31st July 2014 - Hard Knott Roman Fort, Border End, Hard Knott, Yew Bank & Lingcove Bridge from Jubilee Bridge
This was a repeat of a walk we had done in July 2006, was new to Little Eric and Southey and Uncle Eric too. They all needed to bag the Wainwright summit Hard Knott, and for Little Eric the others advanced his Birkett total. The forecast was for showers at times, but whilst it was not sunny, it stayed dry throughout. Some cloud on higher fells but this did lift off for a little while. Met Uncle Eric at the parking area at the foot of Hard Knott pass just beyond Jubilee Bridge, which has been a familiar start point over the years most notably for the successful conquest of Pen to complete the Birkett challenge. Walked the road up the pass to then take the signed path that initially climbed by the wall then swung away right upwards to Hard Knott Roman Fort, which we looked around, and took in the commanding views over the Esk Valley and up to the summit of the pass. The Romans certainly knew exactly where to site it. Then leaving by the NW gate, followed the path on that looped round behind some outcrops and so on to the road again but much higher up the pass, to walk on to the summit marked by a cairn. Although not a mountain summit we insisted on having our photo taken. Hard Knott is one of the most difficult and challenging routes for motorists in England, and care is required negotiating the sharp bends and steep climbs. All the time the bulk of Border End, our first summit had towered over us. Within a few yards took the clear path climbing left up to the ridge and reaching a boggy hollow. Birkett in his book says to now bear off left a cairned outcrop, but now a path goes on by the hollow and then bears left avoiding the cairn and straight to the next rise that the OS consider is the summit. There is a cairned outcrop further on but although it seemed higher it was probably the cairn that made it seem so. So now retraced and down to the hollow. It might have been better to walk back further before climbing Hard Knott as we would have been on the main path. Still another path led up, if quite steeply. Climbing a rise right we then had to descend east to a hollow and then up to the summit marked with a cairn with a metal rod sticking out of the top. Dad remarked laughingly to Eric, "is that a mobile phone tower?" In a way if had it would have been useful as that as there was no service at all in this area!! That is why there is a phone box by the road at the entrance to Brotherilkeld Farm. So that done we headed north on a clear path that descended the long shoulder with Mosedale to the right. After the initial descent the rock towers of Yew Bank came into view left above a small tarn. We climbed to this summit. So that was the summits done - 3 Birketts and 1 Wainwright. Had our lunch here, then walked on down the shoulder to reach the Mosedale Path by Lingcove Beck. The head of the Mosedale was before us between the Crinkle Crags and the ridge of High Gait Crags, Pike de Bield and Esk Pike. This scene was a truly dramatic prospect. The Crinkle Crags dominated above Mosedale to the right, then Bowfell and Esk Pike ahead. Round to the left are Ill Crag, Broad Crag, Scafell Pike, Scafell & Slight Side!! Also lower the fells such as Scar Lathing adding to the drama. An amazing scene. Along here we had seen the only other walkers a couple heading in the opposite direction. So at the beck we turned left and walked down to Lingcove Bridge. The path is steep and very rough and rocky. Hard going. Lingcove Bridge is just a delight and we were pleased to visit it again. The graceful arch of the packhorse bridge spans Lingcove Beck just at its confluence with the River Esk. A lovely scene. So now all that remained was to walk down Eskdale on a more level and less rocky path. We got a view of the 50ft Eskdale Needle, high on the hillside to the left. Lots of sheep throughout the walk. Our lovely Herdwicks with lambs. After a ladderstile the path was pretty grassy to a gateless gap then via a gate into a fenced path above the river, and so out to the yard of Brotherilkeld Farm. Walked the access to the road and uphill to the parking (nearly another 100ft!) So a good day, with Uncle Eric for company and we were pleased for him as he had never been here before.
23rd July 2014 - Little Carrs, Great Carrs, Swirl How, Great How on Swirl Band, Grey Friar & Hell Gill Pike from Wrynose Pass
The Coniston Fells were on Uncle Eric's to-do list and indeed our pal Little Eric's too. Dad suggested this route starting from Wrynose Pass and ascending via Wet Side Edge, to which Uncle Eric agreed. Uncle Eric drove, taking it carefully through the narrow roads of Little Langdale, then on up Wrynose Pass to park just below the Three Shires Stone. Walked on a few yards to then go left crossing the stepping stones and following the clear path up the fell. We were passed by a party of school children from Church Stretton in Shropshire. The leader chatted a bit to Dad and Uncle Eric as he passed and then later as they all passed us again having stopped for a rest. The ridge reached we climbed on up, passing Hell Gill Pike that was decided to be left for the descent. Soon Little Carrs was reached the cairn being just yards off the path, and we were soon out for our picture. Then more steeply on the stony path to the summit of Great Carrs, the cairn finely placed above the steep precipice that drops to Greenburn Valley. Pictures done here, it was on round the rim of the crags and then the short climb to Swirl How. A family from Austria?, were at the summit. They are spending 8 weeks in the Lakes doing the Wainwrights. One son proudly showed off how many they had done so far, and the ones that they were planning to do in the coming weeks. Very nice people and they loved the idea of Dad taking us! So then we headed on the short distance to Great How on Swirl Band, a rocky upthrust of a crag, the cairn again being just yards from the path. This was a Birkett and Uncle Eric had agreed to do this so that Little Eric and Southey could bag it. It was not too far from Swirl How, about a third of a mile. Here we had lunch with the superb view over Levers Water and down to Coniston. Also on the opposite side of Seathwaite Tarn. All day we had had magnificent views, of these fells, Scafells, Helvellyns, Bowfell etc etc. Wonderful! So now we headed off taking a contour west under the summit of Swirl How to join the path that climbed steadily to Grey Friar, the summit being the small upthrust ridge to the left with the smaller cairn. The one to the right had a much more impressive cairn! There is a rock here that looks like the Matterhorn, and I hopped out of the rucksack and did some rock climbing on it! Dad put the picture on Facebook which pleased me! Now made the reverse descent then took the path half left, that skirted below Great Carrs and rejoined the main track, and continued on down, deviating the short way left to the summit of Hell Gill Pike. So that was the summits done, 6 Birketts and 3 Wainwrights bagged by Uncle Eric, Little Eric and Southey. So on down the path we had climbed this morning. At a cairned junction we should have gone left, so therefore had to make the last part over trackless grassy terrain, but it was not too difficult, and it only involved about 300ft to the road. At the Three Shires Stone, Dad took our picture again. Allen & Grizzly were sitting in Lancashire, Shaun and Tetley in Cumberland, and Southey and Little Eric in Westmorland! A great day, and what fabulous views we had had.
20th July 2014 - Angletarn Pikes, Brock Crags & Rest Dodd from Patterdale
With Dad having been away at Armathwaite Hall and other commitments it was three weeks since the last walk and so great to be out again. The day was sunny at times but more cloudy in the afternoon with a little light rain for a short while, but very warm. This walk was to further progress Little Eric's, Book 2 campaign. Also we had not been to these summits for over 7 years. Parked at the Patterdale Hotel as usual for this start, and then walked the road towards Glenridding to soon go right on the access to Side Farm. Through the buildings then right on the wide surfaced track to a gate then to another and here left though the gate to open fell. Then we made the quite steep climb to Boredale Hause. There was a guided party of walkers along here and we passed them, and then they passed us as Dad took a rest. We thought they were going up Place Fell, as they took a path left of the main ascent, but later we saw them coming along the High Street path behind us, and then later ahead above Angle Tarn. Did not then see them again. So at the Hause, it was right on the High Street path, to come after a while below Angletarn Pikes. In truth we should have taken a left fork at a junction, as this would have saved Dad a little bit of climb on rough grass to gain this path! Then followed it as it wound right then left and up to the summit of the north pike the highest and so the Wainwright. We were out for our picture as usual. Three gentlemen from Carlisle arrived and saw the us so Dad had to explain. They were doing the Wainwrights and had about 70 to go. Chatted about various walks including Ennerdale where one of the party had once lived. We all remarked on the long walk in to Gillerthwaite! On request Dad took their picture, and one gentleman took us. So they headed off to Place Fell, while we descended then climbed to the south pike (Birkett). Superb view of Angle Tarn. It is quite beautiful nestled in its surrounding low hills. Also superb views of the Helvellyn Fells, Fairfield Horseshoe & the valleys of Dove Dale and Deepdale and to Red Screes. Wow!! Then it was on down to the main path and round the tarn and towards Satura Crag. Short of this took a path half right to join a path that led to the summit cairn on Brock Crags. More superb views over Hartsop & Gray Crag, Caudale Moor, High Street etc. We had our lunch here. Now that just left Rest Dodd the highest today. So retraced and then kept by the wall up to the gateway, then went right over Satura Crag. We had worked out that we needed to climb to the left of Rest Dodd to gain the ridge and climb right to the summit. Well to our delight there was a clear path leading all the way! Not too steep and a steady walk brought us to the cairn. Our for our picture and rejoicing by Little Eric to have bagged another 3 Wainwrights and 4 Birketts today, and Southey too, of course. Then just reversed the route to join the main path and walk this past Angle Tarn and on to eventually come to Boredale Hause, here taking the lower path to the gate. Then along to Side Farm where there is a cafe! Good planning Dad! He had a pot of tea with extra hot water and piece of chocolate caramel shortbread for £3! We outside in the sun. Very pleasant. Then just along the access to the road and back to the car. A good day!!!
1st July 2014 - Steel Knotts, Beda Fell & Hallin Fell from Martindale Church
A dry day with plenty of sunshine and hot for walking in the afternoon. On the quest to now complete Wainwright Book 2 for Little Eric, we went to Martindale to bag these three summits for him, and of course Southey too. It was eight years since we were last on Beda Fell and nearly nine for the others. Set off early and so it was very quite on the narrow road via Howtown to the church, parking opposite, arriving just before 09:00. There were just two other cars, one where another gentleman was getting ready to walk and Dad exchanged pleasantries. So set off down the road to the old church and onto the path behind. We took the wrong one yet again here, despite what AW says! "When will I ever learn!", said Dad. "Next time", Shaun replied, "Except there will probably not be one as we will not have to come here again as all the fells are done." We walked the lower path by the wall that was thick either side with bracken! We had got a long way before we realised our error, so there was nothing for it but to strike up the fell through the shoulder high bracken. Came to the wall and after climbing the hurdle again as last time, we struck on up by the wall to gain the right path. Then traversed to the path up on to Steel Knotts and its rocky pointed summit called Pikeawassa. We loved this top sitting vertically on the rocky pinnacle for our picture. Descended to the main path and then Dad made a swift descent to the old church. Walked the road to cross the bridge at Winter Crag Farm, then take the rising bridleway to the ridge of Beda Fell. Turned left up this to cross rocky Winter Crag, and then eventually on more grassy terrain to make the steep climb to the first cairn and on to the summit cairn called Beda Head. Fine views all round and of the valleys too on either side on the ascent. Beautiful. Photo done we returned by same route and at the bridleway, took advantage of the metal seat to have lunch. Now descended to the farm and returned on the road to the new church, turning up Hallin Fell. By now it was hot and airless as there was hardly any wind, and despite Dad having left the easiest fell to last it was hard going, and a few stops to catch his breath were needed. "It reminds me of a similar day when we climbed Mellbreak", said Dad. "That was extremely hard going." However soon the top was in view and we arrived at the large summit cairn that can be seen for miles. Probably one of the best in all Lakeland. Dad took our picture and got all done, just as a couple arrived. The gentleman said hello, but then Dad got talking to his wife, her enquiring about us starting it off. She shook our paws when she found out most of us had done to 214! They are from Edinburgh and are doing the Wainwrights having about 35 or so go. Dad talked on quite a bit. They had done the Munros! Impressive!. They headed down and then Dad took some shots of the superb view of Ullswater. We then caught them up again on the descent and Dad talked again to them until we got to the bottom. They were bound for Steel Knotts now, us to the car. A good day and looking at it there is just three more walks needed for Little Eric to finish Book 2. Now tea and cake beckoned for Dad. So to Greystone House at Stainton, where Jane looked after Dad. A lovely girl. He had tea, and chocolate caramel shortbread and a piece of lemon cake. Then it was just a quick run down M6 and home.
22nd June 2014 - Low Kop, Wether Hill, Loadpot Hill & Arthur's Pike from Moorahill Farm
Dad did not feel like driving all the way to Crummock, so Grasmoor etc would have to wait for later, and for Little Eric to complete Book 6. So instead he turned our attention back to Book 2 Far Eastern Fells, as Little Eric had already done 21 of the 36 fells, so this was perhaps another that might be completed for him, this walk today ticking three more off. We drove to Shap taking the road to Bampton Grange and on to Bampton Bridge where very shortly after taking the Helton Road, it was left along a very narrow road, parking at its end just before Moorahill Farm. We only met one other vehicle and fortunately Dad only had to back about 50 yards to the passing place. We had never been on this road before, and the ascent to the ridge was new, as well. Took the path by the wall to the south of the road, and then down to cross Cawdale Beck by a small slate bridge. Then passed by Towtop Kirk, and ancient stone circle, but not very visible. Joined the clear path and climbed Hause End and along The Hause eventually passing between two plantations either side and so finally to reach Low Kop, a Birkett summit. It is a large flat area with tracks running either side, and after a bit of casting about we decided that a small rise was the unmarked highest point. We had been up here before in January 2009, and on checking the grid reference, found that we had come to the same conclusion this time, to within a few feet. Had our picture taken with the flag! Then it was on along the centre of the shoulder still with the clear track. Lots of birds here-crows and seagulls. Bit Alfred Hitchcock! So this brought us to the level of High Kop, where then making a level traverse the ridge was finally reached, where we went right. Superb views to the left of the Helvellyn fells - breathtaking. Walked on climbing a bit to fairly soon reach the cairn at the summit of Wether Hill. Then continued on, the trig point on Loadpot Hill being seen on the skyline. Descended to the depression and then made the steady 180ft climb to its summit, passing the heap of stones that is all that now remains of the Lowther House chimney. Nice little cairn with boundary stone in centre, and a few yards on the the trig point. Now, the map shows the cairn as higher but we are sure it is the trig point. Anyway this is where we had our photo taken sitting on top. Walked on descending and following the Roman Road. Arthur's Pike could be seen ahead and where the main path drifted right, we kept ahead to the summit. After Dad took our photo, we moved a few yards away and sat and had lunch. So that was all the tops done today. It had been 2005 since we had been to those on the ridge. Before leaving took Wainwright's advice and walked to the Beacon, a large cairn, and yes the view of Ullswater is truly stupendous!!! Now crossed slightly boggy and rough ground using then GPS as guide to regain the Roman Road. Turned left and very soon came to the fork, where our route was right. The tractor track meandered down and soon Knotts came into view, so knew we were on the right track. Then it was not very clear how we could get to the bridleway below Scales Farm, so we had opted to head for the road we could see left, which would have meant a long walk round. By chance however met a couple, who presumably were local, and the gentleman asked where we were headed. He then pointed out that a track (not on the map), ran to the right round Knotts and suggested we follow that. He also said that at a junction of the bridleway there was a wind turbine that would act as a marker. So thanking him Dad headed off. The path was wide and clear and rounded the fell. It then started to rise, but Dad took a right fork that descended finally to Scales Farm. Here we went right through a gate and steeply down the field to another gate and suddenly there were now waymarks for the bridleway! Followed these until they ceased to appear again, crossing the beck and then climbing a field to go left through a gate. Walked up this field and between the wall and wood to take a gate right and follow round the wall and so come to the wind turbine. Now it was just a simple matter of following the rough access track to the road. Walked right on the gated road passing Rough Hill Farm where sheep were being sheared. Shaun was very quiet here!!! This finally brought us to the road we had driven this morning and walking right over the cattle grid we were at the car! A really good walk and mostly new except for the ridge part. Dad said it was a good workout too and he I did not find the walk very hard, so he must really be getting his fitness back.
