Striding Edge

A photo diary of Lake District fell walks

  • Walks
  • Fells
    • Wainwrights
      • Eastern Fells
      • Far Eastern Fells
      • Central Fells
      • Southern Fells
      • Northern Fells
      • North Western Fells
      • Western Fells
      • Outlying Fells
    • Birketts
  • Dogs
  • Love The Lakes
  • Contact

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 19/10/2011

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Boo Tarn – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 2.9 miles     Total Ascent: 572 metres     Time Taken: 1 hour 30 minutes     Start Time: 14:00

Weather: Sunny. 8ºC

It was beautiful and sunny today so I headed up to The Old Man for a quick walk. I expected it to be cold up on the top as there was snow on Fairfield the previous day and I was right – once on the climb there was areal cold blast and my hands and face were numb by the time I made it to the top. Great to see lots of people enjoying the clear views up there though including lots of family groups.

CoM

Coniston Old Man route map.

19.10.11-001

The Old Man of Coniston.

19.10.11-007

What a gorgeous day heading out in the sunshine, it felt quite warm walking along the Walna Scar Road to The Old Man.

19.10.11-010

At the foot of the Bursting Stone road and the climb to The Old Man.

19.10.11-016

There is a clear view across to The Howgills today.

19.10.11-028

Traversing Little Arrow Moor.

19.10.11-037

Dougal checks out the view across the climbing hut in The Cove to Buck Pike and Dow Crag.

19.10.11-046

Brown Pike and Buck Pike.

19.10.11-068

Casper and Dougal in the sunshine.

19.10.11-075

Crag o' Stile.

19.10.11-090

Dow Crag.

19.10.11-096

Fix the Fells or ruin them? You, the jury, decide. This is the new 'improved' version of the Walna Scar Road looking down from the climb to The Old Man, it looks like you could drive down there at 70mph with no problem now. What do you think? My view is that it is a complete mess and a waste of time, effort and money.

19.10.11-108

Coniston and Coniston Water across Bursting Stone Quarry.

19.10.11-111

The Duddon Estuary, lit up by the sun today.

19.10.11-120

Sitting with Angus.

19.10.11-132

The climb to the summit.

19.10.11-138

The summit of Coniston Old Man looking across to The Scafells.

19.10.11-144

The view across Low Water and Wetherlam.

19.10.11-156

Looking south east over Coniston.

19.10.11-165

Harter Fell and the western fells.

19.10.11-171

Light and shade on Brim Fell and beyond.

19.10.11-174

The Scafells.

19.10.11-177

There were plenty of people around on The Old Man today.

19.10.11-180

The autumn colours were looking fabulous in the sunshine - I decided to avoid the main path and follow 'route 1' back down past the quarry.

19.10.11-186

Dougal says: 'I can see for miles and miles...' to Windermere (that is the Low Wood Hotel visible across the water), The Howgills and beyond.

19.10.11-192

Wetherlam.

19.10.11-201

Coniston Water.

19.10.11-204

Above the quarry.

19.10.11-207

Nearly down now, it's a little warmer than it was up top.

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 20/06/2011

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Boo Tarn – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 2.9 miles     Total Ascent: 572 metres     Time Taken: 2 hours     Start Time: 12:15

Weather: Sunny and warm. 20°C

Once more the weather completely changed from the last time I was out – today was a proper summer’s day again and it was just lovely (and quiet!) up on The Old Man. We ascended using the now well trodden McMahon route but descended using the direct and steep route. I did take a little time to hang around up there today and sit with Angus for a while.

COM

Coniston Old Man route map.

20.06.11-003

Green and blue at the start of the walk.

20.06.11-008

Following the Walna Scar Road.

20.06.11-010

Foxgloves on the slopes of The Old Man.

20.06.11-013

Dow Crag across The Cove, the climbing hut is below.

20.06.11-016

The climb to The Old Man.

20.06.11-020

Panoramic view across The Cove.

20.06.11-023

Close up on Dow Crag.

20.06.11-030

Something has caught the attention of Casper and Dougal, Ovine I'll wager.

20.06.11-044

Walna Scar and Brown Pike.

20.06.11-045

Buck Pike.

20.06.11-052

Big fluffy clouds across Torver Common with the Kent Estuary to the left and the Duddon Estuary to the right.

20.06.11-056

Black Combe in view beyond Brown Pike.

20.06.11-064

We sat with Angus for a while.

20.06.11-066

The summit cairn on The Old Man.

20.06.11-067

A panoramic view over Low Water and Coppermines Valley.

20.06.11-072

A lovely view towards the Scafells from the trig. column.

20.06.11-077

Looking across Swirl How to distant Skiddaw, left of centre.

20.06.11-080

Dow Crag, Harter Fell to the right.

20.06.11-086

The Scafells and Bowfell with Grey Friar mid-distance. The path leads to Brim Fell.

20.06.11-089

Scafell and Scafell Pike.

20.06.11-090

Esk Pike, Crinkle Crags and Bowfell.

20.06.11-097s

The view from the summit of The Old Man.

20.06.11-101

Coniston Water.

20.06.11-106

Dramatic skies on the steep descent.

20.06.11-109

The cloud is building to the east.

20.06.11-115

Coniston panorama from the Walna Scar Road.

20.06.11-124

The Coniston fells from Torver.

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 16/03/2011

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Boo Tarn – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 3 miles     Total Ascent: 573 metres     Time Taken: 1 hour 50 minutes     Start Time: 09:30

Weather: Mainly sunny. 8°C

The weather seemed much better than predicted early on this morning and the views along Coniston Water as I drove past were stunning enough to stop me in my tracks and make me turn around to grab a few photos at Lake Bank and Brown Howe. From there I could see The Old Man was clearing whilst further north in the Lakes looked a bit murkier. It did eventually cloud over but I think I caught the best of the weather today following the McMahon route to the summit.

At Lake Bank…

CoM

Coniston Old Man route map.

16.03.11-006

Misty Fairfield at the head of the lake.

16.03.11-011

Flat calm at Lake Bank.

16.03.11-013

Lake Bank jetty.

16.03.11-015

The cloud is lifting from The Old Man - that looks like a good place to go.

16.03.11-018

Nibthwaite reflected.

16.03.11-021

Jetty view to Oak Isle. Driving further I was stopped in my tracks once more by the calm waters at Brown Howe.

16.03.11-031

Selside reflections.

16.03.11-037

Brock Barrow in mono.

16.03.11-039

Peel Island and High Peel Near.

16.03.11-040

A glorious view along Coniston Water. Onwards and upwards...

16.03.11-042

Seems clear on the west side of The Old Man.

16.03.11-044

Looks clear across The Bell to Swirl How and Wetherlam too.

16.03.11-047

The Walna Scar Road.

16.03.11-051

The boys enjoy a paddle in Boo Tarn - a rare sight as you can actually see some water in it!

