Yeewbarrow

Walked on 23/06/2009

Start point: Overbeck Bridge (NY 168 068)

Overbeck Bridge – Bell Rib – Great Door – Yewbarrow (South Top) – Yewbarrow (North Top) – Dore Head – Low Tarn – Overbeck – Overbeck Bridge

Distance: 5 miles Total Ascent: 725 metres Time Taken: 3 hours

Weather: Glorious sunshine. 24C.

What a gorgeous summer day today, the best this year that I have been out in for sure. I headed over to Wasdale and had a walk up to Yewbarrow which is always a great walk. I managed to find not one but two places to have a welcome dip today and there is no better feeling than having a bathe in cool, fresh water on a day such as today.

Regular viewers will know that I have been writing a feature for Lake District Life magazine for the last couple of years. That magazine is now defunct and has amalgamated with the much bigger Lancashire Life. I am pleased to announce that I have now signed up to write a column in there starting from the August issue – stick with me Casper lad, I’ll make you a star!

Yewbarrow route map.

I can never resist the early morning Wasdale view, so here's a plethora of them...

A close up on Great Gable and Lingmell.

Yewbarrow, where I am walking today, is the fell to the left in this photo.

Beautiful reflections on a calm Wast Water today.

The view to the southern end of the lake.

Last one , on with the walk!

It is a glorious day at the start of the climb to Bell Rib, the southern crag of Yewbarrow.

All is bright and green for this steep climb.

Looking at the climb or the sheep Casper?

Middle Fell.

The view to Wasdale from the steep scree climb skirting Bell Rib.

Suddenly you pop out of the scree chute at Great Door.

Thirsty work for Casper, there's not been a lot to drink so far.

A grand view of The Scafells

An immaculate looking Wast Water with Illgill Head and Whin Rigg beyond.

A close up on Burnmoor Tarn with Harter Fell and Green Crag beyond and Caw lying central.

Red Pike, Scoat Fell and Pillar from the summit of Yewbarrow.

Yewbarrow's claim to fame is that all the Lake District 3000 footers can be seen from its summit. This view is to the most distant, Skiddaw, straight along the ridge.

Kirk Fell and Great Gable and the fourth 3000 footer, Helvellyn, between Great Gable and the small lump of Glaramara.

Haycock and Red Pike with Low Tarn visible on the upper left.

Middle Fell and Seatallan.

At last! A drink and a swim for Casper.

Looking back to the main top of Yewbarrow from the highest point to the north. The cairned north top is further along the ridge.

Pillar from the North Top of Yewbarrow.

Great Gable and Great End at the head of Lingmell Beck.

Kirk Fell and Great Gable.

Pillar and Mosedale.

Casper leads the way on the steep descent of Stirrup Crag.

Red Pike across Dore Head.

Pillar from Dore Head Tarn.

I decided to walk to Low Tarn nestling below Red Pike and it was baking hot now, here looking to the Scafells from the tarn plateau across a cotton grass field.

Low Tarn. It was so hot that I could not resist a dip in here although it is not exactly the deepest tarn for a swim. A quiet mountain tarn like this is simply an idyllic place to bathe.

Red Pike across Low Tarn.

Looking across to Yewbarrow from High Fell and unless my eyes deceive me that's a cow! In fact there was a whole herd of them, not something you really expect to see so high up. I'm sorry Casper but you are on your own!

This is a good view of Dropping Crag on Yewbarrow. The route of ascent directly to Great Door is the scree slope that curves to the right. The alternative path to the left misses it completely.

Red Pike and Over Beck.

Well, I couldn't resist this fantastic deep pool on Over Beck, so it was in for the second dip of the day.

The Scafells taken from the foot of Yewbarrow.

Scafell.

Helm Crag

Walked on 19/06/2009

Start point: Roadside parking near to Helmside (NY 332 096)

Helmside – Greenburn – Bracken Hause – Helm Crag – Greenburn – Helmside

Distance: 1.8 miles Total Ascent: 290 metres Time Taken: 1 hour

Weather: Frequent heavy showers. 13C.

There was rain everywhere this morning with only the odd bright patch shining through. One of those bright patches was Helm Crag so I opted for a walk up to it from Helmside, a short and steep ascent that one was. I managed to climb The Howitzer too, the Wainwright summit that Wainwright famously never reached as it was too tricky. Even Casper had a good go at it today though!

Helm Crag route map.

Seat Sandal across Town End Farm.

Greenburn and Steel Fell.

Helm Crag across Green Burn.

All is green and pleasant looking back to Helmside.

Waterfall on Green Burn.

Crossing the bridge over Green Burn.

Starting the climb to Bracken Hause, aptly named at this time of year.

Steel Fell.

The view from higher up, the rain was persistent now.

The Helvellyn ridge is under the clag.

Hurry up dad! The climb to Helm Crag from Bracken Hause.