8th June 2014 - Blencathra from Scales
Well the forecast before the weekend had not been good, but Sunday turned out to be OK, so despite having walked on Thursday, Dad decided to take us out today. It pleased Little Eric as we were to climb to all the tops on Blencathra, and by doing so he has now completed all the summits in Book 5-Northern Fells! Parked in the layby just beyond the White Horse Inn, on the A66, and once Dad was ready we walked the few yards along the road to take the signed path left between the houses, and up to the gate through the fell wall. Here it was right taking the higher path that climbed steadily the slopes of Scales Fell in an easterly direction. The weather was sunny periods with a cool wind at times, with just one brief shower. At the junction our route was left on a straight climbing track, that then turned at right angles more steeply, then drifted left again reaching a brow, where the mountain was revealed in all its majesty. We walked on seeing the ridge of Scales Fell and after passing over one rise, the next was the summit. Two groups of walkers passed by as Dad was taking our picture with the flag out, and stopped to comment. Dad explained, and one lady kindly took Dad's picture with us. So on upwards and soon Doddick Fell top was reached the summit being the rise just to the left of the path. Photo done, it was on up the zig-zags to finally attain the summit. Little Eric a very happy bear!! Three gentlemen from Newcastle arrived as Dad was taking our picture, and so again he had to explain. One gentleman kindly took Dad with Little Eric, to mark our pals achievement. Dad then took their group shot for them. He chatted a bit and then shook hands with each as they headed off. Dad then took Little Eric with the book open at the trig point. Now we walked across the saddle passing the small tarn and the stone cross, to Atkinson Pike where Sharp Edge comes up. Photo done there we then walked back to Hallsfell summit and headed off on along the ridge, to the next top Gategill Fell, again the highest point being just left of the path. A short descent followed and a further climb to the final summit Blease Fell, the top being marked by a small cairn. Another gentleman commented on us and before he headed off kindly took Dad's picture again with us. It will be nice for Dad to appear in the story for a change. There had been great views if a little hazy, of Helvellyn Fells, St John's in the Vale, Derwent Water and all the fells over there. Magic! So now followed the clear wide stony path down the fell, there being a succession of sweeping zig-zags for a while. Beyond the path was more grassy and less steep for a bit before it steepened again. This came to a path that went left and east diagonally across the fell eventually coming to a wall, where it then descended steeply down to the fell wall. Went left through the gate. After a little Dad spotted a rock for us all to sit on and have lunch. Then continued on the good path crossing a stile and on with the fells of Blencathra rising to the left. Mostly level until reaching Doddick Fell, where it was necessary to climb over the lower slopes so a short bit of steep climb. Scaley Beck had to be crossed the descent into the ravine being rather awkward over shiny rocks. Not a very elegant sight! Then soon we were at the gate we had taken at the start, and it was just the short walk to the car. Refreshment time for Dad so he went to Greystone House at Stainton. He had a nice pot of tea and two cakes (well after all the effort he deserved it!). Chocolate caramel shortbread and toffee and marshmallow crispie. A great day. So we were a very happy band, especially Little Eric.
31st May 2014 - Mungrisedale Common, Bannerdale Crags, Bowscale Fell & The Tongue from Mungrisedale
We had last visited these tops in March 2007, so for a change we did the walk in reverse which seemed to actually ease the gradients, Dad always knowing that as a consequence he would this time face a very steep descent off The Tongue. The repeat was mainly for our pal Little Eric, to bag outstanding summits in book 5. We made and early start from home and so were walking by about 08:50. The day was dry with sunny periods, but there was a cool wind at times. Parked in the unmade lane off the road putting the £2 fee in the honesty box. Walked past the houses and through the gate to open fell the view before us being dominated by The Tongue. Crossed the footbridge then very soon took the left fork, on the path up the Glenderamackin Valley. This meanders ever on with the river down to the left. A bare valley, but this will change in a few years as the large number of trees planted either side of the river grow. Eventually we rounded White Horse Bent and below was the footbridge we had crossed when coming down from Souther Fell. Today it was onward and steadily upwards. Here we saw the first walkers today, a couple coming down with their dogs. They stood to let us pass and Dad chatted briefly. The gradient steepened a bit to reach the col and a cross of paths. There had been superb views of Blencathra and Sharp Edge on this part of the walk. Paths left to Blencathra and right to Bowscale Fell and Bannerdale Crags. Our way was ahead towards Mungrisedale Common, our least favourite Wainwright! We were trying to find the path branching left, and would have if I Dad had walked on past the cross gully, where there was a small cairn marking the junction. Instead we stuck off left up the fell, only after a while realising we were going in the wrong direction. Turning right got us back on route seeing the Common distantly. Finally gained the path, which was horribly wet and boggy. Passed a walker who we had seen by the cairn, chatting briefly. He was Wainwright bagging. Strode on and fairly soon reached the cairn marking the summit. Why Wainwright included this is a mystery as he himself admits it is just a flat area at the rear of Blencathra and not a fell as such. There is nothing to recommend this summit, apart from the rather arty cairn. Soon done we turned back and walked the boggy path to join the main path and so regain the crossroads. Turned left then almost immediately right to follow the wide grassy track that climbed steadily the 200ft or so to Bannerdale Crags. From this way the first cairn is the summit, being about 10ft higher than the main cairn where the ridge path from Bowscale Fell comes in. Dad chatted to some walkers at the main cairn then we backtracked to the summit for our photo. Then, from the main cairn, took the path left that rounds the crags and the head of lonely Bannerdale and on to climb steadily to the shelter that is the summit of Bowscale Fell. There is a large cairn just a few yards on but this is at a slightly lower level. We were settled for our picture when a couple arrived with their two dogs. They saw us so Dad explained and there was some amusement. One of their dogs had done all the 214, but they were doing them again for the other one. They had about 80 to go. Sounds a bit like Dad! They headed off to Bannerdale Crags, while we sat and had our lunch. Then it was off again walking the half mile to the east top of Bowscale Fell. From here contoured round the head of the valley of Bullfell Gill, to gain the pathless route to The Tongue. Passed another walker here, who was going to Bowscale Tarn before heading to the summit. He remarked how steep the climb to The Tongue is. We know too! The pathless boggy ground of Bowscale Fell descends to a depression and soon beyond Dad found a path that climbed steadily first over the 541m spot height, then on to the summit marked by a cairn. So that was it 5 Birketts and 3 Wainwrights done and bagged by Little Eric and Southey. Now all that remains is Blencathra for Little Eric to complete book 5. At first the descent was not too steep, but soon it got very steep and on the lower slopes we got to the right of the path, but this was not easy see as we guess that not many walkers go up and down here!! Finally it was done and we gained the track from Bannerdale. Followed this left to cross the footbridge and soon arrive at the car. There was a group of three walkers the lady having got a bit behind, so as a result the gate was kindly held open for us. Dad chatted briefly to them. A great day and Dad felt he had performed well. So now to Grasmere, and the Wordsworth Hotel where we went in too. Dad had his usual ciabatta and tea. Kim was on but busy, but Dad did get a couple of brief chats, and as we left he was able to give her a hug and wish her well for her move to Manchester. Good day!
26th May 2014 - Greenburn Horseshoe - Steel Fell, Calf Crag, Gibson Knott & Helm Crag from Grasmere
So at last Dad felt his recovery was complete as we tackle this walk that he promised to do for Little Eric to enable him to finish all the fells in Book 3! It was raining when we arrived in Grasmere, but this soon went off and the day steadily improved with sun in the afternoon and clear views. First there was a quick visit to the Wordsworth Hotel to see if Kim was going to be there. Although not on this morning, her car was which led us to guess correctly that she would be on later. So we parked again at Broadgate, and then soon set off taking the Easdale Road to Goody Bridge, then right along the narrow road for about a mile to Ghyll Foot, and on to the two cottages. The rhododendrons were out, and we saw some beautiful colourful displays. By the second cottage a gate gives access to Green Burn, a valley owned by the National Trust. Dad kindly held the gate open for a fellow walker, who took the path immediately right. After brief photo stop, we then followed the gentleman on the up the fell. The ascent distance was about 1.5 miles being fairly steep and mostly grassy. The path skirted a rocky outcrop and continued over Ash Crags. The mist was down so we could not clearly see the way ahead, but the path was never in doubt. One rise followed another until finally the last was reached, where the path now rather rocky zigzagged up to gain the summit area. A cairn is reached on the line of an old fence, where just a short way left is the higher cairn marking the summit at Dead Pike. As we got there the mist cleared off giving a reasonable view north of Thirlmere. We quickly settled on the cairn for the first picture of us today. So now descended to follow the path by the fence, and where this turned away right we went the short way beside it to see the lovely view of the Wythburn Valley. Then it was back to the ridge path that meandered over at times very boggy ground, to pass some little tarns and then follow the posts of an old broken fence, and finally climb to the cairn on Calf Crag. Photo here done, we headed off again. Now began the return on the opposite side of Greenburn valley with Easdale to the right. Superb views of this, and as the walk progressed, of Grasmere. The path descended doubling back for a little way, but soon turned right as the ridge proper was gained. The path from here to Helm Crag was winding rocky and very undulating-typical Lake District. Along here we began to meet many other walkers who had come up via Helm Crag. Some saw us, and Dad had to explain and told them about our website. One lady said that she would look it up and read the stories to her grandson! Another lady and gentleman obviously liked this idea too, shaking Dad's hand, and saying they would look at the stories. The gentleman took our picture saying he would e-mail it to us. In all we had our picture taken a few times by other people today! Dad chatted with another gentleman who was from York. So flat there is was glad to be out on the hills again. He told us that tomorrow he was going up Silver How. So finally we arrived at the cairn on Gibson Knott. A gentleman was sitting at the side, waiting for his friends, who were doing the Coast to Coast, to arrive. We scrambled out and settled on the cairn as usual. Dad once again explained, and he was quite amused! Then Dad chatted to him for a little while. More undulations followed before we reached the final 300 feet of steep ascent to Helm Crag, coming up by the 'Howitzer' the top of which is officially the highest point. It was like Blackpool up here with lots of families. As Dad a bit breathlessly reached the level ground a man commented, "it is a bit steep." Dad agreed saying "well that's the last of the four tops today." "Four!", he replied rather incredulously. "It took us all our effort to get up just this one." It had been quite a hard walk we must admit so this made Dad feel good. People were climbing all over the rocks of the Howitzer and some made it to the top, but needed some guidance to get down. We did not attempt it as it would have been all but impossible for Dad to take us up there. However we went some way up where Dad took our picture and of Little Eric on his own to mark his achievement. "Yes!", he called out, and we all gave him a hug. Then after a snack, we set off again along the summit. Dad took shots of the Howitzer and famous Lion and Lamb rocks, and a few looking to Grasmere. So just the descent that Dad was not looking forward to, as pretty steep and he was worried about his knees. However as it turned out they did not hurt today, for which we were all thankful. The path meanders down on a partly new route and was graded in places where it had been very eroded. Eventually this brought us to a gate adjacent to the gate we had gone through earlier this year to Lancrigg. Today we walked along the road with a good view back of Helm Crag and Lancrigg to the left. This brought us to the Easdale Road, which we followed to the village and the car. A super day, thanks Dad! So now we all went to the Wordsworth Hotel where Dad had a nice snack and tea. Kim was indeed there and she came to chat to Dad a while. She has just two weeks to go before moving to Manchester, so Dad was pleased to see her and to wish her good luck in her new job and her prospective university course to study to become a nurse. We and Dad will miss seeing her, but perhaps sometime she will come and visit us at home.
3rd May 2014 - Branstree, High Howes, Selside Pike & Brown Howe from Mardale
Today the walk was tougher, as Dad want to see how his recovery from his operation was going. This round had last been done in November 2006, so our pals Little Eric and Southey bagged the summits. The day had been forecast as sunny, but as it turned out it was cloudy all the time and cool, so Dad was not in shorts today. It had been a while since we had been to Haweswater, so it was nice to reacquaint ourselves with this area. Parked at the lay-by just before the Corpse Road. Only one other car when we arrived and just four by the time we got back. Many more cars had passed by heading for the popular Mardale Head. Walked on along the road, to cross the bridge over Hopgill Beck and then through the small gate, starting the steep climb up the narrow winding path. Dad stopping to catch his breath, we enjoyed the fine views over the reservoir to Riggindale, with Kidsty Pike to the right. Dramatic too at Mardale Head, of Harter Fell, Mardale Ill Bell and High Street. "Wonderful" cried Southey, who had not been here before. Passed the Hollow Stone a large boulder with a cavernous base, then climbed on to pass the ruins of two buildings and so gain the north ridge of Branstree, in a less steep gradient. There is no path as such, but Dad followed a sheep trod, that took along the right side and when it started to go down, we climbed left up the ridge. It seemed to be never ending and just when we thought we were near the top, as we crested a rise, found that there was another flat area to cross before the final climb up a grass and rock slope. A fine cairn stands here at Artlecrag Pike, but checking the GPS, Shaun said, "this is not the summit." "I hope it is not that distant top I can see", called out Southey. "No lad, that is Harter Fell", replied Dad. "We just need to follow this path in the same direction for a short way." Well Dad was quite right and after a few hundred hundred yards we soon came to the small cairn and the ring trig point embedded in the ground, marking the true summit! We were quick to jump out for our picture, then Dad rang Uncle Brian to check he was OK. "The wind is a bit cool, so come on lads, get settled as I want to get going again", said Dad. Returned towards the large cairn, but then took a tractor track going right and down to climb the fence, and walk on to the old masonry survey tower. Beyond a tiny tarn the path climbed again to shortly reach the cairned summit of High Howes (unnamed on OS map, but named by Birkett). Photo time again. Selside Pike was clearly in view and we headed for it, down the shoulder to the fence. Climbed the hurdle in this and then up the slope ahead to the summit of Selside Pike and its large shelter cairn. Dad took our picture, then we sat by the shelter for lunch, leaving the inside for a couple who we following not far behind. Now headed on the clear path roughly north, down the fell. There was a dramatic view of Swindale at one point! "Beautiful", said Southey. "I am so glad you let me join the club." "You're welcome", I replied. "It is great to have your company." This brought us to the Corpse Road by an old post. Turned left along this and after a while went off to the right to make for and find the cairned top of Brown Howe. Last photo of the day of us! Then descended to the Corpse Road again and followed this down, steeply at the end to the road. "Both my knees are hurting", said Dad as he tackled the steep descent. Then we drove to Shap, Dad going to the Abbey Coffee Shop for a snack. Nice place and friendly staff! He had a cheese and onion pasty, a piece of chocolate flapjack and a warming pot of tea with extra hot water. Must add this to the list of Dad's tea stops. A good day and Dad was pleased with his performance, so the Greenburn round including Helm Crag is likely on for later this month if the weather is OK.
