Blake Fell

Walked on 16/10/2007

Start point: Maggie’s Bridge, Loweswater (NY 134 210)

Maggie’s Bridge – High Nook Farm – High Nook on Gavel Fell – Gavel Fell – Blake Fell – Burnbank Fell – Holme Wood – Watergate Farm – Maggie’s Bridge

Distance: 6.2 miles Total Ascent: 600 metres Time Taken: 2 hours 30 minutes

Weather: Generally overcast. 13oC.

There was only the occasional glimpse of sun over Loweswater this morning and the wind on the fell tops was icy – a portent of things to come I think. My boots are falling apart again; regular readers will remember it was only 5 months ago that this happened previously and that pair only lasted 7 months. It’s back to the manufacturers as the shop warranty is just out, being 12 months from the initial purchase date. It will be interesting to see what happens next…

Carling Knott in one of the rare spells of sunshine from the track to High Nook Farm from Maggie's Bridge.

Looking back to Loweswater Fell.

Which way is it? Climbing the nose of Gavel Fell.

Highnook Tarn and a glimpse of Loweswater from the climb to Gavel Fell.

Looking across to Whiteside and Grasmoor in the distance, Mellbreak in the middle distance and Little Dodd on Loweswater Fell nearest.

The view from the summit of Gavel Fell looking towards High Stile, Starling Dodd and Great Borne. Pillar is visible beyond Starling Dodd.

Casper and Angus on Gavel Fell. Blake Fell, which is our next target, is beyond.

Gavel Fell summit.

Blake Fell.

Looking down on Knock Murton and Cogra Moss from Blake Fell.

The view from Blake Fell. Buttermere and Fleetwith Pike are on the upper right.

The summit of Burnbank Fell is marked by the straining post on the right looking back to Blake Fell.

Grasmoor and Whiteless Pike across Crummock Water.

The view over Loweswater and Holme Wood from the seat on the slopes of Burnbank Fell.

Looking over Holme Wood and Loweswater to Darling Fell and Low Fell.

Crossing Holme Beck.

Loweswater.

Mellbreak from the path back to Maggie's Bridge.

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…

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

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

...and across to Coniston Water.

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

Casper and the other Old Man.

Out of the gloom to Low Water.

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

Spot the gruesome-twosome.

The Coppermines Valley from the descent.

Threshthwaite Horseshoe

Walked on 08/10/2007

Start point: Hartsop (NY 410 130)

Hartsop – Hartsop Dodd – Caudale Moor (Stony Cove Pike) – Threshthwaite Mouth – Gray Crag – Hartsop

Distance: 5.5 miles Total Ascent: 775 metres Time Taken: 2 hours 45 minutes

Weather: Initially clear then cloud. 10oC.

I didn’t know what to expect today, I certainly didn’t expect any clear photos as it was raining so much! As I went over Kirkstone Pass, there was a certain amount of clarity around Hartsop, so that’s what I settled on. The clouds were hanging around in thick layers in the valleys but eventually it lifted to cover the tops and the highest part of the walk was completed in the mist.

Hartsop Dodd.

Clouds hanging on the side of Angletarn Pikes.

At the bottom of Hartsop Dodd, the steep ascent is straight up alongside the wall.

Lingy Crag above Hartsop village from the climb to Hartsop Dodd.

Looking over to Saint Sunday Crag across the low lying clouds.

Angletarn Pikes with Hartsop through the mist, bottom..

Looking over Brothers Water to Dovedale.

Dovedale.

A glimpse of Ullswater through the clouds in Patterdale.

Place Fell and Angletarn Pikes.

Looks like it is clearing out a bit over Patterdale now.

Dove Crag, Hart Crag and Fairfield.

Brothers Water and Hartsop above How with Saint Sunday Crag beyond.

Middle Dodd.

Dovedale.

Angus and Casper on Hartsop Dodd.

Looking back to Hartsop Dodd summit from the ridge walk to Caudale Moor....and that was it! It was up into the clouds onto Caudale Moor, remaining in them descending to Threshthwaite Mouth, up to Gray Crag and along the ridge.

Out of the clouds at last and over the steep descent of Gray Crag.

Hartsop.

The top of Hartsop Dodd in cloud now beyond this old barn.

Hayeswater Gill.

Looking back to Gray Crag.

East of Coniston

Walked on 05/10/2007

Start point: High Nibthwaite (SD 295 897)

High Nibthwaite – Brock Barrow – High Nibthwaite

Distance: 1.2 miles Total Ascent: 165 metres Time Taken: 1 hour

Weather: Warm and clear. 18oC.

