Grasmoor and Wandope

Walk Date – 10th September 2015

Distance – 9.5 miles

Weather – sunny and dry but very windy

 

Another dry and sunny and dry day was promised although there would be a bit of a breezy south-easterly wind according to the weather presenter. It was a rather more than a breeze, it was a very strong wind which battered us all day, apart from the few occasions when we were sheltered by bits of higher ground here and there.

We parked at Braithwaite, just outside Keswick, and took the path along Coledale which leads to the Force Crag Mine. Its a good wide path all the way to the mine as it provides vehicle access to it, so the beginning of the walk gives the legs a chance to warm up before tackling the steeper route beyond the mine.

 


Route

Looking into Coledale from the path to Force Crag Mine. The distinctive top of Causey Pike is on the centre skyline behind Barrow.

As we follow the main path we get a better view of the Coledale fells. The flattish topped one in partial shade in the centre is Outerside, the rounded hump of Sail is to the right of it, and the next one along is Crag Hill.

The path we will be following can be seen in the centre alongside Pudding Beck. It will eventually lead us to the grassy col over on the far right of the photo.

With Crag Hill directly in front of us we begin to see the upward route more clearly as the path snakes across the fell side.

Handy stepping stones across Pudding Beck. I don’t know what its got to do with puddings but isn’t it a great name?

From the other side of the beck I take a look back at the old buildings of the Force Crag Mine. We’ll take a closer look at them on our return leg,

We follow the rising path up to Coledale Hause and take a look down at the Vertical Flow Pools which are being used to filter out harmful minerals from the beck water.

As we get higher we see the familiar view of Hobcarton End and Grisedale Pike.

The long and winding road. The thin white line in the centre is what we’ve walked along to reach this point. Its a very long path.

At Coledale Hause we stop and have a look back down Coledale, its a nice day but there is a lot of haze around, difficult to get good pictures on a day like today. Somewhere around this point we met the first two walkers of the day, just a couple of chaps about to descend into Coledale with whom we exchanged greetings and the usual comments about the good weather before we went our separate ways.

From the Hause we follow the path around and looking back we have a view of Sand Hill on the left, Hobcarton End in the middle and Grisedale Pike over on the right.

Looking the other way we still have Sand Hill, now on the right, and the ridge from Hopegill Head over to Whiteside on the far left.

We left the path to climb the grassy slopes of Grasmoor. This shot is looking back across to Grisedale Pike.

Over on the left of the skyline is Grasmoor, that’s where we’re heading for now using the path you can see in the foreground. As usual this eventually petered out amidst the grass and so we just kept walking uphill until we reached the summit area. As soon as we had some height we were able to look back down and located another path which started by the beck at the top of Gasgale Gill. Next time we go up there we’ll try that path too.

After climbing the grassy slopes we reach the grassy plateau of Grasmoor, there’s a lot of grass in this photo and in the caption. We have a bit more walking to do before we reach the summit area at the western end of the fell. All the significant uphill walking is behind us now and this would have been an enjoyable stroll but for the wind. Being on the exposed top of the highest fell in the area meant that there was no shelter from it so we had to put up with the battering all the time we were up here.

There were lots of people at the summit shelter so we walked over to the western viewpoint to take a look at Loweswater, with Carling Knott and Burnbank Fell rising from it on the left.

Mellbreak across Crummock Water from Grasmoor top.

In front of us is the ridge to Whiteless Pike, and beyond that nothing much is really visible. Apparently it was all down to the southerly wind which was blowing strongly and carrying sand particles from the eastern Mediterranean area, where a huge sandstorm was taking place.

The summit area was still crowded so we parked ourselves here for lunch. Out of the wind and a good view of Gasgale Crags, just a bit spiky under the derriere even with a sit mat.

After lunch we went back to the summit and had another look around. Below us is Rannerdale Knotts, the water to the right of it is Crummock Water, and the one to the left is Buttermere. Although it was sunny the conditions were not good for photos.

The summit shelter on Grasmere, empty now that the lunch time diners have moved on so a chance for a quick shot, as other walkers were already approaching.

A look back at the summit shelter. Despite the wind there were plenty of people walking on Grasmoor and other nearby fells. I noticed one woman in the shortest of shorts and couldn’t help wondering if she was wishing she’d opted for long trousers. I was wearing three top layers and long trousers and I was still cold. My fingers were numb after taking the photos, so she must have been very cold in those shorts.

Sunlight catches Buttermere just behind Whiteless Pike.

We’re still plodding across Gramoor’s plateau and making our way towards Wandope, over to the right behind the scree slope. Wouldn’t want to try that scree, up or down.

Walking along the Grasmoor path in the sunshine, but we could have done without the strong wind buffeting us constantly.

The Wandope to Whiteless Pike ridge, not on our agenda today, which is just as well as its probably not the most enjoyable thing to do in a strong wind.

Almost down from Grasmoor, so its straight ahead for Crag Hill, over to the right for Wandope. The man in red on the left was flat out on the grass and having a nap on the grass when we reached him.

Crossing over to Wandope there’s a good view of Crag Hill and Sail. Just below is the darkish peak of Ard Crags.

A better view of Ard Crags and the ridge leading over to Knott Rigg.

Crag Hill, that’s not on our agenda today either.

Over there is Grasmoor and the path we came down.

On Wandope summit with Crag Hill and Sail behind, and a hair makeover courtesy of the wind.

Another hair makeover, I can’t see a thing here what with the hair and the sun.

Leaving Wandope with Grasmoor to the left, Crag Hill to the right, and Grisedale Pike in the centre.

We’re almost back down at Coledale Hause, so I took a quick shot over to the crags leading up to Grasmoor.

Taken from the same spot but now its a view of Gasgale Crags, at the left end of which is Whiteside.

Now its all the way back down the same path through Coledale, the car is parked round the corner at the end of that long thin line on the left.

Just follow the yellow brick road, or in this case the white rocky one, and you’ll end up in Braithwaite.

The sun now behind us so its a better view than this morning of Outerside, Causey Pike, Scar Crags and Sail.

A short stop for drinks beside Pudding Beck with a view of the tops of Outerside and Causey Pike.

Force Crag Mine and its filter pools as we make our way down alongside Pudding Beck.

Looks inviting on a hot afternoon but you wouldn’t want to go in, lots of warnings about the minerals in the water.

Now you know all about filter pools …..

….. and Force Crag Mine …..

….. and what the National Trust has to say.

‘Education, Education, Education,’ as some politician once said, so bone up on it as there’ll be a test next week.

The old mine buildings.

After our visit to the mine and the geology/chemistry lesson we head back down the path to Braithwaite, with a view of Blencathra for company all the way down. An enjoyable and interesting walk but it would have been so much better without being battered by the wind all day.


Rosthwaite Fell (Bessyboot)

Walk Date – 7th September 2015

Distance – 3 miles

Weather – dry, warm and sunny

 


Route

From Stonethwaite looking towards Grange Fell and Kings How on the right.

Rosthwaite Fell from Borrowdale churchyard.

Just around the corner from the church and we pick up the path for Rosthwaite Fell. Base Brown on the left.

The sun is blazing down on us and already its a very hot morning. Its lovely to have the sunshine but from here its all uphill so it’ll be hard work once it becomes really steep, which it does.

The view to the right from the path, not a cloud in the sky.

Over on the left is Thornythwaite Fell and on the right is Base Brown.

Looking over to High Scawdel.

Walking in the shade for a while as the sun still hadn’t risen above Rosthwaite Fell. Here is the view down the valley to the distant Skiddaw range in the middle of the shot.

A close up of the old mill cottage alongside Combe Beck, we’ll visit that on the way back.

As we gain height Grey Knotts appears over on the left skyline, on the far right the rocky peak of Fleetwith Pike.

A close up of Fleetwith Pike.

