although both walkers are now very familiar with the ground. There were also a few wrong turns, proving once again that even with maps, signs, and modern technology, two grown men can still end up walking confidently in the wrong direction.

Four days into the walk, Andy and Josh have managed just three proper meals between them.

Morale briefly soared when Andy became convinced he’d discovered the fossilised head of a dinosaur. Excitement spread rapidly until closer inspection revealed it was, in all likelihood, just a strangely shaped rock. Andy remains unconvinced and is reportedly considering a call to the Natural History Museum.

As they finally staggered into Shap, tired, hungry, slightly damp, and carrying a collection of new aches they didn’t know were possible, the duo celebrated another successful day on the trail. With many miles still ahead, they continue to prove that poor planning, minimal food, and an unreasonable amount of optimism can, somehow, get you surprisingly far.

Four days down, eleven to go!