16.03.11-070

The Old Man from Limestone Haws.

16.03.11-071

The cloud is starting to drift in now across Walna Scar and Brown Pike.

16.03.11-073

Dougal enjoys the view from Little Arrow Moor.

16.03.11-076

Brown Pike and Buck Pike across The Cove, Cove Hut below.

16.03.11-087

Dougal and Casper - how on earth do they always end up so mucky?

16.03.11-088

Looking from Crag O' Stile to The Old Man, now with cloud on the summit.

16.03.11-091

Casper, the lone wolf, on the climb.

16.03.11-094

We are up in the cloud now and it is fleeting in and out.

16.03.11-097

Brown Pike and Blind Tarn.

16.03.11-103

As above, so below - looking at a dual cloud layer from The Old Man. I visited Angus whilst I was here but alas the plaque has disappeared. No doubt someone feels good about removing a hidden piece of Coniston slate from - well - another piece of Coniston slate! It obviously didn't fit the surroundings, at least I know where he is, plaque or no plaque.

16.03.11-106

It's a different world up on the summit; cold and cloudy with the final vestiges of winter snow remaining.

16.03.11-111

Caw, Buck Pike and Dow Crag revealed. Dougal has a quick look around for the plaque!

16.03.11-113

I made a direct and mainly pathless descent through the clouds. Here the boys head for a quick drink at this pool above Bursting Stone Quarry.

16.03.11-118

The Fell Dogs in silhouette.

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 20/01/2011

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Boo Tarn – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 2.9 miles     Total Ascent: 572 metres     Time Taken: 1 hour 30 minutes     Start Time: 15:30

Weather: Cool and clear. 1C

It was a beautiful day in the Lake District today but when a blanket of freezing fog descended over our house in the afternoon, I knew that conditions would be good higher up and that there would be a good sunset too. It was thanks to Louise that I went on this one as she persuaded me to make the effort and I am thankful that she did – the sunset across the inversion was simply stunning.

This was totally a ‘no frills’ walk so there is no route map – I ascended and descended using the route 1 method!

20.01.11-004

It was a lovely and clear day today but I was only here to see the end of it and catch the sunset from the top of Coniston Old Man.

20.01.11-035

What a great view of the already setting sun on the climb to The Old Man with the Duddon Estuary and the Irish Sea beyond Black Combe covered in a blanket of cloud.

20.01.11-041

20.01.11-036

All is golden.

20.01.11-062

Getting higher up, the full extent of the inversion was visible.

20.01.11-065

Beautiful silhouettes and sunset.

20.01.11-068

Approaching the summit we said hello to Angus.

20.01.11-071

I'm sure he would have approved of the walk and the weather today.

20.01.11-076

The view towards the Scafells from the summit of The Old Man.

20.01.11-081

Looking across Coniston Water to Morecambe Bay.

20.01.11-093

The eastern fells from the summit.

20.01.11-103

Old Man.

20.01.11-110

Young men. Dougal ably demonstrates just how breezy it is on the top.

20.01.11-124

Sellafield poking through the cloud beyond Harter Fell.

20.01.11-126

I spotted two lumps rising from the inversion in the distance which can only be in Wales, one on the left horizon (I think this is Arenig Fawr which is an incredible 104 miles away) and one on the right (Carnedd Lllewelyn, 91 miles away).

20.01.11-127

The sun setting over Dougal.

20.01.11-131

Fabulous colours in the sky this evening.

20.01.11-138

Burnished Casper.

20.01.11-143

It was getting pretty cold and was surprisingly breezy on the top as the sun set.

20.01.11-160

A close up on Carnedd Llewelyn and now Snowdon is visible too, 98 miles away.

20.01.11-172

Fat old sun.

20.01.11-183

Dougal has a last look before it is time to go.

20.01.11-190

The last one before it gets too dark. It only took twenty minutes to get down from here using my 'no frills' method.

The Old Man of Coniston

Walked on 24/11/2010

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Brim Fell – Brim Fell Rake – Low Water – Below Beck Fells – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 4.3 miles     Total Ascent: 630 metres     Time Taken: 2 hours 15 minutes     Start Time: 09:20

Weather: Cold and clear. 2C

Everywhere looked to be covered in cloud when I set off from home this morning, especially further to the east. When I was driving towards the Coniston fells they had a big cloud cap on them too, but I thought it would clear when the sun rose a little and thankfully this turned out to be right. It was really clear up there today and it was superb walking the ridge to Brim Fell in those conditions, beautiful and crisp with virtually no one around.

COM

Coniston Old Man route map.

24.11.10-003

All clear on top of The Old Man.

24.11.10-005

The summit of The Old Man from the Walna Scar Road.

24.11.10-009

Coniston and the head of Coniston Water.

24.11.10-010

The view to the south.

24.11.10-025

Dougal strikes a typical Beardie pose.

24.11.10-027

Buck Pike and Dow Crag from Little Arrow Moor.

24.11.10-031

Brown Pike and Blind Tarn.

24.11.10-032s

The Cove panorama.

24.11.10-039

Little Dougal looks at the big fells.

24.11.10-044

Casper and Dougal.

24.11.10-058

The climb to The Old Man.

24.11.10-059s

Panoramic Old Man.

24.11.10-067

Dow Crag.

24.11.10-077

Brown Pike and Buck Pike.

24.11.10-079

The sun shining on Morecambe Bay and Coniston Water - the Crake Valley is still frosty.

24.11.10-083

The view over Bursting Stone Quarry towards Windermere (Bursting Stone is a type of slate).

24.11.10-087

Black Combe beyond Walna Scar.

24.11.10-100

Of course, we had to visit our old pal up here.

24.11.10-101

The view from the top of The Old Man.

24.11.10-106

Windermere from the summit.

24.11.10-110

A Remembrance Day poppy on the column.

24.11.10-112

Wetherlam above Levers Water with the track below snaking down to Low Water.

24.11.10-119

The deserted summit of Coniston Old Man.

24.11.10-124

Dougal and Casper on the summit.

24.11.10-126

It was a beautiful day up here today but with a cold wind.

24.11.10-133

Brim Fell, Swirl How and Great Carrs from The Old Man. The person of Brim Fell was a Striding Edge fan - he recognised us from that distance! Nice to meet you up there.

24.11.10-138

Harter Fell.

24.11.10-141

The Scafells and Langdales in the distance are clouded over.

24.11.10-148

Looking back to the summit.

24.11.10-151

Walking the icy Brim Fell ridge.

24.11.10-158

Great Carrs, Swirl How and Great How Crags from Brim Fell.

24.11.10-162

An icy descent of Brim Fell Rake.

24.11.10-165

Brim Fell from Raven Tor.

24.11.10-171

Levers Water, Black Sails and Wetherlam.

24.11.10-172s

Swirl How and Wetherlam across Levers Water.

24.11.10-193

Wetherlam and the Coppermines Valley from the descent.

