Beacon Fell

Walked on 02/01/2008

Start point: At the end of the minor road from Brown Howe (SD 281 916)

Beacon Fell (OF) from Tottle Bank

Distance: 2 miles Total Ascent: 200 metres Time Taken: 2 hours

Weather: Gloomy with a raw, strong wind. 3oC.

Firstly, regarding Monday’s walk, I was shocked to see that a canoeist had been killed on the River Crake that day. We were watching them between Lowick Bridge and Spark Bridge on the rapid and swollen river prior to the final photo on the walk page, which is timed at 2.15pm on the data file. The unfortunate accident occurred at 3pm, not too long after we left.

Today’s walk was a bit of a non-starter for Connie. She wanted to check that the treasure tin we hid back in October on the top of Beacon Fell was still there, but the wind was far too strong and bitter for her to continue all the way to the top. Reluctantly Louise, Connie and Angus turned back half way whilst Casper and I checked out the summit. These photos are to show that it is not always sunny and clear in the Lake District, as the walks in the run up to Christmas and the 2007 retrospective may have suggested!

Setting off for Beacon Fell it was absolutely freezing with a strong, bitter wind.

Louise shows Connie the way (or see's how long she can hold her arm out balancing a mini-Casper on it!) whilst Angus is desperate for a stroke from Connie.

Windswept Angus.

Murky on the way to Beacon Fell.

Coniston Water is just about visible today.

Casper on the summit - I am struggling to keep on my feet here. The treasure box is still at the cairn, I can report!

Misty Beacon Tarn and Wool Knott.

Waterfall on Black Beck.

Lots of water around after all the rain.

Coniston Water from Brown Howe. Casper has a shake whilst Angus is stick hunting again.

East of Coniston

Walked on 31/12/2007

East of Coniston

The weather has completely changed over the holidays to being damp and dreary rather than the crisp, clear days there were before Christmas. Not to worry, today we had a low level walk on the eastern banks of Coniston Water. The rain never let up so it was a bit of a damp affair, not that Angus and Casper were bothered – the main thing for them was to have a swim.

The jetty at Rigg Wood. It was more than a bit gloomy here today.

Someone enjoys the water more than anything though. There's no stopping Angus...but what's that behind you?

Got it! The relentless march of the stick monster!

Even Casper was having a cleansing session.

Louise and Connie share a moment on the jetty.

Another jetty, this time at Water Park.

Our favourite Iron Man at Nibthwaite.

It was teeming down with rain looking to Beacon Fell.

Brock Barrow from the same place.

Partly submerged tree.

The River Crake, Coniston's outflow, looking pretty full at Spark Bridge.

Duddon Valley

Walked on 21/12/2007

Duddon Valley

Today we had a quiet but chilly family walk at low level around Seathwaite in the Duddon Valley. This is a firm family favourite and one we do at all times of the year but usually in the summer when we often have a swim in the river. This is the perfect antidote to those Christmas shopping crowds, an idyllic place to be.

Bright sunlight over Caw but down at valley level it remains freezing all day.

Seathwaite Church.

Wallowbarrow Crag from some large frozen stones on our circular path.

Winter sun and long shadows on the shortest day in the lee of Caw.

Louise and Connie negotiate the sometimes treacherous icy path.

White Pike and the Coniston fells.

Connie.

Big moon rising over Dow Crag.

Frosty Seathwaite across the fields.

White Pike and White Maiden.

A snatched photo - Casper wasn't in that long, and who could blame him? I'm not sure whether this is a shiver or a shake!

The River Duddon in winter.

The Memorial Bridge across the River Duddon and at the foot of Wallowbarrow Gorge.

Golden glow.

I think this view shows just how cold it is. Almost monochromatic, this is at the confluence of Tarn Beck and the River Duddon but the amazing thing about it is that it is frozen right across! Here, Tarn Beck comes from the left and the River Duddon from the right.

The Pen and Wallowbarrow Crag reflected in the River Duddon.

The setting sun cuts the light in half and it's a cold, frosty walk back to Seathwaite.

Pike o’ Blisco

Walked on 20/12/2007

Start point: Three Shire Stone (NY 277 027)

Three Shire Stone – Red Tarn – Pike O’ Blisco – Black Crag – Three Shire Stone

Distance: 2.5 miles Total Ascent: 320 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 30 minutes

Weather: Sunny and clear. 4oC.

It was another short walk for me, Louise Angus and Casper today, up to Pike o’ Blisco via the beautiful Red Tarn. It was stunning up there today; very quiet with no-one around and lovely views across a frozen Red Tarn. It is good to see that we have had at least a few good days in the run up to Christmas and long may it continue.

Cold Pike from the path to Red Tarn.

It may be sunny today but it is still cold up here.

Crinkle Crags and Bowfell come into view as the path climbs.

There is a great view to Bowfell across a frozen Red Tarn.

Icy Red Tarn.

Now here's a view you don't see every day - the view from the middle of Red Tarn!

Pike o' Blisco reflected in Red Tarn.

Casper and Louise watch, wondering whether the ice will hold me or will I fall through?

Casper and yours truly on Red Tarn.

Torvill and Dean eat your heart out!

Angus and Casper with a magnificent backdrop.