It was amazingly clear and sunny today, too good to resist getting out for a short walk even though time was getting on. There are great views from the East of Coniston which are much underrated – Brock Barrow was relegated to ‘a nameless summit 748’ by Wainwright, but surely with its magnificent ancient cairn and great views it deserves better than that? See for yourself…

Looking over High Nibthwaite at the southern end of Coniston Water. You can just see the yachts through the houses, Beacon Fell is beyond.

There is a riot of autumn colour in the sunshine on Brock Barrow.

How warm is it today Casper and Angus? I can scarcely believe it - summer revisited!

That tongue says it all!

Looking down to the foot of Coniston Water, with the River Crake and Allan Tarn to the left

Heading for the second summit on Brock Barrow.

Looking to Low Light Haw from the old sheepfold on Brock Barrow.

A brilliantly clear view today.

Angus and Casper on the second summit.

The Old Man of Coniston with Torver at the bottom of the photo.

Caw.

Wetherlam across Coniston Water.

The sun is picking out the rocky face of Dow Crag nicely.

Looking down to Coniston Water. This is Ransome's 'Swallows and Amazons country.

Black Combe across Blawith Knott.

Descending back to the track returning to High Nibthwaite.

The cool, clear water looks inviting - I reckon it will be a bit just a little bit cold though!

Golden light on the Coniston fells.

Coniston jetty and Peel Island.

Brant Fell

Walked on 03/10/2007

Start point: Brantfell Road, Bowness-on-Windermere (SD 406 967)

Bowness-on-Windermere – Post Knott – Brant Fell (OF) – Bowness-on-Windermere

Distance: 1.2 miles Total Ascent: 110 metres Time Taken: 1 hour

Weather: Warm but very murky. 13oC.

There was more general murkiness again today and time was lacking so we took the dogs for a short walk up to Brant Fell, the Wainwright Outlier above Bowness. Usually there are great views of Windermere from both Post Knott and Brant Fell but the haziness today ruined that to a certain degree – I can’t grumble about being out and about though!

The path to Brant Fell is the start of the Dalesway between Ilkley and Bowness - only 81 miles to go!

Oh dear, it was all a bit murky this morning up on Post Knott but normally you can get a good view of Windermere from here.

A steamer heading into Bowness Bay with the ferry landing to the upper left.

Heading for Brant Fell from Post Knott.

Windermere from the rocky top of Brant Fell.

Angus and Casper guarding the gates of Brant Fell.

...and here are the gateposts! The top was previously adorned with a summer house long ago with these two gateposts the only reminders along with the remnants of some old iron railings.

Looking south along Windermere...

..and looking north towards Ambleside which is up there somewhere.

The old reservoir and Brantfell Farm, School Knott beyond.

Looking back to Brant Fell, the reservoir is centre left.

Bowness and Brant Fell from the ferry across to Sawrey. This photo is from a similar position to that of the steamer in the photo above.

Cawdale Circuit

Walked on 27/09/2007

Start point: Moorahill Farm (NY 494 182)

Moorahill Farm – Low Kop (516) – High Kop – Red Crag (517) – Wether Hill – Loadpot Hill – Hart Hill – The Pen – Moorahill Farm

Distance: 8.5 miles Total Ascent: 513 metres Time Taken: 3 hours

Weather: Cloudy with drizzle. 7oC.

It was up into the clouds this morning with accompanying drizzle and a biting wind. There were no views of anything today (so not many photos) but the going was easy and I managed to complete this one in super quick time. I’m not sure there would be a lot going for this walk in good weather as the area is quite bleak, although the views from High Street Roman Road are usually pretty good.

Cawdale looking a bit dull in early morning light with Low Kop and High Kop up on the ridge. The clouds look ominously low on Wether Hill at the head of the valley.

Crossing Cawdale Beck on the old stone footbridge. Annoyingly, the bridge is not on the footpath so I had to follow the beck to find it. I was quickly into the murk and drizzle climbing The Hause up to Low Kop. Low Kop was totally unremarkable and I could not find any sort of marker although I wandered around in the mist for a while. I always took 'Kop' to be of South African derivation, being the word for a hill in Afrikaan (and used at many football stadiums as a name for the home terraces). Could Low Kop and High Kop be named by soldiers returning from The Boer War at the turn of the 20th century?

The summit of Red Crag was also unmarked so Casper will have to do instead. Oddly there is a large cairn to the north of the highest point.

Crossing a gap in the wall following the old Roman Road.

The remains of Lowther House, an old hunting lodge, on the climb to Loadpot Hill. These ruins seem to reduce in size every time you pass.

The trig. column on Loadpot Hill.

The briefest glimpse of sunshine descending The Pen.

Back to the start, cold and wet. Cawdale and Cawdale Beck.

Black Fell

Walked on 24/09/2007

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: Showers. 12oC.