24.11.10-200

I had a little wander off the beaten track across Below Beck Fells on the west face of The Old Man on the way back. Unfortunately two young ladies on their way to The Old Man summit decided to follow me as I must have looked as though I knew where I was going. I set them back on the right path when I realised they couldn't be going the same way as me - remember, if you see a bloke with a couple of dogs, don't follow him as you could end up anywhere!

24.11.10-213

The Old Man from the Walna Scar Road.

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 03/06/2010

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Boo Tarn – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 2.9 miles     Total Ascent: 572 metres     Time Taken: 1 hour 40 minutes     Start Time: 06:15

Weather: Sunny. 16C

I was up early this morning for a walk to The Old Man – it was quite novel that there were no cars in the car park when I set off and none there when I returned! It was beautiful up there this morning with the sun shining and only the sound of silence and that, thinking of yesterday’s events at Whitehaven, is the way it should be.

COM

Coniston Old Man route map.

03.06.10-002

The Old Man is turning green (with envy?) as the bracken grows through.

03.06.10-004

The Bell and Wetherlam.

03.06.10-006

It was a beautiful morning as we walked along the Walna Scar Road.

03.06.10-010

Early morning mist covers the foot of Coniston Water from the start of the climb, Beacon Fell is to the right and the windmills on Kirkby Moor beyond.

03.06.10-015

Dougal can hear sheep in The Cove below looking across to Buck Pike and Dow Crag.

03.06.10-020_stitch

A panoramic view across The Cove.

03.06.10-030

Dougal and Casper show off their long tongues.

03.06.10-039

Heading for the summit following the superbly graded McMahon Route.

03.06.10-047

Brown Pike and Blind Tarn, Black Combe beyond.

03.06.10-051

Angus, King of the Fells 09.03.96 - 03.06.09. At the Angus memorial I couldn't help but think of the tragic events not so far away yesterday when the lives of so many were shattered by the actions of a lone man. Condolences and heartfelt sympathy to all those involved.

03.06.10-060

He's got a decent view from here, that Angus.

03.06.10-062

The summit of The Old Man.

03.06.10-066

Dougal and Casper at the summit.

03.06.10-069

The benchmark points to 'The Man'.

03.06.10-074

Deserted Old Man.

03.06.10-078

Looking down on Low Water.

03.06.10-085

The Scafells and the Coniston range.

03.06.10-089

Spot Dougal on the 'no frills' descent by the quarry.

03.06.10-101

The Monument(s).

03.06.10-103

Boo Tarn - no reflections in this one though, it is the patch of reeds across the road. On the way home...

03.06.10-104

Brown Howe.

03.06.10-106

Coniston Water reflections.

03.06.10-108

03.06.10-110

Nice day for a row in a boat.

03.06.10-112

03.06.10-121

Time for a drink and a bathe.

King of the Fells

Walked on 08/03/2010

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Brim Fell – Brim Fell Rake – Low Water – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 4.3 miles     Total Ascent: 613 metres     Time Taken: 2 hours 15 minutes     Start Time: 09:30

Weather: Clear above the haze layer, 8C

It was a beautiful morning once more after a cold and frosty start; at low level there was a haze layer but I managed to get above this on the climb to The Old Man. There was a reason for climbing up there today other than it being a great walk…

Coniston Old Man

Coniston Old Man

08.03.10-003

A frosty morning at Lake Bank, Coniston Water.

08.03.10-004

It was cold but beautiful in the sunshine.

08.03.10-011

Oak Isle.

08.03.10-015

Lake Bank jetty.

08.03.10-017

The Old Man, today's target.

08.03.10-020

Coniston Yacht Club moorings.

08.03.10-022

looking across to Brock Barrow. On with the walk...

08.03.10-034

Coniston Old Man from the Walna Scar Road.

08.03.10-048

There was a heavy layer of haze at lower levels today, here looking over the quarry to the east.

08.03.10-053

Finally! Completely through the haze now looking across to Brown Pike and Blind Tarn.

08.03.10-055

Casper checks out Buck Pike and Dow Crag. There was a reason why I came to Coniston today - Angus' birthday was 9th March so I managed to haul up a piece of slate (back to where it started from!) complete with a simple tribute where his ashes are scattered...

08.03.10-060

It is out of view unless you are looking for it - 100m to the south of the summit, in line with Beacon Tarn and facing south.

08.03.10-067

A clear view from Coniston Old Man today.

08.03.10-068

The Howgills and Ingleborough peep through the haze layer to the south east.

08.03.10-072

Looking down on Low Water and Levers Water.

08.03.10-077

The ridge to Brim Fell with non-snowy Harter Fell to the left and the Scafells up to the right.

08.03.10-079

Dow Crag with Black Combe beyond through the haze.

08.03.10-081

Heading for Brim Fell.

08.03.10-083

Ripples all the way to Ingleborough, 33 miles as the crow flies.

08.03.10-087

Helvellyn and Fairfield across Wetherlam.

08.03.10-089

Looking back to The Old Man.

08.03.10-093

The summit of Brim Fell.

08.03.10-095

There is a distinct line of haze beyond The Old Man.

08.03.10-128

Dougal and Casper on Brim Fell.

BF360_t

A 360 panorama from Brim Fell.

08.03.10-135

The Scafells across Grey Friar.

08.03.10-136

The start of Brim Fell Rake.

08.03.10-140

Great Carrs, Skiddaw beyond (19 miles as the crow flies).

08.03.10-144

Dougal blazes a trail onto Brim Fell Rake - I don't think anyone's been this way for a while.

08.03.10-150

Low Water beneath The Old Man.

08.03.10-155

Levers Water from Raven Tor.

08.03.10-156

Brim Fell Rake.

08.03.10-163

Heading for Low Water.

08.03.10-180

Casper and Dougal on Low Water.

08.03.10-185

Well, I had to didn't I? The view of the Old Man from the middle of Low Water.

08.03.10-196

Descending through the ruined mine workings.

08.03.10-202

The Coniston fell from Torver. At Brown Howe, some reflection shots.

08.03.10-204

Reflected Arnsbarrow Hill.

08.03.10-206

08.03.10-209

Reflected Fairfield Horseshoe.

08.03.10-216

A flat calm view along the lake.

The Coniston Fells

Walked on 07/01/2010

Start point: The Sun Inn, Coniston (SD 300 975)

Coniston – Walna Scar road – Brown Pike – Buck Pike – Dow Crag – Goat’s  Hawse – Coniston Old Man  – Brim Fell – Levers Hawse –  Great How – Swirl How – Prison Band – Swirl Hawse – Levers Water – Boulder Valley – Coppermines Valley – Coniston

Distance: 10.2 miles    Total Ascent: 1085 metres     Time Taken: 5 hours 30 minutes

Weather: Cold and clear. -4°C

I actually came to Coniston yesterday (Wednesday 6th January) to walk theses fells but decided against it due to the heavy snow when I arrived there – I knew the fells would still be there another day and surely enough, this morning turned out lovely and clear. This would be fantastic and memorable day for a walk on the fells. According to Radio Cumbria, last night was the coldest ever recorded in Cumbria with a temperature of -14.5C recorded at Carlisle. When I got to Coniston it was -9C, so I knew it would be pretty cold today. As it turned out, it was quite warm in the sunshine but when in the wind or shade, then it was particularly noticeable how cold it really was.