8th April 2014 - Stone Arthur from Swan Hotel, Grasmere
Dad was still feeling the effects of his operation, meaning he has to rebuild his stamina, but was resolved to do a higher fell after Castle Crag. We had not been up to Stone Arthur since 2005, and it was an outstanding one for Little Eric. The day was cloudy with rain threatening at times, but just a few spots on our side of the valley. Windy on the top and cold. Not very spring like. Parking in the lay by on the A591, then walked the short distance south to take the road left by beside the Swan Hotel. This curved left, and very soon it was right along the very narrow road beside which danced the rushing Greenhead Gill. The lane ends at a gate, where it is right to Alcock Tarn, and left to Stone Arthur, as directed by the sign on the gate. Followed the path that soon turned uphill by woodland, climbing steeply the steps created on the once very eroded path. Seemed to lead to a locked gate into the wood, but the path contoured right as it continued to zigzag upwards. Levelled off to cross a stream then swung right up and across the face of the hill. At the end of this the route turned left and continued with a steady gradient. The outcrop that is Stone Arthur was now ahead, the path climbing over this to the right. It then continues on to Great Rigg on the Fairfield Horseshoe. Here we took a faint path left to the rock marking the summit. Rather windy so we had to really hang in for our summit picture, Southey being blown forwards, but Dad eventually got the shot. Two other walkers joined us, having no doubt heard Dad telling us to sit still!! "Oh well who cares!!", said Dad. Fabulous view of Grasmere and Calf Crag, Steel Fell and Loughrigg & Silver How. And more distantly to Ullscarf, Harrison Stickle, Pavey Ark and Crinkle Crags, when the cloud had cleared off them. Saw too, all the lakes and tarns - Alcock Tarn, Coniston Water, Esthwaite Water, Windermere & Easdale Tarn. Returned by outward route. There were plenty of people on the path, most of whom were headed on to Great Rigg. Afterwards Dad had intended going to Wordsworth Hotel, where we parked, but it was closed for a private function, being told this when we got to reception. Although Kim's car was on the car park, she was not on at reception until 16:00, so we did not see her today. Instead Dad went to Heidi's again, having the hog roast-lovely local pork, stuffing and apple sauce in a baguette. Then the delicious lemon cake, and tea. All very nice. A good day, and another summit bagged by Little Eric.
30th March 2014 - Castle Crag from Grange in Borrowdale
Dad had had a major operation six weeks ago, so he was still recovering. However he wanted to get back into the groove again, and this modest fell was one Little Eric had still to bag. Parking by the road below Grange Crags, we then walked path by river, to cross Grange Bridge into the village, then taking the narrow road almost opposite the church. Followed this, a dramatic view of our objective being seen ahead, until a track went off left, which we followed. Cool to start, here it quite suddenly warmed up so Dad was glad to be in shorts! The track led through woodland, finally coming close to the river, where just beyond we took the right fork to follow the track between High Spy and Castle Crag. Under the crag we took a narrow path left off the track, to climb steeply to a stile and on upwards to another stile, having stopped to sit on the seat below the Hamer memorial. Once over the second stile the path went right, before zig-zagging steeply through the slate spoil heap, after which followed the final easy climb to the summit, a rock outcrop on the flat top. Just one gentleman there, when we arrived who Dad talked to. He set off, but then called out "do you have a camera." "Yes" replied Dad. So he came back and took our picture with Dad, and Dad took his picture. More people arrived including a Scottish couple. The lady commented on the us, not realising at first that we were with Dad! She had done all the Munros. Phew we thought, that is some achievement! When they left Dad talked to another couple, taking their photo. And he said he used to be shy. We don't believe it! Made the descent of the spoil heap, then took the stile on the left to cross boggy ground and then through a wall gap and so down to a gate into pasture following the path half left to a gate onto the path by the river. This was now followed to eventually come to back to the path divide earlier, and so follow the outwards route to the car. There are superb views from Castle Crag over Derwent Water and to Skiddaw etc,, but rather hazy today unfortunately.
30th January 2014 - High Spy & Maiden Moor from Grange in Borrowdale
This was the only decent day this week with the weather still very unsettled with wind and rain. So we took the chance to get out and tick off these fells for Little Eric. Our pal Southey came along too, as Dad was going for a snack at the Wordsworth Hotel afterwards. Drove through the Lakes, and down Borrowdale parking at the pull-in beside the road below Grange Crags. Walked along to then cross the old double arched stone bridge over the River Derwent into Grange, and on along the road the short distance, to opposite the Borrowdale Gates Hotel, go through the gate and follow the narrow winding path to a kissing gate onto open fell. The ridge we had to attain towered overhead and the climb of nearly 2000ft was to be quite arduous. The day was dry but cloudy and there had been a frost overnight the fields being white. Not much wind but it was cold nevertheless and the temperatures on the tops was not much if any above freezing all day. The path led on never really in doubt, climbing eventually over Cockley How and then on under the crags, narrow and rocky at times, to climb the rise by Nitting Haws. Here it turned right and headed for the ridge, a steady and unrelenting climb, that made us feel for Dad's poor knees. We were glad for him when the ridge path was reached by one of the frequent cairns that mark the path. Here it was left and almost immediately we could see not very far ahead the cairn on High Spy, Dad negotiating patches of snow en route. The cairn is beautifully constructed of slate as a squat rounded tower, and we could not wait to scramble up it and settle for our picture. The views around were quite majestic although not very clear distance wise, but the Helvellyn ridge was majestic under snow, as was Dale Head, Great Gable and the Scafells. Cold here, so Dad did not linger and he even had to put his gloves on at times! Then returned on the ridge and onwards passing below Blea Crag which no doubt has a superb view of Derwentwater, but perhaps not much better than that we had had from the ridge and on the ascent. Then it was onwards over Narrow Moor crossing a depression at 1860ft, to then take the path left at the fork and climb the 100ft to the summit of Maiden Moor marked by a small pile of stones. Picture time again! Then we followed the clear path to descend to Hause Gate below Catbells. It was like market day on the summit of Catbells, with many walkers, but hardly surprising being such a popular climb. Then we followed the path down to the road at Manesty. It had been reconstructed in places, and was hellish hard on Dad's poor knees and ankles!! Joined the road and then walked back to Grange and on to the car. Good day - thanks Dad as always. We had last been up on these fells in 2006.
16th January 2014 - Knott Rigg, Ill Crag (Newlands) & Ard Crags from Newlands Hause
It was a dry and cloudy day with a cold wind that blew at times, but we took the opportunity to get out on the fells and tick off some more summits for our pal Little Eric and also our pal Southey came along too once again. This was a new route of ascent that we had not done before starting from Newlands Hause. Moss Force tumbling down the slopes of High Snockrigg made an impressive sight, after all the rain. The clear path was signed at the start reading 'Ard Crags 1 and a fifth miles', but in fact it is 1.83 miles. After a little way the path climbed more steeply to the nose, where the ridge was followed with some more gentle gradients to the summit of Knott Rigg, marked by a small pile of tiny slate pieces. It was necessary to use the rucksack as a wind break for Dad to take our picture. There were grand views left of Whiteless Pike, Wandope and later Scar Crags & Causey Pike, which present vertiginous slopes on this side. Then it was on the little way to the next bump of Ill Crag, a spot height on the map, but named by Bill Birkett. From here we descended to the depression at 1660ft to then ascend over a few false summits to the top of Ard Crags, that has a small cairn, where like at Ill Crag we had our picture taken. So that done, we then just retraced the route to the start. Nice little outing and that is 3 Birketts and 2 Wainwights ticked off by Little Eric.
11th January 2014 - Carrock Fell, Round Knott & Miton Hill from Stone Ends
We wanted to be up on the fells again. Whilst Dad is not repeating all the outstanding Wainwrights for Little Eric, our pal has just a few to bag in books 3 and 5 so Dad has agreed to complete these for him. So, Carrock Fell was one to do, having last been up here in 2007. Then afterwards Dad bought a little bear from Greystone House who was named Carrock, so he came along with us today as did Southey. Parked just beyond Stone Ends Farm. Despite the forecast being for dry weather, overnight and indeed on the journey there had been bouts of rain that had fallen as snow on the tops. However on the walk it was dry, but there was a cold and quite strong wind. At the summit of Carrock Fell and on the ridge, the mist was down. It kept clearing and then coming in again and so on, for most of the time. Many more cars near the start than we had expected, this explained by us hearing the hunting horn and seeing hounds on the fell. All tucked in Dad's rucksack we set off up the fell, the path angling left across the face climbing steeply, and then steeply again by the ravine of Further Gill Syke. Finally crested this and then on the good path lightly covered in snow, the rest of the ascent was more gentle, to the well made cairn marking the rocky summit. Two ladies who had preceded us, reached the summit just a little ahead and sat in the shelter for lunch. Meanwhile Dad was busy taking our picture settled by the cairn. Our pal Carrock was very pleased with himself to reach the summit and he told his pals all about his adventure later! Onwards down off the fell, to the wide ridge, leaving the main path to go left over boggy ground to the cairn on Round Knott, where we jumped our for our picture again. Then we followed a narrow path to reach the main path on the ridge again that crosses Miton Hill, the final summit today. The cairn is a few yards to the right of the path and we had our picture taken again. So our pal Little Eric had bagged 3 Birketts and a Wainwright. Descending into the dip we reached the path going right at the Red Gate. We guess it is so named due to the colour of the rocks, that were once long ago, extensively mined for minerals. A rocky path at first, but soon after Dad had strode Carrock Beck, it joined a surfaced track. This was the track from one of the long disused mines on High Pike, and was followed to the road, and then along this to the car. The ford on the road was very full and if the indicator was to be believed 4ft deep. So just as well there was a footbridge! A good walk, thanks Dad as always. Now Dad went to the Wordsworth Hotel in Grasmere, taking Carrock and Southey in with him. Kim was not there, he was told she was coming on soon. Meanwhile he went and sat in a corner in the bar and had a ciabatta-bacon brie and tomato, with chips and tea. Kim noticed Dad after a while and came to chat, and later a bit at reception. She told Dad that she had bought walking boots. We wonder if Dad and us have inspired her? Then it was just the drive home, us all feeling good.
17th November 2013 - Souther Fell from Mungrisedale
Just a half-day outing climbing this fell so that Little Eric could tick it off as did Southey who came along again too. The day was good at first with blue skies and quite cold, but as the walk progressed the cloud moved in, and in the afternoon there was some rain and extensive low cloud, but I had finished by then! It was our first hill for nearly two months and Dad said he could tell that he had lost some of his fitness and strength. Parked on the verge, and then walked along towards the village, to cross the river by the footbridge to the Mill Inn, and then left along the narrow road until reaching a gate across it. Immediately beyond, we took the narrow path right climbing steadily up the fell. It swung left then right to crest a rise and come to the main path. Going right the the clear path led to the summit marked by an embedded stone. We settled for our picture, being observed from a distance by two couples, who soon reached the summit too. They asked Dad why he was photographing teddy bears, so he explained! Settled again in the rucksack it was on along the path on the ridge. There were fine views of Bannerdale, Bowscale Fell, Bannerdale Crags and Blencathra. The path led unerringly down to a crossroads, where it was right to then soon cross the footbridge over the River Glenderamackin, then going right and following the clear, and at times very muddy, path by the river to the gate into the village. Joining the road we then went right past the inn and so over the footbridge again the car. We had come up the M6, so Dad decided to return through the lakes taking the road through St John's in the Vale and then the A591 and so on home.
30th September 2013 - Loughrigg, Rydal Cave & Loughrigg Terrace from Grasmere
Well, while Dad is adamant that he is not redoing the Wainwrights for Little Eric, we had not climbed Loughrigg since 2006, so in deciding to revisit, Little Eric ticked it off. For a change we walked from Grasmere, giving Dad an opportunity to see Kim, too. Got ready, then we walked to the Wordsworth Hotel. Kim was on, and being perhaps surprised to see Dad so soon, said "again". On asking, Dad told her where we were going, and she also saw us albeit tucked in the rucksack. So, the route was along Red Bank Road, that is narrow and has quite a bit of traffic. It runs above the west side of Grasmere, so Dad got a few nice pictures. Where the road began to climb steeply, we took path left through the lovely woodland. This brought us to Loughrigg Terrace, at the start of which the much repaired path climbs steadily up the fell, and with some stops to admire the stupendous view back over Grasmere, the lake being deep blue today, we reached the trig point marking the summit. It was not surprisingly busy on ascent and at top, but it is a very popular fell and not too demanding either! Good views to Langdales etc, Wetherlam & Elterwater, as well as the Fairfield group. Quite warm and despite being breezy on top, shorts and t-shirt were the order of day for Dad. We had a snack looking at the wonderful views, then made the descent roughly east via the multitude of paths, to reach that above Rydal Water, by Rydal Cave. Dad took us in the large cave - a first for us too, but Dad had been here before, with Uncle Brian. It is man made being the result of the extraction of slate. Then north on the path that leads to Loughrigg Terrace, and so on along this. Busy with walkers. Fab view of Grasmere!! A few times today, as we passed other walkers going in our direction, we heard comments of "look at the teddy bears!" At the end of the terrace we then followed our outwards route to the village. We then sat in the car having another picnic, while Dad went for a snack at the Wordsworth Hotel, and having a nice chat with Kim. For lunch, he had a beef sandwich, bowl of chips and pint of Tetley. Our pal Southey, who came from here, was with us today, and went on the walk, then going with Dad to see Kim. After, Dad went for a walk round Grasmere village - being a tourist for once! He went to the jigsaw shop and saw the biggest in the world, that has just over 32,000 pieces. Heck, that is truly immense!!! Thank goodness too, he did not consider buying it. A good day.
14th September 2013 - Raven Crag, Castle Crag (Shoulthwaite) & The Benn. Castle Rock from Smaithwaite Bridge
With Dad having been away on holiday, it was three weeks since we last walked, so were itching to get out. Went on Saturday which was a beautiful day with sun and clear views, because Sunday was rain and gales. Dad parked in the layby opposite the ascent path, and once ready we set off through the gate signed to Castle Crag Fort. The path climbed steadily through the trees to a forest road where there was a superb view of the precipitous face of Raven Crag - our first objective. Crossed, and then through a double deer gate and steeply on to another gate onto a forest road. Across this and the path climbed on looping round to the col. This area was rather churned up as forestry operations going on, and the large sign directing walkers to Raven Crag has fallen down. Went left on a narrow path beside a small valley, to wind up still quite steeply with steps to help, and so reach the cairn marking the summit. Here we hopped out for our usual picture. Our pal, Southey had come along to go later to his hotel, where he was adopted, and rather than leave him in the car we invited him to come on the walk, Dad zipping him in the front pocket of rucksack.