It really put some rain down last night and everywhere was very wet. This morning’s walk up to Black Fell was done in showery weather but I think we probably caught it right as we managed to dodge the worst of them. I think Angus was wondering where all the people and dogs had gone from last weeks walk to Helvellyn and it seemed as if he was expecting everyone to turn up again!

The view from the path to Black Fell. In the centre is Ambleside looking across to the Fairfield range to the left and Wansfell with the far eastern fells beyond to the right.

Iron Keld - formerly a plantation, now a scene of desolation.

Black Crag, the summit of Black Fell is to the left with the trig. column visible. To the right is the large south-east cairn. There is a good view of some of the lakes from Black Crag...

Windermere.

Esthwaite Water and Hawkshead.

Coniston Water and Tarn Hows.

A band of sunshine flits across Pike o' Blisco...

...then across the otherwise brooding Langdale Pikes.

The Helvellyn massif.

Black Crag and Coniston Water across the wall.

Angus and Casper at the summit. Casper is reading the sign to make sure we are in the right place!

Coniston Old Man and Wetherlam across Holme Fell.

There is even a brief glimpse of blue sky over Black Crag.

Windermere from the south-eastern cairn.

Angus auditions for a job in Trafalgar Square.

Striding Edge

Walked on 19/09/2007

Start point: Patterdale (NY 394 160)

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

Distance: 7.8 miles Total Ascent: 925 metres Time Taken: 7 hours

Weather: Wet, clearing. 14oC.

Things didn’t look good first thing this morning, the rain was belting down throughout The Lakes and the wind was rattling the windows at home. Normally this would not be a problem, but today was the day of the inaugural StridingEdge.net walk. Would it be ruined? Should we do a low level walk? No! was the answer from the troops meeting at Patterdale. So, onward and upward…

The Grisedale Valley at the start of the climb to the Hole-in-the-Wall. This didn't look good, it was absolutely teeming down with rain.

A glimmer of sunshine? Grisedale and Saint Sunday Crag.

It is bright over on Birks but it's still raining though.

Suddenly the weather looks a bit more promising, here looking to the head of Grisedale.

Looking back to Place Fell from the path to the Hole-in-the-Wall.

Wet and bedraggled, we made it to the Hole-in-the-Wall.

Looking across to Catstycam.

Birkhouse Moor from the climb to Striding Edge.

All is clear over to Ullswater now, looking from Low Spying How.

Striding Edge.

Swirral Edge and Catstycam across Red Tarn. The white dot in the centre of the tarn is a small dinghy.

Descending The Chimney - dogs and all.

Climbing to Helvellyn, the summit shrouded in mist.

Looking back along Striding Edge.

Red Tarn and Catstycam from Helvellyn.

Casper makes sure everyone makes it along Striding Edge safely.

Walking along the Helvellyn summit plateau.

The StridingEdge summiteers - Lesley, Martin, Claire, David, Mike, Andy, Jo, Ann and Roger. Not on the photo are Angela who went east at the Hole-in-the-Wall, Alan who went north and Chris who went south!

A clearing view to Swirral Edge and Catstycam.

Casper lies perilously close to the edge of Helvellyn. Don't roll over!

White Side and Raise across Brown Cove.

Descending Swirral edge.

All is clear over to Skiddaw now.

Ullswater from Catstycam.

Casper and Angus on Catstycam wondering who all those other people and dogs are.

The route walked from Birkhouse Moor - Striding Edge, left, Helvellyn and Catstycam.

Ullswater from Birkhouse Moor.

It's sunny over Glenridding now on the descent from Birkhouse Moor. It is almost unbelievable to think it would end up like this after the start this morning, I didn't think we would see anything today. A great walk in brilliant company - thanks to everyone who joined us today, I really enjoyed it.

Sallows

Walked on 18/09/2007

Start point: Troutbeck (NY 413 028)

Troutbeck – Garburn Road – Sour Howes – Capple Howe (515) – Moor Head – Sallows – Garburn Road – Troutbeck

Distance: 5.2 miles Total Ascent: 470 metres Time Taken: 2 hours

Weather: Clear and cool. 12oC.

After a dull start it eventually turned sunny and bright but it was so cold this morning. A step change I thought and Autumn is most definitely upon us now. This is quite a gentle walk and I managed to pick up a Birkett straggler – one that I had somehow managed to miss previously. I don’t know what has happened to the cairn on Sour Howes, somehow it has completely disappeared without trace.

Troutbeck Park from the Garburn Road, The Tongue centre.

Getting higher up the Garburn Road.

Looking across to Scafell, through the Three Tarns gap, and Bowfell.

The Coniston fells from the climb to Applethwaite Common.

Windermere from the ridge.