Coniston

The Coniston fells route map.

07.01.10-010

Sunrise on The Old Man.

07.01.10-012

This snow filled lane is the approach to the Walna Scar Road, the gate is directly ahead.

07.01.10-015

Looking back along the Walna Scar Road.

07.01.10-024

Brown Pike above Cove Bridge.

07.01.10-032

The Old Man across The Cove.

07.01.10-034

Sunshine on Morecambe Bay to the south.

07.01.10-036

Casper at the Angus Shelter, Walna Scar beyond.

07.01.10-038

Snow cornice on Walna Scar.

07.01.10-049

Buck Pike from Brown Pike. Time to get the crampons on now for virtually the rest of the walk.

07.01.10-051

Looking back across Walna Scar and Caw to Black Combe.

07.01.10-057

The approach to Buck Pike.

07.01.10-059

Brown Pike from Buck Pike.

07.01.10-067

Dow Crag ahead from Buck Pike.

07.01.10-070

Easy Gully, Dow Crag.

07.01.10-076

The Scafell range from Dow Crag.

07.01.10-077

Close up on Scafell and Scafell Pike.

07.01.10-084

A frozen Goat's Water and Dow Crag from Goat's Hawse.

07.01.10-091

Looking across to Dow Crag from the slog up to The Old Man.

07.01.10-094

I found these skis conveniently placed on the trig. column on The Old Man summit.

07.01.10-096

When I found the owner, it was an old friend of mine Nathan Pike. Now that's what I call travelling in style!

07.01.10-097

Setting off for Brim Fell.

07.01.10-100

The view from the summit, clear as clear can be.

07.01.10-107

Heading for Brim Fell as Nathan realises it is harder to ski uphill than down! I caught him up again before he disappeared down Brim Fell Rake.

07.01.10-109

Looking back to The Old Man summit from the Brim Fell ridge.

07.01.10-110

A clear view of all the fells today.

07.01.10-112

Looking back once more from Brim Fell.

07.01.10-118

The eastern fells across Levers Water.

07.01.10-119

Swirl How and Great How Crags from the descent to Levers Hawse, to the left is Great Carrs.

07.01.10-122

Part frozen Seathwaite Tarn and Harter fell from Levers Hawse.

07.01.10-124

Grey Friar.

07.01.10-125

A clear view to the Howgills across Levers Water.

07.01.10-127

Brim Fell across Levers Hawse from the climb to Great How Crags, Dow Crag and Black Combe to the left.

07.01.10-134

The Howgills from Swirl How, to the right is Ingleborough.

07.01.10-138

Swirl How.

07.01.10-143

The Scafells to Bowfell across Great Carrs.

07.01.10-144

Skiddaw and Blencathra across the Langdales.

07.01.10-151

Prison Band.

07.01.10-157

Descending Prison Band, Wetherlam ahead. The snow was often knee deep down here making the going hard.

07.01.10-163

The view from Swirl Hawse.

07.01.10-167

Blazing a trail from Swirl Hawse following Swirl Hawse Beck. The more usual path is further up to the right but this seemed as good a way as any today...but watch out for the big holes like the one at the bottom left of the photo! At least I only went waist deep and didn't disappear altogether.

07.01.10-170

In the shade at Levers Water and the sun is already setting, Great How Crags in the sunshine.

07.01.10-182

Pink tinged Wetherlam from Boulder Valley.

07.01.10-191

Looking to the YHA across Coppermines Valley.

07.01.10-195

The walking huts with the Yewdale Fells tinged with the sunset.

07.01.10-196

Coppermines Valley. On the way home...

07.01.10-199

The fells recently walked from Torver.

07.01.10-203

Lake District sunset.

07.01.10-206

Frozen Coniston Water at Brown How.

07.01.10-208

Bethecar Moor from Brown How.

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 09/11/2009

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Goat’s Hawse – Goat’s Water – Brim Fell – The Old Man of Coniston – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 4.5 miles     Total Ascent: 620 metres     Time Taken: 2 hours

Weather: Sunny and clear, cooling. <8oC.

It was so clear and sunny today you would hardly think it was the same time of year as the rest of the previous week when it has been raining almost incessantly. I found time for a late afternoon walk and with those blue skies I was confident of seeing a decent sunset so tried to time my walk accordingly. I must admit I thought I had left it too late when I was walking beneath Dow Crag, it was so dark and cold there. Dougal joined us today for his first ‘bigger’ walk at 7 months old and of course we were recognised (along with Casper, the two of them together are unmistakable!) and then he was fussed over at every opportunity by passing walkers. He took the whole thing in his stride of course and he is turning out to be a great pretender to the fell masters throne.

Coniston Old Man

Coniston Old Man route map.

09.11.09-002

The Coniston fells from Torver.

09.11.09-007

The Old Man from the car park.

09.11.09-009

The view north across The Bell.

09.11.09-012

Heading along the Walna Scar Road.

09.11.09-018

Dougal blazes a trail he looks as though he knows where he is going!

09.11.09-021

Looking across the reedy Boo Tarn, it was clear as an (Ill) Bell!

09.11.09-023

Long shadows already looking back along the track.

09.11.09-027

The Cove and Dow Crag ahead.

09.11.09-031

The western flank of Coniston Old Man.

09.11.09-034

A big shadow from Buck Pike as the sun starts to set.

09.11.09-036

The sun bursts over Brown Pike.

09.11.09-041

Sunny Dougal.

09.11.09-050

Once into the shadows it was like entering a very different world, chilly and grey.

09.11.09-057

Dow Crag across Goat's Water.

09.11.09-060

Goat's Water reflection.

09.11.09-071

Walking along the edge of Goat's Water.

09.11.09-081

Grey Friar and the Scafells from Goat's Hawse.

09.11.09-088

The setting sun over Dow Crag.

09.11.09-091

The view from the Brim Fell ridge, Black Combe in the distance. It was getting colder with every footstep now.

09.11.09-093

The Old Man summit ahead but first I was off in the opposite direction to Brim Fell.

09.11.09-096

The sky is on fire over the Duddon Estuary.

09.11.09-097

The summit of Brim Fell. To those who read in the Love the Lakes blog about the latest jacket, all I can say is wow! Instant warmth.

09.11.09-101

Grey Friar and the Scafells from Brim Fell. Looks like there is a sprinkling of snow up there too.

09.11.09-105

Scafell - and yes, a dusting of snow indeed.