Looking back to the glittering jewel from the start of the climb to Pike o' Blisco.

Sunlit Bowfell.

Looking back to Wetherlam and Swirl How across Red Tarn.

The summit of Pike o' Blisco.

The Langdale Pikes and Skiddaw across a cold looking Mickleden.

Glaramara.

Lingmoor Fell.

The Helvellyn ridge still has some snow on the top whilst Great Langdale has had no sun today and looks chilly.

Skiddaw and Pike o' Stickle.

Great Langdale.

Fairfield.

Bowfell.

Windermere and the distant Howgills.

They've all found something to take photos of.

Was it this? Looking towards Black Combe with the mist settling in the low lying valleys.

Wrynose Pass from Wrynose Bottom.

Hard Knott

Walked on 19/12/2007

Start point: Hardknott Pass summit (NY 230 014)

Hardknott Pass – Hard Knott – Border End – Hardknott Pass

Distance: 2 miles Total Ascent: 200 metres Time Taken: 1 hour

Weather: Clear. 5oC.

Today I didn’t have such a long walk, it was rather an appreciation of the surroundings and a magnificent sunset over what must be one of the finest views from any fell, overlooking Eskdale to the Scafells. The views in the photos may all be quite similar, but the ever changing light certainly made them seem a bit different and added a lovely hue to the surroundings.

Not part of today's walk but an interesting view of Dow Crag from the 'back', in the Duddon Valley.

Little Stand and Crinkle Crags from the valley bottom.

Hard Knott.

Grey Friar across Wrynose Bottom from the climb to Hard Knott.

Swirl How and Great Carrs across Wrynose Bottom.

First view of the Scafells with the summit of Hard Knott to the right.

The Scafells from the summit of Hard Knott - Slight Side, Scafell, Scafell Pike, Broad Crag, Ill Crag, Great End and Esk Pike.

Bowfell and Crinkle Crags.

Slight Side and Scafell.

Golden hue on Esk Pike.

Bowfell.

Ill Crag.

Angus and Casper on Hard Knott.

Esk Pike and Bowfell at the head of Eskdale.

Casper finds a comfortable rock to sit on.

Over to Border End and the sun is getting lower.

Looking across one of the many frozen pools up here.

Casper in the setting sun looking across Hardknott Pass to Harter Fell in silhouette.

Border End.

Looking down into the Eskdale Valley, a splendid view.

Casper and Angus caught in the setting sun.

All is getting redder by the minute.

Looking across Eskdale to Slight Side and Scafell with the fells of Wasdale peeping through behind Seatallan, Haycock, Scoat Fell and Red Pike.

A final view before we head back - before the sun disappears completely.

The Isle of Man from Hardknott Pass.

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!

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

Brown Pike from the climb to Goats Water.

Buck Pike and Dow Crag.

The rocky eastern face of Dow Crag.

...and again.

Dow Crag over a partially frozen Goat's Water.

Climbing towards Goat's Hawse.

Angus sits in the weak winter sunshine.

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

Helvellyn from Brim Fell.

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

The Scafells from Brim Fell.

The eastern fells over Wetherlam.

Slight Side and Scafell from Brim Fell.

Bowfell.

Helvellyn.

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

Wetherlam and some lingering snow on The Old Man.

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

Looking beyond Coniston Water to the south.

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.

Woolly Casper.

Not forgetting Angus.

Looking across to Buck Pike and Dow Crag.

The eastern fells from the descent of The Old Man.

The Coniston fells across Coniston Water on the way home.

Reflections in Coniston Water.

Coniston Water.

Raise

Walked on 13/12/2007

Start point: Glenridding car park (NY 385 169)

Glenridding – Glenridding Dodd – Heron Pike (Glenridding) – Sheffield Pike – Nick Head – White Stones on Green Side – Stybarrow Dodd –Sticks Pass – Raise – White Side – Greenside Road – Glenridding

Distance: 8.8 miles Total Ascent: 1037 metres Time Taken: 3 hours 35 minutes

Weather: Clear above clouds, very cold wind. 4oC.

I wasn’t expecting much from today’s walk as it was dull in Glenridding and the high fells looked to be under cloud for the day. I knew it would be cold though as there was a fair old wind whistling around Glenridding village. It was cold enough on Fairfield on Tuesday but this was a lot colder – almost like winter!

Raise at the head of Glenridding from the climb to Glenridding Dodd.

Birkhouse Moor.

Sunrays over Glenridding.

It's all a bit dull down here - Ullswater from Glenridding Dodd.

It looks a bit brighter over Sheffield Pike though.

A frozen pool on the way to Sheffield Pike up to the right with White Stones and Stybarrow Dodd to the left. The wind was really cold and biting here.

The weather was changing constantly, almost by the minute, with the strong wind blowing mist across the fells alternating with bright sunshine. Helvellyn and Catstycam remained under a thick blanket of cloud throughout the walk.

Watermillock Common and Great Mell Fell from the summit of Sheffield Pike. 'H' is the boundary marker for the Howard Estate of Greystoke, the other side is marked with 'M' for the Marshall Estate of Patterdale.

Raise, in and out of the swirling mist.

White Stones and Stybarrow Dodd was getting the same treatment.

A clear spell on the climb to White Stones.

White Stones.