Thornthwaite Crag, Froswick, Ill Bell and Yoke.

Red Screes and Caudale Moor across Troutbeck Park.

The sky is clearing now as the sun gets higher giving clear views.

A close-up of Bowness and Windermere.

Distant Black Combe over Windermere.

Crinkle Crags, Scafell and Bowfell. Pike o' Blisco can just be seen to the left of the first Crinkle.

Casper on the summit of Sour Howes. The cairn that used to be here has disappeared so Casper will have to do instead!

The view to the north from Sour Howes.

Sallows from the top of Capple Howe. I managed to miss this new (for me) Birkett last time round.

Sunshine and blue skies heading for Sallows.

The western fells over Wansfell Pike.

Red Screes with the Kirkstone Pass road below.

The Kentmere Horseshoe fells from Sallows.

Yoke over the Garburn Pass.

Casper on the summit mound of Sallows, Kentmere Pike beyond.

Scafell Pike now visible in the distant centre, Great End over the Langdale Pikes to the right.

The Coniston range.

Troutbeck Tongue.

Descending to the Garburn Road.

Black Combe and the Coniston fells from the Garburn Road.

Wansfell.

Hugill Fell

Walked on 14/09/2007

Start point: Barley Bridge, Staveley (SD 470 987)

Hugill Fell (OF) from Staveley

Distance: 1.6 miles Total Ascent: 160 metres Time Taken: 1 hour

Weather: Dull. 17oC.

We were over Kendal way today and decided on a short walk up to Hugill Fell above Staveley. The weather wasn’t the best, it being quite dull but this is a pleasant enough walk. The treat for later was lunch at Wilf’s in Staveley followed by watching the Tour of Britain cycle race at Blease Hill outside Kendal en-route to the stage finish in Kendal town centre.

Brunt Knott from the climb to Hugill Fell.

Someone's been rolling in the bracken.

The Kentmere Valley from Hugill Fell.

Closer up, showing the Kentmere Horseshoe fells.

Looking to the distant Langdales from the summit of Hugill Fell.

Close-up of Crinkle Crags, Bowfell and the Langdale Pikes.

Brunt Knott across the valley.

Angus and Casper on the summit.

Now joined by Louise, the dark clouds rolling in.

The weir above Barley Bridge, Staveley. The River Kent looks decidedly dry at the moment.

Our second summit of the day! Blease Hill, King of the Mountains points for the first riders over the line.

Russia's Alex Serov, the eventual stage winner 7 miles away in Kendal is closely scrutinised by the TV camera.

Going for it!

Blencathra via Sharp Edge

Walked on 11/09/2007

Start point: Mungrisdale (NY 361 303)

Mungrisdale – Souther Fell – Scales Tarn – Sharp Edge – Blencathra – Mungrisdale Common – Bannerdale Crags – Bowscale Fell – East Top on Bowscale Fell – Mungrisdale

Distance: 10.4 miles Total Ascent: 960 metres Time Taken: 4 hours 30 minutes

Weather: Sunny and bright. 18oC.

It was an early start again today, climbing Souther Fell with the sun rising across the low lying mist. By the time I reached Scales Tarn for the start of the climb of Sharp Edge, the sun was shining and the weather was glorious with lovely clear views all around; a glorious walk on a glorious day.

Sunrise in Mungrisdale at the start of the climb to Souther Fell, Little Mell Fell and Great Mell Fell in view.

There was lots of early morning mist this morning lying in the valleys.

Mungrisdale mist.

The Bowscale Fell ridge from Souther Fell. The final route of ascent later will be along it.

The summit of Souther Fell looking to Clough Head and the Dodds.

Blencathra clearly showing where the alternative name of Saddleback comes from with Bannerdale Crags in the foreground.

A lie down after the steep warm-up for Casper.

Blencathra from the southern cairn on Souther Fell.

A first glimpse of Sharp Edge from Mousthwaite Comb - it is the light band of rock arcing upwards to the highest pinnacle and looks almost impossible to climb from here.

Sharp Edge above Scales Tarn - it doesn't look quite as bad now.

The approach to Sharp Edge.

Up there?!

Climbing Sharp Edge.

Casper negotiates some of the slabs.

...and looking back down.

High above Scales Tarn now.

Made it! A lovely clear view from the summit of Blencathra today. To the north there were views to Scotland over low lying mist.

Wisps of cloud hang around on Hall's Fell Ridge.

The north western fells above Derwent Water and Keswick.

Casper.

Skiddaw from the summit tarn on Blencathra.

The Skiddaw massif across Mungrisdale Common.

Mungrisdale Common, that most derided of Wainwright fells as it is merely a large and grassy expanse with not a lot going for it - apart from today that is because Casper is there to liven the scene up! (Note: he is not there every day, unfortunately).