09.11.09-111

The Duddon Estuary, Walney Island and Barrow-in-Furness.

09.11.09-113

A closer view.

09.11.09-115

As I was walking the frost was forming on the high ground and the puddles were freezing over. This is a frosty view down to Low Water from the walk back towards The Old Man.

09.11.09-125

Brim Fell and the Scafells from The Old Man summit.

09.11.09-129

Coniston Old Man sunset.

09.11.09-131

Column and cairn.

09.11.09-135

The view to the south west.

09.11.09-137

Coniston Water.

09.11.09-147

Dougal and Casper on The Old Man - Dougal's first (hopefully of many) time up here.

09.11.09-153

Looking to Wetherlam across Low Water and Levers Water.

09.11.09-169

I hung around for a little while alone watching the sunset, it was just beautiful.

09.11.09-180

Column and sky.

09.11.09-186

The Kent Estuary and Morecambe Bay, Heysham Power Station is in view across the bay.

09.11.09-191

Dougal looks on as darkness falls - let's go! We descended using a 'no frills' route to get down as quick as we could before dark.

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 24/09/2009

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Brim Fell – Brim Fell Rake – Low Water – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 4.3 miles     Total Ascent: 613 metres     Time Taken: 3 hours 45 minutes

Weather: Overcast, cold wind. 15C.

Today was the third StridingEdge group walk which was up to The Old Man of Coniston via the now officially named (well, it is in our house!) McMahon Route, a brilliantly graded walk across Little Arrow Moor and then up the south ridge of the Old Man. Joining me on the walk were StridingEdge viewers who expressed an interest in coming for a walk with me and Casper and it was great to meet everyone – some new faces and some old stalwarts of our walks. It was a good walk in great company, pity the weather wasn’t kinder to us today…maybe next time.

Coniston Old Man

Coniston Old Man route map.

24.09.09-001

The Old Man from the car park.

24.09.09-003

Setting off along the Walna Scar Road.

24.09.09-008

The start of the climb to The Old Man.

24.09.09-015

Torver Common with Beacon Fell prominent on the right.

24.09.09-016

Coniston Water.

24.09.09-037

Casper has a look across The Cove to Brown Pike.

24.09.09-053

He's struggling to keep all that tongue in!

24.09.09-062

Coniston across Bursting Stone Quarry, Windermere top left.

24.09.09-066

Climbing the south ridge.

24.09.09-072

A bit of sunshine over Morecambe Bay and the Kent Estuary and you can just about make out the outline of Heysham Power Station across the bay. We said hello to Angus on the way up here.

24.09.09-094

A group shot of the StridingEdge striders on a misty Old Man summit - you can see by their attire that it wasn't the warmest (or clearest) of days up here! Back row L-R: Martin, Carl, Karl, David, Rod, Rob, Andy, Andrew, Gary, Michael. Front row L-R Chris, Linda, Lesley, Rachael, Angela, Mike and Shelley.

24.09.09-098

Heading for Brim Fell.

24.09.09-099

Beneath the clouds on Brim fell Rake looking across to Levers Water.

24.09.09-102

Low Water appears through the mist.

24.09.09-105

Mountain man and dog. That's too clean to be Casper at this stage of a walk!

24.09.09-109

Levers Water.

24.09.09-114

A glimpse of Windermere.

24.09.09-139

The descent to Low Water after our lunch stop.

24.09.09-144

Low Water and the tourist path up to The Old Man.

24.09.09-189

Heading through the old mine workings.

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 16/06/2009

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Low Water – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 3.5 miles     Total Ascent: 575 metres     Time Taken: 1 hour 45 minutes

Weather: Sunny spells. 19C.

Although it was sunny and warm this morning, I set out with a heavy heart for The Old Man for it was to be Angus’ final journey onto the fells and the place he will rest forever. I know he loved this walk as we have done it often enough and this is the final chapter in the Angus story.

ConistonOldMan

Coniston Old Man route map.

16.06.09-001

The Bell and Wetherlam from the car park.

16.06.09-005

On the Walna Scar Road, heading for The Old Man.

16.06.09-008

Onward and upward, blue skies abound.

16.06.09-017

ITTA - It's that tongue again!

16.06.09-018

Coniston Water and distant Windermere over the quarry and Coniston village.

16.06.09-019

The view to the south.

16.06.09-025

Brown Pike and Blind Tarn.

16.06.09-029

'I am the resurrection and the life...' Coniston Old Man is a fitting final resting place for Angus, the old man of the fells. We have been up here many, many times together and I purposely scattered his ashes where we can always look up and see him from home. Next time you are up on the Old Man, spare a thought for our boy Angus and listen carefully, you just may be able to hear his barks carried on the wind.

16.06.09-043

The view across low Water and Levers Water to Wetherlam.

COM

A panoramic view from The Old Man.

16.06.09-050

Just me and you now Casper.

16.06.09-053

Craggy Dow Crag.

16.06.09-058

Swirl How and the silhouette of distant Skiddaw.

16.06.09-060

The Scafells.

16.06.09-064

Alone with our thoughts on the summit.

16.06.09-075

Looking for the way down.

16.06.09-083

Low Water.

16.06.09-097

Industrial relics.

16.06.09-102

The mining past of Coniston.

16.06.09-104

Wetherlam.

16.06.09-111

More ruins on the descent.

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 09/02/2009

Start point: Coniston (SD 300 975)

Coniston – Walna Scar Road – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Boo Tarn – Walna Scar Road – Coniston

Distance: 4.5 miles     Total Ascent: 730 metres     Time Taken: 2 hours 30 minutes

Weather: Cold and misty. 1°C.

The freezing mist was all around at low level today for my first walk up to Coniston Old Man this year. Yesterday and last night saw fresh snow falls in the area and everywhere around quiet Coniston was covered this morning. This was winter walking in different conditions to last week with no views and the eerie silence that walking in heavy mist brings and an overwhelming feeling of solitude.

09.02.09-001

The snowy and icy roads meant a walk from the village today to reach the Walna Scar Road. Patient Casper waits in the middle of the road!

09.02.09-005

The car park beyond the fell gate is empty today.

09.02.09-007

It's all a bit murky following the Diamond route from Boo Tarn.

09.02.09-009

On the climb to the summit. Things were brightening up as I reached the top and at one stage I did think I may be able to get above the clouds...

09.02.09-014

...unfortunately not then! This is the summit cairn with snow drifted against the north-east face.

09.02.09-015

Cold Coniston summit. There was no-one here today nor another footprint in the fresh snow.

09.02.09-018

The trig. column and cairn.

09.02.09-023

Casper on the summit.

09.02.09-025

Casper takes it easy. On the way up I managed to lose my drinks bottle somewhere from the side pocket of my bag so I decided to follow my own footprints back down to see if I could find it. Unfortunately I didn't, so if anyone finds a battle scarred blue Sigg bottle up there - it's mine!

