St John’s Hill

Start Point: Bothel (NY 182 388)

St John’s Hill – Caermote Hill – Caermote Roman Fort – Bothel

Distance: 4.2 miles Total Ascent: 183 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 45 minutes Start Time: 09:30

Weather: Overcast, 8°C

I managed to kill more than one bird today – I needed to be in the north Lakes, Fletcher was keen to get out (so he tells me!) and I have never done Caermote Hill. It turned out to be a boggy mess, more of a walk through farmers fields than a fell walk. It was nice to be in a new area though but given the distance from home, I don’t think I will be back in a hurry!

Looking back to Bothel. I should have had wellies on today, not boots - much of the walk was through squelchy mud.

On St John's Hill, Caermote to the right. Over the wall are earthworks known as the Battery but there is no access and not a lot to be seen from ground level. The flat area where I took this picture from is the site of a beacon.

The memorial boulder, Caermote Hill.

The summit of Caermote Hill, Binsey (under cloud) in the background.

Bassenthwaite Lake.

Dougal and Fletcher - young Fletcher has evidence of his culinary delectation around his mouth (hint: it comes from sheep and is readily available on the fells - ugh, Fletcher!)

Skiddaw and moody clouds.

Caermote Hill from the Roman fort.

Tilting at windmills - above Bothel.

It was dusk when I was passing Bassenthwaite Lake but it looked so calm and tranquil, Dodd reflected in this shot.

Skiddaw massif panorama.

Looking south.

...and north.

Reflected colours.