Sharp Edge from the climb to Bannerdale Crags, here seen rising from the centre up to the right.

Blencathra from the summit of Bannerdale Crags.

Looking east from the summit of Bowscale Fell.

Looking over Bowscale Tarn to Mosedale and High Pike from the East Top of Bowscale Fell.

Carrock Fell from the east ridge of Bowscale Fell.

Souther Fell from the descent across a sea of bracken.

Circuit of Devoke Water

Walked on 10/09/2007

Start point: Birker Fell road (SD 171 977)

Birker Fell Road – Rough Crag (Birker Moor) (OF) – Water Crag (OF) – White Pike on Birkby Fell (OF) – Yoadcastle (OF) – Woodend Height (OF)– Seat How (Birker Moor) (OF) – Birker Fell Road

Distance: 5.4 miles Total Ascent: 686 metres Time Taken: 2 hours

Weather: Sunny spells, clearing. Cool breeze on the tops. 20oC.

I think the weather men actually got it right today, saying it would clear throughout the morning as it duly did. Although it was warm when sheltered, the exposed tops were caught by the wind straight off the Irish Sea and made it more than a bit chilly. Brr!

Running to Rough Crag. Well, some of us are.

Harter Fell and Green Crag across Birker Fell.

The Scafells, Esk Pike, Bowfell, Crinkle Crags and Harter fell.

Casper and Angus on top of Rough Crag.

A close-up of Harter Fell.

Scafell and Slight Side, Great Gable in the distance.

Looking to Rough Crag from the walk to Water Crag.

Looking west over Birker Fell, the pyramidal Caw to the right.

Crossing Linbeck Gill, the outflow of Devoke Water.

Devoke Water from an ancient cairn below Birkby Fell.

The west Cumbrian coast and Ravenglass Estuary from White Pike. The River Esk is snaking its way into the estuary.

Admiring the view on White Pike.

The Scafells from the large cairn on Woodend Height.

Yoadcastle and Whitfell from Woodend Height.

I think these two were waiting for me on Yoadcastle.

The view from Yoadcastle.

Looking over White Pike to the coast.

The view over Seat How, centre, from the descent. The old boathouse is to the left.

Water Crag over the old boathouse.

Seat How.

The boathouse from the climb to Seat How.

Devoke Water from Seat How.

Wetherlam

Walked on 05/09/2007

Start point: Tilberthwaite car park (NY 306 010)

Tilberthwaite – Tilberthwaite Gill – Birk Fell Man on Birk Fell – Wetherlam Edge – Wetherlam – Black Sails – Red Dell – Hole Rake – Tilberthwaite

Distance: 6 miles Total Ascent: 880 metres Time Taken: 3 hours

Weather: Clear at first, mist and drizzle later. 19oC.

Everywhere but Wetherlam seemed to be in cloud this morning when I set out; it was basking under a lovely blue sky, but that quickly changed during the ascent of Wetherlam Edge. I thought it would be an interesting addition to drop down to Red Dell following the Black Sails ridge but it proved to be a tough climb back up to Hole Rake and over to Tilberthwaite.

First glimpse of Wetherlam from the sheepfold above the bridge across Tilberthwaite Gill.

Wetherlam from Dry Cove Bottom.

Steel Edge.

It looks nice and clear on Wetherlam at the moment.

Heading for Birk Fell.

A profile of Wetherlam Edge, today's route of ascent.

Again, from the climb to Birk Fell.

Casper on Birk Fell Man.

Pike o' Blisco catches a few rays of sunshine in between cloud cover across Greenburn.

The Langdale Pikes and Blea Tarn.

...and closer up.

Angus in the sunshine.

Wet Side Edge across Greenburn.

Wetherlam Edge.

Climbing Wetherlam Edge - these two seem to know the way!

Looking back down Wetherlam Edge to Little Langdale Tarn as the clouds start to roll in.

Made it! Angus and Casper have a rest in the eerie light on the summit of Wetherlam. We were to be in the clouds for a little while now.

Red Dell suddenly appears from the mist whilst walking the Black Sails ridge.

Looking down on Levers Water.

Coppermines Valley and Coniston Water from the ruins of the Red Dell mine workings.

A thick band of cloud on The Old Man.

Heading east back to Tilberthwaite along Hole Rake.

A final view of Wetherlam from Tilberthwaite Gill.

Dunnerdale Fells

Walked on 30/08/2007

Start point: Kiln Bank Cross (SD 215 933)

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

Distance: 2.5 miles Total Ascent: 235 metres Time Taken: 1 hour

Weather: Overcast and windy. 18oC.