09.02.09-030

Boo Tarn sums up today's walk - frozen and viewless.

 

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 30/10/2008

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Low Water – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 3.5 miles     Total Ascent: 575 metres     Time Taken: 1 hour 45 minutes

Weather: Cold wind, snow on the tops. 5ºC.

It was bitterly cold again last night and there was a decent fall of snow on all the high fells that I could see. I had a walk up to the Old Man of Coniston after lunch today and the snow on the southern slopes of the fells had melted somewhat but on the northern sides there was still plenty and there were some angry looking snow clouds about. The wind at the top was biting, which is no less than you would expect I guess but I think Casper was wishing his hair was about a foot longer!

ConistonOldMan.jpg

30.10.08-012.jpg

On the Walna Scar Road, the snow capped Old Man up to the right.

30.10.08-016.jpg

Coniston Water from the start of the climb. Lots of cars at the fell gate this afternoon.

30.10.08-023.jpg

A glimpse of Windermere passing the quarries.

30.10.08-031.jpg

The Duddon Estuary from the snow line.

30.10.08-050.jpg

Brown Pike and Blind Tarn. Beyond, Walna Scar has a sprinkling of snow with the dark lump of Black Combe beyond. Black Combe had a smattering of snow first thing this morning but that disappeared as the day wore on.

30.10.08-053.jpg

Casper takes in the view to Dow Crag.

30.10.08-057.jpg

The view from higher up. There was a cold wind whistling around up there.

30.10.08-061.jpg

Almost at the top and there is a good contrast in colours with lower ground below.

30.10.08-066.jpg

At least there was a view from the top today, the other fells all seemed to be in cloud, here looking towards Wetherlam with Low Water and Levers Water in view below.

30.10.08-068.jpg

Coniston from the Old Man as Casper surveys what is going on down below.

30.10.08-072.jpg

The ridge to Brim Fell.

30.10.08-083.jpg

The Old Man of Coniston. The Young Beardie of Coniston has chattering teeth!

30.10.08-089.jpg

Great How Crags and Swirl How.

30.10.08-093.jpg

The summit of The Old Man of Coniston.

30.10.08-095.jpg

Spindrift!

30.10.08-096.jpg

They look like snow clouds in the distance to me.

30.10.08-099.jpg

I bet the Scafells are getting a load of snow dumped on them. Slight Side is to the left and the declivity of Mickledore can be made out beneath the cloud.

30.10.08-104.jpg

Dow Crag from The Old Man.

30.10.08-108.jpg

The Coniston fells.

30.10.08-115.jpg

Windermere and the Coppermines Valley.

30.10.08-116.jpg

The route of descent to Low Water. It was a 'li'l bit slape' down here!

30.10.08-118.jpg

On the way to Low Water.

Coniston Fells

Walked on 16/02/2008

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar road – The Old Man of Coniston – Brim Fell – Levers Hawse – Great How – Swirl How – Prison Band – Swirl Hawse – Levers Water – Boulder Valley – Walna Scar road

Distance: 6.2 miles     Total Ascent: 770 metres     Time Taken: 3 hours

Weather: Sunny, hazy and cool. 0°C.

 

The conditions were a little strange up on Coniston today, oddly cold – yet warm and clear – yet hazy! I never quite got above the haze layer today but the sun did manage to break through at times. The temperature was below freezing when I set off and when I returned yet in the sunshine it was really warm with the temperature only seemingly plummeting in the breeze at the top.

Coniston Fells

16.02.08-002

Early morning light and mist on Wetherlam across The Bell.

16.02.08-004

Heading for The Old Man on the Walna Scar Road.

16.02.08-005

All is hazy towards Coniston Water over Torver High Common from Little Arrow Moor.

16.02.08-008

A hazy view to Brown Pike and Blind Tarn from the climb to The Old Man.

16.02.08-010

The view from the summit of The Old Man to Levers Water and Wetherlam.

16.02.08-012

Looking over the edge to Low Water.

16.02.08-018

The Old Man of Coniston.

16.02.08-021

Dow Crag from the summit.

16.02.08-024

Looking back to the misty Old Man summit cairn from the Brim Fell ridge.

16.02.08-026

Brim Fell ahead.

16.02.08-036

Casper on the frozen summit of Brim Fell.

16.02.08-042

Great Carrs, Swirl How and Great How Crags from the descent to Levers Hawse.

16.02.08-047

The monochrome version gives a distinctly cold feel.

16.02.08-051

Green Crag and Harter Fell beyond Seathwaite Tarn from Swirl Hawse.

16.02.08-056

The view from Great How Crags.

16.02.08-068

The Scafells over Great Carrs from Swirl How - it looks like the tops of them may be clear of the mist.

16.02.08-070

The descent is down Prison Band to Swirl Hawse with Black Sails and Wetherlam beyond.

16.02.08-072

The summit of Swirl How.

16.02.08-076

Grey Friar from Swirl How.

16.02.08-079

Black Sails from the descent of Prison Band.

16.02.08-086

Heading for Levers Water.

16.02.08-090

Great How Crags above Levers Water.

16.02.08-094

Lovely reflections on Levers Water today.

16.02.08-098

The section to the right of the rocks is frozen today.

16.02.08-102

Levers Water dam.

16.02.08-113

Dropping into Boulder Valley.

16.02.08-115

The Pudding Stone.

16.02.08-116

Looking across Coppermines Valley to Wetherlam from some of the ruined mine workings.

16.02.08-119

There was a strange, almost translucent light over the Coniston fells now with the sun shining through the mist.

 

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 17/12/2007

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Goat’s Hawse – Goat’s Water – Brim Fell – The Old Man of Coniston – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 4.5 miles     Total Ascent: 620 metres     Time Taken: 2 hours 30 minutes

Weather: Clear and cold. -2oC.

It was really cold this morning and it was -4oC in Coniston when I arrived. This made the air higher up really clear as down below in the valleys it was quite hazy and misty. Once up to the wind tunnel of Goat’s Water it got really bracing and cold but the views were fabulous today. There weren’t many braving the elements today though, there were only a couple more cars at the car park when I got back – normally it is full!

Coniston Old Man

17.12.07-001

The rising sun gives a golden glow to the southern slopes of Coniston Old Man.

17.12.07-009

Brown Pike from the climb to Goats Water.

17.12.07-015

Buck Pike and Dow Crag.

17.12.07-018

The rocky eastern face of Dow Crag.

17.12.07-020

...and again.

17.12.07-021

Dow Crag over a partially frozen Goat's Water.

17.12.07-027

Climbing towards Goat's Hawse.

17.12.07-034

Angus sits in the weak winter sunshine.

17.12.07-042

The path to The Old Man is frozen at Goat's Hawse.

17.12.07-055

Helvellyn from Brim Fell.