Another close up of Grey Knotts on the left skyline, the tree clad slopes of Seatoller Fell on the right.

As the climb gets steeper the views get better and we get hotter. Skiddaw the most prominent peak on the skyline.

The rounded summit of Dale Head beyond High Scawdel.

A longer view of Dale Head with its own little cloud above it.

Left to right on the skyline we have Grey Knotts, Fleetwith Pike and Dale Head.

Still climbing steeply, the sun is directly in our faces and its hard to see where we are going. Getting up here is very warm work and there’s not a trace of a breeze.

The view upwards, it doesn’t look all that steep but the legs tell a different story.

A shot of Combe Head from the climb, any excuse for a breather.

Brandreth and Grey Knotts on the left skyline and the rocky outcrops of Thornythwaite Fell in the foreground.

Combe Head again. No choice but to shoot against the sun and hope for the best.

Here we are at the Tarn at Leaves, very reedy but still plenty of water in it.

That’s the summit of Rosthwaite Fell, known as Bessyboot. Before we go up there its time for a lunch break.

Tarn at Leaves from our lunch spot. The sun is directly on us, there’s no wind, no noise, and nobody, absolutely great.

Another view from our lunch spot, looking over Langstrath towards Ullscarf.

Its a great place for lunch on a day like today and it was a real effort to get up and leave …..

….. but continue we did and started up to the summit, fabulous views in all directions.

Dale Head again with Crag Hill and Sail peeping up on the middle skyline. To the right of them is High Spy and Maiden Moor.

Here’s the summit, Bessyboot, shooting it against the sun to get the craggy view.

From Bessyboot a look down at Tarn at Leaves. The summit of Glaramara can just be seen on the right.

A closer look at the tarn, the reedy areas are gradually increasing.

On the left Great Gable towers over Green Gable just below it. The third one down is Base Brown with Thornythwaite Fell in front of that.

Fleetwith Pike looking imposing as ever with High Crag and High Stile behind it to the left.

You get a lot of reward for all the effort, here we have the Dodds on the horizon, just below is the High Tove ridge, below that and resplendent in purple heather is Great Crag.

Looking north to the cloud building over the heather covered Skiddaw fells with Keswick below them.

On the left is Dale Head with Crag Hill and Sail over on the right. Lots more cloud now than this morning.

Bessyboot summit.

Looking northwards from Bessyboot, what a cracking day. Typically, the new school term started today after the summer holidays, during which the weather was not as pleasant as this.

Looking north east and over on the right skyline is Blencathra with Bleaberry Fell and High Seat just below it.

Oh go on then, just one more shot of Tarn at Leaves, plus a better view of Pike O’Stickle over on the right.

Much quicker getting down than going up and in no time at all we are back at the sheepfold alongside Combe Beck.

Almost at the end of the walk so we had a look round the old mill cottage alongside Combe Gill. This is the cottage pictured just after we started the walk.

Information board on the lintel above the door of the mill cottage. Very small so it would be easy to miss.

The front of the mill cottage.

The Old Mill Cottage, an old millstone being used as a step on the path.

At the rear of the cottage is the mill wheel, a gill crossing over mossy boulders will be needed if you want this shot of it.

This is the view you get if you don’t fancy crossing the gill.

This was to be the last photo as we were almost back to Borrowdale Church, however …..

….. the smell of freshly cut grass came drifting across and then the view of the tractor cutting it …..

…… so I waited until it came round to get a shot of the tractor. The green and yellow livery indicating that its a John Deere make, and that, dear reader, is the sum total of my tractor knowledge.

Finally, as Eagle Crag wasn’t standing out so well this morning I waited until we were back at the car to take the last shot of the walk.


Ullock Pike to Dodd – Ullock PIke, Long Side, Carl Side and Dodd

Ullock Pike, Long Side, Carl Side and Dodd

 


Walk Date – 5th September 2015

Distance – 6.5 miles

Weather – clear, dry, sunny with a cold north wind

 


Route

We go round the gate from the parking area to begin the walk up to Ullock Pike.

A steep and rather gloomy forest path to walk up before we are out on to the open fell side.

Out into the open again and a view across Bass Lake towards Barf and Lord’s Seat.

The high point on the skyline is Grisedale Pike, left of that is Crag Hill then Sail and then Scar Crags.

Across Bass Lake is Sale Fell and to the left of it is Ling Fell.

A panorama of fells across Bass Lake.

It was such a clear morning we could see the Solway Firth and the mountains beyond it. The clarity of the air came courtesy of the cold north wind blowing down from the Arctic, brrr.

On the ridge path to Ullock Pike and a look back at the view behind us.

From the ridge looking north west towards Great Cockup. The wind was very strong across here and it was a bit of a struggle to stay upright.

The fell all by itself over there in the centre is Binsey.

Here’s where we are heading, the dark pointed peak of Ullock Pike.

With the sun obscured there’s a chance to take a shot along Southerndale and the fells around it.

Struggling against the strong north wind and the glare of the sun as we continued the climb up Ullock Pike. In today’s conditions it was very difficult to see where we were going as our eyes were constantly watering thanks to the wind and being dazzled by the sun.

Higher up the path now and we can see more of Bass Lake.

Every fell was individually identifiable today as we looked across the flood plain of Bass Lake.

Almost at the top of Ullock Pike now with the summit of Long Side the next one along.

 Looking across Southerndale to the great bulk of Skiddaw on the left with Long Side over on the right.

From the summit cairn on Ullock Pike a view of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells.

On Ullock Pike.

Leaving Ullock Pike and making for the summit of Longside. It isn’t as steep as the path would make it seem. Lovely walking in warm sun and there’s no wind now that we are in the lee of Skiddaw.

Layers of fells and far too many to name, apart from the tree covered one at the bottom left which is Dodd.

From Longside Edge there is this impressive view of Skiddaw, it really is a great hulk of a mountain.

The summit cairn of Long Side with Skiddaw behind it, and Skiddaw Little Man over on the far right skyline.

From Long Side summit a look across to the north western end of Skiddaw.

On Long Side with Skiddaw behind.

Looking down Southerndale as we continue on to Carl Side.

Looking back at our route along the ridge.

Carl Side Tarn with the wind rippling its surface.

Carl Side summit with Long Side behind.

Layers of fells again from Carl Side summit.

Derwentwater in close up.

A panorama of fells in view as we descend Carl Side.

Descending Carl Side through heather in full bloom, the scent was just lovely.

Purple heather everywhere, set against the blue of the lake and the sky, and the greenery on Dodd.

Nearly down to Long Doors where we will cross over to climb to the top of Dodd.

We stopped at the first seat we came to on Dodd and had lunch with this as our view.

On our left is part of the path we used to descend Carl Side. Heather in bloom all over the fell sides.

Behind us is part of Carl Side, to the right, and on the skyline is Long Side.

After lunch we continue on up to Dodd summit. On the skyline behind us are the Dodds and the Helvellyn range.

The little pimple on the right skyline above Derwentwater is Pike O’Stickle, its not a little pimple when you are standing below it though.

Looking up at the summit of Dodd.

Looking over to Carl Side from Dodd summit.

I just about managed to get the whole of Bass Lake into the shot.

Looking over to Ullock Pike and Long Side from Dodd summit.

The flood plain of Bass Lake.

Its time to leave Dodd so straight down the front we go.

Believe it or not this is actually a path, overgrown doesn’t begin to describe it. People had walked it before us as we kept coming across discarded clothing on the way down, trainers, jogging pants, jacket, all soaking wet and muddy. We did begin to be a bit concerned about what else we might find but nothing else turned up. This wasn’t the path we were intending to take, we turned right just a little too soon, the one we really wanted was further down the ridge.

Looking very bedraggled we emerged on to a forestry trail, which, a little further down, gave us this view of Bass Lake through the trees.