I had a shorter walk today in poorer conditions than yesterday up to the Dunnerdale Fells. Angus (the old trooper) was out as well, loving every minute of it of course! It seems like a while since I’ve been up here, certainly before the summer, yet it looks quite wintry already…

It's all a bit gloomy after the sunshine of yesterday heading towards Stickle Tarn.

Looking to the head of the Duddon Valley from the climb with the high fells lost in cloud, Caw up to the right.

The track to Stickle Pike.

Stickle Tarn.

Angus and Casper - up to their necks in it today.

Looking back to Stickle Pike from the climb to Great Stickle.

Stickle Pike and Caw from Great Stickle.

The Duddon Estuary.

The three of them - trig, Stickle Pike and Harter Fell.

The two of them - Casper and Angus.

Great Stickle from Tarn Hill.

Stickle Pike from an appropriate tarn on Tarn Hill.

Sunlight on Green Crag.

Looks like it's clearing to the north from the summit of Stickle Pike.

Scafell and Slight Side.

The scene of yesterday's walk - Bowfell and Crinkle Crags.

Having a rest on Stickle Pike.

Bowfell

Walked on 29/08/2007

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

Old Dungeon Ghyll – Pike O’ Blisco – Red Tarn – Cold Pike – Crinkle Crags – Shelter Crags – Three Tarns – Bowfell – Climbers Traverse – Hell Gill – Oxendale – Old Dungeon Ghyll

Distance: 9 miles Total Ascent: 1260 metres Time Taken: 5 hours

Weather: Sunny. 18oC.

Regular viewers may remember the last time I set off on this route in January when I nearly got blown off Pike o’ Blisco in a blizzard and decided to cut short the route. Some may also remember that back in May I managed to drop my camera and ruin a lens. Since then I have been using the cheapo kit lens that I had but I finally got around to getting a new one which I used for the first time today – hopefully the photos will be back to their previous clarity and sharpness. The walk today was memorable for a couple of reasons; the first was that I managed a quick dip – the first on a walk this year. The second was when I got chatting with the shepherd at Stool End Farm who had a Beardie as a working companion and it was interesting to compare her with Casper.

On the way to Langdale the mist lies over the head of Coniston Water.

Early morning sunshine and cloud on Bowfell.

Crinkle Crags over Wall End Farm.

Golden Casper.

The cloud clears from Bowfell on the climb to Pike o' Blisco.

Blue skies over Pike o' Blisco.

All clear over the Coniston fells from the southern cairn on Pike o' Blisco.

Mist over Crinkle Crags with Bowfell beyond the main summit cairn.

Cold Pike over Red Tarn with a distant Black Combe.

Crinkle Crags and Bowfell from Red Tarn.

The Crinkles from Cold Pike...

...just follow the superhighway.

The second and third Crinkles from the first.

Approaching the 'Bad Step' on the second Crinkle - it is the dark area to the right of centre.

Not so bad today though, me and Casper managed it okay. There is an alternative way around to the west if you don't fancy trying it.

Clouds over the Scafells from Long Top, the second and highest of the Crinkle Crags.

The cloud was constantly appearing then disappearing from Scafell Pike to the left and seemed to be pouring into Eskdale from Esk Hause to the right.

Scafell Pike.

The clouds over Esk Hause.

Bowfell from Shelter Crags.

Casper has a sit down at Three Tarns with a view of the Scafells as a backdrop.

The view from the second tarn - there were only two today, despite the name.

All clear on the Scafells now from Bowfell summit.

All was cloudy to the north and into Langstrath.

Looking back to Bowfell Buttress from the Climber's Traverse on Bowfell.

Looking up to the Crinkles from Buscoe.

At the bottom of Hell Gill, I found this secluded pool an idyllic place for a bathe. Heaven Gill I'd say!

Whorneyside and the Crinkle Crags from the path to Oxendale. The bracken is well gone now.

The same view from further along the path.

Once at Stool End, I spotted a shepherd with a Beardie so we spent a good hour whiling the time away. This working Beardie was half the size of Casper even though the markings are very similar; there are plenty of working Beardies around Langdale - a hardy breed indeed...but you knew that!

The Langdale Pikes.

Pillar

Walked on 22/08/2007

Start point: Bowness Knott Car Park (NY 109 153)

Bowness Knott Car Park – Gillerthwaite – Ennerdale Forest – Pillar Cove – Shamrock Traverse – Pillar – Black Crag (Pillar) – Scoat Fell – Steeple– Lingmell – Bowness Knott Car Park

Distance: 11 miles Total Ascent: 1080 metres Time Taken: 5 hours 30 minutes

Weather: Sunny, cold wind on the tops. 23oC.