17.12.07-057

Beyond The Old Man summit there is a thick layer of cloud over Morecambe Bay and the low lying valleys are covered in mist.

17.12.07-060

The Scafells from Brim Fell.

17.12.07-061

The eastern fells over Wetherlam.

17.12.07-068

Slight Side and Scafell from Brim Fell.

17.12.07-070

Bowfell.

17.12.07-071

Helvellyn.

17.12.07-074

Great Carrs and Swirl How. Beyond is Skiddaw to the left and Blencathra to the right.

17.12.07-090

Wetherlam and some lingering snow on The Old Man.

17.12.07-099

The Scafells from the summit of The Old Man of Coniston.

17.12.07-102

Looking beyond Coniston Water to the south.

17.12.07-105

We are all alone up here - these two are totally disinterested in the view. They are probably trying to keep warm as it was a bit raw up here.

17.12.07-115

Woolly Casper.

17.12.07-125

Not forgetting Angus.

17.12.07-126

Looking across to Buck Pike and Dow Crag.

17.12.07-133

The eastern fells from the descent of The Old Man.

17.12.07-142

The Coniston fells across Coniston Water on the way home.

17.12.07-146

Reflections in Coniston Water.

17.12.07-147

Coniston Water.

Coniston Circuit

Walked on 15/11/2007

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar road – Coniston Old Man – Brim Fell – Levers Hawse – Grey Friar – Great Carrs – Swirl How – Prison Band – Swirl Hawse – Levers Water – Boulder Valley – Walna Scar road

Distance: 8.2 miles     Total Ascent: 925 metres     Time Taken: 4 hours

Weather: Icy at first, sunny later. 0oC at first, 7oC max.

I didn’t know what the weather would do today; it looked clear enough but the forecasts predicted otherwise so I opted for a circuit of the Coniston fells which seemed to be enjoying a decent amount of sunshine. Coniston Water was covered with a blanket of cloud as happens on this type of freezing morning but higher up it was a mix of wispy clouds and clear blue skies. The highlight was the fabulous stillness and reflections on Levers Water.

Coniston

15.11.07-001

The Old Man of Coniston from the Walna Scar Road bathed in early morning sunlight. The high fells had a cap of cloud on them today.

15.11.07-012

Traversing Little Arrow Moor.

15.11.07-013

Coniston Water was covered in a thick carpet of cloud...

15.11.07-019

...with the higher ground either side looking like islands in the sea. Beacon Fell is prominent on the right.

15.11.07-022

Buck Pike and Dow Crag.

15.11.07-024

Brown Pike.

15.11.07-028

Climbing to The Old Man and into the mist.

15.11.07-034

An eerie light on the summit of a deserted Old Man.

15.11.07-047

Back out of the mist briefly in the dip between the Old Man and Brim Fell.

15.11.07-059

Casper on Brim Fell - looks a bit cold lad!

15.11.07-065

Descending to Levers Hawse. The north facing slopes haven't caught any sun yet so remain frosted.

15.11.07-070

Seathwaite Tarn and Harter Fell - yesterday I got a view looking the other way.

15.11.07-071

Great How Crags. We didn't climb here but took the faint path to the left, contouring the lower slopes heading for Grey Friar.

15.11.07-074

Looking back to The Old Man and Brim Fell, it looks like there has been an explosion up there!

15.11.07-075

It looks decidedly dull on the top of Grey Friar.

15.11.07-080

Cold Pike and Pike o' Blisco from Matterhorn Rock on Grey Friar.

15.11.07-085

The summit of Grey Friar, Harter Fell beyond.

15.11.07-099

Looking back to Grey Friar, which is now clear, from Fairfield - the col between Grey Friar and Great Carrs.

15.11.07-102

Grey Friar and Harter Fell from the memorial for the Canadian Air Force crew that crashed their Halifax Bomber here during World War 2. The Scafells, Crinkle Crag and Bowfell are covered by a thick blanket of cloud looking from Great Carrs. Casper on Swirl How. Descending Prison Band towards Wetherlam. Crinkle Crags and Bowfell are clearing now. Red Tarn and Pike o' Blisco from Prison Band. Levers Water and Great How Crags. Levers Water reflections. The Coniston fells and Coppermines Valley. Return to top Previous Walk 14th November 2007 Harter Fell Next Walk 22nd November 2007 Three Haweswater walks Grey Friar and Harter Fell from the memorial for the Canadian Air Force crew that crashed their Halifax Bomber here during World War 2. The Scafells, Crinkle Crag and Bowfell are covered by a thick blanket of cloud looking from Great Carrs. Casper on Swirl How. Descending Prison Band towards Wetherlam. Crinkle Crags and Bowfell are clearing now. Red Tarn and Pike o' Blisco from Prison Band. Levers Water and Great How Crags. Levers Water reflections. The Coniston fells and Coppermines Valley. Return to top Previous Walk 14th November 2007 Harter Fell Next Walk 22nd November 2007 Three Haweswater walks Grey Friar and Harter Fell from the memorial for the Canadian Air Force crew that crashed their Halifax Bomber here during World War 2.

15.11.07-109

The Scafells, Crinkle Crag and Bowfell are covered by a thick blanket of cloud looking from Great Carrs.

15.11.07-113

Casper on Swirl How.

15.11.07-119

Descending Prison Band towards Wetherlam.

15.11.07-122

Crinkle Crags and Bowfell are clearing now.

15.11.07-124

Red Tarn and Pike o' Blisco from Prison Band.

15.11.07-128

Levers Water and Great How Crags.

15.11.07-139

Levers Water reflections.

15.11.07-156

15.11.07-157

15.11.07-158

15.11.07-168

The Coniston fells and Coppermines Valley.

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 11/10/2007

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Low Water – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 3.5 miles     Total Ascent: 575 metres     Time Taken: 1 hour 35 minutes

Weather: In hill fog most of the walk. 17oC.

It was amazingly warm today  – so warm that I completed the walk in only a t-shirt, but unfortunately the walk was largely done in the mist. That means there were no views and few photos with the clouds only parting occasionally. At least we were dry though…

ConistonOldMan

12.10.07-002

Casper a blur on the Walna Scar Road - which way is it?

12.10.07-003

A brief clearing of the clouds and a glimpse of Little Arrow Moor.

12.10.07-005

...and across to Coniston Water.

12.10.07-006

Casper on the summit of The Old Man - not a view to be had today.

12.10.07-010

Casper and the other Old Man.

12.10.07-011

Out of the gloom to Low Water.

12.10.07-014

Low Water felt quite an eerie place with the mist hanging over it, only the echoing of an Angus bark to shatter the peace.

12.10.07-020

Spot the gruesome-twosome.

12.10.07-023

The Coppermines Valley from the descent.

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 08/08/2007

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Low Water – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 3.5 miles     Total Ascent: 575 metres     Time Taken: 3 hours

Weather: Sunny. 17oC.