He commented afterwards, "what a wonderful day I have had seeing the breathtaking scenery. Thanks for inviting me along."
"You are most welcome pal", I replied.
From the cairn we then walked the few yards down to get the superb view along Thirlmere and of the fells-the Dodds, Blencathra etc. Breathtaking!!! Now returned to the col and then went left through a gate and along a path, crossing a footbridge, to very shortly reach the site of Castle Crag Fort. An ancient monument, although there is not much to see. Dad wound round right to ascend to the rocky knoll that is the summit. More fine views to Bleaberry Fell etc ridge, and the Skiddaw Fells. That done returned again to col, going left then shortly off right up a churned forest road, and at a flattened cairn then left on narrow path that wound its way on to finally ascend up the left side to The Benn. More breathtaking views of Thirlmere, and to Skiddaw etc. Majestic!!! Dad took photos including us of course and then we just stood a while drinking in the wonderful views. Then down a narrow muddy path to the north, Dad slipping slightly at one point causing him to sit down and get a wet bum. Rather unfairly we all laughed about this! Soon dried out through. This led to a forest road, where we went right along it, to reach the double gates, and so descend by the route we had taken up from the start.
Now repositioned to Smaithwaite Bridge for the assault on Castle Rock, that stands above the start of the road to St John's in the Vale. Walked along the old road that links to the one through the vale, then just a little right, to climb the steps and through the gate on the left. Steady ascent across the field to the aqueduct. A bridge crosses it but not our route. We went right over a broken stone step stile and along the path into trees. Where barred by single strand of wire, Dad climbed the fence left via some stones, and took the path through bracken to come by a wall. Left by this and then followed it right to climb on steeply to below the south tower. Rounded this to the right and on up via steps to ascend by the south tower, where people were rock climbing. Dad chatted commenting that he did not recall it being this steep, to which the gentleman replied, "you were younger then." Dad agreed he was right too!! At top of the steps it was left between the crags and then ascended right, and so reach the summit at the north end. So, that was 1 Wainwright and 4 Birketts bagged by Little Eric!! Superb view of St John's in the Vale and Blencathra and Skiddaw Fells. Well worth the effort. A notice by the steps had warned about a crack that his opened up on north tower and we could see this from the summit. The warning is for climbers to avoid as not clear how stable/unstable it is. Returned by outwards route.
Now we went to Grasmere and the Wordsworth Hotel, Dad hoping to see Kim, Southey going in too. She had just come on so Dad got to chat and Southey got fussed. Lovely to see her and we are glad she is happy and she looks well too. Dad then went and had a smoked salmon sandwich and pint of bitter. Then before leaving he chatted to her again.
25th August 2013 - Wren Crag, High Rigg, Naddle Fell & St John's in the Vale from Smaithwaite Bridge
Well, having done Pen and thereby completing the Birketts, the pressure was off. So, it was nice to be able to choose a walk without it needing to contribute towards a challenge. It was decided to redo this one, as for our pal Little Eric it would mean some tops bagged-3 Birketts and 1 Wainwright. Parked on the verge adjacent to Smaithwaite Bridge. Crossed this and then through the gate right following the path, soon taking the one rising left. This climbed steadily with ups and downs too, to finally reach the top of Wren Crag-summit not marked and a little indeterminate, but Dad did take us sitting on the same rock as last time!. There would have been stunning views but the high fells were shrouded in mist. Followed the path on again with ups and downs to climb a stile in a fence and go right. This led past a small tarn in a hollow, and then on eventually to a stile in the wall. Here the path goes on by the wall in a corridor with Moss Crag left. Immediately after the crag we went left with a small tarn on the right. Then took the clear path up the rise in front that led to the 343m height that Birkett calls High Rigg. Well the words are in capitals on the map here! Now followed the path north to soon reach the highest point that is unnamed on the map, but known as Naddle Fell. We had our picture taken on each summit of course. We could see a group approaching from the north, so decamped a little left and sat on a rock for our lunch.. The first three of the party arrived then three more ladies, who came up right past us. We were spotted and they asked why Dad brought us along, so he explained. One lady asked our names, and we were all introduced, and Dad had to further explain why I was so named. It will certainly be a talking point for them, and the ladies all lay down around us while they had their picture taken!!! We and Dad loved the attention. So they went their way and we finished our lunch, then descended to the road. Then along to the pretty church. It was rebuilt in 1845 and Dad's great great grandfather John Bateman was one of the people who brought the stone to the site. So on along the road to soon take the gate right and walk the track under the fell. This brought us to Sosgill Bridge-lovely packhorse bridge, that we deviated to, to take a photograph. Then past Low Bridge End Farm, Dad resisting stopping for tea! Finally on to come by the beck and climb right, high above it and over the shoulder to reach the gate and road again. Good day. Then went to Grasmere and the Wordsworth Hotel, where Dad had a cream tea-two scones butter jam and cream and pot of tea. He asked for a second pot, offering to pay but the lady would not charge him! The main reason for going was he hoped to see Kim, but she was not on at reception today. Always another time! Grasmere was thronging being Bank Holiday and it was the sports and show too. Going home Ambleside was gridlocked so Dad took us via the struggle to Kirkstone and then via Troutbeck and Moorhowe Road to Ings, missing all the traffic. Saved a lot of hassle!
17th February 2013 - Capple Howe, Sour Hows & Sallows from Browfoot Lane end
On a day where the sun shone for the most part, we were back on the Lakeland Fells, revisiting these last done in November 2006. Today we followed the route suggested by Bill Birkett in his Complete Lakeland Fells. This involved driving to the very end of the narrow Browfoot Lane in Kentmere where it forms a junction with a bridleway. Not used by motors much except for access to the houses, it is not in the best repair. There was indeed limited parking Dad squeezing the car by the wall just on the bridleway, but it was the only car here today. Soon ready, it was right along the bridleway a wide unsurfaced track. At the first junction we went right, then on to another signed junction, where we went right through the iron gate, signed to Kentmere. Initially the path was grassy and muddy, but soon developed into a narrow track muddy and flooded in places. This led on through about 4 more gates with open land to the right and walled pasture left. Birkett then says take the path left just before the stand of rowan trees, but this is a bit confusing now as there are at least two of these, and in fact the ones he means have either fallen or been felled. Dad missed it but we did spot it on our return. It did not really matter as what we had to do was to gain the wall corner then walk with it to the left. We did this by crossing some rough ground, to find the path. At the end of the wall it was through the gate to open fell where, in Birkett's words, we made the strenuous climb to Capple Howe, just a few stones lying as a tiny cairn. Sour Hows lay directly ahead. Walked on to the fence/ruined wall by the conifer plantation. The stile referred to does not now appear to be there any more, seemingly as the fence has subsequently been replaced, but it was obvious where people had bent the fence top down and climbed over. Then headed straight up soon picking up a good path that led to the summit of Sour Hows. Extensive majestic views of Windermere, Coniston Fells, Crinkle Crags, Bowfell, Esk Pike & Langdales, although the visibility was somewhat hazy today. Now followed the path down that wound through hillocks to then follow the wall on the right, climbing to reach the stile in this, that gives access to Sallows, ascending the ridge to reach the summit at a small ridge like prominence. From here there were additional superb views of Red Screes, Caudale Moor, Stoney Cove Pike, Thornthwaite Crag, Froswick, Ill Bell and Yoke. So, that was the tops done, just our pal Little Eric bagging them - 3 Birketts and 2 Wainwrights. Continued east on the ridge descending, to soon come to a stone shooting butt. Here we turned right to descend the flank - rough and steepish which Dad's knees did not enjoy - to come to the old track from the quarry. Going left this led to a stile into a pasture, and down this through a gate to rejoin the bridleway, some large boulders allowing an easy crossing of Park Beck. Then it was just a reverse of the outwards route to the start. We met no one on the fells, but quite a few people on the path back to the car. Thankfully we again did not meet another vehicle on Bowfoot Lane (there are no passing places on the latter section!). Great to be on the hills again.
20th January 2013 - Skelghyll Woods, Troutbeck, Wansfell & Wansfell Pike from Ambleside
I was mainly the reason for doing these fells today, as part of the plan so that I can achieve 1000 summits, the 1000th being a repeat of my first. After today my total stood at 998. Little Eric bagged the tops too. Most of the country had been blanketed with snow on Friday, but the north west and Lakes had escaped, but nevertheless the fells were snowbound from earlier falls. Drove to Ambleside and parked at Fisherbeck just opposite Hayes Garden Centre. Walked south a short way, then took the road left to soon go right uphill on a narrow road that served a few houses and on going is the bridleway to Troutbeck. Fine views of the fells all blanketed in snow. Truly majestic. Eventually the surface became a track and we walked through Skelghyll Wood, that has the tallest conifer in Cumbria, although we could not decide from the contenders which one was actually the tallest! Onwards to exit the woods and now the path was covered in snow, so requiring more effort at times to make progress. Passed through the yard of High Skelghyll and on dropping down then climbing a snowbound pasture and on along by a wall. The track crested then dropped steadily becoming free of snow, to reach Troutbeck, where we walked through the village to find the path left-Nanny Lane. As we climbed, soon the track was snowbound and the route would remain so until we had descended from Wansfell Pike. Walked the lane to its end passing the path left to Wansfell Pike. At the end climbed the ladderstile, and then made our way over rough terrain to summit Wansfell reaching the cairn that is considered the top and the Wainwright too. The OS map however shows a spot height north of the wall, but the lack of stile and the barbed wire strand over the hurdle seems to discourage walkers to venture to it. Nevertheless Dad did climb over and walked to the highest point as far as could be determined. Dad had so far walked without gloves, but the strength of the wind made the consequent chill vicious, so he had to don his gloves to warm his hands before recording the grid ref and taking our picture. Not the most pleasant of times here today. Wonderful views however. Then we returned, Dad climbing the wall this time, to the cairn and we sat for our picture again. To his annoyance Dad's hat kept blowing off! The GPS recorded a height difference between the spot height and the cairn of just 4ft! So for the grid reference we intend to still treat the cairn as the Wainwright but use the spot height as the Birkett. Now in somewhat less wind we walked the ridge to Wansfell Pike and then made our way down. The steps were covered in sheet ice in places, so Dad had to walk beside the path for safety in the snow, slipping and sliding at times. Finally we reached the lowest track that was largely snow free and this led to a road by some new houses and so to the car.
8th August 2012 - Whin Ben, Whiteside, Gasgale Crags, Hopegill Head, Sand Hill & Gasgale Gill from Lanthwaite Green
On a recent visit to Armathwaite Hall, Arturus and Natalia, asked for a suggestion of a walk from Crummock Water, so Dad suggested a round done in August 2005, starting over Whin Ben and Whiteside. This was before the buying of the Birkett Book. Gasgale Crags is a top on the ridge towards Hopegill Head, and looking closely at the map we noted that the spot height is just to the left of the path, so we and Dad agreed that it was likely that we had not actually gone to the top, so just to make absolutely sure we had to go there again, before the attempt on Pen again. Uncle Eric and Little Eric had not been to Whiteside before, so Dad suggested it and Uncle Eric was happy to do the walk. Parked at Lanthwaite Green in the rough parking area, crossed the road and headed towards Whiteside gaining the path after crossing the Liza Beck, by the newish footbridge. The first objective was to climb to Whin Ben. A good path, but steep and scrambly at times. Someone now has put a tiny cairn to mark the highest point. For whatever reason this is not recognised by Birkett, so has no significance in any of our challenges, other than to count it as a summit achieved. After a dip we climbed on, a good path leading to a large rocky tor, that the path climbed over, to continue left on the final push. Rough rocky and scrambly in places it climbed over two rises, to finally at the top of the third reach the summit. A low rocky outcrop otherwise surrounded by grass, with a rough cairn. This is the Wainwright and after taking our photo, Uncle Eric and Dad had the usual Kendal Mint Cake. Then we continued along the top of the fell to the east top, which is unmarked. It is higher, but nevertheless AW classed the west top as the actual summit. Dad took us here as it is a Birkett and Little Eric bagged the top. Looking ahead along the path to Hopegill Head, and relating the landscape to the map, it was clear, where the summit of Gasgale Crags lay. If only about 10 yards, it is off the path to the left and slightly higher, so we would have passed it by in 2005. Uncle Eric was there first and by the time Dad and us arrived he had collected some of the stones into a small cairn - how very kind, and we thanked him very much!! We gathered round this for our picture. Now onwards to Hopegill Head. The rocky path descends to a dip then rises over a rock prominence, and then the final pull to the top, which is small and alpine in feel. Met a few walkers here and Dad and Uncle Eric chatted a few minutes. So now the easy down and up to Sand Hill. Dad did not take our picture here or indeed at Hopegill Head, as we had all been here before. Then followed the longish descent on the rough stony path to Coledale Hause, about 600ft lower than Hopegill Head. Here we went right to return through the narrow steep sided valley of Gasgale Gill. The River Liza runs through it and was our constant companion. Ever running swiftly with numerous falls. A bubbly mass of white all the way. Just a lovely walk through here and the first time we had ever done it. The path was good, if rocky at times and just a few awkward bits. This brought us to the footbridge and on to the car. A good day, and good views too. Cloudy to start and cool at times in the breeze, but sunny and warm in the afternoon. Now there are no doubts whatsoever that we have only Pen to do to complete the Birketts.
20th June 2012 - Eagle Crag, Sergeant's Crag & Langstrath from Stonethwaite
We were with Uncle Eric today, who had always wanted to climb these fells and we and Dad were glad to do them again, as too, our pal Little Eric would bag the summits. Also the walk would be done in the reverse way we had done it in 2005. The day was dry and quite sunny but more cloud later. There was little or no wind. Parked in Stonethwaite by the telephone box. Crossed the bridge and walked right long the valley on the Cumbria Way to Smithymire Island. All along here we had terrific views of our objectives. Crossed the footbridge as if going up Langstrath, but turned immediately left along by the wall. The path was clear despite the bracken, but this was not in full glory as yet. Passed through a wall via a gate then on to a more ruinous wall crossing this via a stile. Now the climb started in earnest, keeping by this wall on a clear path. Pretty steep, but not as steep as some we have done! Eventually the path veered left away from the wall then climbing cunningly in a series of zig-zags to finally reach the wall abutting the crag where a stile allows passage. Then on steadily up to soon reach a gully on the left, which is the key to the ascent. Scrambled up to level ground below the upper crags. Here the path went right to then zig-zag up on a series of shelves. The first is pretty narrow above Heron Crag and there is a rather exposed vertical drop, so a head for heights is needed. Eventually Eagle Crag summit is reached, a bare outcrop of rock. There is now no cairn. Sergeant's Crag was clearly in view half a mile south, and we followed the clear path to a wall corner, then on by the wall, to incline away from it to finally reach the cairn marking the top of Sergeant's Crag. Continuing south we descended to cross a stile and follow a path below a tor and above Bull Crag. The path disappeared eventually, and we just picked the way above Brown Crag, to get beyond it then make the steep rough descent to the Langstrath Valley. Here, now again on the Cumbria Way, we turned right and walked the undulating path to Smithymire Island, crossing the footbridge and walking back the way we had come this morning to Stonethwaite. Unbeknown, Dad had left his camera on after the last walk so the battery was flat, hence no photos at all today. He was sorry for Little Eric as there is no record of him bagging these summits. None too of the views nor of the Herdwick sheep and lambs (well we are not too bothered about this!).