Stybarrow Dodd from White Stones.

Heading for Stybarrow Dodd.

Looking back to White Stones and Hart Side.

Into the freezing mist on the summit of Stybarrow Dodd.

Two minutes after we left the summit, it cleared!

Dramatic clouds over Glenridding.

Looking across Sticks Pass to Raise, now submerged under cloud cover.

Cloud clear of the summit of Stybarrow Dodd again, Stanahgill Head to the left remains filled with it.

A Brocken spectre on Stybarrow Dodd.

On the descent to Sticks Pass looking to Sheffield Pike.

That's it, I could stand it no more. Time for the full polar expedition gear to come out - it really was that cold! To the left is Great Gable and Kirk Fell, Pillar covered in cloud and round to the north-western fells across a sea of cloud from Sticks Pass.

Low sun and biting cold on the climb to Raise.

The south-western cairn on Raise from the summit.

Casper braves the oh-so-cold wind.

Skiddaw from Raise, Blencathra covered by cloud to the right.

..and closer up.

Stybarrow Dodd, Watson's Dodd and Great Dodd over Sticks Pass.

...and closer up.

The view to the west from Raise.

The frozen summit of Raise.

Closer up to the west.

White Side from the descent from Raise. That big cloud above was one of many which came crashing over us like waves descending from Helvellyn and engulfing White Side and Raise.

Lovely clear views across the clouds - when it clears from these tops.

The cloud clears briefly, and I mean very briefly from the frozen summit of White Side, here looking back to Raise and the Dodds.

Back into Glenridding valley it was like being in a different world. A lot calmer and a lot duller for the trek back to Glenridding. Looking back to Raise it appeared as if the whole fell was under cloud cover. Who could have guessed the secret weather that lay above?

The Fairfield Horseshoe

Walked on 11/12/2007

Start point: Rydal (NY 365 062)

Rydal – Nab Scar – Heron Pike – Rydal Fell – Stone Arthur – Great Rigg – Fairfield – Hart Crag – Dove Crag – High Pike (Scandale) – Low Pike – Low Sweden Bridge – Rydal Park – Rydal

Distance: 10.5 miles Total Ascent: 1180 metres Time Taken: 5 hours

Weather: Clear at lower level, tops in mist. 4oC.

It was lovely and clear first thing this morning for a walk of the Fairfield Horseshoe with which I added a slight detour out to Stone Arthur above Grasmere. It was interesting to watch the weather almost constantly changing with clouds forming in the valleys before they lifted as I reached the top of Fairfield. The descent of Hart Crag and Dove Crag was done in very wintry mist with a covering of snow on these higher fells. By the time we got through that, the high cloud had come in to dull conditions somewhat and make it feel even cooler out of the sunshine.

Bright early morning sunshine casts a golden glow on the climb to Nab Scar.

Looking back down to a cold looking Rydal.

Loughrigg Fell and a mirror finished Rydal Water.

Heron Pike.

Nab Scar.

Looking over Grasmere to Crinkle Crags and Bowfell.

Heron Pike from Nab Scar.

Red Screes across Rydal and Low Pike.

The summit of Heron Crag. Great Rigg, Fairfield and Hart Crag are covered by a blanket of cloud.

Casper enjoying the warm sunshine on Rydal Fell. Get it while you can!

Hart Crag clears from the cloud for a while.

Great Rigg ahead. I contoured around to the left to take in Stone Arthur.

Looks cold over to Bowfell and the Scafells.

Hart Crag and Dove Crag across a frozen pool.

Rydal Head.

A panoramic view looking across Rydal to the route of return - Hart Crag, Dove Crag, High Pike and Low Pike

Descending to Stone Arthur.

High Raise and Helm Crag across the Vale of Grasmere, from Stone Arthur.

Seat Sandal from Stone Arthur with mine and Casper's shadow on the summit.

Dollywagon Pike through Grisedale Hause between Seat Sandal and Fairfield.

Climbing to Great Rigg from Stone Arthur.

Looking back towards Heron Pike from Great Rigg.

At this point things were happening quickly with the cloud all around. It looked like there was an inversion over Great Langdale way and here too the clouds looked to be forming and dropping into Rydal valley and I had hopes of an inversion here too.

Seat Sandal with the Coledale fells in the distance. Here too the cloud was forming below the summit.

Looking back to Great Rigg from the climb to Fairfield.

Over on Dove Crag, the cloud seemed to be pouring over it into Dovedale.

The cloud over Hart Crag and Dove Crag.

Seat Sandal now has a cloud cap.

All snowy and bright on the approach to Fairfield's summit.

Dollywagon Pike, Nethermost Pike and Helvellyn - plus of course Striding Edge - from the summit of Fairfield.

Cofa Pike and St. Sunday Crag.

A cold wind whipped up whilst we were on Fairfield summit. That put paid to any chance of an inversion today I think.

In the cloud now leaving Fairfield for Hart Crag.

It really was cold between Hart Crag and Dove Crag.

Almost out of the mist now as it was blowing across the fell side here.

A glimpse of the eastern fells through a break in the clouds.

Looking back to Dove Crag from High Pike.

Back in the sunshine now son.

Scandale.

High Pike from Low Pike.

Looking across Rydal to the outward route.

Low Pike.