Down from Dodd and crossing the bridge just above the Old Sawmill Tea Rooms.

The footbridge over Sandbeds Gill is just a few yards from the car park so here we finish our walk, which, apart from the unscheduled detour into the tangled forest, was extremely enjoyable.


Fairfield, Hart Crag and Hartsop above How via Deepdale

Walk Date – 30th August 2015

Distance – 7.4 miles

Weather – cloudy but not cold, no wind, no rain, no sun


Route

Bridgend – Deepdale – Deepdale Hause – Cofa Pike – Fairfield – Link Cove – Hart Crag – Hartsop above How – Bridgend

Cloud drifting over Place Fell as we get ready to start the walk.

Walking down the lane from Deepdale Bridge to make our way into Deepdale.

Over to our right is Arnison Crag. The sheep in the bottom left of the shot isn’t dead, its just fast asleep.

At the end of the lane we take a left turn onto the farm track and enter Deepdale, with the long ridge of Hartsop above How over on the left.

Further along and there’s a path junction, take the left path for the farm or the right path for the route into Deepdale.

We took the right hand path which passed above Wall End farm.

Looking up at Latterhaw Crag and Lord’s Seat, and peeping behind them over on the right, is Saint Sunday Crag .

Looking back down the path there’s a good view of Angletarn Pikes over on the right skyline.

The bulk of Greenhow End in, the centre, with cloud covering Hart Crag and Cofa Pike on either side of it. I’m hoping the cloud has gone by the time we get up there.

Further along into Deepdale and over on the right Cofa Pike is becoming a little clearer as the cloud thins a little. It was very wet underfoot along the valley today.

Looking back down the valley with Angletarn Pikes still clear of cloud.

These cattle had added their own contributions to the path, it was everywhere.

The moraines of Mossydale, sounds like a sitcom title.

Greenhow End and some fellow travellers beyond the pool. Apart from the animals and ourselves there was no-one else around.

Some of Hart Crag appears over on the left of Greenhow End. Our route will take us up alongside the beck you can see over on the right.

Now we have to climb the steep bit alongside the ravine to reach Sleet Cove.

A view of the ridge of Hartsop above How as we look back into the aptly named Mossydale.

Making our way up towards the steeper section alongside the beck.

One of the many waterfalls in the beck.

On the skyline straight across from us is Blake Brow.

Still climbing alongside the ravine and we came upon this little cascade sliding its way down to the beck below.

We’re above the ravine now, making our way into Sleet Cove and heading for the Hause, that’s the ridge line in the centre.

It seems to be getting brighter but that cloud still keeps rolling in and out.

More imposing crags across the valley, cloud still swirling over and around them too.

At last, a clear view of Cofa Pike, that’s where we’re heading but its still a bit of a way off.

Sheepfold in Sleet Cove.

Sleet Cove and the ridge line of Deepdale Hause is getting closer.

We are almost at the Hause and we pause to take in the view of Deepdale. Around this point we met the first walkers of the day, a young couple about to descend into Deepdale from the Hause. After checking the route with us off they went, the young lad fairly bounding down, the young girl taking things much more carefully, good for her.

Saint Sunday Crag as we reach Deepdale Hause, from this point it is 3 miles back to the car.

Time for a bit of a breather now we’re at the Hause so we had a look around. Looking west from left to right, are Dollywaggon Pike, Nethermost Pike and Helvellyn with the Striding Edge ridge going off to the right of the shot.

At the Hause we turn left and begin to deal with the ascent up Cofa Pike, its not nearly as intimidating as it looks once you are on it. There’s a trodden route for the most part, although it can disappear now and then across rocky patches.That doesn’t present too much of a problem though if you just keep aiming for the next green patch and avoid straying too far over to the left. Its possible to omit the summit altogether by following a path which curves around it over to the right.

Grisedale Tarn from the ascent of Cofa Pike with Seat Sandal behind it.

Our second encounter of the day as we ascend Cofa Pike. From their accents we guessed they were from one of the eastern European countries, but it was hard to make out which one.

Saint Sunday Crag from the ascent of Cofa Pike.

Also from the ascent of Cofa Pike a look across Grisedale to the Helvellyn range.

Seat Sandal is now hidden by cloud, but Grisedale tarn is still showing as we continue to climb Cofa Pike.

The cairn on top of Cofa Pike. Cloud is still swirling around and blocking the views of the crags beyond Cofa Pike. That’s a bit of a nuisance as I would have liked a few shots of them, oh well, better luck next time I suppose.

Moving down from Cofa Pike, so now its over the little rock outcrop and then on up to Fairfield which is now clear of cloud.

Looking back at Cofa Pike and Saint Sunday Crag. The path avoiding the summit of Cofa Pike now showing on the left of the shot.

The last little outcrop with Cofa Pike behind it, and Saint Sunday Crag behind that. Getting across the outcrop isn’t difficult and its fine if you have long legs, those of us who are rather shorter in the leg department find the larger rocks on the top are rather awkwardly placed. This can lead to some unbecoming postures for the clamberer and merriment for onlookers.

Up on the top of Fairfield which was busy with lots of ‘Fairfield Horseshoe’ walkers.

A look back at Cofa Pike, now with some more walkers on its summit.

Looking down Deepdale from Fairfield. Alas, the cloud thickened again so no more photos for a good while.

We walked off Fairfield in thick cloud with visibility down to just a few yards and began to make our way over to Hart Crag.

Cloud was constantly coming and going so photos were limited to what was just in front of us, in this case the rocky area over Link Hause, as we headed for Hart Crag.

The western side of a cloudy Fairfield Horseshoe, showing Heron Pike, Great Rigg and Fairfield.

Windermere appears as the cloud lifts a little.

Finally we are now out of the cloud and the way is clear to Hart Crag.

That’s more like it, now we can see the Coniston fells over on the skyline.

From Hart Crag looking back over to Fairfield from where we have just walked. People still arriving at the summit.

Hart Crag summit and the fells to the east.

Looking over to Saint Sunday Crag from Hart Crag.

Looking east from Hart Crag with Place Fell on the left being the most distinctive. Other walkers below us gingerly picking their way through the rocks as they make their descent.

Still looking eastward from Hart Crag summit.

Looking north-eastwards from Hart Crag. Ullswater can be seen just behind the cairn, and over in the distance on the right is Haweswater.

The darkish, flat topped fell over on the right skyline is Red Screes.

Saint Sunday Crag across Deepdale.

That’s where we’re heading next, the long, long ridge down Hartsop above How.

Looking over at the eastern fells and contemplating the descent route off Hart Crag.

Descending from Hart Crag and a view of Dove Crag across Dovedale.

Looking back at the descent route from Hart Crag.

A large group of very loud and talkative teenagers making their way down too. They caught up with us a little lower down when we stopped for a drinks break. How the group leaders put up with one of the boys was beyond me as his very loud and raucous behaviour bordered on insolent. He persisted in asking quite ridiculous questions and seemed intent provoking them and trying to create some sort of reaction. He failed, though how they kept their patience I don’t know, mine had dissipated well before they reached us.

Another look back at Hart Crag on the left with Scrubby Crag over on the right.

The summit cairn on Hartsop above How where we stopped for drinks. We didn’t really need drinks but we were both heartily sick of the loud behaviour of the lad in the group behind us. We downed packs and stopped here long enough for them to get a good distance ahead of us and out of earshot.

Looking acrross Dovedale to Red Screes and the ridge which descends down to Middle Dodd.

Another view across to the eastern fells with High Street on the skyline.

Still at the cairn and looking down at the rest of the Hartsop above How ridge.

Looking over into Dovedale and Dove Crag at the head of it.

On we go, making our way through the soggy, boggy mess along Hartsop above How.

Looking back at some of where we’ve been, from left to right is Dove Crag, Hart Crag, Fairfield, Cofa Pike and Deepdale Hause.