Pillar is my favourite mountain as I think I have said previously but this is the first time I have climbed it from the Ennerdale side and what a route; it is absolutely fabulous! This had everything I desire in a good walk – it is rugged, steep and rocky, remote and wild and it gave something that everyone looks for now and again, namely a jaw dropping ‘wow’ moment at the start of the climb towards Pillar Rock. The scenery is awesome, simply the best there is and in Pillar Cove it feels like no person has ever been there before with that mighty column of rock towering above. Coupled with the fine and clear weather this made it truly a walk to remember and one which I shall definitely repeat.

Early morning light on Crag Fell over Ennerdale Water

Scoat Fell, Haycock and Little Gowder Crag on the horizon.

A profile of Pillar. The route is straight up from the bottom left past the lump of Pillar Rock.

Looking across to Steeple and the ridge to be used in descent.

A very impressive view indeed and a real jaw dropping moment. The route is to the right of the small beck then diagonally left below Pillar Rock.

Casper waits patiently amongst the tree stumps. There is no doubt this view has vastly improved with the deforestation and the path used is an old firebreak between the trees which makes the going easier than it would have been.

Ennerdale from the climb.

It's almost like a scene from a 'Lost World' film looking up to the dominating Pillar Rock.

Casper eyes up Pillar Rock - gulp!

Pillar Rock.

Pillar Rock - High Man.

High Stile across Ennerdale.

The East Face of High Man from the Shamrock Traverse. My shadow at the bottom gives it some scale.

Up there Dad?

Pillar Rock from the upper part of the Shamrock Traverse with Pisgah in front and High Man behind.

The north-eastern fells beyond High Crag with Skiddaw in the distance.

Casper on the summit of Pillar. There were lovely views to Scotland in the north and to Furness in the south today.

Looking over to Great Gable and Kirk Fell to the left with the Scafells covered in cloud. Lingmell is on the right in the middle distance.

Skiddaw and Blencathra over Robinson and Hindscarth.

The summit of Pillar. Although the skies were blue, there was a really strong wind up here and it was much colder than it looks. Time to get a jacket on.

Descending to Wind Gap looking to Red Pike.

The way ahead - descending to Wind Gap up to Black Crag then continuing to Scoat Fell and round to Steeple.

Casper demonstrates how Wind Gap got its name!

The east face of Steeple from Black Crag.

Looking back to Pillar.

Negotiating the shattered rocks on Scoat Fell.

The summit of Scoat Fell, the summit cairn is atop the wall on the upper right.

The walk out to Steeple is along this fine, airy arête.

Ennerdale Water from the summit of Steeple.

Looking across Ennerdale to Skiddaw in the distance from Steeple.

Ennerdale Water from Steeple.

Great Borne and Starling Dodd across Ennerdale.

Ennerdale Water from the descent of Lingmell.

Crag Fell over Ennerdale Water - compare the light with that of the first photo above.

Middle Fell

Walked on 21/08/2007

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Greendale Tarn – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 3 miles Total Ascent: 560 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 30 minutes

Weather: Sunny. 19oC.

It was lovely and sunny again this morning with the clouds only hanging over the highest fells. It was nice and quiet in Wasdale when I arrived and it remained so throughout the walk. Greendale Tarn really is an idyllic place and well worth a visit on a day such as this.

A cloud covered Scafell and Slight Side from the Birker Fell road, one of the best road views in the Lakes.

...and closer up.

Middle Fell from Wasdale.

Britain's favourite view? Wast Water is a candidate for that on the TV programme of the same name - possibly not this morning as the clouds are down on Great Gable and Lingmell. Does it get your vote?

Heading out for Middle Fell from Greendale.

Buckbarrow and a berry laden Rowan Tree - must be nearly Autumn.

Buckbarrow from the climb to Middle Fell.

Casper and Angus at the summit of Middle Fell.

Haycock, Scoat Fell and Red Pike from the summit. Although it was sunny, there was a stiff breeze at the top...

...as demonstrated by Angus.

Casper.

The summit of Middle Fell. Clear views to the north today.

Clear to the west too, here looking over Buckbarrow to the coast with the Isle of Man visible over Sellafield.

Greendale Tarn and Seatallan.

Greendale Tarn.

A great view of Haycock.

We descended directly and steeply from the summit of Middle Fell down to Greendale Tarn. This view of Haycock is across the col between Seatallan and Middle Fell.

Greendale Tarn.

Nice place for a swim.

The southern end of Greendale Tarn.

Greendale Gill.

Scafell from the descent.

Back to Wasdale with a clearer view of Wast Water.

Blawith Knott

Walked on 20/08/2007

Start point: Woodland Fell road (SD 256 879)

Blawith Knott (OF) from the Woodland Fell road

Weather: Sunny. 18oC.