Scandale Beck looks cold in the fading light. It didn't stop my canine companion from having a little dip though!

Nab Scar and Heron Pike across Rydal Park.

Stickle Pike

Walked on 07/12/2007

Start point: Kiln Bank Cross (SD 215 933)

Kiln Bank Cross – Stickle Tarn – Stickle Pike (OF) – Kiln Bank Cross

Distance: 1 mile Total Ascent: 225 metres Time Taken: 30 minutes

Weather: Wind and hail. 6oC.

It has put a lot of rain and hail down through the night and this morning, so today’s walk was a bit of a ‘smash and grab’ opportunity between heavy hail showers and strong winds, mainly to give Angus and Casper a bit of fresh air and exercise. We almost made it unscathed but got caught in a heavy hailstorm towards the end which left us sodden.

Stickle Pike towering over the Duddon Valley.

Caw from the Duddon Valley side is even bigger.

Angus showing how windy it was on the climb to Stickle Pike.

Blue sky over Caw, Esk Pike and Bowfell are on the skyline to the left.

Looks a bit chilly over the windswept Stickle Tarn and I can confirm the wind was indeed cold. Brrr!

The way to the summit of Stickle Pike.

Time for a quick dip for these two, they must be mad!

Caw from Stickle Pike.

The summit cairn on Stickle Pike.

Angus and Casper.

Caw with Stickle Tarn below, the Coniston fells beyond.

Looks a bit ominous over towards Harter Fell and the Scafells.

Looks like it is raining beyond Great Stickle over the Duddon Estuary from the southern cairn.

The view from the south top, the main summit cairn to the left with a great panorama of the Scafells, Bowfell, Crinkle Crags, Coniston fells and Caw.

Quick boys, lets go! A heavy hail shower advances towards us from across the Duddon Valley over Whitfell with The Pike and Hesk Fell to the right. Very painful it turned out to be too. Ouch!

Striding Edge

Walked on 03/12/2007

Start point: Patterdale (NY 394 160)

Patterdale – Hole-in-the-Wall – Striding Edge – Helvellyn – Nethermost Pike – High Crag –Dol lywaggon Pike – Seat Sandal – Grisedale Tarn – Patterdale

Distance: 11 miles Total Ascent: 1170 metres Time Taken: 5 hours

Weather: All sorts, with snow on the tops. 6oC.

It was a bit wintry to say the least today. The climb up to and across Striding Edge was quite clear but with plenty of soft, fresh snow around. As soon as I hit the top of Helvellyn, the clouds came down and made the views non-existent. From then on, there was all sorts of weather – rain, sleet, snow, hail – you name it! Still, it was nice to get in the snow again. It certainly makes a change from the somewhat damper weather we have had recently.

Grisedale from Grisedale Beck. Looks like there is a bit of snow on Dollywagon Pike and Nethermost Pike.

Looking along Grisedale near the start of the climb, St. Sunday Crag up to the left.

The view from further up the path.

Looking back along the valley to Place Fell.

The climb to the Hole-in-the-Wall.

Birkhouse Moor from the Hole-in-the-Wall.

Catstycam and White Side from the start of the climb towards Striding Edge.

Are you ready for this climb?

Heading for Striding Edge and Helvellyn.

The retrospective view along Low Spying How to Birkhouse Moor and Ullswater. Place Fell seems to be getting a bit of sunshine.

Striding Edge and Helvellyn from High Spying How.

Red Tarn and Catstycam from Striding Edge.

Crossing Striding Edge.

Casper getting set for the crossing. There was a strong wind building across the Edge now.

From further along.

Casper leads the way across the sharp arête.

Looking back along Striding Edge.

The final part of the climb to Helvellyn - plenty of snow up there.

Sunburst over Fairfield.

Striding Edge from the climb to Helvellyn.

Casper - he's doing well the lad!

The Gough Memorial on Helvellyn, erected 1890.

Where did all this snow come from?

In the cloud on a white Helvellyn summit.

Frozen Helvellyn.

Out of the cloud descending from Helvellyn towards Nethermost Pike.

Striding Edge from Nethermost Pike.

A bleak looking Nethermost Pike summit.

Grisedale from Dollywagon Pike.

Seat Sandal from the old fence post below Dollywaggon Pike.

The steep descent down to Grisedale tarn and then straight up the other side for a similarly steep climb to Seat Sandal.

Fairfield and Great Rigg across Grisedale Tarn.

That was about it with clear weather, it was changing almost by the minute now. This is St. Sunday Crag and Fairfield from the descent of Seat Sandal with sleet and hail moving in.

A brief clearing of the weather for a view along Grisedale heading down to Patterdale. A couple of minutes earlier - and later - there were no views.

Falls in Ruthwaite Cove.

Plenty of water around today.

he head of Grisedale from the valley.

High Knott

Walked on 28/11/2007

Start point: Browfoot Lane (NY 453 007)

High Knott (Williamson’s Monument) (OF) from Browfoot Lane

Distance: 1.5 miles Total Ascent: 110 metres Time Taken: 30 minutes

Weather: Heavy rain. 9oC.