Looking back to Gibson Knott from Helm Crag.

The Howitzer, the highest point and true summit of Helm Crag.

Blimey, Casper has a good go at getting up there!

The view towards The Lion and The Lamb and Grasmere from the top of The Howitzer. It was pouring down with rain and the wind had picked up now and I did wonder what on earth I was doing at the top of here! No wonder I was on my own.

Looking back to The Howitzer, Steel Fell and Dunmail Raise.

The Lion, The Lamb and The Dog.

Close up on The Lion and The Lamb.

The Vale of Grasmere. It was absolutely chucking it down now so camera away and lets get down.

Back at the bridge over Green Burn.

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.

Coniston Old Man route map.

The Bell and Wetherlam from the car park.

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

Onward and upward, blue skies abound.

ITTA - It's that tongue again!

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

The view to the south.

Brown Pike and Blind Tarn.

'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.

The view across low Water and Levers Water to Wetherlam.

A panoramic view from The Old Man.

Just me and you now Casper.

Craggy Dow Crag.

Swirl How and the silhouette of distant Skiddaw.

The Scafells.

Alone with our thoughts on the summit.

Looking for the way down.

Low Water.

Industrial relics.

The mining past of Coniston.

Wetherlam.

More ruins on the descent.

Gillercomb Round

Walked on 15/06/2009

Start point: Seathwaite (NY 235 122)

Seathwaite – Hanging Stone – Base Brown – Blackmoor Pols – Green Gable – Gillercomb Head – Brandreth – Grey Knotts – Borrowdale Yews – Seathwaite

Distance: 5 miles Total Ascent: 780 metres Time Taken: 3 hours 15 minutes

Weather: Sunny spells. 17C.

I was up at the crack of doom today for a quiet walk around Gillercomb. The weather threatened to clear all the time but the tops remained in cloud mostly, even though further north in Buttermere the sun was shining and it was the same down at valley level too.

Gillercomb Round route map.

Setting off from Seathwaite towards Base Brown it was spotting with rain.

Crossing a pretty dry River Derwent, Seathwaite Fell is prominent.

Clearing sky over Base Brown.

Seathwaite and Borrowdale from the climb.

The view from Sourmilk Gill, Casper hiding amongst the rocks.

The moon setting over Base Brown - Casper seems to know the way!

Borrowdale sunrays.

Fallen Stone, Base Brown.

Hanging Stone - don't sneeze Casper.

The Hanging Stone from the other side.

Wainwright's boulder that has come to rest on a number of small ones.

Seathwaite Fell from he steep climb to the top of Base Brown.

Casper unfurls his tongue as a victory celebration for reaching the top.

Green Gable from Base Brown.

Brandreth and Grey Knotts across Gillercomb, the route of return.

Looking back to Base Brown from the climb to Green Gable.

Ennerdale and Buttermere from Green Gable shortly before I got enveloped in cloud making it pretty cold up here and time to get a jacket on.

Ennerdale.

Green Gable across Gillercomb Head from the climb to Brandreth, Great gable in mist beyond.

The summit of Brandreth. I'm sure that roll of fence posts has been here for years.

Following the fence to Grey Knotts.

Haystacks, High Crag and High Stile in the sunshine.

Pillar and High Stile across an un-named tarn on Grey Knotts.

Looking east over a different tarn towards Glaramara, Combe Head is the prominent point.

At last, a clear view of Haystacks, the High Stile ridge, Buttermere and Crummock Water from the east

Casper has a look too with the Honister mine working visible on Fleetwith Pike.

Base Brown and Green Gable from the eastern - and recognised - summit of Grey Knotts.

Dale Head across Honister.

Base Brown across Gillercomb.

A panoramic view along Gillercomb.

Base Brown and Green Gable.

Seathwaite and the view along Grains Gill.

The John Bankes memorial stone ('John Bankes Esquire 1752' it used to read).

Down at valley level the sunshine was glorious and it was really warm. Casper was in this pool on the River Derwent first, closely followed by me! What better way to spend a few minutes on a Monday morning than having a dip in here?

Blawith Knott

Walked on 12/06/2009

Start point: Woodland Fell road (SD 256 879)

Woodland Fell Road – Blawith Knott (OF) – Tottlebank Height (OF) – Woodland Fell Road

Distance: 2 miles Total Ascent: 156 metres Time Taken: 50 minutes

Weather: Sunny. 17C.

It was a lovely afternoon for a short walk to the ever delightful Blawith Knott and Tottlebank Height. It felt like summer was here once more and it was a joy to walk over this way today. Of course we took in the previously self-named Angus Tarn where Casper naturally stopped for a cooling dip, although it is rapidly disappearing to take on its dried up summer status (see the route map as it has been officially named by the StridingEdge mapping service!).

Blawith Knott route map.

Giant's Grave.

The path to Blawith Knott.