Place Fell and Angletarn Pikes, always in view as the valley bottom starts to appear at last. Unfortunately we caught up with the noisy lad and the rest of his group somewhere back along the ridge and so had to go through the pain of it all over again. Mercifully they stopped for some reason so we quickened our pace and managed to leave them behind, permanently this time, hallelujah!

There’s no mistaking these two fells as you make your way along here.

Over to the left is Birks on the left skyline, with Arnison Crag over on the far right of the photo.

Arnison Crag on the left, Place Fell on the right, and with soft grass underfoot, the going just got a bit easier.

In the centre is Hartsop Dodd, to its right is Caudale Moor, and to its left is Gray Crag.

The stile is in view and there’s not a lot further to go now.

The end of the walk is a stroll in the park, quite literally, and the car is parked just around the corner behind the white house. A cup of tea would be most welcome right now but there isn’t one handy so we’ll have to go home and make one ourselves.


Waterfalls and Quarries

Walk Date – 23rd August 2015

Distance – 7.8 miles

Weather – dry, sunny and warm

 


Route

The Britannia Inn, deserted except for the man sweeping the patio area. It’ll be crowded by the time we get back here.

Along the path beside Great Langdale beck, the beck was full and fairly racing along.

When we reached the lake we came across two swans doing some early morning preening. The one on the left was especially meticulous and we had to wait a while before I could get a shot with both heads visible.

Then when the heads were finally up, the one on the left then decided to keep its left leg out of the water …..

Off it went, paddling with the right foot and keeping the left one well clear of the water, very strange …..

Looking across Elterwater to the Langdale Pikes. Its a fabulous morning, a slight breeze ruffling the water and the sun beating down, what a welcome change.

A close up of the Langdale Pikes across Elterwater.

The little tree covered ‘island’ in Elterwater. Its not really an island, just part of the land which juts out into the water.

Peace and quiet at Elterwater.

Not a lot of peace and quiet at Skelwith Force though, the water roared down and the spray flew everywhere. It seemed as though the water just couldn’t get down fast enough.

Risking life and limb to bring you more spectacular pictures. I scrambled down to the little viewing platform for a better view of the falls. There were plenty of people standing at the top but that only gave the view in the previous photo. I was the only idiot who ventured down to begin with, once I’d done it more idiots followed.

Safely back on the path we return to the Woodburn footbridge to continue the walk.

Our route took us along the other side of Skelwith Force for a different view of the falls and the little viewing platform, the scene of my daring descent. It wasn’t all that daring really I’m just hyping it up a bit!

Passing by Park Cottage as we make our way to Colwith Force, our next watery encounter.

The old barn adjoining Park Cottage.

Time for a drinks stop and there’s a view over to Loughrigg on the right. Just behind it and a bit hazy are Heron Pike and then Great Rigg.

After our drinks stop we continued on the path and came to this inviting little tea garden …..

….. we should have waited and stopped here instead.

Through the woods and down the steps …..

….. across the lane and up the steps …..

….. through the woods again and there you are at Colwith Force. Last night’s downpour certainly added to the volume of water flowing over Colwith Force, not to mention the deafening noise it created. Why is water falling over rocks so fascinating …..

Another set of falls coming in from the side.

Approaching the farm at High Park, with a lunchtime influx of a large group of walkers at the cafe. This must have been a disappointing sight for the small group of walkers who were just ahead of us as I got the impression that they had been planning to have their lunch there too.

We walked down from Hodge Close to here where the track splits. Our route takes the middle path which the water had taken over, so it was a bit of a splashy walk down it.

Along the track is this stone stile which we crossed to go up to the Cathedral Cavern.

Safety notice outside the cavern entrance, you wonder why people have to be told that quarries can be dangerous places.

The long tunnel entrance to Cathedral Cavern. It looks like we’re about to be eaten up by that big mouth with the nose above it, but we’re not going to be put off by those kind of thoughts, what’s more we’ve got a head torch so that’s bound to scare away any monsters in there.

I really didn’t expect this shot to work, it was pitch black in here apart from the head torch’s feeble light, which is the brightish spot on the tunnel floor, and that was absolutely useless. I could see nothing in the viewfinder, so it was just a ‘hit and hope’ sort of shot. If only the camera’s flash could have been kept on while we were walking through.

We emerged out of the tunnel, blinking and dazzled, into the sunlight again where you are dwarfed by the immense height of the quarry. To the right of the fence is a huge gash where you look down into the cavern below.

This is the view when you look through the opening, this huge column from floor to roof inside the cavern below. The very bright sunshine was bleaching the colour from everything so this was the best shot I could manage.

More rock strata to wonder at all around the quarry walls ……

Another small tunnel, too small and too wet to even think about entering.

The upper opening into Cathedral Cavern. Below are a couple of shots from the floor of the cavern …..

The rock pillar in Cathedral Cavern.

The short tunnel exit from the cavern, torch not needed for this tunnel.

A brief history of the Langdale Quarries.

From the Cathedral Cavern its just a short walk to the ever popular Slater’s Bridge, dozens of people here today so I had to wait for a quieter moment. Why do dogs wander over just as you take the shot?

Lingmoor Fell from Slater’s Bridge.

Little Langdale Tarn.

Little Langdale Tarn with Blake Rigg, the dark fell in the centre, behind it.

Looking across Little Langdale Tarn to Wetherlam on the left skyline.

A final look at Little Langdale Tarn, its a lovely peaceful place.

A close up of the Langdale Pike from the Elterwater quarries.

We carry on to the Burlington quarries and have a look down into the quarrying area, the large orange digger down there adds scale and shows just how big the quarry is.

Another view of the quarry area.

The remains of a tree on the edge of the quarry caught my attention.

Back to Elterwater for a last close up of the Langdale Pikes, the sun and blue sky have been replaced by cloud, and its time to go home. Its been a great little walk though, full of variety and interest, thoroughly enjoyable and highly recommended.


Great Calva

Walk Date – 16th August 2015

Distance – 5.5 miles

Weather – overcast, strong cold wind, showery

 


Route

Setting off along the Cumbria Way in sunshine, its looking a bit darker towards Skiddaw though.

The heather is in bloom and the River Caldew is busy splashing along its course.

The further along we go the darker the skies become and the Skiddaw range is looking murkier.

Nearing the old barn and sheepfold and the first spot of rain lands on the camera lens, its not looking quite so pleasant now.

A close up of the old barn.

Zooming out to show the barn and its sheepfold.

We looked out for the ‘lone pine’ that AW mentioned and here it is, just alongside the path. Waterproof jackets were donned at this point but weren’t needed for too long.

Another ruined sheepfold and in the background with the large patch of bracken on it is Mungrisedale Common.

On the left skyline is Lonscale Fell, Skiddaw Little Man in the centre, and Skiddaw on the far right.

On maximum zoom to get a close up of Skiddaw House. If you zoom in on the centre of the previous photo you can just about make this out. Built around 1829 by the Earl of Egremont as a ‘keeper’s house’, a base for grouse shooting and for gamekeepers who managed the extensive lands owned by the Earl. Its had numerous owners since and these days it is a self catering hostel and camp site, run on Youth Hostel Association principles.

Over on the right is Great Calva, the only fell we will climb today.

A circular sheepfold alongside Wiley Gill.

There’s the sheepfold again, together with a bridge, a fence, a gate and a stile, there’s a lot of stuff around at Wiley Gill.

Taking a short break alongside Wiley Gill before we start up Great Calva.

Yes, up there. As you can see its a bit on the steep side, no major difficulties though and it was surprisingly dry today.

Taking a breather and a look back at High Pike over on the left skyline, and on the right the dark mass of Foule Crag which leads over to Blencathra.