In complete contrast to last Friday, it was completely miserable again today and it was absolutely teeming down with rain (just in case you thought it was always sunny in the Lake District!). I had intended following the Wainwright Outlying fell walk but cut it short to save it for a better day but at least we made it to the top. I also had to try and remember how to use camera number 2 today – seems like ages since I have used it. The ‘unusual stile’ at the wall corner below the summit now has a fence across it, as reported to me by a correspondent, and I can confirm that it makes it awkward to get through to say the least.

Made it! Casper and Angus at the summit of High Knott, also known as Williamson's Monument.

The cairn on High Knott.

The tablet on the cairn: In Memory of THOMAS WILLIAMSON of Height, in Hugil, Gent. who died Feb. 13th 1797 Aged 66 Years. Erected 1803. 'Heights' referred to above is the nearest farm to the south-west.

Back onto the lane below High Knott - just a little damp today.

Wet Casper.

Is there anybody in there?

Kentmere from Browfoot Lane.

The River Kent from Scroggs Bridge.

Scroggs Bridge through the trees.

The River Kent further downstream on the weir at Barley Bridge.

Scafell Pike

Walked on 23/11/2007

Start point: Brackenclose (NY 182 074)

Brackenclose – Lingmell – Lingmell Col – Scafell Pike – Mickledore – Lord’s Rake – West Wall Traverse – Scafell – Green How – Brackenclose

Distance: 6 miles Total Ascent: 1162 metres Time Taken: 3 hours 45 minutes

Weather: Cold and clear. 5oC.

It was predicted to be clear today and I wasn’t disappointed when I went up to Scafell Pike, it was a complete contrast to yesterday’s rain. The climb to Lingmell straight up the nose is a steep one and it was really cold on this section as the sun was hidden behind Scafell for much of the ascent. The climb to Scafell Pike was bitterly cold too, being in shade until I reached the upper parts. The top was icy with little clumps of snow around but in glorious sunshine. The only fell I could see with a decent dusting of snow was Helvellyn to the east. I climbed to Scafell via Lord’s Rake and the West Wall Traverse before the steep drop down back into Wasdale. A superb days walking; conditions don’t come much clearer than this.

Wast Water from the steep climb up the direct route to Lingmell.

Out of the shadows and into the light climbing to Lingmell.

Wasdale Head and Mosedale with Red Pike, Scoat Fell and Pillar encircling it.

Casper is leading the way today.

Near the summit of Lingmell now at Goat Crags. We crossed the wall and headed left for the column overlooking Wasdale on the northern edge of Lingmell.

Great Gable.

The slender columnar cairn on Lingmell. A clear view to the east with Helvellyn dusted with snow.

Looking across to Mosedale.

The column and Mosedale.

The Great Napes on Great Gable.

A distant snow clad Helvellyn.

The summit of Lingmell.

It was really cold approaching the summit of Scafell Pike with a biting wind. No chance of a drink here either as my drinking tube was frozen.

The north-western fells from Scafell Pike. All was clear to Grasmoor and Skiddaw with Derwent Water and Styhead Tarn in view. That looks like a shadow of me on top of Scafell Pike too.

Mosedale from Scafell Pike.

Casper, officially the highest dog in England.

Windermere in view between Bowfell and Crinkle Crags.

Scafell.

Skiddaw, Blencathra and Derwent Water.

Brrr! Looking back to the summit of Scafell Pike.

Following the cairns on the decent before heading over to Scafell.

Scafell Pike from Mickledore.

Pulpit Rock.

Heading for Lord's Rake. These two are already halfway up but we caught them by the fallen chockstone (which has still not moved, by the way). We then went via the West Wall Traverse and Deep Gill, which is to the left.

Looking back down Lord's Rake.

Not the greatest of photos, but this was the top of Deep Gill - snow and sheet ice on an incredibly steep climb.

Finally out at the top of Deep Gill.

Scafell Pike and Esk Pike from Scafell.

Esk Pike and Bowfell.

Water, water everywhere but not a drop to drink - it's all frozen for Casper up on Scafell.

The summit of Scafell.

Descending Scafell towards Wast Water. To the left is Illgill Head, to the right is Middle Fell and Seatallan.

Great Gable and Lingmell.

Burnmoor Tarn and Illgill Head.

Blue sky looking back up to Scafell.

Wasdale Head dwarfed by the giant fells surrounding it.

Wasdale Head and the field system.

Yewbarrow.

Wast Water from the descent.

Lingmell from Wasdale.

Looking through the trees to Lingmell.

You know I can't resist this view.

Lingmell.

Three Haweswater Walks

Walked on 22/11/2007

Walk 1

Start point: Burnbanks (NY 508 161)

Burnbanks – Pinnacle How (518) – Birkhouse Hill – Four Stones Hill (519) – Bampton Fell (520) – Measand Beck – Burnbanks

Distance: 4.5 miles Total Ascent: 319 metres Time Taken: 2 hours

Weather: Rain and cold. 6oC.

Today was just the type of day to get some unashamed peak bagging done. It was clouded in over the high fells and it pretty much rained all day. I had a few Birkett bumps to walk around Haweswater so it made sense to try and get them in whilst I was up that way instead of having along drive for a couple of very short walks. The first walk was the longest and it took in the hills to the north of Haweswater and the dam starting from the small village of Burnbanks.

Burnbanks at the start of the walk. Originally it was a village to house workers during construction of Haweswater Dam.