The Coniston fells from the first cairn on the ridge.

A similar view from higher up at the western summit cairn.

The summit of Blawith Knott, the Coniston fells remain the main view with the Scafells in view on the distant left.

A panoramic view from Blawith Knott.

King Casper on Blawith Knott.

A close up on the Coniston fells.

The Dunnerdale fells.

Scafell and Scafell Pike.

Dow Crag and The Old Man.

Black Combe and the two summit cairns.

Casper remembers at Angus Tarn. Do you remember...

Angus, the bark monster, in Angus Tarn 9th April 2008

The Coniston fells across Angus Tarn.

Tottlebank Height.

Beacon Fell is central with the merest glimpse of Coniston Water with Fairfield and the Far Eastern fells beyond.

A beautiful summer day.

Casper is enjoying the sunshine here on Tottlebank Height.

Blawith Knott.

Wetherlam

Walked on 10/06/2009

Start point: Tilberthwaite car park (NY 306 010)

Tilberthwaite – Steel Edge – Wetherlam – Wetherlam Edge – Birk Fell Man on Birk Fell – Tilberthwaite Gill – Tilberthwaite

Distance: 4.2 miles Total Ascent: 648 metres Time Taken: 2 hours 15 minutes

Weather: Generally dull with the odd bright spell. 15C.

It was lovely and still on the top of Wetherlam this morning and really peaceful and quite warm. The distant views were generally hazy once more but Steel Edge is a great way to climb this fell with an equally good route of descent via Wetherlam Edge.

Wetherlam route map.

High Tilberthwaite.

Casper has a look into the disused quarries.

Wetherlam from Yewdale Beck.

Casper checks the route along Steel Edge. Was that a gulp I heard?

Steel Edge.

On the climb.

Looking back down Steel Edge across Blake Rigg towards Fairfield...somewhere through the haze!

Coniston Water from Above Beck Fells.

The Old Man of Coniston and Brim Fell with Low Water below.

The tourist path to The Old Man through he quarry workings.

Great How Crags and Swirl How from an un-named tarn on the Wetherlam ridge. The stillness of the tarn shows how breathless it was up here today and the peace and quiet was deafening!

First view of the Scafells to the left, walking the ridge to the summit up on the right.

The Old Man and Brim Fell from another tarn along the ridge.

The summit of Wetherlam with Crinkle Crags, Bowfell, Pike o' Blisco and the Langdale Pikes (and Casper) in view.

Are you happy Casper?

Prison Band and Swirl How across Black Sails.

The Scafells beyond Little Stand.

Greenburn and Little Langdale Tarn from the top of Wetherlam.

A clear view to Cold Pike, Scafell Pike, Crinkle Crags and Bowfell with Red Tarn lying in the hollow below Cold Pike.

Bowfell.

Descending Wetherlam Edge.

Looking back to Wetherlam, Wetherlam Edge to the right.

These two walkers give Wetherlam Edge some scale.

The view from Birk Fell Man.

Wetherlam Edge from Birk Fell Man.

Steel Edge from the descent into Tilberthwaite.

Wetherlam from Tilberthwaite.

Tilberthwaite Gill.

Black Combe

Walked on 05/06/2009

Start point: Whicham Church (SD 135 827)

Whicham Church – Black Combe (OF) – South Top of Black Combe – Seaness – Whicham

Distance: 4.7 miles Total Ascent: 574 metres Time Taken: 1 hours 45 minutes

Weather: Hazy with the odd sunny spell. 14C.

It feels like ages since I have been to Black Combe and even longer since I ascended from Whicham Church, the quickest and easiest way to get to the top. The weather wasn’t good for distant views as it was very hazy and the predicted rain came as I set off home in the car.

Black Combe route map.

Looking across to Kirksanton and Silecroft Wind Farm. Some people complain about windmills spoiling the view but at Kirksanton there is an application to build a new nuclear power station right by that wind farm. I know which I would prefer.

Foxgloves at the foot of Black Combe.

'Which other fell can be ascended in carpet slippers?' said Wainwright about the climb to Black Combe along this path from Whicham.

Looking back from further up the path. There are virtually no distant views today as it is so hazy but the Furness Peninsular can be made out on the horizon.

Black Combe summit ahead. What's Casper up to?

Having a roll in the grass of course!

The summit of Black Combe.

Casper in the shelter.

My, what a long tongue you have little Beardie boy.

Black Combe summit tarn.

The South Top of Black Combe.

Looking back over the tarn to the summit from the South Top of Black Combe.

The large cairn on the South Top with the Duddon Estuary beyond.

Descending to the Whicham Valley. The main path drops down in the middle of these two rises but I detoured off to the right which is Seaness. Is that Sea as in the water beyond the coast or does it have the same name as me?!

The Cumbrian coast from Seaness, Walney Island beyond.

Black Combe from Seaness.