3rd June 2012 - Grange Fell, Watendlath & Great Crag from Rosthwaite
The forecast was good for the north Lakes, so this is where we headed today. It was dry all day and clear views too, but cool and windy on the tops. We had not been here for seven years, so it was nice to repeat this walk, and our pal Little Eric bagged both the summits, thereby getting half way through the Wainwrights. Parked in Rosthwaite, then walked to main road and crossed just a little left, to take the path past Hazel Bank and climb the stony way going through two gates to come to the junction of paths. Went left through the gate, towards Keswick and down by the wall. Soon after rounding a corner, we took the stile right to climb steeply at times on the clear path that led to the rocky towers, and the one with a tiny cairn marking the summit of Grange Fell (named Brund Fell on the map). On the ascent there had been some fine views of Borrowdale and the surrounding fells. Windy up here so had to shelter out of the wind for our picture. Descended to the wall and crossed the stile, to head over damp ground to the main path and so down to Watendlath. Pretty with its few houses, and packhorse bridge, nestling by the tarn. After Dad had taken a few shots, we sat on a convenient seat to have our lunch. Then along the path by the tarn, that then meandered on to a gate, where it climbed steeply beside Great Crag. We left the main path at a corner and struck ahead then right. Here we met another couple who were trying to find the top. Dad could not remember after so long, but soon we spotted a narrow path to a col, then right on up and across to the cairn. The couple were intrigued with us, and took our photo, also of us with Dad. Nice for once for Dad to be in the shot. They were doing the Wainwrights - this was their 79th. Returned down the same way then regained the path to pass by Dock Tarn. The outfall is Willygrass Gill which we followed by at times. The path descends Lingy End. It is pitched, but the zig-zags are tight a very steep - Dad really had to concentrate and take care. Got down safely, then right along the path to Stonethwaite Bridge, but kept on ahead by the beck, to join the outward path, where left just a short walk to the main road and the car. After all the effort Dad deserved some refreshment and where better to go than Armathwaite Hall, where he had a nice meal and saw a talked to many of the people we know who work there.
9th May 2012 - Barf & Lord's Seat from Whinlatter Forest Park Centre
Uncle Eric had never climbed these fells before, so Dad kindly offered to repeat this walk in his company. A day with good sunny periods & little wind so it for once nearly felt like spring. The views were magnificent. Terrific as we drove through the Lakes. Wonderful reflections on Windermere, Rydal & Grasmere. Parked at the Whinlatter Forest Park Visitor Centre, our start point. Walked along past the buildings and past a junction numbered 15, and on to a second junction where we went left uphill over a stream and then round a right hand hairpin, to come to angled crossroads, where we sat on Bob's Seat and looked at the superb view over to Keswick and the fells around. Now left uphill the path curving left round another hairpin and to another junction where we turned right along a track eventually to a junction numbered 8. Along here there had been good views of Barf our first summit and of Bassenthwaite Lake, Armathwaite Hall standing out clearly at its northern end. Here took the right fork descending by the forest and latterly entering the trees, to then branch right to a stile. Over this we forded Beckstones Gill and then climbed the good clear path to Barf summit. A flat bare area of rock surmounted by a flat cairn marks it. A large military aircraft flew over the lake, and Dad, snapped off a photo or two. Then again we followed the clear path that descended into a shallow col before climbing on to reach the bare flat top of Lords's Seat. A fence post and few stones marking it. A superb viewpoint, not only of the Lakeland Fells, but over the Solway Firth to the Scottish mountains, and today too the Isle of Man. Descended to the stile seen below and on along the track, to come to junction 5 where we took the path right by the trees. It was time of lunch, and eventually a sloped rocky area on the left provided a place to sit. We gathered in a circle to have our sandwiches, and chat about the day so far. Walking on the path led to junction 3 at Tarbarrel Moss, where our route was left along the wide forest road. This led to junction 2, where we went on ahead downhill quite steeply to the road, and left along this for the short walk to the car. Dad and Uncle Eric went to Siskins Cafe for tea and unsurprisingly Dad had a piece of cake too. Although we had only done this walk a few weeks ago, we were happy to do it again as the views are so extensive and wonderful and Dad got a few more pictures for the inevitable story! Uncle Eric too, ticked off another two Wainwrights.
15th April 2012 - Barf & Lord's Seat from Whinlatter Forest Park Centre
A lovely sunny day, if rather cold, and it did cloud over later, nevertheless the views were magnificent. Terrific as we approached along the A66 of Blencathra then the Coledale Fells and those above Derwentwater. We never ever ever tire of seeing these fells round here. The verge parking just beyond the visitor centre, our start point has been fenced and is being grassed over, so Dad parked at the visitor centre for the princely sum of £6.90. Ready and settled in the rucksack, we walked along past the buildings and then ahead at a junction numbered 15 and on to a second junction. Here it was left, uphill, over a stream and then round a right hand hairpin, to come to angled crossroads, where there was a seat, so we all sat and looked at the superb view over to Keswick and the fells around. Then Dad noticed the plaque on the seat that read Bob's Seat, to we just had sit on it and have our picture taken! Now left uphill, the path curving left round another hairpin and to another junction where we turned right along a track eventually to another junction numbered 8. Along here there had been good views ahead of Barf our first summit and over to Bassenthwaite Lake. All the tracks were forest roads, in excellent condition and great to walk on. At this junction we took the right fork descending by the forest and latterly entering the trees, to branch right a short distance to a stile. Over this we forded Beckstone Gill, and then climbed the good clear path to Barf's summit. A flat bare area of rock surmounted by a flat cairn marked it, and we sat here for our photo. Our pal Little Eric was pleased as he bagged the summit too. Then followed the clear path that descended into a shallow col before climbing on to reach the bare flat top of Lords's Seat. A fence post and few stones marking it. No one there but just a minute after two couples arrived. The first saw us and this led to Dad saying we had done the Wainwrights. The couple were in the final throes of this challenge having just 10 or so to do, and as they left to walk to Barf, Dad wished them well. Then chatted to the second couple who were taken with the idea of the us climbing the fells. The lady asked if there was a a blog, so Dad told them the website address. It was bitterly cold in the wind up here so they moved off to keep warm, and soon after we did too, descending to the stile seen below and on along the track, to come to junction 5 where we took the path right by the trees and down to junction 3 at Tarbarrel Moss. We had been close to this before when we had climbed that Birkett. Went left now to the next junction 2, where it was right downhill quite steeply to the road and a short walk to the car. Dad changed then went to see the ospreys sitting on the nest. The camera shots are in HD and so clear. Where else now but to Armathwaite Hall, where Dad had a meal in the Brasserie. Leek and potato soup and then the barbeque rib with chips and salad. Arthurus was serving, who Dad had not seen for a while. He made a real fuss and after other people had gone chatted a while, mostly about walking as Arthurus likes climbing the fells too. Dan took over, who had served Dad afternoon tea recently, and so more chat ensued. Before leaving he saw Johnny. He and Sunshine are off on holiday next week to Rumania and Dad wished them well. Finally there was just time for a few words with Mia, and Kim on reception, Dad wishing Kim good luck for her driving test next Thursday. A nice day and good to be on the hills again.
8th
March 2012 - Binsey & Whittas Park from Binsey Lodge
Taking the right turn by the Castle Inn, we drove up the Uldale Road parking just beyond Binsey Lodge. The day was dry but lots of grey cloud with a cold wind too, so not ideal for photos. We climbed the clear path, with extensive views behind over the Uldale Fells, Skiddaw & Bassenthwaite. Soon the summit of Binsey was reached with its tumulus, trig point & shelter. We always like to sit on top of the trig points, but that was a non starter today due to the wind, and even by it Tetley was blown over, before Dad got the picture. So far we had done this part of the walk before, but now descending north we were on completely new ground, and so it was to remain until we reached the start again. The going was rough over the heather with no clear path, but the wall corner we were aiming for was clear to see and once there we passed through the gate and walked on ahead by the wall on the right. We could see the ladderstile over to the left and we and headed for this climbing over to get on bridleway. Interestingly on the gate into the field we had just crossed there was a sign 'private no right of way'. Now we walked effectively the way we had come by the wall on the left, the grass soon becoming a track, that crossed the stream that goes under the name Humble Jumble Gill!! The route was now clear just continuing ahead to near High Houses. Here at the signpost we turned left, but not before Dad took a picture of sheep who just seemed to want it taken. Is word getting around? Then on climbing to a brow to reach a gate on the right where a footpath comes in. Here it was left over Whittas Park. No path as such but just kept on ahead passing below a small hill, to then drop down to cross a wall and gain a very muddy way along by a wall on the right below the slopes of Binsey. Finally we took a gate ahead to cross the wall and walk down to Fell End Farm, climbing the fence to gain the road and so walk back to the start. Nice to make it a circular route and complete the exploration of Binsey. Being so close, Dad now went to Armathwaite Hall for lunch in the Brasserie. He saw Lorraine, who told him that the walk with Sunshine and Gemma, last Sunday had been the Newlands Round. Well done them! Dad had a nice meal, and saw Prem, and then Justine who took over. They both chatted to him. A nice day.
19th
February 2012 - Walla Crag, Bleaberry Fell & High Seat from
Great Wood, returning via Ashness Bridge
Well finally after Dad being ill,
we were back to walking again, and more importantly in the Lake
District and on the fells! It was a quite superb day with clear
skies so there were superb views. Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite
Lake were inky blue and the tops of the mountains were covered
with snow. Despite Dad saying he was not coming to the north
lakes, after all those long journeys last year, here we were
nevertheless. It is in our and Dad's opinion the most beautiful
area, and we all just love walking here. There was also the added
advantage of Dad being able to go for a late lunch at Armathwaite
Hall afterwards, having got permission from Uncle Brian. Our
start point was the National Trust's Great Wood car park, a short
way up Borrowdale from Keswick. Soon ready we set off walking
through the wood, to then take the path climbing left up the fell,
just before the footbridge over Cat Gill. A steady climb by the
gill, and once above the tree line the wonderful views opened out.
The ascent levelled off, and then it was a more gentle climb
beside the wall, crossing this by a stile to reach the summit the
cairn on Walla Crag. From Keswick, this is a very popular tourist
climb, but today we had the summit to ourselves. We were eager to
sit on the cairn to have our picture taken, but we had to be
patient while Dad photographed the views. Just so good to be on
the hills, and an extra special moment for Little Eric as he
bagged this Wainwright. Then followed the steady walk along the
ridge on a clear path, that eventually curved left to to climb
more steeply to Bleaberry Fell. There are a number of cairns at
the top, but the one fashioned into a shelter marks the top.
About a mile away the next objective, High Seat, could be seen
ahead the trig point standing out clearly. This ridge is
perennially boggy, and we had indeed wondered why Dad decided to
venture here again, after the comments he made last time. The day
was cold, as it had been for a while now, but the upside to this
is that the ground was frozen, so he did not sink into the bog,
and for once his trousers kept clean. There had been little or no
wind when we set off, but on arrival at High Seat is was blowing
quite strongly, and consequently it was very cold, and Dad nearly
had to put his gloves on. He is a hardy sort though. Too windy to
sit on the trig point, we had to be content to have our picture
taken just sitting by it. Then we sat in the lee, just below the
summit to have our sandwiches. Despite being out of the wind Dad
soon began to cool down, so we did not linger. On past occasions
we have always climbed these fells from Thirlmere, so today's
descent into Borrowdale was a new route. A clear path leads north-west
winding its way to Ashness Gill, where the descent steepens,
becoming rough and stony, coming eventually to a gate in the wall.
Here a more grassy descent soon brought us to the road at Ashness
Bridge. This is a very popular tourist place so unsurprisingly it
was busy, with people having their picture taken on the bridge.
It is renowned too for the view of Derwentwater and Skiddaw, but
we noticed that this is now partly obscured by silver birch trees,
that have grown tall. Our route now lay along the footpath that
leads ultimately to Keswick. The first part being a short climb
to a gate in a wall. Here beyond this is that wonderful view,
totally unobstructed. Shortly taking the left fork, the path
meandered up and down to come finally to the footbridge over Cat
Gill, where we rejoined our outwards route, and the short walk to
the car. Dad changed, then drove to Armathwaite Hall, where he
had a nice meal in the Brasserie, served by Prem who Dad chatted
with. Later he saw Ana, Prem's wife, who also made a fuss. Our
pals Fletcher and Polly had come along too and they went to say
hello to Kim and Mia on reception and Dad chatted to Kim too.
Then we all went to have our picture taken sitting on the lawns.
Super day and just wonderful to be out in the Lake District.
30th
September 2011 - Lingmell (Ennerdale), Haycock, Little Gowder
Crag, Caw Fell & Ennerdale Fell from car park below Bowness
Knott
There have been
some tough walks amongst the last eight to complete the Birketts,
but this was perhaps the toughest of all, and we and Dad in
particular is glad that it is finally done. Being Ennerdale, it
was about the furthest drive - 90 miles and 2hrs each way, so
this made for a very long day indeed. But at last we have
completed all the fells in the north and west, so there will be
no more long journeys up the M6 and along the A66. So an early
start at 07.15, arriving just after 09.00 at Bowness car park.
The weather was good, dry mostly sunny and very warm, but on the
tops with the strong breeze, it was thankfully somewhat cooler.
Vehicles are banned beyond this car park, so the walk was
extended by some 3 miles, there and back to Char Dub Bridge. So,
soon ready we set off along the road, giving Dad a good walk in
before the climb. Crossed the bridge and walked on the track
between the fields to a gate, where we went left to cross
Woundell Beck by the substantial new bridge. This recently
replaced the old bridge that was decaying and at times of flood
was underwater. Soon we reached the track going diagonally right,
and due right the drove way. Either route could be taken, but it
was decided to use the drove way. Very muddy at first, but soon a
proper path materialised on the steep and unrelenting ascent.
Eventually, we reached the fence with a gateless gap, where the
ascent became rocky but there was a path winding its way up
through this. Finally the gradient eased, and then Lingmell's
summit cairn perched on a large boulder was attained. That was
one Birkett ticked off. Looking back there had been superb views
of the lake, and over to the ridge of Starling Dodd etc, where we
had been last time we had walked from here. So that done we
looked ahead and Haycock seemed to be and still was a long way
off. Leaving Lingmell we crossed heather to then traverse left to
gain a path that led first to Tewit How. Now about 2000ft, there
was still another 600ft to go. The ridge to Steeple bent away
left, but Dad kept ahead and then slightly right to gain a path
that finally led to the ridge between Scoat Fell & Haycock.