Up on Pinnacle How in the rain looking to Bampton Fell. Angus is wondering what on earth Casper is up to!

Looking back to a decidedly orange Pinnacle Hill.

There is a great view of Haweswater from Four Stones Hill.

Angus on Four Stones Hill.

A bit damp up here Casper?

The prominent cairn on Four Stones Hill overlooking Haweswater.

Gateway to the lake?

Bampton Fell, un-named on the OS map.

Fordingdale Bottom.

Falls on the upper part of Measand Beck.

Colourful trees looking towards High Raise.

Haweswater from the lake shore path.

Walk 2

Start point: Mardale (NY 479 118)

Brown Howe (Mardale) (521) from Mardale

Distance: 1.2 miles Total Ascent: 200 metres Time Taken: 30 minutes

Now it really was raining and it was very dreary. It took some effort to drive up the other side of Haweswater and then get out of the car again in the pouring rain for a short but steep climb up to Brown Howe. There are some nice views from the Old Corpse Road; I bet they would be superb on a clear, sunny day.

The Rigg and Rough Crag across Haweswater.

Looking into Riggindale from the climb to Brown Howe, Wood Howe is the island.

The head of Haweswater.

Harter Fell and one of the ruins from the Old Corpse Road.

The head of Haweswater looking over another ruined barn.

Wet and windy on Brown Howe.

Walk 3

Start point: From the road above Bampton Grange (NY 521 187)

Knipe Scar (OF) (522) from above Bampton Grange

Distance: 4.5 miles Total Ascent: 319 metres Time Taken: 2 hours

This was one I didn’t fancy at all and I wasn’t disappointed with my disappointment, if you know what I mean (if not, I didn’t like it much). It was similar in appearance to other Limestone scars in the district with it having a flat top and limestone pavement. The views were non-existent today from there. Angus said he didn’t want to come on this one; I think he had the right idea!

Limestone pavement on Knipe Scar.

Casper on top of Knipe Scar. He found the sunken trig. point made a handy drinking bowl!

The 'view' towards the Haweswater fells from the descent of Knipe Scar. Can you spot Casper?

Knipe Scar.

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.

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.

Traversing Little Arrow Moor.

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

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

Buck Pike and Dow Crag.

Brown Pike.

Climbing to The Old Man and into the mist.

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

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

Casper on Brim Fell - looks a bit cold lad!

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

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

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

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

It looks decidedly dull on the top of Grey Friar.

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

The summit of Grey Friar, Harter Fell beyond.

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

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.

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.

Harter Fell

Walked on 14/11/2007

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 but clear. 5oC.

It was dull and grey this morning in the Duddon Valley for my ascent of Harter Fell, yet at the same time it was very clear. Over to the east I could see the blue sky moving across and of course as soon as I came down to valley level, it was everywhere – a lovely day. My camera suffered a few further battle scars as well today as near the beginning of the walk, Angus pulled at the lead when I had the camera in my hand and sent it crashing to the floor. Now it has a big crack in the screen and on the case, looks like I’ll have to get the tape out to keep it together! At least it still works (for now) though…

The River Duddon - Birks Bridge Rapids.

Grey Friar from Birks...and whoops! There goes my camera.

A colourful Dunnerdale Forest with a backdrop of Dow Crag and White Pike.

Stickle Pike with Duddon Sands and Barrow-in-Furness beyond.

Black Combe. The angular fell with the wall running along its spine is The Pike.

Esk Pike, Bowfell and Crinkle Crags from the summit of Harter Fell. Hard Knott is in the centre.

Angus and Casper at the summit of Harter Fell.

You handsome devils!

Upper Eskdale from Harter Fell. It's a lovely view of the Scafells from here.

Casper checks out the view, Wrynose Bottom and Wrynose Pass above him on this photo.

A dark looking Scafell Pike, Broad Crag and Ill Crag with Pen hanging over Great Moss.

Casper, what's that on your nose?

Esk Pike.

Seathwaite Tarn nestling below Dow Crag.

It's brightening up a bit now across Morecambe Bay.

Great Gable

Walked on 12/11/2007

Start point: Wasdale Head (NY 186 084)

Wasdale Head – Kirk Fell – North Top of Kirk Fell – Beck Head – Great Gable – Westmorland Cairn – Great Hell Gate – Napes Needle – Sphinx Rock – Moses Trod – Wasdale Head

Distance: 5 miles Total Ascent: 1100 metres Time Taken: 4 hours 30 minutes

Weather: Icy at first, sunny later. -2oC at first, 7oC max.

I would have liked to have made it to Great Gable yesterday as it was the FRCC annual Armistice Day service up there, but not to worry as I had my own service in solitude today. It was really icy and cold when I set off and that soon gave way to sunshine and clear blue skies. I descended Great Gable by way of the Westmorland Cairn and down to the rough and rocky Great Napes descending Great Hell Gate and traversing to Napes Needle and Sphinx Rock.

Early morning - a glimmer of light and very cold on this steep way up to Kirk Fell.

Looking back down the path to Wasdale - any excuse for a breather!

The rising sun catches the top of the fells encircling Mosedale - Red Pike, Scoat Fell and Pillar.

Which way Casper?