Whicham Church.

Bowfell

Walked on 04/06/2009

Start point: The Old Dungeon Ghyll car park (NY 286 062)

Old Dungeon Ghyll – Rossett Gill – Rossett Pike – Angle Tarn – Ore Gap – Bowfell – Three Tarns – The Band – Old Dungeon Ghyll

Distance: 7.7 miles Total Ascent: 910 metres Time Taken: 3 hours 30 minutes

Weather: Dull and overcast. 14C.

Many thanks to everyone from me, Louise, Connie and Casper for the messages of sympathy and support that we have received both via e-mail and in the guestbook, it is really comforting to know that our ‘family’ out there is thinking of us at this time.

Today was almost an ‘escape to the hills’ and of course there was lots of time for thinking of old Angus, especially as this was an area we have walked together many times. Of course, with those thoughts came some smiles and the odd tear. I smiled as I thought of the way he used to drive me bonkers with his incessant barking – but of course I know they were the barks of freedom and the joy of being free on the fells. I thought of the way he climbed the hills and crags with barely any effort, covering twice the distance that I did running round and round in circles. I thought of the times when there was just me and him, alone in the mist in the middle of winter and we were best mates – in it together, always. He was – and is – the spirit of the fells and I will miss him.

Bowfell route map.

The Band with Crinkle Crags and Bowfell beneath cloud from the entrance to Mickleden.

Pike o' Blisco across Oxendale.

Pike o' Stickle and Loft Crag towering above Mickleden.

Rossett Pike from Mickleden.

Heading to Esk Hause, Rossett Pike beyond.

Bowfell from the path to Rossett Pass. At the crossing of Rossett Gill, I opted to climb it rather than following the path.

Mickleden from the lower section of Rossett Gill.

Casper waits patiently on the climb of Rossett Gill.

The view along Mickleden to Lingmoor Fell from the top of Rossett Gill.

Rossett Pike from the top of Rossett Pass.

Casper on Rossett Pike.

The view from the summit of Rossett Pike.

The Mickleden cairn lies to the west of the main summit and overlooks Mickleden.

Rossett Pike above Angle Tarn on the path to Ore Gap.

Looking across Ore Gap to Esk Pike. As I climbed here the mist enveloped me and I admit a great wave of emotion overcame me as well. I had to sit for a while, let the tears well and have ten minutes or so of solitude and contemplation before pressing on.

The summit of Bowfell. Casper, where did you get those brown socks?

The Great Slab.

Descending to Three Tarns, Crinkle Crags beyond.

The King is dead. Long live The King - Casper at Three Tarns. I was sure I could hear Angus barking around there today, I could imagine it echoing in the silence...

Angus at the same place, 2006. RIP son.

Great Langdale from the descent of The Band.

The Langdale Pikes across Mickleden.

A glimmer of sunshine now we are back at valley level.

Helvellyn via Striding Edge

Walked on 01/06/2009

Start point: Patterdale (NY 394 160)

Patterdale – Hole-in-the Wall – Striding Edge – Helvellyn – Swirral Edge – Catstycam – Patterdale

Distance: 7.6 miles Total Ascent: 900 metres Time Taken: 3 hours 30 minutes

Weather: Beautiful warm sunshine. 23C.

What a glorious morning it was, it made it well worth the effort of getting up early and being out on the fells at the crack of dawn. Perhaps this is the start of summer now but hopefully not the end just yet. A sustained spell until September would do nicely please!

Helvellyn route map.

The head of Grisedale from the bridge over Grisedale Beck.

Climbing the path to the Hole-in-the-Wall in glorious early morning sunshine.

The northern face of Saint Sunday Crag.

Climbing higher and it was getting pretty warm even this early.

Grisedale Valley.

Saint Sunday Crag and Fairfield.

Helvellyn and Catstycam from the Hole-in-the-Wall.

Today's route - Striding Edge to the left, across Helvellyn to Swirral Edge then Catstycam and a steep descent to Red Tarn.

Catstycam.

Red Tarn and Swirral Edge with Helvellyn Lower Man peeping across it.

Dollywaggon and Nethermost Pike.

Helvellyn across Striding Edge.

Crossing Striding Edge. The cross shelter and the trig. column are clearly visible on the summit of Helvellyn from here.

Striding Edge.

The sheep are on the point where the lower path crosses from the northern side to the southern and leads around the 'difficult for dogs to negotiate' Chimney.

Striding Edge from the rough climb to Helvellyn. There is someone descending The Chimney but we used the lower path that skirts around it to the right.

Catstycam across Red Tarn.

Striding Edge.

Again, from higher up - almost at the top now.

Fairfield across the cross shelter.

The summit is all mine this morning.

Swirral Edge and Catstycam, Ullswater beyond.

Casper at the trig. column.

'Not much to drink round here dad!'.

The view to the Coniston fells.