There’s Blencathra and the cloud swirling around it, there won’t be much of a view from up there at the moment. The river we were walking alongside earlier is now way down below us.

On the summit of Great Calva, no views as we were enveloped in cloud, just a hint of Knott over on the left. Now to find a place to shelter from the cold wind, it was blowing a hooley up here.

More cloud building up on Blencathra.

Somewhere under that lot is the Skiddaw range of fells.

Only the western end of the Skiddaw range is visible at the moment.

Cloud everywhere and very windy, fairly sheltered behind the cairn though.

“Why don’t you zip on the bottom bits of your trousers?”

“I’ve left them in the car.”

It was very cold and very windy up here. My zip on trouser bottoms were in my rucksack so on they went, now its time to get my gloves on. You wouldn’t think it was August would you?

The cloud comes over us and rolls on toward the summit of Knott, the wind roaring as is funnelled the cloud through the valley.

Time to move back down, here we’re looking through the gloom at Lonscale Fell in the centre, as we go off path through the heather.

A spot of rain on the lens and the cloud is just about gone from Skiddaw.

Down to the valley path after a great tramp through the dry, springy heather. Nice and soft on the feet too. A misty Lonscale Fell in the background.

We’re back on the Cumbria Way path again with a view of High Pike as we make good progress along the path.

Back at Wiley Gill and the circular sheepfold again.

Taking a break here, Great Calva on the left, and bits of blue sky here and there.

Walking down the valley with a view of Carrock Fell all the way, the cloud is higher now but there’s no blue sky to be seen.

Back at the parking area, and before driving home we wander down to the ‘splash pool’ in the river. Its a very popular picnic and bathing spot, but you do need a better day than today. A young man to my left was just out of the water, his skin the colour of beetroot, must be cold in there then.

Just to the right of the pool the river tumbles into it over this slide of rocks.

There were plenty of people here today even in such grey and gloomy weather. The red skinned lad is now huddled into a track suit with the hood over his head, shivering, and sitting with his mates. None of them had been in the water.

Looking down at the river, sliding and splashing into the pool.

Further upstream, the Caldew squeezing its way downstream through the boulders.

Much calmer a little further upstream, its a lovely spot, its such a shame that the weather hasn’t been good enough for people to enjoy the place. It hasn’t been much of a summer so far, generally cloudy, cool and windy.


Four Fells around Troutbeck – Yoke, Ill Bell, Froswick and Troutbeck Tongue

Yoke, Ill Bell, Froswick & Troutbeck Tongue

 


Walk Date – 15th August 2015

Distance – 11.5 miles

Weather – cloudy, windy and cool

 


Route

We set off from the parking area just below the church at Troutbeck, walk over the pedestrian bridge and then along the road up to the Garburn Road path.

Making our way up the Garburn Road.

A view over Troutbeck to Wansfell, with the dark mound of Troutbeck Tongue over on the far right.

Troutbeck Tongue, in the centre, will be the last summit of the day. But first we are heading for the ones covered in cloud on the right. It looks very dramatic and atmospheric over there at the moment.

There’s a lot of cloud action on the horizon, I hope it won’t stay around too long.

A view along the Troutbeck valley. Over on the right is Yoke which will be our first summit today.

My hopes take a nose dive as we climb higher up the Garburn Road, the weather gets greyer and windier and a rain shower hits Troutbeck Tongue.

On the left horizon and blanketed by the swirling cloud is Red Screes.

As we leave the Garburn Road and join the path up to Yoke we stop and look southwards. The weather is coming to us from there and its looking brighter.

The sun still hasn’t reached us as we head up the path towards Yoke and its very chilly.

We begin to wonder if that blue sky will ever reach us. On the skyline to the right the Coniston fells have some sunshine.

To the west of us Red Screes is getting some sun, we are still under the clouds.

At last, a spell of sunshine as we begin to see the summit of Yoke, but there’s still a way to go though.

Looking over to Windermere with Sour Howes and Sallows to the middle and left.

Over the wall to the east is Kentmere Pike, left on the skyline, leading down to Shipman Knotts on the right. There’s a lot of cloud activity going on over them too. Its interesting to watch but it does make things feel very chilly.

Still walking towards Yoke, with the summits of Ill Bell and Froswick peeping out behind the grassy slope.

A look back along the path for a view of Windermere with Wansfell over on the right.

On a windy and cold Yoke summit, Ill Bell just behind, with High Street on the centre skyline.

A short pit stop on Yoke and a chance to have a look at Ill Bell. I could have done with a bowl of hot soup at this point but as its supposed to be the middle of summer I’d only packed fruit juices and water.

Nan Bield Pass in the centre, Mardale Ill Bell over on the left and Harter Fell over on the right. Blimey, its very chilly up here now.

Yoke summit.

The Coniston fells enjoying some sunshine.

Looking west from Yoke and wishing that sunshine was over us.

Looking across the tarn on Yoke to a very grim looking Kentmere Pike and Shipman Knotts.

From Yoke we head off for Ill Bell, another patch of sunshine has landed on us, a bit of warmth at last, whoopee!

Down below us is Kentmere reservoir, towered over by Lingmell End on the left and Harter Fell on the right.

A great gash in the hillside opposite attracted my attention so I tried a close up of it.

Zooming out now and the gash is visible across the valley, just under the middle cloud shadow. Lots of spoil heaps by the quarries on the lower slopes.

Looking back to Yoke on the left with Windermere over on the right.

A closer look back at Yoke and the path we followed.

Under a dark cloud again at the first cairn on Ill Bell, here looking south to Windermere.

I took a couple of steps to the left for a different view of the cairn, Yoke and Windermere.

Looking up at the next two cairns, lots of cairn hoggers up here, eating lunch with all their belongings spread out around them.

The largest of the three cairns on Ill Bell, I hid the cairn hoggers behind the cairn.

Looking south from the largest cairn to the lowest one and on to Windermere. The cairn hoggers were just to the left of the nearest cairn.

The third cairn on Ill Bell, cairn hoggers sitting immediately to the right of the cairn so I had to miss out a bit of cairn to avoid them.

The cloud dappled fells of Froswick on the left, immediately behind is Thornthwaite Crag, in the centre is High Street, and on the right is Mardale Ill Bell.

Moving a little to the left, in the centre is Caudale Moor and its summit of Stony Cove Pike. Immediately below us is the ridge we’ll walk over to get up to Froswick.

From Ill Bell we set off for Froswick up the path to the right. On the skyline beyond is the Beacon, the summit of Thornthwaite Crag.

A look back at Ill Bell as we take the path over to Froswick.

On the path to Froswick.

The flat topped summit of Harter Fell across the valley.

Frozen on Froswick. The wind is blowing into my jacket, the hood was needed to keep my sun cap on, (what sun?) and my gloves would have been better on than in the rucksack. The shorts were definitely an error of judgement, although when we left home it was a better day than this.

Looking back to Ill Bell from Froswick.

Ill Bell again, this time looking down the Kentmere side of it.

The Kentmere reservoir and valley. On the left the gloom has lifted off Kentmere Pike and Shipman Knotts.

After our descent from Froswick we took a left turn off the path to head down into the Troutbeck valley. A little way down this path we stopped for lunch in a sunny spot with some shelter from the wind. From our lunch spot we had a good view of Thresthwaite Mouth, Going up the crags on the left leads to Stony Cove Pike. Continuing across to the right would lead you up to Thornthwaite Beacon.

A longer view from our lunch spot.

Also from our lunch spot, a view over to Red Screes on the left skyline.

After lunch we take the Scot Rake path down to Troutbeck Tongue, that’s the small hill down there in the centre. The Tongue has a beck on either side of it, over on the right is Trout Beck and on the left is Hagg Gill.

 Looking down at Trout Beck.

Descending by Scot Rake, a lovely path down to Troutbeck Tongue. Even after all that rain yesterday it wasn’t as soggy as I had thought it might be.