Seatallan over Dore Head. To the right is the distant Isle of Man.

A clear view from the summit of Kirk Fell.

Casper has Kirk Fell licked.

Grasmoor from Kirk Fell, Haystacks is the darker fell in the near centre.

Dale Head - it didn't look like this last week.

Great Gable.

Scafell and Scafell Pike in silhouette with the rising sun across Kirkfell Tarn.

Pillar.

Looking across to Kirk Fell's main summit over the tarn from the north top.

Ennerdale and beyond.

Kirk Fell across Beck Head from the climb to Great Gable.

The FRCC remembrance plaque on Great Gable. It was good to see that there were wreaths and poppies up there despite the edict that people shouldn't leave them as it causes a littering nuisance. I left our families poppies up there today, I told Connie I would so that she may remember in future. Remember her great-grandfather that survived a mustard gas attack at Arras in the First World War and who was never the same again; remember her great-grandfather who was nearly blown to kingdom come in a mortar attack at Arnhem, ending up with less legs and digits than he had previously and who was never the same again; remember her great-grandfather who went to Burma and didn't see his daughter for 5 long years, caught malaria and who was never the same again. Remember them all Connie and shed a tear. I did. I hope the poppies don't offend anyone; please remember the thoughts behind them.

Looking north from a deserted Great Gable summit.

The distant Helvellyn range from the summit of Great Gable.

Skiddaw.

Wast Water and Wasdale from the Westmorland Cairn.

Great Hell Gate - that's the way down for us today...

...gulp!

The Mosedale fells from the Westmorland Cairn.

Here's a photo taken last year from Lingmell showing the route of descent from the Westmorland Cairn, descending Great Hell Gate before rising up to Napes Needle and continuing along the south traverse.

Descending Great Hell Gate.

From this angle, The Sphinx Rock is The Cat Rock.

Napes Needle in silhouette.

Napes Needle from The Dress Circle.

Wast Water and The Sphinx Rock.

The Sphinx Rock.

Looking up Little Hell Gate.

On the south traverse of Great Gable heading for Moses Trod.

Looking back up the scree run on Gavel Neese to Moses Finger.

Casper has a rest during the descent from Great Napes.

Looking back to Great Gable.

Great Gable from Wasdale.

Red Pike and dry stone walls.

Great Gable from Wasdale Head.

Pillar dominating Wasdale Head.

The classic view of Wast Water, Great Gable at its head.

Great Gable. The Great Napes look almost impossible to traverse from here. The two scree chutes of Great Hell Gate and Little Hell Gate are conspicuous running either side of the Napes.

Lowick Beacon

Walked on 11/11/2007

Lowick Beacon

Many will never have heard of Lowick Beacon which lies to the south of the Lake District National Park boundary, but there are fabulous views from here despite its modest height of 211m. This is not to be confused with the Wainwright Outlier, Beacon Fell, although that is not too far away to the north. Complete with a Beacon Tarn as well, this really is a lovely smaller walk on a sunny Sunday afternoon such as today.

Setting off for Lowick Beacon across Lowick Common.

The Coniston fells come into view soon after the start.

The same view from higher up. The trees in the centre hide Beacon Tarn, more of a boggy area than a full blown tarn. Interesting to note that on the map it is marked with black lettering rather than the more usual blue for stretches of water.

Dow Crag and The Old Man across a golden Lowick Common.

Wetherlam.

The Old Man of Coniston.

The view from the northern (and ancient) cairn on Lowick Beacon.

The Crake Valley.

Looking from the highest point of Lowick Beacon towards Coniston with the cairn on the other end of the plateau.

Lowick High Common, commonly known as Kirkby Moor, complete with wind farm.

No - not looking! Angus and Casper refusing to play today.

Sunshine on The Old Man and Wetherlam with the southern end of Coniston Water in view.

The Helvellyn massif.

Dow Crag and The Old Man with Beacon Fell lying in the centre.

Connie at (Lowick) Beacon Tarn.

Beacon Tarn.

A Newlands Round

Walked on 05/11/2007

Start point: Chapel Bridge, Little Town (NY 232 194)

Little Town – Skelgill Bank – Catbells – Maiden Moor – High Spy on Scawdel Fell – Dale Head – Hindscarth – High Crags – Red Knott – Scope End – Little Town

Distance: 9.3 miles Total Ascent: 1000 metres Time Taken: 4 hours 40 minutes

Weather: Wind and rain. 12oC.

Today I met up with Andy Lang for an early start to complete a circuit of Dale Head. After looking a bit grim at the start of the walk, it did seem as though it was going to brighten up before the weather took a turn for the worse during the climb to Maiden Moor. From there, across High Spy, Dale Head and Hindscarth, the weather was pretty horrendous with very strong wind and rain and of course, views (and photos) were non-existent on this portion of the walk. Miraculously, at the end of the walk the sun shone and, at valley level at least, all was calm.

The view from Little Town - Hindscarth and Scope End to the left with the path to be used in descent clearly visible through the bracken. To the right is Robinson.

Causey Pike and Rowling End across the Newlands Valley from the same vantage point.

Still in the valley looking across to Ard Crags and Causey Pike.

It looks like the cloud is clearing from Hindscarth and Robinson now.