A panoramic view from Helvellyn.

Sparkling Red Tarn and Striding Edge.

A close-up on Ullswater.

Skiddaw from the cairn that marks the start of Swirral Edge.

Descending Swirral Edge to Catstycam.

Looking back up Swirral Edge to Helvellyn.

Helvellyn from the foot of Catstycam.

Still nothing to drink for the lad on Catstycam.

Striding Edge and Helvellyn across Red Tarn from the steep descent from Catstycam.

Swirral Edge from the main path.

'That's better.'

Helvellyn across Red Tarn.

Helvellyn, Swirral Edge and Catstycam from the path back to the Hole-in-the-Wall.

Descending to Grisedale once more.

'That was alright, that walk'.

It was baking hot now and I'm glad I was out early today. I couldn't resist a shot of Brothers Water on the way home...

Seat How

Walked on 25/05/2009

Start point: Birker Fell road (SD 171 977)

Seat How (Birker Moor) (OF) from the Birker Fell road

Weather: Sunny and warm. 20C.

I thought I would keep away from the traffic and crowds today with a walk across Birker Fell up to Yoadcastle. The weather was beautiful – really warm with a slight breeze. I’ll blame it on the weather that I didn’t quite reach my intended destination…

The track to Devoke Water, Seat How is the limp in the centre.

The view towards the Scafells from Tewit Moss, a really boggy area and not a recommended route.

Seat How and Water Crag complete with frolicking Casper!

What a beautiful day up on the top today.

Having a look over Devoke Water.

A panoramic view of Devoke Water. It was so warm and peaceful here today, I had a lie down for a little while enjoying the sunshine...

...and the view when I eventually woke up! All motivation to carry on had gone now so I opted for a quick return.

Hesk Fell, Stickle Pike in the distance.

A panoramic view from The Seat.

Harter Fell, the scene of my last walk.

Great Gable peeps from behind Scafell here (left) with Scafell Pike and Slight Side in view. The flat topped Eskdale Fell is central.

Bowfell.

Harter Fell

Walked on 22/05/2009

Start point: Birks Bridge, Duddon Valley (SD 235 992)

Harter Fell from Birks Bridge

Distance: 3.25 miles Total Ascent: 538 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 45 minutes

Weather: Overcast. 13C.

Harter Fell from the Duddon Valley is a great walk and a relatively easy ascent (if you like them straight up that is!). The views weren’t really there today as the tops were clouded in but it was nice to be back in the Duddon Valley, our families favourite.

Harter Fell route map.

The River Duddon.

Birks Bridge Falls.

Birks Bridge, a reminder of many happy summer days spent swimming here.

Grey Friar from Birks.

The view along the Duddon Valley to Wrynose Bottom. All the fells are clouded in this morning.

The back of the Coniston fells from the climb to Harter Fell.

Caw and Stickle Pike from Maiden Castle on Harter Fell.

The Duddon Valley and Wrynose bottom again, this time from higher up.

Climbing to the clouded top of Harter Fell.

Seathwaite Tarn and Tarn Beck across the Duddon Valley.

Casper can't contain his excitement (or his tongue!) on the summit of Harter Fell.

The true summit of Harter Fell from the official as the sunshine is trying to break through the cloud.

Below the cloud layer on the descent with a peep to Wrynose.

Stickle Pike and the Duddon Estuary.

There are brief spells of sunshine now, here with Caw and the Dunnerdale fells lit up by it.

Grey Friar and the River Duddon.

The Loweswater Fells

Walked on 18/05/2009

There were two walks today, both in the pursuit of Casper bagging the last few of his remaining Wainwright fells. The first was a short and easy one up to Latrigg – I guess I am guilty of always bypassing this one for the lure of the higher fells. The second walk took in the fells around Loweswater. This area is probably the longest drive for me to get to from home, so I guess that is why they get neglected…

Walk 2

Start point: Loweswater (NY 143 211)

Loweswater – Foulsyke – Thackthwaite – Fellbarrow – Low Fell – Loweswater – Mosedale – Hen Comb – Loweswater

Distance: 11.2 miles Total Ascent: 909 metres Time Taken: 5 hours

Weather: Rain. 13C.

Loweswater route map.

Loweswater Fell through the rain from the field crossing to Foulsyke.

Whiteside and Grasmoor.

Looking back to Mellbreak. These are all 'smash and grab' photos taken in short interludes in the rain.

That was about it for photos for a while. The heavens really opened as I climbed to Fellbarrow from Thackthwaite, then on the final climb to Fellbarrow the wind whipped up and the rain began to fall in monsoon like conditions!

A quick-snatch photo on Fellbarrow with a half-drowned Casper. We didn't hang around on here - come on, let's go! I think the walk between here and Low Fell was the wettest weather I have ever been in. It was like standing under the shower it was that bad, with the water absolutely pouring down my face and off my waterproofs. I thought I wouldn't see anyone today...until I bumped into a couple of hardy StridingEdge followers who managed to recognise us despite the damp conditions.