A look back up to Thresthwaite Mouth, which shows the steep climb to the right up Thornthwaite Crag.

We climbed up the back of Troutbeck Tongue and came across these structures. They are marked as cairns on the OS maps but cairns aren’t usually hollowed out and shaped like a bath. I’ve no idea what purpose they might have had originally.

This is a much smaller structure situated by the side of the previous one. To give you some idea of size only a small dog could curl up in here.

Just beyond the two previous ones was this scattering of stones, roughly circular in shape.

Looking back up the Troutbeck valley.

Running through the bracken on the hillside is the path, known as Scot Rake. we followed down from Froswick.

Approaching the cairn on Troutbeck Tongue with Windermere in the background. The cairn is a few yards south of the highest point but the views are better from here.

On Troutbeck Tongue, with Windermere over on the left and Wansfell to the right.

Red Screes on the skyline from Troutbeck Tongue cairn.

Looking northwards from Troutbeck Tongue.

Looking north-westwards from Troutbeck Tongue.

Looking northwards again as the sun made another brief appearance.

Looking back to Troutbeck Tongue from the superfluous (at present) stile in the valley. It’s used, when necessary, to carry an electrified fence wire across the field.

Ing Bridge looking less than charming. Large bags filled with gravel on both sides seemed to be there to support the bridge. Did they have to be such a garish yellow, why not use a colour which blends in with the surroundings?

The appearance of hazel nuts along the hedgerows, a small sign of the seasonal changes to come.

Looks like the blackberry harvest will be good this year.

Looking back up the valley as we head for the village of Troutbeck.

Reaching the end of Truss Lane.

Passing Limefitt Holiday Park as we make use of the new path which avoids walking on the busy A592.

One of the old wells in Troutbeck village.

Troutbeck Church, the clock telling us that its exactly seven hours since we left here this morning, and that its now time to head for home and get the kettle on.


Great Crag and Grange Fell

Walk Date – 8th August 2015

Distance – 6.2 miles

Weather – sunny at first, then cloudy with a nippy wind

 


Route

From the lane where we parked in Stonethwaite, and over on the right is the high point of Grange Fell, we’ll be over there a little later. Sorry about the unsightly deer fencing but I couldn’t get the camera through the gaps in it.

Leaving the little hamlet of Stonethwaite.

The weather is looking promising, here I’m looking over the High Scawdel and High Spy area.

The path up Lingy End begins just by this sheepfold.

We turn off to the left to climb up Lingy End. The main path below us continues alongside Stonethwaite Beck, Eagle Crag is the dark craggy fell to the left of centre.

Up we go on the pitched path through woodland on Lingy End, with the following photos showing some more of the climb through the woods ……

Its beginning to look like we’re nearing the top.

We’re clear of the woods now and the view opens up. This is looking towards Seatoller and the fells of Grey Knotts, Fleetwith Pike and Dale Head.

The undulating top of Rosthwaite Fell, or Bessyboot as it is more often called.

For a while Greenup Edge and Eagle Crag were under a large grey cloud so the photo was an exercise in hope, not expectation.

Further up Lingy End is this ruined building, a bit of research revealed that its a shepherd’s bothy.

Willygrass Ghyll. Can you imagine what it must have been like building that wall up the side of it?

Another stile to deal with before we get to Dock Tarn.

Dock Tarn. Just as we reached the cloud came over so its doesn’t look as sparkly as it should. One of these days I’ll get a decent photo of this tarn.

This is the other end of the tarn. A hint of weak sunshine giving a bit of sparkle to the tarn, but you can see the grey clouds above it reflected in the water.

Leaving a gloomy looking Dock Tarn, it wouldn’t surprise me if the sun comes out when we’ve left it behind.

The shadow of the cloud extended well past the little hamlet of Watendlath and its tarn so everything looked a bit gloomy.

A bit of zoom to show High Raise, left of centre, on the skyline, and Pike O’Stickle just visible to the right. Cloud still over us but it looks nice and sunny over there.

A little patch of sunlight on Rosthwaite Fell with the dark mass of Glaramara just behind it.

Fells at the head of Borrowdale, the dark curved one is Great End, to its right is Great Gable, drop below that and its Green Gable, and below that is Base Brown.

Great Gable again on the extreme left, with Pillar on the extreme right.

We’re still under that big grey cloud, the fells to the south and west have sun, grrrr.

Looking over towards High Spy and Maiden Moor, also bathed in sunshine.

Still on Great Crag summit with Kings How, just above the trees towards the bottom right.

Looking across to Grange Fell and beyond that is Skiddaw. I am now heartily fed up with this large grey cloud hanging over us.

At least Watendlath tarn has a bit of brightness, unlike High Seat just above it.

Looking east towards the Dodds and the Helvellyn range from Great Crag summit.

The Dodds over on the left and the start of the Helvellyn range on the right.

Looking across to High Saddle and Ullscarf, I wish this cloud would shift, its taking all the colour from everything.

On the skyline, High Raise on the left and Pike O’Stickle on the right, below them the two dark masses of Eagle Crag and Sergeant’s Crag.

On Great Crag summit with Maiden Moor behind me, and in case you hadn’t noticed, the cloud returned and the jacket has had to go on.

We’ve walked down off Great Crag and are approaching Watendlath Tarn. On the way down we met a young couple with two very young children coming up. They asked us for directions to Stonethwaite which we gave them. When I noticed Mum was sockless and wearing flat, thin strapped sandals I pointed to my mud caked boots and mentioned the state of the path and that she might ruin her sandals and get very muddy feet. She didn’t seem in the least concerned about any of that though and off they went.

Two men in a boat concentrating on their fishing in Watendlath tarn.

Watendlath Tarn and Great Crag from near the bridge at Watendlath. The net across the outflow stops the fish doing a runner, or should that be a swimmer?

Watendlath bridge. Loads of people around here today, I was glad to leave, it was too busy.

On the right skyline is Great Crag where we have just spent what seemed like a lifetime under a great big grey cloud. Now its sunny over there, typical.

A view to the east from the path over to Grange Fell. High Saddle on the right skyline.

Time to leave the Puddingstone Bank path and head over the squelchy grass to the stile down there. Looks like some much needed stile repairs are about to take place.

On Brund Fell, the summit of Grange Fell. I think somebody will be going for a haircut before much longer.

On Grange Fell summit and sheltering from the keen wind behind this handy rock.

Looking east over the High Tove and Armboth ridge to the Dodds and the Helvellyn range.

Looking south to the Borrowdale Fells from Grange Fell.

Huge outcrop on Grange Fell, Maiden Moor beyond.

Looking towards Great Gable, on the centre skyline, across Borrowdale.

A longer view of the valley and the fells at the head of it as we descend from Grange Fell.

Watch out for nettles, there’s often one lurking below a stile just waiting for an unwary bare leg!

We’re back down in the valley now and heading back to Stonethwaite, there’s a lot more detail showing on Eagle Crag than there was this morning.


Seven Langdale Fells – Sergeant Man, High Raise, Thunacar Knott, Pavey Ark, Harrison Stickle, Pike O’Stickle and Loft Crag

 Sergeant Man, High Raise, Thunacar Knott, Pavey Ark, Harrison Stickle, Pike O’Stickle and Loft Crag

 


Walk Date – 6th August 2015

Distance – 7.5 miles

Weather – rain in morning, dry but cloudy and windy in afternoon

 


Route

After waiting in the New Dungeon Ghyll car park for the rain to stop for almost an hour we finally set off, taking the path alongside the waterfalls in Stickle Ghyll.

Pike How towering above us as we climb alongside Stickle Ghyll.

A group of ghyll scramblers further up the ghyll. The youngsters in the group grumbled in the car park (it was raining), grumbled on the way up (it was steep and a long way) and were still grumbling when the activity got under way (it was cold and slippy). I wonder if they already knew that there might not be a mobile phone signal either?