It had been a long and arduous climb but finally it was done much
to Dad's relief! Turning right, all that now remained was about
300ft of climb to the summit cairn on Haycock. Dad took our
picture of course. Little Eric cheered as it was another
Wainwright bagged. Then we sat and had lunch. Sadly the
visibility was pretty poor today, restricting photo opportunities.
The rest of the summits were now basically a ridge walk beside
the wall ruinous and rebuilt known as the Ennerdale Fence. First
the rocky tor of Little Gowder Crag. Descended from this to then
make the gentle ascent to Caw Fell with its neat cairn. Another
Wainwright for Little Eric. So, now just Ennerdale Fell left to
do. We crossed to the south side of the wall then followed this
as it turned right and descended to the depression. Here a stile
over the fence on the right would be use later for the descent.
However first there was the steady climb up Ennerdale Fell. The
wall is fully rebuilt, so as we neared the cairn on the opposite
side, we looked for the gate, that according to Birkett, allows
access. There is no gate!!! Dad walked a little further on and
found a short stretch of wall where the barbed wire has been
broken away and we guess other people have climbed over. With a
little difficulty this is what Dad did and soon we were sitting
at the cairn. "Two", we all shouted at the top of our
voices. Just two Birketts left!! Dad re-climbed the wall (he took
great care and did not do any damage), then we headed back down
to the stile passed before. We paused here while Dad consulted
the route description and I said "that looks like a step
stile in the wall going down the fell, so that is the way to get
to the cairn on Ennerdale Fell." Now we started the long and
very arduous descent between Silvercove Beck and the wall on the
left. Steep and really no path. It seemed endless and later,
looking back we realised how far we had come and how tough it had
been for Dad. Finally we came to the point where the wall turned
away left. In front was a fence, which we climbed up right beside
to the corner, where Dad then followed it down the fell, again on
very intermittent path through heather and bracken. Dad should
really have climbed on further up the fellside to find a path,
but having done so much climb today, he thought this was the
lesser of two evils. Eventually, we reached a fence corner and a
stile, where we joined the proper path. This stoney path led down
easily and reached a junction with footbridges left and right.
Dad took the one left and after a very short climb, we were soon
down to the valley floor. Followed the forest track right to come
to the gate, to the path to Char Dub Bridge. Then the 1.5 miles
back along the valley road to Bowness. We met a couple from
Nunthrope, Yorkshire on the last half mile, so Dad chatted to
them. The gentleman was 80. They do not go on the tops now, today
having done a round in the valley. A nice way to round off the
walk. They talked about Bob Orrell, who they had met some time
ago. He lives in Ennerdale. Dad told them we had met him on Great
Gable. We were noticed too, so Dad briefly explained about us.
Then Dad phoned Uncle Brian, to let him know we were back safely,
before heading home. He stopped at Junction 38 Services where he
enjoyed the fish, chips & mushy peas and plenty of tea.
Finally home just before 19.30. A long long day and Dad felt the
effects for the next two days afterwards, but now this walk is
done the completion of the Birketts is in our grasp. Summit tally
- Little Eric bagged all 5 including 2 Wainwrights. We and Dad
bagged 2 - Lingmell and Ennerdale Fell.
31st
August 2011 - Esk Pike, Pike De Bield & Broad Crag (Scafell)
from Seathwaite via Grains Gill
Today's walk was in
the area of Lakeland's highest mountains, to tick off two more of
the few remaining Birkett tops. The day was cloudy but dry apart
from a few minutes of drizzle in the afternoon, and there was
little wind. Our start point was Seathwaite in Borrowdale-
already busy with cars by the time we got there soon after 09.00.
When we got back it was obvious many more had arrived afterwards.
Set off through the farmyard, and on along the wide track to
Stockley Bridge, where having crossed it we turned left up Grains
Gill. A long steady climb with massive bulk of Great End
dominating the scene ahead. The path has been extensively
repaired and graded. Whilst this makes for easier going, it was
hard on Dad's knees on the return descent, and we felt for him.
Reaching the top we crossed the gill to join the path from
Styhead, and walked on up to Esk Hause its large cairn marking
the cross road of paths. Ours lay on ahead to Esk Pike. There was
a steady stream of walkers heading on the path to Scafell Pike,
but few going to Esk Pike. A rough climb over the extensive rocky
terrain, but then there was a section of grassy level ground,
where the rocky summit was finally revealed. There are two
sections split by a gap. A large cairn stands on the left section
and a smaller cairn on the right. This is slightly higher so is
the actual summit as depicted by Wainwright in his book. We did
not have our picture taken just then, as Dad decided to leave
doing this until we had been to Pike De Bield. As Dad was
standing on the highest point, a gentleman with a younger lad,
asked if this was Esk Hause. "No", Dad replied it is
Esk Pike. How they had missed it we do not know, but they were
bound for Scafell Pike and Dad pointed out the route they needed
to take. "I'll not be popular" the gentleman replied
heading off having thanked Dad for the guidance. We actually met
them later on, as we were heading to Broad Crag, on their return
from Scafell the Pike. Descended to easy ground and walked across
grass passing an outcrop with a large cairn, and so on to the
easy climb to Pike De Bield, with a neat cairn having a standing
stone in the centre. This must have been recently built, having
compared it to the picture on 'Striding Edge' website, where in
July there was just a small untidy heap of stones. Stupendous
views over to the Scafells, Crinkle Crags, Bowfell and down to
Eskdale. "Wow"!!, we all exclaimed. That was the first
Birkett bagged, and Little Eric too had bagged Esk Pike as a
Wainwright. Dad walked back to Esk Pike, where for the sake of
completeness he took our picture at both cairns. Then it was on
down to the Hause, where a decision had to be made whether to
climb to Broad Crag. Dad had been finding the walking hard today,
but despite all, he did not hesitate and headed up Calf Cove on
the path to Scafell Pike. Some of the path has been repaired and
graded so making easier going, but still hard walking amongst the
rock, something a gentleman commented on as we passed him. Dad
said "I'm not a fit as I was". "Nor me either"
he replied. His younger companion said the same, to which he
replied, "You were never fit!". We crossed with care
the area of large boulders, from which, it was just a short
distance down and up to Broad Crag col and a clamber over the
boulders to the shaped rock with a small cairn marking the top of
Broad Crag. So that was today's Birketts done, so just 5 to go now. We
were glad there was no wind as we had to balance on the boulder
to have our picture taken. As Dad was finishing, two other
walkers arrived a gentleman and a younger man. Dad offered to
take their picture for them, and offer that was gladly accepted.
A further bouldery clamber followed to regain the main path where
we retraced the route to Esk Hause. As we arrived a typhoon
fighter aircraft came screaming over and disappeared between
Great End and Great Gable. What a terrific noise!! Dad was just
ringing Brian so he heard it too. Dad had hoped to do Great End
as well, but he was just too tired. However Little Eric, who had
not been there before, did not mind. So along the path towards
Styhead, then over the gill and down Grains Gill. On the lower
section we met a lady who was going to check on a Duke of
Edinburgh group. They were camping tonight at Angle Tarn. Today
they had come over from Grisedale Tarn area, via Fairfield. To
reach Angle Tarn they were climbing via Rossett Gill. "I
hate Rossett Gill", Dad said. The lady agreed too. She had
walked extensively, having done the Wainwrights and Munros too.
Wow!! Chatted about 10 mins, about various parts of the lakes,
favourite areas etc. She had two lovely border collies with her
too. It was not too far then down to Stockley Bridge and on the
Seathwaite. Dad stopped at Jake's Snack Shack at the farm, run by
a lad of about 13, serving drinks and biscuits chocolate bars etc.
A welcome large mug of tea was had, which was just what Dad
needed. As he deposited the cup in the bin, Dad thanked him. How
enterprising - he will go far. And so home via Junction 38
Services where Dad had sausage chips & beans and a large mug
of tea
21st
August 2011 - Little Dodd (Loweswater) & Hen Comb from Maggie's
Bridge, Loweswater
This was another of
the walks to tick off the Birketts, and yet another long drive,
crossing again Whinlatter Pass, but this is the last time we will
have to go to Loweswater. Hen Comb is not linked to any other
fells, and is flanked on either side by becks, that can be hard
if not impossible to cross after rain, which we had plenty of
recently. Birkett suggests a route that involves crossing
Mosedale Beck, but Dad reckoned that this might impossible to
cross today, so we decided to take a route on the other side.
This was also influenced by the fact we started from Maggie's
Bridge, the bridleway from here, leading to this other side. A
very narrow lane in Loweswater village leads to the unsurfaced NT
car park. Crossing the small bridge we followed the access track
to High Nook Farm, then on through the farmyard, to pass through
the gate in the intake wall to open fell. A path led on, and at
the divide we took the left fork. It would have been easier if we
had followed the wall left by the gate, as we were to find out on
the return. The fells towered around, Carling Knott, Fellbarrow
Group, Mellbreak the latter two having been subject of recent
walks. Strolling along we realised that we had been this way
before, then taking the right fork which leads up the slopes of
Carling Knott. This was in 2005 when we had climbed to Burnbank
Fell etc., in a round to bag the Wainwrights. The path led under
the slopes of Black Crag, but then we had to descend to the
valley containing the Whiteoak Beck - steep and rough. The beck
was flowing fast, but after casting about along the bank, Dad
managed to get us across dry. Then it was up the steep opposite
slope to the shoulder, and so along the narrow trod to the rocky
knuckle of Little Dodd, its grassy summit being unmarked. To add
colour to our photo, Dad got the flag out for us. The day was
mostly cloudy and breezy, so the flag cracked out. That was the
outstanding Birkett done, now just seven to go. Then we walked on
across rather wet boggy ground-not too surprising after the rain,
to climb steadily the dome of Hen Comb, and reach the cairn on a
little rocky outcrop. This was for Little Eric's benefit to bag
this Wainwright. It was his 100th too. Dad took his photo on his
own to mark the occasion. Looking ahead we could see Starling
Dodd, Gale Fell & Great Borne where we had been last week.
Lovely view of Loweswater and Fellbarrow Group. It looked dark
over to Honister, so were were glad perhaps not to be in
Borrowdale. Dropped just below the summit to get out of the wind
and had a snack. Then retraced the route following a tractor
track that went to the right of Little Dodd, and so on down
eventually to the intake wall. Here we went left by the wall to
drop down to the beck again. The banks were steep, but
fortunately there was a pole with a frame below to catch debris
secured across the beck. Dad sat on this and shuffled across then
on to rocks and up over the fence. Just a pity no one there to
take his picture! Continued on by the wall to reach the outward
track and so to the car. Dad had made it tougher for himself on
the way out, but finally done now. We won't be going back to
these fells again for a long time if ever, as we have all done
them. On the way home Dad unsurprisingly went to Greystone House,
for tea and lovely apple crumble with custard.
14th
August 2011 - Bowness Knott, Brown How (Ennerdale), Herdus, Great
Borne, Gale Fell, Starling Dodd & Little Dodd (Ennerdale)
from the car park below Bowness Knott
Today we did one of
the two most distant of the remaining Birkett walks, from
Ennerdale - 180 miles round trip and about an hour and three
quarters hours driving, to the car park below Bowness Knott, the
limit of vehicular traffic unless you are at the Youth Hostel or
Field Centre. The sign says welcome to Wild Ennerdale and this is
certainly true especially the upper sections dominated by Great
Gable, Pillar etc. Setting off early we the there just after 09.00,
but it came on to rain heavily, so sensibly we sat in the car
until it passed over. Finally we set off about 09.50, the day dry
from thereon and sunny in the afternoon, with a cool wind.
Returned along the road to the end of the forestry, climbing the
stile on the right by Rake Beck. The path climbed steadily
through the bracken to come to the forest corner, then continued
a little way right of the fence. Brown How the second top of the
day was ahead to the left. Found the stile in the fence, over the
crest, to gain access to Bowness Knott. The trees have been
felled in the recent past, so any path has largely disappeared
and the ground is covered in branches and debris, making for a
rough and unpleasant trek to the summit, but a super viewpoint
over Ennerdale. Dad was very glad though, when he had regained
the stile. Don't suppose we will return again. Then just a short
climb to the rocky knoll of Brown How. That made up for the time
to Bowness Knott. Herdus, the next top towered over beyond, and
we looked across to the steep ravine of Rake Beck, via which
there was 800ft to climb to Herdus summit. Crossed to the path up
Herdus Scaw and started the ascent. Being hidden in the heather
etc, there was not much in view at any time, but there was never
any doubt, and rough and rocky in places it climbed steadily
winding its way up the fell It never felt really steep, unlike
Scale Knott, and was an interesting scrambly climb that we can
recommend. Eventually the ascent levelled and Herdus summit was
to the left with Great Bourne ahead and right. We found the
narrow trod leading left and soon we were at the cairn on Herdus.
So that was three outstanding Birketts done. It was still misty
at times and Great Borne disappeared whilst here, but it soon
cleared. Crossed the plateau, and followed a path the climbed
easily then on to the trig point on Great Borne. We sat on it for
our picture. Then we lunched sitting by the shelter. The views
were clearing although the mist was still hanging round Pillar
etc. Walking on we descended by the fence bearing left at the
corner along the path to Starling Dodd, but at the lowest point,
we struck left to the stout corner post in the fence, marking the
summit of Gale Fell. This had not been visited in 2005, so only
now could we claim to have climbed it, and this truly left us 8
summits to do. Crossed a dip to rejoin the main path and climbed
soon to Starling Dodd. There are two cairns - one in stone and
one mainly of the old fence posts as we remembered from last
visit. We sat on this for our photo. Views were now very clear
and stupendous. To the Fellbarrow Group, Mellbreak, Hen Comb, and
wonderful of Crummock Water backed by Grasmoor etc., and of
course to Great Gable, Pillar etc across the valley. Oh how lucky
we are! It was then just a short down and up to the final top
today, Little Dodd (Ennerdale) that has a similar fence post
cairn marking the top. This was a significant milestone for our
pal Grizzly, as it marked his 1000th summit. We gave him a hug of
congratulation, as did Dad. On the day, Little Eric bagged all 7
tops, which included two Wainwrights. The rest of us & Dad
bagged 4 Birketts. It was down to the valley now. Dad made an
error here in that he did not walk on to the head of Gillflinter
Beck. Instead he went straight down, making it much harder
through rocks and heather. Finally this was accomplished and the
proper path gained. This wound on down to reach the unsurfaced
road in the valley at Gillerthwaite. More wonderful views up the
valley towards Black Sail. Great Gable, Kirk Fell, Pillar and its
Rock, Scoat Fell. Awesome. Turned right along the track, to walk
to the car - about 2 miles. A great day out and we made
significant progress on the few remained Birkett tops not climbed.
Now Dad was faced with the long drive home, so he decided to get
a good way back, before stopping for a meal. He went to Junction
38 services, where he had steak and vegetable pie, chips, &
vegetables, then a piece of chocolate rice crispy cake, all
washed down with tea. Well he really did deserve it. It was then
just about a 40 minute drive home. Thanks for a great day, Dad.