A steep, steep climb took us directly to Skelgill Bank, a subsidiary summit of Cat Bells with a view of Derwent Water and Keswick with Skiddaw and Blencathra under apparently lifting cloud.

Heading for Cat Bells.

There is a bit of a scramble to reach the top of Cat Bells.

Casper on the summit. I reckoned Cat Bells to be the only fell I hadn't been on the top on my own previously, but I made that one today too.

Derwent Water and Keswick from Cat Bells.

The way to go - Maiden Moor with Hindscarth beyond.

Autumn colours in Manesty Park and across Borrowdale.

Maiden Moor from Hause Gate.

A final view of Cat Bells before the weather really came in behind us. Even in this shot, the wind was very strong and with it came lashings of rain. We were absolutely sodden and even had a 'what on earth are we doing here?' moment on High Spy (although we did think it was preferable to many other things we could have been doing!). It didn't look like the weather would improve at all for the rest of the walk...

...but, descending from Hindscarth the light suddenly improved as we came through the cloud layer. In this photo, the wind was whipping across the ridge from left to right and made walking difficult, along with the treacherous wet and slippery rocks.

Completely clear of the murk now.

It's clearing out over High Spy and Dale Head.

Robinson from High Crags.

It can't be true, can it? Sunshine and blue sky over Robinson now, a real turn up for the books.

Even Hindscarth is clear on the summit now looking back along the High Crags ridge.

Sunshine in Newlands.

Cat Bells (complete with figure on the summit) over Knott End with Blencathra beyond.

The aftermath - Casper looks like he has been dragged through a hedge backwards after walking in all that wind and rain. I dread to think what I looked like!

Looking back to Scope End and Robinson from Chapel Bridge, all in glorious sunshine now of course.

Top o’ Selside

Walked on 31/10/2007

Start point: Dodgson Wood (NY 246 016)

Dodgson Wood – Low Parkamoor – Great Hill – Top o’ Selside – Low Parkamoor – Dodgson Wood

Distance: 2.6 miles Total Ascent: 295 metres Time Taken: 1 hour

Weather: Overcast. 15oC.

This morning it was surprisingly warm for the time of year, but with that went the low cloud and general dullness. On the way up the east side of Coniston, I stopped to have a look at a metal statue that I have seen a few times peeping over the wall, but have never been close to. The autumn colours are really showing now, especially when the sun shines.

A sentinel guards High Nibthwaite at the southern end of Coniston Water.

Is he happy in his work?

The quay at the end of Coniston Water.

Looking across to Beacon Fell which is picking up a few rays.

A beck on the climb through Dodgson Wood.

Low Parkamoor and The Park.

Looking south along Coniston Water. The first few photos above were taken from the extreme left, Beacon Fell's silhouette can be seen in the centre.

Angus and Casper at the cairn on Top o' Selside.

Casper.

The Coppermines Valley catches fleeting sunrays, the high Coniston fells are cloaked in low cloud.

Angus has spotted something.

Looking across the deserted Low Parkamoor to the Coniston fells.

A golden descent to Dodgson Wood.

Following the ancient wall.

Golden leaves in the sunshine, Dodgson Wood.

Lovely Autumn shades.

Beacon Fell from the jetty at Dales Wood.

Is that a hint of blue sky over Coniston now?

Beacon Fell

Walked on 24/10/2007

Start point: At the end of the minor road from Brown Howe (SD 281 916)

Beacon Fell (OF) from Tottle Bank

Distance: 2 miles Total Ascent: 200 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 45 minutes

Weather: Bright and sunny. 13oC.

It was t-shirt weather in glorious sunshine for our walk to Beacon Fell this afternoon. There was one overriding objective today; to replace the treasure box on the summit, something which we have enjoyed finding and adding our names to over the last couple of years. Last time I visited it had disappeared and subsequent reports by others confirmed that it was still missing. Some people may object to such things, but I think of Beacon Fell as a family fell and the treasure box just adds a little extra something to the walk for youngsters. So, if you are up there, don’t forget to look for it and add your name to the visitors book.

Autumn on Torver Low Common, looking to the Coniston fells.

It was lovely and sunny this afternoon, here looking across to Coniston from further up the climb to Beacon Fell.

The eyes have it! Casper, Angus and Connie enjoy the sunshine overlooking Coniston Water.

The southern end of Coniston Water.

Coniston from the summit of Beacon Fell.

..and (almost) the full length of Coniston Water.

Mission accomplished - Connie and Angus at the summit cairn complete with new treasure box hidden (please don't destroy the cairn looking for it - it isn't that well hidden!).

Beacon Fell, the family fell. I wonder if they were the first to find the treasure?

Sunlit Caw.

Wetherlam.

ngus (aka Rod Stewart), Connie and Casper (aka Laughing Boy) take a minute for a rest on the descent towards Beacon Tarn.

Caw and the Dunnerdale fells.

Angus had a swim in Beacon Tarn - he must have done 30 laps.

Sunshine and silhouettes across Beacon Tarn.

Reflected Connie - a good test for those boots this one. At least they are clean now reasoned Connie and I couldn't argue with that!

Bracken boy.

Brown Pike remains in shade whilst Buck Pike and Dow Crag catch the sun.

Cloud reflections in an un-named jewel.

Angus.