There was a lot of rain last night so there’s plenty of water in the ghyll today.

A good view of Lingmoor Fell and Side Pike as we gain more height.

Harrison Stickle comes into view above the cascade.

A little extra care was needed in getting across as the stepping stones were very wet.

Safely across and a look back at the crossing point.

We’re almost at the top of Stickle Ghyll now. The path was very busy.

The outflow at Stickle Tarn, dozens of people up here today.

Stickle Tarn with Harrison Stickle behind it, and a bit of Pavey Ark on the right. I swear that black and white dog in the tarn wasn’t there when I lined up the picture.

Pavey Ark, I couldn’t see anyone on Jack’s Rake today, maybe it was a bit too wet for safety.

Stickle Tarn outflow with Bowfell just to the right of the centre horizon under the stream of white cloud.

After a short break at the tarn we carried on over to the Blea Rigg ridge to continue the walk. No-one else came along after us from the tarn and it was a relief to escape from the crowds and the barking dogs.

Pavey Ark on the left, as we head for Sergeant Man, that large bump over on the right skyline.

Harrison Stickle on the left and Pavey Ark, looking a bit like a hot cross bun, on the right.

A view from the ridge as we squelched our way along it.

Just off the path we found a sheltered spot with this view of Codale Tarn, so we took a break here and had something to eat.

The rocky outcrop below is Belles Knott with Tarn Crag behind it. The cloud is beginning to break up.

Looking to the east and under the cloud in the centre is Fairfield.

Looking back from higher up the ridge for a view of Codale tarn and Easedale tarn. The cloud is slowly lifting from the eastern fells.

A grey Windermere in a grey landscape under grey skies, what a grey day.

Further along the ridge and we get a glimpse of the sun for a while. Sergeant Man up there on the right seems as far away as ever.

There was a good view of Stickle Tarn as we walked along a very, very soggy ridge up to Sergeant Man.

Hallelujah, the cloud has lifted. Now we can see Saint Sunday Crag, centre skyline, Fairfield to the right of it and Dollywagon Pike to the left ot it. The large hump in the middle is Seat Sandal and below that is Tarn Crag.

Will we ever get to Sergeant Man? The ridge route seemed never ending and a lot further than I remembered, or perhaps I was just getting impatient. At least we can see a couple of walkers on the summit.

The clouds are finally breaking up and allowing some sunshine through now and then. Down below us in the right hand corner is Stickle Tarn.

At last Sergeant Man is within reach. To the left of it Bowfell is now clear of cloud and its pointed peak is clearly visible.

Sergeant Man summit and a chance to sit down for five minutes. If that GPS doesn’t say Sergeant Man then we are in serious trouble.

Sergeant Man summit and the soggy, boggy area behind it. At last a spell of sunshine and some good clear views of the Eastern fells on the horizon. When we reached the summit there were a couple of young men there already so we had a bit of a chat. They had planned to camp out overnight but as they were setting up camp the torrential rain began, so they hot-footed it down to the Dungeon Ghyll hotel. A hot meal, a few drinks and a good night’s sleep had brightened their spirits and they were spending the day just exploring up here. They had to be back at work the next day and their plan was that one would drive the other to Doncaster to catch his train to London, and the car driver would then continue on his journey over to Norfolk. Neither seemed in any hurry to be setting off as we kept seeing them when we continued our walk, oh, the freedom of youth eh?

Wishing the two lads a safe journey, we headed off to High Raise from Sergeant Man.

A look back at Sergeant Man and its tarn as we squelch over this boggy ground towards High Raise.

On the left skyline is Bowfell and over on the right skyline, to the left of the rocks, is Scafell Pike.

From left to right and looking rather grand are Dollywaggon Pike, Saint Sunday Crag and Fairfield. Seat Sandal is the fell just in front of Fairfield.

A close up of Blencathra way over in the distance.

There are some good views of the eastern fells as we tramp along across here. From left to right are Helvellyn, Nethermost Pike, Dollywaggon Pike and Saint Sunday Crag.

To the left of the fells in the previous photo are these, collectively known as The Dodds.

High Raise on the horizon from one of the many tarns across here, a strongish wind rippling the surface. It was more than a bit draughty across here.

Great Gable rearing up like a hump back whale.

Yet another pool, this place is littered with them. The blue sky was most welcome but it was quite a bit chilly across here.

See what I mean about the pools? The Dodds and the Helvellyn range across the boggy pools, it seemed wetter than usual across here, no doubt helped by the heavy rain last night.

From High Raise, Skiddaw and Blencathra with a little bit of Bass Lake over on the left.

Looking down at Sergeant’s Crag, the rocky bit on the left, from High Raise with Bass Lake in the distance. What a fabulous view.

Mind you, the views to our left are just as good. Here we have the green covered slopes of the Glaramara ridge and all the fells beyond from High Raise summit.

Still on High Raise and now looking across the Glaramara ridge at the fells to the west. Bottom left is the lovely valley of Langstrath.

Looking into the head of Langstrath.

Bowfell taking centre stage with Crinkle Crags on the left and Esk Pike on the right. The Scafells on the extreme right behind Esk Pike.

Back in the sunshine at High Raise trig column.

The wind dropped for a moment or two so no need to hold on to the hat. We had another chat here, this time with two men. They were climbers not walkers but had decided that things were a bit too wet to climb safely today so they had stowed their climbing gear in the car and opted for a walk instead.

We’re now on the return leg from High Raise and not looking as fearsome as they do from Stickle Tarn, Pavey Ark on the left and Harrison Stickle on the right, showing their gentler sides.

Approaching Pavey Ark with Windermere to the left of it.

Looking back at Sergeant Man on the right, and on the left in the shade, is High Raise where we’ve just come from. Lovely grassy terrain for the most part and we were able to get into a good stride coming down from there.

A close up of Sergeant Man.

Beyond the tarn is Bowfell again. It turned very dark and very windy at this point.

Still under the cloud on Thunacar Knott, Harrison Stickle over on the right.

Thunacar Knott summit looking towards the eastern fells. The sun might be out again but that wind is a bit nippy hence the windproof jacket. My lower limbs could have done with a bit of wind proofing too ‘cos it was a bit parky up here, and I’m huddling against the sunny rocks to try and get a bit of warmth from them.

We’re making our way over to Pavey Ark, passing by one of the many pools found in the area.

Yet another pool as we near Pavey Ark summit.

A view down to Stickle Tarn and beyond from Pavey Ark summit.

From Pavey Ark a close up of Harrison Stickle and the path we’ll be taking to get to it.

Pavey Ark summit. This was the best I could manage as two other inconsiderate sods were hogging the very topmost bit just to the right of the shot. It makes me really annoyed when people think they have the right to keep the summit all to themselves by spreading their gear and themselves all over it.

Righto then, now I’ve got that off my chest let’s go over to Harrison Stickle.

There’s a nice view of Stickle Tarn as we cross to Harrison Stickle.

Pavey Ark, on the left, towering above Stickle Tarn.

On Harrison Stickle summit looking down to Stickle Tarn and over to the eastern fells.

From Harrison Stickle a look back to Pavey Ark.

Bowfell on the centre skyline enjoying a spell of sunshine.

Well, seeing as we’re so near, we might as well go over to Pike O’Stickle and Loft Crag as well.

Looking back at Harrison Stickle as we make our way to Pike O’Stickle.

Approaching Pike O’Stickle and its not as fearsome as it looks, well not from this side anyway. Those steps don’t carry on all the way to the top, they end a bit further up the slope leaving just a roughish track.

The path ends at this gully, so its a left turn and then its just a very short scramble up to the top.

On Pike O’Stickle summit, Harrison Stickle on the left and Loft Crag on the right.