30th
July 2011 - Arnison Crag, Birks, Gavel Pike, St Sunday Crag, Cofa
Pike & Grisedale from Patterdale
On a lovely summer
day, we started the first of the eight remaining walks to
complete the Birkett fells. Mostly sunny with little wind, and
rather too warm by the afternoon. We were excited, as we enjoyed
the delightful drive over Kirkstone Pass, with Red Screes sharply
defined in the early morning air. In the valley Brothers Water
was mirror smooth. "What superb reflections", remarked
Tetley. So on to Patterdale parking opposite the hotel. Dad was
very glad that they have tarmacced the entrance, removing the deep
potholes. Soon ready, we settled in Dad's rucksack setting off by
taking the path to the right of the Patterdale Hotel that curves
to join the main route. Through the gate we then climbed on to
another gate. Here to Little Eric's delight Dad decided not to go
through the gate , but go left and climb beside the wall so that
we could again visit Arnison Crag, so he could bag the summit. We
paused at the top of Oxford Crag to take in the superb view of
Ullswater. Continuing along the path, the wall veered away right,
and soon we took the narrow path left rising to the cairn on
Arnison Crag, where we hopped out for our usual picture. Birks
now dominated the scene west with the tops of Gavel Pike & St
Sunday Crag behind. These were all on the agenda today. Returned
to path, and walked on to come to Trough Head, and where the wall
forms a loop enclosing Glenamara Park. We walked on by a ruined
wall running from that enclosing Glenamara Park, leaving this as
it turned right, to find the path cutting back up Birks. This
then brought us again by the ruined wall, which we followed.
Joining the main path, a short walk left brought us to the cairn
on Birks, another Wainwright bagged by Little Eric. Now the
onward scene was set out before us - Gavel Pike to the left and
ahead St Sunday Crag. We walked on descending slightly to the
come to the main path that bypasses Birks from Thornhow End. This
was followed, until a path went left contouring the slope of the
mountain. We took this, which led unerringly to the cairn perched
on the summit of Gavel Pike. That was the first Birkett ticked
off. Not having been here before we were particularly eager to
sit and have our picture taken. Below there was a superb view of
Deepdale, a lonely valley whose head leads up to Deepdale Hause
that we would reach later. Now it was a short walk and about 200ft
of climb to St Sunday Crag. Quiet here, Dad took our picture, but
soon a steady stream of walkers arrived. Dad chatted to a couple
who had climbed via Gavel Pike. They said it was a good route up
the mountain. Like us they were going on to Cofa Pike, but then
on over Fairfield, to return via Hartsop above How. We sat and
had our lunch here, Dad chatting a young couple who commented on
us, saying it was a great idea that we climbed the fells too. So
now we headed down the stony path to Deepdale Hause. Cofa Pike
towered up to the left - 500ft of climb. Our little hearts sank
at the sight, but Dad said "we have got to do it, so it's
best foot forwards." The rough path climbed steadily, then
it became a bit of a scramble through the rocks on a clear path
to finally reach the cairn. Second Birkett done -only 11 to go
now. By now the first couple had almost reached Fairfield, and
seeing Dad on the top, called out well done! We all waved as Dad
called his thanks. So that was it the summits planned for today
done. Retraced the route, to the Hause, and then took the path
left to descend the rough eroded path to Grisedale Tarn, where
just above we stopped to eat again. We sat on an adjacent rock to
eat our sandwiches. As we munched away we talked about the
wonderful views we had seen, The distant fells were a little hazy,
but from Gavel Pike it had been majestic of Dove Crag, Hart Crag
and Deepdale. Then north across to Dollywagon Pike, Nethermost
Pike, Striding Edge & Helvellyn. Seat Sandal is a wonderful
backdrop to Grisedale Tarn. The best view of the tarn today had
been from Cofa Pike. Dad had met a group of ladies at Deepdale
Hause. They had commented on us and Dad had explained. They had
been on Helvellyn, and said it was so busy with literally gangs
of people, and many crossing Striding Edge. Just bears out that
it is Lakeland's most visited summit. We were glad not to have
been there today. Now we took the path down Grisedale. It is a
long long way down, but Dad ploughed steadily on. On the way we
met the young couple again and chatted. They had decided not to
return over Helvellyn. A good decision, we thought as it was by
now very warm for walking. Eventually we came to where the beck
from High Crag joins Grisedale Beck. Here we walked across to
take the bridge over the latter, to continue down the right side
of the valley. This path eventually became a road that soon
joined the main road in Patterdale, where going right it was a
short walk to the car. A long and quite tough walk, we had
nevertheless achieved all we set out to do, and finally we got
Cofa Pike ticked off. Little Eric bagged all five summits that
included three Wainwrights. The rest of us just bagged the two
Birketts. Also this was the last of the 66 summits in the Central
Fells as defined by Bill Birkett.
10th
July 2011 - Fellbarrow Group - Darling Fell, Loweswater Fell, Low
Fell, Sourfoot Fell, Smithy Fell, Fellbarrow on Mosser Fell &
Hatteringill Head on Whin Fell
We had been looking
forward to walking with Uncle Bob, in Yorkshire, but this was
cancelled at the last minute due to him twisting his ankle. So
instead of a 50 mile round trip, Dad ended up with a 160 mile
round trip, as we went Birkett bagging from Loweswater. We had
decided to do the Fellbarrow Group, comprising seven summits,
just one of which we had not done before,. But for our pal Little
Eric it was completely new ground and he bagged all seven
including the two Wainwrights (Low Fell & Fellbarrow). The
day was dry throughout, with sunny periods and a nice breeze. Dad
found a pull off by Loweswater and we then walked the short
distance to the track signed 'Mosser unfit for cars'. It is
surfaced but rough in places hence the sign. Walked this climbing
out of the trees to gain a good view of the lake and fells beyond.
We could see where we had been last weekend. Dad spotted an
animal ahead and after observing it carefully, realised that it
was a fox. Climbed the stile at the sign 'footpath to Foulsyke',
and then ascended steeply (but not as steep as Scale Knott
however!), zig-zagging through the bracken and then by the fence.
When this turned away we kept ahead to climb the stile and reach
the top of Darling Fell. Beyond a shallow dip is a cairn that
seems to be considered the top of the fell, but without doubt the
highest point is that immediately beyond the stile. Another
breathtaking view from the cairn - classic of Crummock Water
with Buttermere beyond, surrounded by the mountains and fells. So,
that was the outstanding Birkett done (13 to go now). We now
descended steeply to cross Crabtree Beck and climb up the other
side, then forking right to Loweswater Fell. Again that
breathtaking view of the lakes and mountains. We just wanted to
parcel it up and bring it home! Tearing our eyes from the view,
we now walked north descending to cross a stile and then up the
nose to the cairn on Low Fell - paradoxically the highest point
reached today. The clear path then meandered up and down crossing
two stiles, before we climbed left to the flat top of Sourfoot
Fell a few stones marking the summit. Descended to rejoin the
path then made the short climb to Smithy Fell, the highest point
being at the fence corner. Descended once again to cross the
stile on the left and climb steadily by the fence to the trig
point on Fellbarrow. We spent a little while here thinking about
Uncle Bob, as this is where we first met him in September 2005.
Dad got chatting and on that day we did the rest of the walk
together. Since then what a lot of adventures and great days out
we have had together. The last top, Hatteringill Head on Whin
Fell, was clearly seen just a little north, so we descended to
cross the ladderstile giving access. There were cows with young
grazing, so Dad was wary, taking a wide circuit to avoid them,
but paradoxically a calf was standing by the cairn. It did after
a minute or so give way and move off, so Dad was able to get the
GPS reference and more importantly our picture at the cairn. To
get down, it was necessary to reclimb Fellbarrow. As the trig
point came into view, Dad remembered how he had seen Uncle Bob
taking James's picture standing on the trig point. From the
summit we descended west on an intermittent path, leading finally
through bracken to a track that led to the Mosser track once
again. This was then followed left to the start. A good day and
all this group are now done. Refreshment time for Dad, and once
again he went to Greystone House at Stainton. A pork and apple
burger with salad, followed by delicious apple and blackcurrant
crumble with custard, and tea to drink. So, suitably fortified he
drove us home.
3rd July
2011 - Scale Knott, Mellbreak & Mosedale from Buttermere
A beautiful summers
day with mostly clear blue skies and light winds. Frankly a bit
too hot for walking by the afternoon. How is it that it is always
hot when we climb Mellbreak! Dad parked in Buttermere, by the
roadside just above the church. We took the path past the hotels
leading to the lake, but our route was soon right through the
gate to Scale Bridge. Superb reflections in mirror smooth water
of the beck. The majestic fells all around were clear and
provided a wonderful sight! Over the bridge followed the path
right above the shore of Crummock Water. Grasmoor, Whiteside etc
provided a wonderful view to the right. The path eventually bent
away from the lake, and becoming a bit indistinct came to Scale
Beck which we crossed. Scale Knott towered above and the fence
rising up could be clearly seen rising out of the bracken.
Crossed to this and started the very steep ascent, that got even
steeper higher up - hard work on such a warm day. At the point
where the fence turned away left, we continued ahead, still
steeply up to finally come to what seemed to be the highest point
on the flat top of the fell. A tiny pile of stones marked this
and we gathered around for our obligatory picture. Marvelled at
the views around, particularly across Crummock and down to
Buttermere. Mellbreak was next, and clear path climbed on up. The
ascent was steep, easing at the end as the path contoured across
to then curve left to the summit. Just a bare patch of rock where
the cairn once was. A tiny cairn has been built with small stones
by it. Looking ahead we could see the north top, which clearly
looked higher, but in fact is 3m lower. How the eyes play tricks.
So heading on we descended over at times boggy ground to the dip
then up to the north top. Fantastic view of Loweswater! Oh joy!!
The plan now was to return to the dip and take the path down to
Mosedale. However a path left the north summit, so we followed
this, as Dad correctly assumed that is would join the path from
the dip and so steeply down to the valley. It had been planned to
do Little Dodd and Hen Comb across the valley, but Dad decided
this was just too far bearing in mind the heat. Also crossing the
valley is difficult-very rough & boggy, so we all decided to
do this separately, from Loweswater village as this is really to
only sensible way up. So we walked south along the valley, Dad
taking a picture of the Holly Tree that is named on the map.
Followed the path as it wound left, thinking we were all the way
down. There did not appear to be a path on ahead and that to
Floutern is largely lost in the bog now. Finally, however when we
saw how high above Ling Crag, Dad tumbled to the fact that the
path had taken us to the col between Mellbreak and Scale Knott.
So having over shot, we backtracked to a cross of paths and
descended the main path down Scale Knott to pick up the valley
path. Then crossing a stream near a footbridge, Dad climbed the
fence ahead and walked over bog to eventually drop down to the
main path and so back to Scale Bridge and Buttermere. A good day
and it was absolutely the right decision not to attempt Hen Comb.
Then Dad took us along Crummock Water and over Whinlatter Pass,
to then drive to Greystone House, where he had cottage pie with
new potatoes, broccoli & carrots. followed by a scone with
butter and jam. Plenty of tea too. It was home then after a great
day out. Thanks Dad. Now only 14 Birketts to go! Click for - Full adventure
28th
June 2011 - Birkett Fell, Hart Side & Glencoyne Park
A lovely summer day
with blue skies, although some cloud in the afternoon. When we
walked the Dodds (Great, Watson's & Stybarrow), in 2005, Dad
was not sure that we had visited the cairn on Birkett Fell (at
the time we had not discovered the Birkett challenge), so we
decided to make a point of climbing it, to remove any doubt.
Unsure whether there was any parking in Dockray (we noted as we
went through that there is a small area by the bridge), we
instead parked in the old quarry, as we had when climbing Round
How etc. Climbed the narrow path by the wall to come to the stile
over it. Whilst on this side there were wood steps, they had all
gone on the far side so Dad abandoned it. After a further
distance, he noted where people had climbed the wall and managed
rather inelegantly to get over. The path took us past Bracken How,
Round How, Common Fell, Swineside Pike & Brown Hills, and we
recalled climbing them all in December 2009. Needless to say we
did not trouble to visit any of these summits today! There were
wonderful views of Ullswater and the fells above it - Place Fell,
Hallin Fell etc and up towards Hartsop, as well as Birks & St
Sunday Crag. Also later of Sheffield Pike Helvellyn, Catstycam
& The Dodds, reminding us of our many adventures climbing
them. Beyond Brown Hills the path left the wall to cross boggy
ground to reach the wall that rises up Birkett Fell. We climbed
now by the wall a path emerging after a little way. It was steep
easing a little after the initial climb. This is a fell where
there seem to be endless rises, but finally the cairn came into
view a little way left of the wall. Embedded in it is a plaque
reading 'Birkett Fell', so there is no excuse for not knowing
where you are. We leapt out and settled by it for our photo. Then
we followed the wide path over more wet ground to accomplish the
very gentle climb to Hart Side - a Wainwright that our pal Little
Eric bagged. As Dad looked back from the summit, the scene he had
viewed in February 2005 came back to him as if it was yesterday.
Dad pointed out the alternative path that crosses the 740m rise,
which we had taken that day, and so we were sure that we had NOT
visited the cairn on Birkett Fell, before today. We took the
chance to have lunch here, and Dad phoned Uncle Brian . We then
explored the summit. AW shows 4 cairns but the one nearest the
ditch has collapsed. The ditch has rather filled in with stone.
The reasons why such and excavation was undertaken is lost in the
mists of time. Our descent was via the path we took in 2005, to
eventually rejoin the path by the wall and then retrace the route
to below Brown Hills, here crossing the stile to take the path
down and through the lovely Glencoyne Park with its glorious
woodland. More enchanting views too, of Ullswater. So to the road,
and then just a third of a mile climb to the car. Now to
Greystone House at Stainton once again, so that Dad could have
some refreshment. He was recognised by the lady in the cafe, from
last Friday and by one of the staff in the shop!! He had
delicious carrot and coriander soup with a cheese sandwich, then
scrumptious apple and summer fruits crumble with custard &
tea. Duly fortified is was home down the M6. A great day!! Click for - Full adventure
12th
February 2011 - Hare Stones, High Pike (Caldbeck), Great Lingy
Hill, Little Lingy Hill & Coomb Height from Mosedale road end
In a week of
changeable weather, today was bright and quite sunny, if rather
cold on the tops, with mist coming in from time to time. We
resolved finally to tick off the last of the Birketts in the
Northern Area. This walk had been deferred a couple of weeks,
because of our Dales walk with Uncle Bob to Gragareth etc. Dad
drove to the tiny hamlet of Mosedale, beneath the slopes of
Carrock Fell, turning left up the narrow valley to where the road
ends as you cross the narrow bridge over Grainsgill Beck, parking
just beyond at the side of the rough
track that forms part of the Cumbria Way. Once ready and settled
in Dad's rucksack, we recrossed the bridge turning left along the
wide track up Grainsgill, on the Cumbria Way. This was a former
mining track and we saw the long abandoned remains of some of the
mine buildings and shafts. Now the path became a narrow trod,
muddy in places after all the rain, alongside the rushing beck
that unsurprisingly was in spate. This led on steepening over the
last section to gain the ridge below Coomb Height on the left,
that was to be climbed later. For now we turned right on the path
along the ridge under the slopes of Great Lingy Hill. Beyond
after descending a little, the easy slope was climbed to Hare
Stones and its cairn just to the left of the path. Our first
summit photo of the day! Continuing in the same direction we
ascended to High Pike, the top marked by a large cairn, trig
point and slate seat. This was our only Wainwright summit today.