Crummock Water and Mellbreak from Low Fell, the rain has blown out for a little while now.

The steep descent down alongside the fence.

Crummock Water and Rannerdale Knotts.

Here it comes again - hang on to your hats!

Loweswater Fell from the bottom and there is even a hint of blue sky now.

Mellbreak with Hen Comb to the right, where we are off next.

Shapely Mellbreak.

Hmm, there was a problem here at the crossing of Mosedale Beck. There had been that much rain that the stepping stones were under all that water somewhere! There was only one thing for it if I was to get to Hen Comb today and that was walk to the bridge at the southern end of the valley.

Hen Comb and Mosedale Beck.

Sunshine on Gale Fell and Mosedale from the oh-so steep climb to Hen Comb.

Mellbreak in sun, Grasmoor beyond.

'I don't believe it!'. Loweswater is sunny now but the wind was fierce.

Great Borne from Hen Comb.

It was really windy on the summit of Hen Comb. If Casper had a bit more hair, he would have shown you just how much!

Buttermere view.

Mosedale from the descent (which had to be the same way due to the river crossing problem).

I think that look says it all Casper - just where did that blue sky come from?

Latrigg

Walked on 18/05/2009

Walk 1

Start point: Gale Road End (NY 281 253)

Latrigg from Gale Road

Distance: 1 mile Total Ascent: 90 metres Time Taken: 15 minutes

Weather: Damp. 10C.

Skiddaw well hidden by cloud from the start of the climb to Latrigg.

Little Man and a little man.

No, not looking! Casper on Latrigg.

High Tove

Walked on 13/05/2009

Start point: Armboth (NY 305 170)

Armboth – Fisher Crag – Armboth Fell – High Tove – Raven Crag – Armboth

Distance: 5.9 miles Total Ascent: 489 metres Time Taken: 2 hours 30 minutes

Weather: Sunny with cloud coming from the south west later. 16C.

This was another place I haven’t been to for a while, up to the much derided Armboth Fell and then along the central ridge before descending to Raven Crag. Armboth Fell is not a summit as such, being no more than a rock plinth on a hummock in a particularly boggy area. I must say on a day such as this though, the going was easy and the views all round were superb and it turned out to be a pleasant early summer walk.

High Tove route map.

Cascades on Fisher Gill. (f/22, 1 sec, 25mm)

The Dodds across Thirlmere, climbing above the trees alongside Fisher Gill.

Blencathra from Fisher Crag.

Helvellyn across Thirlmere.

The view along Thirlmere makes Fisher Crag well worth a visit.

Heading for Armboth Fell, the highest point on the ridge ahead.

Casper finds a rocky outcrop to rest on - but that's not the summit of Armboth Fell.

Ullscarf.

High Tove from Armboth Fell.

A great view to the Scafells, Great Gable and Pillar from Armboth Fell today.

Looking to Blencathra from the summit plinth of Armboth Fell. Raven Crag is the highest point of the forested area in the foreground of Blencathra.

High Tove and High Seat ahead from the boggy wasteland on the climb to the central ridge.

High Seat, Blencathra and Clough Head from High Tove.

Great Gable and Pillar in the distance across Brandreth from the western side of High Tove.

The north western fells including Grasmoor to the left and Grisedale Pike to the right.

Looking back to a decidedly pleasant looking High Tove from the descent.

A great view of the northern end of the Helvellyn ridge from the descent to Thirlmere Forest.

Helvellyn on the left, Fisher Crag on the right.

Crossing Middlesteads Gill.

Following the Thirlmere Forest track towards Castle Crag alongside Shoulthwaite Gill.

The summit of Raven Crag.

Casper on Raven Crag.

It was very windy up here and the cloud was thickening from the south west now. Casper does 'a Wainwright' on Raven Crag...

...the aerial prospect of the dam directly below.

High Rigg and Blencathra from Raven Crag.

A great view of Skiddaw and Blencathra from the northern edge of Raven Crag.

Raven Crag from below.

Whinlatter

Walked on 07/05/2009

Start point: Darling How (NY 181 255)

Darling How – Brown How on Whinlatter – Whinlatter Top – Tarbarrel Moss – Ullister Hill – Lord’s Seat – Barf – Broom Fell – Graystones – Spout Force – Darling How

Distance: 8.6 miles Total Ascent: 786 metres Time Taken: 3 hours 40 minutes

Weather: Sunny spells, strong winds. 9°C.

I finally made it back to Whinlatter – I have lost count of the number of times that I have been on my way to do this walk and then been swayed by something else on the way for one reason or another. The most recent example was last week when I was enticed by Blencathra even though I was all set to do this round. The last time I was here was 2004 BC (Before Casper) and I kept thinking back to Angus being with me on this walk, back in those early website days…

Whinlatter route map.