It was lovely and sunny today for a short walk up to one of our favourite areas around Woodland up to Blawith Knott. It was the sort of day for a slow, lazy walk and a lie on the grass in the sunshine in this little piece of heaven. The heather is blooming at the moment and the views to the higher fells were clear.

Dunnerdale from Giant's Grave, the headstone visible through the bracken.

Heading up Blawith Knott.

Stickle Pike, the Dunnerdale Fells and Caw.

The Coniston fells on the way up.

Louise, Angus and Casper on the summit of Blawith Knott.

Heathery Beacon Fell.

A lovely clear view of the Coniston fells today. A few close up shots...

Coniston Old Man.

Dow Crag.

Caw.

Stickle Pike.

Scafell and Scafell Pike.

Wetherlam.

The Duddon Estuary.

A good day to sit in the sunshine and admire the view.

Or for running around...he's barking!

Blawith Knott from the spring at the roadside.

The Langdale Pikes

Walked on 13/08/2007

Start point: New Dungeon Ghyll Car Park (NY 295 064)

New Dungeon Ghyll – Stickle Tarn – Pavey Ark – Thunacar Knott – Harrison Stickle – Pike O’Stickle – Loft Crag – Thorn Crag – New Dungeon Ghyll

Distance: 5 miles Total Ascent: 770 metres Time Taken: 3 hours

Weather: Showers. 16oC.

The early bird caught the worm this morning! We were up at the crack of dawn today for a circuit of The Langdale Pikes. Setting off in the rain, I didn’t hold out much hope for any dry weather but fortunately it wasn’t too long before the skies cleared somewhat, although elsewhere – notably over to Bow Fell and the Coniston fells – the clouds remained down for most of the time during the morning.

Stickle Ghyll at the start of the walk...

...in the rain.

As we climbed, the rain stopped for a while and here the early morning sun catches Lingmoor Fell across Great Langdale.

Pavey Ark from the outflow of Stickle Tarn.

Pavey Ark and Stickle Tarn.

Harrison Stickle reflected in Stickle Tarn.

Sergeant Man from the climb to Pavey Ark.

A shower coming over from Easedale from Pavey Ark. Time to get the jacket on again!

High Raise and Sergeant Man from Thunacar Knott. This photo doesn't convey how bad the conditions were - it was blowing a hooly, raining and absolutely freezing up here. Wish I'd packed some gloves.

Looking down on Stickle Tarn, crossing from Thunacar Knott to Harrison Stickle.

Pike o' Blisco from Harrison Stickle.

Another shower approaches the summit of Harrison Stickle, here looking towards Windermere.

Bow Fell and Esk Pike in the clouds with Rossett Pike centre and the next objective, Pike o' Stickle, from Harrison Stickle.

Mickleden from Pike o' Stickle with Bow Fell at its head, Esk Pike and Great End beyond. The prominent fork is the joining of the Rossett Gill and Stake Pass paths.

Looking across to Loft Crag with Windermere beyond.

Rossett Pike.

Casper on Pike o' Stickle.

Bow Fell, almost out of the clouds now.

The sun lights up Loft Crag with the familiar outline of Pike o' Stickle in shade and the dark silhouette of Glaramara beyond.

Tongue out on Loft Crag for Casper.

Harrison Stickle from Loft Crag.

Casper contemplates life from Dungeon Ghyll.

Looking across to the Coniston fells, The Old Man in cloud whilst Wetherlam remains clear. To the left is Blea Tarn.

The heathery slopes of Lingmoor Fell and Side Pike.

Looking back to Loft Crag and Harrison Stickle from the bottom of the Dungeon Ghyll path.

Great Burney

Walked on 11/08/2007

Burney (OF) from the Woodland Fell Road

Distance: 1.5 miles Total Ascent: 120 metres Time Taken: 1 hour

Weather: Dull. 18oC.

There was no sunshine this morning and the higher fells were enveloped in a thick cloak of cloud so we decided to walk up to Great Burney, a compact Outlying Fell which is on the southern edge of the Lake District National Park. Connie was keen to try out her new boots today – I think they passed with flying colours!

Lowick High Common (Kirkby Moor) from the start of the walk.

From the ancient cairn between Combs and Great Burney there is a glimpse of Coniston Water with Beacon Fell prominent in the centre.

Connie shows off those new boots.

Louise and Connie on the steep climb to Great Burney.

Casper and Angus at the summit.

Outlying Fells Blawith Knott, Tottlebank Height and Beacon Fell across Subberthwaite Common.

The giant windmills on Kirkby Moor from Great Burney.

The bad weather is moving in across the Duddon Estuary now - Black Combe is submerged under the cloud here and the rain was on us within a couple of minutes.