Its not as cramped as you might think on the top of Pike O’Stickle.

A close up of Loft Crag, the last fell on our walk today.

Harrison Stickle and Loft Crag.

Descending down the groove from Pike O’Stickle and a view of High Raise over Martcrag Moor.

Skiddaw on the left skyline and High Raise under cloud on the right.

Making our way over to Loft Crag we pass one of the deep gullies beside Pike O’Stickle. Crinkle Crags on the skyline.

Loft Crag, the last summit of the day.

Loft Crag summit, so its downhill all the way from now on then.

A look back at Pike O’Stickle from Loft Crag.

There’s a great view down into Mickleden from here, and up to Crinkle Crags on the left and Bowfell on the right.

This is the view looking down into the Oxendale valley with Pike O’Blisco in the middle foreground, and the Coniston fells behind it.

Over on the right is Coniston Old Man.

Harrison Stickle from our descent route. The path on the opposite side is not my favourite route down, it runs alongside a very steep drop down into Dungeon Ghyll, and I’m not good at very steep drops. The first time I walked on it I froze, just where it begins to cross over the rocky section in the middle. One minute I was walking OK, the next minute I just couldn’t move. I managed to get across at the second try but it was touch and go for a while. Matters weren’t helped by the fact that a helicopter had arrived, to carry out a rescue for some walkers stuck on Jack’s Rake, and was making quite a din just beyond us.

Great Langdale down below us as we start to descend.

Looking back up at Loft Crag on the left and Harrison Stickle on the right.

A closer look at a newish zig zag path at the lower end of Side Pike. Its been a while since we came down here so I’ve no idea how long the path has been here.

Waterfalls in Dungeon Ghyll.

Crossing Dungeon Ghyll at the end of a very disagreeable descent. We’d not been down this route before and it must count as one of the most tiring and trying descents we’ve ever done. Perhaps we were just weary from the long walk we’d just done, but it was a very awkward path to come down, gravelly bits which slid away underfoot, pitched paths with downward sloping stones, many of which were wet and slippery so a lot of care was needed, bits of path which were eroded and muddy, wet grassy bits which were lethal if you weren’t ultra careful and so it went on and on and on. I thought we’d never get to the bottom. I think this section took more toll on our legs than the rest of the walk put together. Note to self – do not use this as a descent route ever again.

A last look back up Great Langdale before we get back to the car and head for home.


Wether Hill and Loadpot Hill

Walk Date – 1st August 2015

Distance – 7.1 miles

Weather – cloudy start, then fine and dry with a brisk south westerly

 


Route

We parked up near Moorahill Farm just above the village of Bampton and headed off towards the slab bridge over Cawdale Beck. We thought the two horses over there would start walking towards us, or away from us, as they usually do, but no, they just stood there apparently watching us. Behaviour which we thought was a little odd.

It soon became apparent why they were so immobile, they were having a morning nap. We walked right up to them, I took this photo and even the click of the camera shutter didn’t disturb them. They made no movement whatsoever and were still in the same position when we looked back after we had walked some distance away from them.

Other members of the herd were too busy eating to pay us much attention, this lot never even looked up as we passed by.

Over there is Moorahill Farm, the tarmac road ends at the farm so its our start and finish point today.

An old slab bridge across Cawdale Beck, also known as a clapper bridge.

There was a lot of rain last night so Cawdale Beck has plenty of water in it today.

A look back at the bridge as we climb up Towtop.

On Towtop looking into Cawdale.

Onwards we go, now heading for Hause End. It looks like there’s a fair bit of bracken up there.

Notice at Hause End from the Park Authority directing walkers to the slab bridge in order to avoid the ford over the beck. We have walked up the right hand path marked on the plan, so now you know where we are and where we came from.

Beside the notice the signpost pointing walkers in the right direction for the clapper bridge.

A look back over our route so far, with a view of the Pennines in the far distance.

A pile of stones, its marked on the OS map, and indicates the way to Low Kop. How long has it been there, who put it there? Who knows, but such indicators are useful in finding your way over such huge expanses of largely featureless moorland.

In the groove and heading for High Kop. This groove is another useful indicator of where you are, every little helps, as they say.

If you want a bit of peace and quiet this is the place to be, its not exactly crowded is it? I think the track is more the result of wheels rather than feet but its handy to follow as it keeps you out of the long, and in today’s case, wet grass.

On the skyline to the right is the flat top of Branstree.

A look back down at Haweswater now we have the height to see it. The area we are walking in today is right at the far eastern edge of the Lake District National Park and as you can see, beyond here there is no more high ground until you reach the Pennines over there on the horizon. The flat area in between is the Eden Valley.

We eventually reach Keasgill Head which gives us views of the fells to the west of us. The flat top of Fairfield is in the centre and on the right is Saint Sunday Crag. Angle Tarn Pikes just catching some sun towards the bottom right. I’m always intrigued at the dramatic change in the landscape and wonder how the rolling moorland that we’ve just been walking can turn so abruptly into this. Maybe I didn’t listen hard enough at school. Perhaps if I knew the answer some of the wonder of it all would be lost, so maybe in this case, ignorance is bliss!

Unfortunately we didn’t have a shilling for the meter so its all a bit hard to distinguish since the light went out, but on the skyline from left to right are Dollywagon Pike, Nethermost Pike and part of Helvellyn, Below and in sunshine is Beda Fell.

I turned a little to my right and now the plateau of Helvellyn is the highest point on the skyline with the pointed peak of Catstycam to the right of it, with Raise between them. Over on the right skyline is Stybarrow Dodd.

A little further to my right and now we are looking over Place Fell to the Dodds range.

Further to my right still and on the left skyline is Stybarrow Dodd and over on the right is Great Dodd.

On the left is Great Dodd leading across to Clough Head and the beginning of the Skiddaw range on the far right.

On the left skyline is the Skiddaw massif and over on the right is Blencathra. These two together with all the fells beyond them are in the northern fells category.

Blencathra is now over on the left with more of the northern fells to the right of it.

Looking towards the easterly end of the northern fells with Carrock Fell in shade on the right skyline and to the left of it and in the sunshine is High Pike.

Part of Ullswater down below us with Gowbarrow Fell immediately behind.

If you take a line from bottom to top straight up the centre from where I’m standing firstly you have Steel Knotts, then Hallin Fell, behind Hallin Fell are the wooded slopes of Swinburn Park, then Great Mell Fell and lastly Carrock Fell.

Looking over Ullswater from Wether Hill summit. Not to be confused with “weather” and “whether”, a wether is a ram or billy goat which was castrated when young.  I have no idea of the connection, if any, between that procedure and this fell.

Moving swiftly on, there’s Blencathra on the skyline with Ullswater down below.

We’re now making our way along to Loadpot Hill. In the middle foreground is the dark mass of Rest Dodd, on the left, leading down to The Nab on the right.

Looking back at the route from Wether Hill on the way to Loadpot Hill.

The remains of Lowther House, a former shooting lodge on the Lowther estate, with a couple of shots of it from different aspects …..

An estate boundary stone, this side is Lowther land, hence the L …..

….. and the other side of the boundary stone, marked with an M for Marshall. Territorial weren’t they?

On Loadpot Hill and looking over Great Mell Fell to some of the northern fells.

The trig column on Loadpot summit, its still windy as you can see from the ripples on the puddle.

From the trig point a look back at the path we’ve just walked along.

Moving down towards The Pen from Loadpot Hill.

Carhullan – a holiday let, sleeps 10. If you want to know how much a quick search will tell you, make sure you’re sitting down.

The clouds may have thinned out a little but it was still very windy, as demonstrated by the wool on the fence.

Here we are back at Moorahill Farm and the end of our walk. It turned out to be quite a nice afternoon after that cloudy start, although the wind persisted throughout the day and gave us a bit of a buffeting from time to time.