Broom Fell ahead following the forest road from Darling How.

Early morning sunburst over Lord's Seat.

Climbing up the faint path alongside the wall. This section has all been deforested since last time I was here but there are already signs of regrowth.

Grisedale Pike, Hopegill Head and Grasmoor are the main fells in this photo looking from the wind shelter on Brown How, the Wainwright summit of Whinlatter.

Grisedale Pike and Hobcarton Head from the east top of Whinlatter.

The sun tries to break through the clouds to the east from Whinlatter Top, the higher of the two tops on Whinlatter.

Whinlatter from Tarbarrel Moss, one of the most disappointing of all the Birkett 'summits'.

Blue sky over the north western fells from Ullister Hill.

Skiddaw from Lord's Seat, Barf in the foreground - that's where we are off to next.

Looking back over Whinlatter to Grisedale Pike from Lord's Seat.

Bassenthwaite Lake and Binsey.

The view over the southern end of Bassenthwaite Lake towards Keswick and Derwent Water.

Skiddaw and Dodd.

Looking back to Lord's Seat from Barf.

Mucky pup on the throne of Barf.

After a boggy traverse back to Lord's Seat, this is the view to Broom Fell with the clouds fleeting across the sky now in a strong - and cold - wind.

Whinlatter from Todd Fell. The route I used in the ascent of Whinlatter is the wall line up the deforested area to the edge of the trees.

The fine cairn on Broom Fell looking back to Lord's Seat.

Heading for Graystones and no wonder Casper is running for it, it was blowing a gale along here. It was a blessed relief to get down to Widow Hause and take shelter from the wind behind the trees.

The Wainwright summit of Graystones lies just to the west of the broken wall although it is lower than other areas on the map. This view is into Lorton Vale with Mellbreak and Low Fell in the middle distance.

This is a steep way down Casper!

Hopegill Head and Ladyside Pike from the descent.

Scawgill Bridge.

Spout Force.

Graystones from Darling How.

Blencathra via Hall’s fell Ridge

Walked on 29/04/2009

Start point: Threlkeld (NY 318 256)

Threlkeld – Hall’s Fell Ridge – Blencathra – Mungrisdale Common – Great Calva – Skiddaw House – Blencathra Centre – Threlkeld

Distance: 10.7 miles Total Ascent: 1123 metres Time Taken: 5 hours

Weather: Sunny spells, cold on the tops. 12°C.

Blencathra was not even considered when I set out from home this morning but when I saw it I knew I had to climb it. I decided on Hall’s Fell Ridge as it must be a good 10 years since I have climbed this way, the bonus of it is that it climbs directly to the summit cairn. After that I just made it up as I went along and it turned out to be quite a pleasant walk although towards the end it looked as though I might get a soaking as the clouds thickened and hovered ominously overhead, but in the end I thankfully made it back dry.

Blencathra via Hall's Fell Ridge route map.

Early morning at Threlkeld heading for Hall's Fell. The summit of Blencathra is the point at the top of Hall's Fell Ridge.

Blencathra panoramic.

Crossing Gate Gill.

Doddick Fell from the climb.

The mist was constantly swirling around Hall's Fell then lifting giving some enticing glimpses of the way ahead.

Hall's Fell Ridge.

Further along.

There is some excellent scrambling sections along here and the Hall's Fell Ridge makes a great alternative to the more popular Sharp Edge.

Casper the scrambler.

Narrow Edge.

Looking back down the ridge.

From further up with Clough Head and Thirlmere in view.

The summit of Blencathra.

It looks like there is plenty of sunshine over on Mungrisdale Common, so that's where we'll go Casper!

Lonscale Fell along Roughten Gill.

It is all cloudy over on Skiddaw from the cairn on Mungrisdale Common.

It looks like there is plenty of sunshine on Great Calva now Casper, so that's where we'll head for next!

There was one small problem and that was how to cross the River Caldew - wade or jump? I used the tried and tested method of trying break the Olympic long jump record - which worked out rather well as I made it across with dry feet!

One of the circular sheepfolds of Skiddaw Forest, Lonscale Fell behind.

Wiley Gill and Knott from the foot of Great Calva.

The view from Great Calva along the deep geological trough that runs to the south.

Casper in the sun, Knott behind.

Skiddaw from the descent.

Skiddaw House and Lonscale Fell catch the sun.

Heading for Skiddaw House YHA.

Great Calva from Skiddaw House.

Lonscale Fell.

Leaden skies now looking back along the Glenderaterra Valley.

High Rigg and Tewet Tarn from the path to the Blencathra Centre on Blease Fell.

Bluebells at the Blencathra Centre.