It was another bright day today and we managed to beat the majority of the hoards up to Coniston Old Man, which was timely as it happened as the clouds rolled in when we were at the summit. I hate to say it but there was just the feeling of a slight nip in the air and the bracken is starting to look slightly brown. I wonder if there will be any hot days to come? I haven’t even managed a swim anywhere yet this summer!

ConistonOldMan

08.08.07-007

Wow, it was almost like a summer's day at Coniston today - here looking up to The Old Man from the Walna Scar Road.

08.08.07-008

The Bell and Wetherlam.

08.08.07-012

Angus and Casper waiting for us on the way up.

08.08.07-018

Casper has a lie down in the sunshine.

08.08.07-021

Heading across Little Arrow Moor towards Walna Scar and Brown Pike.

08.08.07-025

The Duddon Estuary across Torver Common.

08.08.07-029

Sunshine on Brown Pike.

08.08.07-033

and a moody looking Dow Crag.

08.08.07-038

Louise and Angus enjoying the view across The Cove to Buck Pike and Dow Crag.

08.08.07-043

Angus.

08.08.07-048

Coniston and Coniston Water over the quarry workings.

08.08.07-053

The southern end of Coniston Water and the Leven Estuary, Heysham Power Station on the horizon across Morecambe Bay.

08.08.07-054

All blue skies and sunshine on the way up.

08.08.07-059

The view from the summit across Low Water to Wetherlam with Fairfield and the eastern fells beyond.

08.08.07-060

Silhouetted Scafells from the summit of Coniston Old Man as the weather starts to close in a bit to the west.

08.08.07-062

It still looks okay to the east though.

08.08.07-063

Louise, Angus and Casper on the summit.

08.08.07-074

Looking over to Brim Fell and the Scafells.

08.08.07-076

It has all changed over on Brown Pike now, enveloped in cloud.

08.08.07-078

The view over Coppermines Valley towards Windermere.

08.08.07-080

A series of explosions from the quarry rocked the fell during descent.

08.08.07-084

Walking through the industrial relics on the descent.

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 22/06/2007

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Low Water – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 3.5 miles     Total Ascent: 575 metres     Time Taken: 1 hour 45 minutes

Weather: Still with sunny spells. 20oC.

This was another of those walks that just ‘happened’ – I had intended visiting Black Fell and Tarn Hows today but on the way there The Old Man looked too inviting to miss as it was nice and clear and it had the makings of a good day. I’m glad I did too; we were all alone on the summit which I guess is the reward for getting out early. By the time I returned to the car park, it was full so it looks like it will be a busy afternoon up there today.

ConistonOldMan

22.06.07-002

The Bell and Wetherlam from the Walna Scar Road.

22.06.07-003

Foxgloves and bracken on the climb to The Old Man.

22.06.07-022

Angus and Casper on Little Arrow Moor with Buck Pike and Dow Crag beyond.

22.06.07-028

The golden sands of the Duddon Estuary.

22.06.07-032

Dow Crag.

22.06.07-038

Coniston and Coniston Water over the quarry.

22.06.07-044

Heading for the summit of The Old Man.

22.06.07-048

Brim Fell from the summit cairn on Coniston Old Man.

22.06.07-050

Coniston Water from the summit.

22.06.07-053

The cloud is lifting from Eskdale in the distance but is hiding the Scafells for now. In the centre is Grey Friar with Brim Fell up to the right.

22.06.07-054

Looking across Low Water to Levers Water, Wetherlam and the eastern fells. The path used in descent can clearly be seen from here.

22.06.07-063

Swirl How.

22.06.07-064

Wetherlam, Helvellyn and Fairfield beyond.

22.06.07-070

Blind Tarn below Brown Pike, Walna Scar beyond.

22.06.07-074

Big clouds over the summit.

22.06.07-077

Casper and Angus.

22.06.07-078

Coniston and Coniston Water from the summit.

22.06.07-081

Starting the descent...

22.06.07-086

...heading for a calm looking Low Water.

22.06.07-093

Low Water reflections.

22.06.07-106

Straight in for a splashing time.

22.06.07-126

Flying Casper.

22.06.07-155

Wetherlam over the ruined mine workings.

Coniston Old Man

Walked on 30/04/2007

Start point: Walna Scar road (SD 289 970)

Walna Scar car park – Boo Tarn – The Old Man of Coniston – Low Water – Walna Scar car park

Distance: 3.5 miles     Total Ascent: 575 metres     Time Taken: 1 hour 45 minutes

Weather: Fine and sunny with a stiff, cool breeze on the top. 16oC.

Boots – a result! I have had a credit for a pair from the shop, now all I have to do is choose some more. The same ones? or different…we shall see.

Angus and Casper have now officially acquired cult status according to Lake District Life magazine. Check out the latest issue of it where they manage to get a four page spread!

Finally, the walk. What a gorgeous day with only the strong breeze spoiling it a little as it was quite cool. This was a ‘no frills’ walk today, just straight up the nose and back down the tourist path. We didn’t see a soul until way down today.

ConistonOldMan

30.04.07-001

The Bell and Wetherlam from the Walna Scar car park.

30.04.07-004

The Old Man of Coniston.

30.04.07-006

The Old Man again from further along the Walna Scar Road. All is golden, but not for long I think as the bracken is starting to sprout now.

30.04.07-009

Boo Tarn and the Walna Scar Road from the start of the climb to The Old Man.

30.04.07-012

Climbing the steep way.

30.04.07-013

Buck Pike and Dow Crag from Little Arrow Moor.

30.04.07-023

Angus likes a bit of sunshine.

30.04.07-025

All is hazy over that way - Coniston, Coniston Water and beyond.

30.04.07-029

Casper shows off his tongue.

30.04.07-031

Brown Pike and Blind Tarn, Black Combe distant right.

30.04.07-032

Looking across Low Water, Levers Water and Wetherlam to the eastern fells from the summit of The Old Man. The zigzag path is the route used in descent.

30.04.07-036

Looking to the Scafell range from a deserted summit.

Coniston Old Man

Hair raising on the summit - but not for long, it's off to the barbers this afternoon for these two!

30.04.07-043

Looking across to Brown Pike, Buck Pike and Dow Crag with Black Combe in the distance.

30.04.07-044

Dow Crag.

30.04.07-057

The summit.

30.04.07-067

Another easterly view.

30.04.07-075

Warm enough for a swim in Low Water.

30.04.07-081

Passing through the ruined mine workings, Wetherlam beyond.

30.04.07-085

More industrial relics.

30.04.07-089

Wetherlam across the Coppermines Valley.

  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • Next Page »

Walking Diary

  • The Mosedale Horseshoe 01/03/2022
  • Caw 18/01/2022
  • Coniston sunset 17/01/2022
  • Blencathra 15/01/2022
  • Scafell Pike 14/01/2022

Social

  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Information

  • Striding Edge
  • T&C’s
  • Privacy
  • Links