Reston Scar

Walked on 26/04/2009

Start point: Staveley (SD 469 985)

Reston Scar (OF) from Staveley

Distance: 1.6 miles Total Ascent: 150 metres Time Taken: 1 hour

Weather: Warm with sunny spells. 15°C.

Today we had a short walk from Staveley up to Reston Scar, the one that is clearly visible from the main road heading towards Windermere. It was really quite pleasant when the sun was shining and the views were fairly extensive.

Reston Scar route map.

Climbing the path from Brow Lane to Reston Scar.

Casper and Brunt Knott.

Kemp Tarn, a tarn that made Casper dirtier rather than cleaner when he had a dip.

Looking along the wall to Hugill Fell.

The silhouette of the Coniston fells from the top of Reston Scar.

Connie and Casper at the top. It was warm until we reached the top where we managed to find the breeze.

Kentmere Pike beyond Hugill Fell summit.

Kentmere from Reston Scar.

Back at Barley Bridge in Staveley and a chance for Casper to clean up.

Black Fell

Walked on 24/04/2009

Start point: Knipe Fold (SD 391 994)

Black Fell from Knipe Fold

Distance: 3.4 miles Total Ascent: 215 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 15 minutes

Weather: Mild but dull. 15°C.

It was really quite mild, still and warm this morning though the sky was for the most part leaden with the sun occasionally trying to shine through. The views were through general haziness and Casper has found a return to puppydom with his latest sleek hairstyle.

Black Fell route map.

The start of the walk.

Rat Fink leads the way to Iron Keld.

Signpost at the crossroads; we are following the Sunny Brow route.

The remains of Iron Keld Plantation.

Black Crag, the summit of Black Fell directly ahead. To the right is the south-east cairn.

'The Tongue' on Black Crag.

Windermere from Black Crag.

Champion the Wonder Dog.

Esthwaite Water across the south-eastern cairn.

Coniston Water and Tarn Hows.

Lingmoor Fell and the Langdale Pikes.

Windermere from above the trig. point.

Ambleside and the Far Eastern fells from Great Cobble, Loughrigg Fell in the mid-distance.

The view to the north.

Wetherlam.

Windermere from the south east cairn.

Bluebells (and white Bluebells!) on the return. I think Casper is wondering where I am.

Langdale Pikes

Walked on 21/04/2009

Start point: Stickle Tarn Car Park (NY 295 064)

New Dungeon Ghyll – Loft Crag – Thorn Crag – Pike O’Stickle – Martcrag Moor – Stake Pass – Mickleden – New Dungeon Ghyll

Distance: 5.8 miles Total Ascent: 677 metres Time Taken: 3 hours

Weather: Cold and wet on the tops. 10°C.

I was up and about early this morning and initially it looked promising as though it might turn out beautiful and sunny as it has been over the last few days. In fact it turned out to be completely the opposite as I got a good soaking and so opted to complete only half of the intended route (fair weather walker!). Casper has had a makeover too…

Langdale Pikes route map.

Holme Fell reflected in Yew Tree Tarn with the early morning mist rising from the water.

Yew Tree Tarn reflections.

Sunrise on the Langdale Pikes.

Pike How and Tarn Crag, Pavey Ark is visible in the distant centre.

Great Langdale sunrise.

Looking up towards Loft Crag. It looks like Casper has hired a stunt dog for the day!

Crinkle Crags have a good covering of cloud this morning.

Dungeon Ghyll.

The mist is starting to envelop me now here looking across Great Langdale to Lingmoor Fell and Side Pike, Blea Tarn is also in view.

Misty Great Langdale.

How now foxy loxy? I bet Casper is as glad of his haircut as I was that I managed to remember to wear sun cream, shorts and t-shirt!

Heading for Pike o' Stickle and this is as good as it gets. There was a really cold wind up here now so it was hat and gloves time.

Pike o' Stickle summit and now it was raining so it full waterproofs time as well. In fact it was completely miserable so I headed across boggy Martcrag Moor and decided to get down to valley level at Stake Pass. Thank goodness for GPS too, the most valuable time saving piece of fell walking equipment you can buy.

Almost into Mickleden at the bottom of Stake Pass.

Mickleden looking towards Rossett Gill and Stake Pass.

Raven Crag.

Claife Heights

Walked on 19/04/2009

Start point: Far Sawrey (SD 379 954)

Far Sawrey – Moss Eccles Tarn – Three Dubs Tarn –Claife Heights (High Blind How) (OF) – Pate Crags – Far Sawrey

Distance: 3.8 miles Total Ascent: 208 metres Time Taken: 2 hours 30 minutes

Weather: Warm and sunny. 15°C.

There was hardly a breath of wind this morning and the sun was shining for mine and Connie’s first walk in shorts this year. It was glorious and we tended to linger around being in no particular rush and it was one of those days that memories are made of. Casper was looking decidedly hot today and he ended up being a muddy mess at the end of it all – there was only one thing for it and he was for the chop when we got home!