With Dad we sat on the seat for lunch. While there, a group of
people from Caldbeck arrived and seeing us asked for an
explanation, so Dad obliged and mentioned our website. From the
summit there were extensive views to Carrock Fell, Uldale Fells
and north to the Scottish hills. Then retraced our route over
Hare Stones, and from the depression we cut half right over rough
ground to find the shapely cairn at the summit of Great Lingy
Hill. So far, no new summits had been bagged, except for our pal
Little Eric who had not been to any before. We could see, in the
same direction, across a dip the cairn on Little Lingy Hill and
this was soon reached. At last a summit bagged. That just left
Coomb Height, and to reach this we had to return to the top of
Grainsgill. The hardest walking now ensued, as Dad tramped over
rough boggy ground above Miller Moss, and under the slopes of
Great Lingy Hill. Crossing the beck, we headed up the rough
slopes to finally top out at the cairn on Coomb Height. It had
made our day that there was a cairn on every summit, with the
exception of the seat on High Pike, that we could sit on for our
picture. So, that was it the Northern Area of the Birketts done.
Hooray! The plan now was to make our return down Grainsgill, but
a clear path led from the summit in the direction we wanted to go,
so Dad opted for this route, knowing full well that the last part
would be very steep. The path disappeared a times in the tall
heather, but finally after a number of descents, we reached the
very steep path that wound down the nose of the fell. Dad took it
carefully, as it was slippy in places, and we got down safely, to
the track by the bridge and just yards from the car. As we had
descended there had been fine views across to Bowscale Fell,
Blencathra, and Mosedale the valley we had driven along. A couple
followed us down Coomb Height and as we passed them in the car,
Dad stopped to comment on the steepness. They were parked on the
Caldbeck road, so Dad offered to give them a lift along the
valley, saving them a couple of miles walking - his good deed for
the day.
16th
November 2010 - Castle How, Swinescar Pike, Lang How & Silver
How from Grasmere
Today we were
bagging Birkett tops again completing the last of the 22 in the
Langdale group. Dry, but a day of two halves. Still in the
morning and early afternoon, with mist cloaking the fells, only
lifting when the wind started to blow. In the mist it was mild,
but later in the clear conditions and wind it was colder. From
Grasmere, walked along the Easdale Road, to take the familiar
path leading to Easdale Tarn. Distantly we could see that Sour
Milk Gill was in spate. Beyond New Bridge, we went left through a
gate to cross pasture and passing a house through another gate on
to open fell. Beyond, ,the path at first was indistinct, and as
we climbed the spectacular waterfall on Blindtarn Gill came into
view, Dad moving closer across the brackeny terrain to get a
picture. Meanwhile Uncle Eric climbed on up, finding a good path,
that we then followed to pass Blindtarn Moss. Beyond again it
became indistinct, so we just climbed the grassy slope though the
trees. Eventually a path emerged again as we ascended Swinescar
Hause to come finally to the main path on the ridge. The mist
enveloped all so we could not get a view of the landscape. We,
met a couple having lunch, who had come from Blea Rigg, and they
assured us the path was easy follow, although they had not
climbed to Castle How. The path skirted some bog and climbed on
rocky and rough to eventually cross Little Castle How, and reach
a cairn at a junction. Here going left under the slope, finally
Castle How came into view up to the right, and after a short
ascent the top with its cairn was gained. Jumped out for a quick
photo, then off again as it was already 13.30 and we had a long
way to go. Retraced the route to the hause, then followed the
ridge path to very soon reach Swinescar Pike, a little grassy
knoll being the summit. No cairn, but Eric kindly built a small
one for us to sit by, and indicate the summit to other walkers.
It was in view for quite a while, as we strolled on! By now the
mist was lifting and we could see across the valley to Fairfield
and the Helvellyn ridge although those tops were still in cloud.
Followed the path crossing a small cairned hill, then down to
come under Lang How, and climb left to its summit at the north
end marked by 3 stones. At the other end the craggy rise looked
to be higher, but when we walked to its top, it was clear the OS
were quite right and where we had been was the highest point. Our
eyes playing tricks. Descended again to the path, then on SE to
finally find the path climbing to Silver How its cairned top
overlooking Grasmere. My second visit and it brought back
memories, of the first visit in July 2007, when Dad, Shaun and
Tetley had completed the Wainwright challenge. Little Eric bagged
it today. By now we were happier, as all the climbing had been
accomplished and there was still a good hour and a half of
daylight. Before heading down we sat just below the summit, out
of the wind, to eat a late lunch. The descent was then by the
usual route, passing the house called Allan Bank, where
Wordsworth lived for two years from 1808. Soon then we were in
Grasmere. While we rested in the car Dad and Uncle Eric went to
the Miller Howe Cafe for tea, Dad, not surprisingly, having cake
too.
10th
November 2010 - Skelgill Bank & Catbells from Hawes End. King's
How from Bowder Stone car park
Amidst days of rain
and stormy winds, today was an oasis of calm, with cloudless
skies and no wind. We were to do two separate walks to achieve
these tops, first on the west side of Derwent Water, then on the
east. From Portinscale, we followed the road to find the small
rough roadside parking area at Hawes End, just below the cattle
grid. Walked up the road to find the good path signed Catbells 1m.
A few stops were made to take in the fantastic views, across to
Causey Pike etc, Robinson Hindscarth and over Derwentwater to
Skiddaw and Blencathra. As the gradient eased, it was just a
short stroll to the top of Skelgill Bank. Only 1109ft, it was
nevertheless very significant, as this was the one summit we
needed to bag to catch up with Dad on the Birkett tops. Then on
to climb the 350ft or so to Catbells. Dad had kindly done this
for Little Eric's sake, as he alone had not been to its summit
before. The views over Derwentwater were breathtaking. We could
see that soon it would be very busy here, so after chatting to
two young lads, Dad headed off down. At the col we took the path
half right to descend eventually to the bridleway above the road
to Grange, for a level walk to the car. This provided a variation
to our outward route.
Dad now drove to Keswick and on down Borrowdale, to the Bowder
Stone car park. We could see across the lake, Catbells, and we
reflected on the superb views from its summit. Going right along
the road we took the gate by the Hodgson memorial, and followed
the path ahead then left to a junction. Turned right along the
path to a gate in the wall, the sheer crags of King's How, our
objective towering above. Just before another wall and gate we
took the narrow path right, climbing steeply-the gradient is
relentless. Finally at the top, continued by a fence, to swing
right and wind to the summit of King's How. The views were
breathtaking, especially of Derwentwater backed by Skiddaw. We
were in awe and it was with reluctance that we walked on. Just a
little way down is the memorial plaque to King Edward VII by his
sister Louise, hence the fells' name. At the marker cairn, the
path descended steeply to a stile, then on to a ladderstile.
Followed the clear path beyond to climb, then descend steeply
towards Rosthwaite. By the plantation, we climbed the stile over
the wall and then immediately took the path right that led to a
gate in a wall, following the path beyond through woodland to the
road. Walked right, to then take the signed path off right to the
Bowder Stone. We had not been here before. It is a huge boulder,
probably left behind after the ice age. Awesome! Climbed the
ladder for our picture on the top. A couple had arrived with
their very young baby. The husband looked quizzically at us, so
Dad explained and told them about our website too. Dad then took
a shot of the stone, before striding off to the car. Suddenly we
saw the wife of the couple. She had Dad's stick, which he had
forgotten - he is always doing this, as he told her. We walked
with them to the car, Dad chatting all the way. They are
fell walkers too. It was nice to have met them. Another super day!
17th
October 2010 - Mickleden, Stake Pass, Black Crag (Mickleden),
Buck Pike, Rossett Pike & Rossett Gill from the Old Dungeon
Gill
Sunday, and we were
walking on our own, so it was decided to mop up another two
remaining Birkett tops. The start point was the Old Dungeon Ghyll,
in Great Langdale. As Dad drove up the valley, we enjoyed the
dramatic view of the Pikes. Walked round the rear of the hotel
and on to a gate then on the wide track through Mickleden. To the
right tower up Loft Crag and Pike o'Stickle, while to the left
rises the ridge of The Band. The day was mainly cloudy and cool,
more so on the tops where there was a light wind. As the path
curved right the objectives of today came into view - Rossett
Pike, Buck Pike & Black Crag, sandwiched between Rossett Gill
and the Stake Pass. Everywhere our beloved Herdwicks were grazing,
so Dad was happily snapping away with the camera. After about a
mile and a half, we crossed the footbridge over Mickleden Beck,
where we immediately went right to climb the steadily rising path
of Stake Pass. With all the bends on the path we thought Snake
Pass would be a better name! Topping out the climb the path then
goes right, crossing Stake Gill. To the right the ridge running
to High Raise was clearly in view, and left to the Langstrath
Valley. Our route was left on a narrow path towards the crags
ahead, heading for Littlegill Head. We needed first to climb
Black Crag, so a steep ascent over rock and grass had to be
undertaken to get through the crags and eventually reach the
summit of Black Crag. That out of the way the climb thereafter
was easy. Terrific view down Mickleden but rather lost in the low
cloud that hung all day over Bowfell. Great views to Allen Crags
and the ridge to Glaramara. Walked on to cross Littlegill Head,
then up to Buck Pike, the top marked by a small cairn. So that
was the Birkett tops complete, and all that remained was to
rejoin the path that led unerringly to the substantial cone
shaped cairn on Rossett Pike. We had all bagged the first two,
just Little Eric bagging this. In the same direction a short
descent brought us to the main path, where turning left we made
the steep descent down Rossett Gill. The old pony route is the
path, winding down first away from the gill proper, before
cutting under the lower slopes of Rossett Pike to the footbridge
in Mickleden. The path has been substantially repaired too, and
this time Dad got down without mishap. Then strolled back along
Mickleden to the car. A good day and another corner of Lakeland
done. On the way home, Dad stopped at Brambles Cafe in Chapel
Stile. Here he enjoyed a nice pot of tea with extra hot water,
and gorgeous piece of chocolate cake.
10th
October 2010 - Harter Fell, Demming Crag & Horsehow Crags
from Birks Bridge, Seathwaite
The intention on
this walk was to climb the last Birkett fells in the area he
defines as Southern. This involved climbing most of the way up
Harter Fell, so as Little Eric had not done this before, Dad
decided to visit its summit again. We had not been along the
Seathwaite Valley in Dunnerdale for a long time, indeed since
February 2005, when last climbed Harter Fell. It is a lovely
drive, even if the road is very narrow in places, but we were
glad we did not meet much traffic. The start point was the car
park at Birks Bridge. There were a group of Mountain Rescue
people training dogs, and we saw just a little bit of this, with
a dog finding a man hiding in a tree. Walked along the forest
track and down to The Birks (Hostel) and a little way on a path
east. However we soon realised that Dad for once had misread the
map slightly, so returning to the forest road, a few yards left,
a low "bear sized" sign pointed to Harter Fell. The
path was rough and lose on the lower sections as it climbed
steeply, to finally reach a gate in a fence. Dad's original plan
had been to contour right along this, but having got so far up he
decided, much to Little Eric's delight to climb on its summit,
which was deserted. First Dad scrambled up rocky outcrop to reach
the highest point. We had our picture taken here, and then by the
trig point, which less adventurous walkers class as the summit (there
is 4m difference). Suddenly there were people everywhere! A
guided walking party and some other groups too. Dad chatted to
two gentlemen, who told him they had climbed the Coniston Fells
yesterday, and had nearly been blown off Dow Crag (we all know
exactly how they felt, having had the same experience!). One was
an experienced walker but the other man was just starting out on
the Wainwrights - Dad wished him the best of luck on his quest.
We had a snack here, then headed down the same path to, at the
cairn, branch left along an at times muddy path, after a while
leaving this left to the summit of Demming Crag. From here and
from Horsehow Crags, our next objective there was a wonderful
plan view of Hardknott Roman Fort. Superb views too, to the
Scafells and Coniston Fells etc. Then regained the path, and
after crossing a stream, plodded left over wet ground to cross a
fence, and climb to Horsehow Crags. That was the last of the 78
fells in the Southern area. Turning east across the top, we could
see the gate below we had to reach. The terrain here was very
rough and tussocky, so it was rather slow progress but thankfully
not too far. Now, following the bridleway through the cleared
forestry, we eventually descended to the forest road and so left
to the car. A tea stop next (what else), so Dad called at Jane
& Sam's for tea and apple and blackberry crumble with loads
of custard - delicious! The good thing was we got to go in too.
Super day. Click for - Full adventure
2nd
September 2010 - Troutbeck Valley, Roman Road via Scot Rake,
returning via Froswick, Ill Bell, Yoke & Garburn Pass
With my completion
of the Wainwrights in the last walk, we left the choice of today's
walk to Uncle Eric. He suggested climbing the Roman Road, and
returning over some of the Kentmere Fells he had not done. This
was good for our pal Little Eric, who bagged the tops too. It was
a lovely summers day with warm sunny periods and little wind. The
first part we had done before when we had climbed Troutbeck
Tongue. Starting from Church Bridge in Troutbeck, we walked
through the churchyard and on over the fields towards High Green,
to the road where it was right to the A592. Crossing carefully we
then walked along Ing Lane through Troutbeck Park. Following the
signpost the route climbed Hall Hill to come below Troutbeck
Tongue. We recalled our climb of this and could pick out the
route we took. Walking right under this, the path then turned
left up the valley below its slopes. We were on the course of the
Roman Road, as it continued up the valley, then steeply at times
up Scot Rake, to finally reach the ridge between Thornthwaite
Crag and Froswick. Although there is no evidence of the Roman
Road, we still marvelled at the expertise of the engineers who
built it all those centuries ago. The ascent had been a lovely
walk with the valley behind laid out and the ridge of the
Kentmere Fells above to the right. At the ridge we joined the
main wide stoney path, turning right to climb to our first summit
Froswick. Super views over Kentmere from here. Then it was down
and on to climb the rough and at times eroded path to Ill Bell
with its three tall cairns, the middle one being the top. I got
my rope out so Tetley, Grizzly & I could climb up for our
photo. Shaun was able to climb without aid and Little Eric rode
on his back. By now we were hungry, so walking on a short way to
get away from the flies that were inhabiting the summits today,
we sat on some convenient rocks for lunch. Dad joked that we were
on the "Yoke view terrace at the restaurant". We sat at
a separate table. Sounds like a good title for a play! As we
munched our sandwiches we enjoyed the fine views of the Kentmere
and Troutbeck Valleys, with Windermere beyond, through the haze.
Then continuing we made the gentle climb to Yoke, for our final
picture at the cairn. Beyond was the long descent to reach the
Garburn Pass. This was the first time Dad had done these fells
from north to south, and he felt this was the best way, as it
avoided the long drag up to Yoke. Then it was about the 2 miles
or so on the at times rough descent of the Garburn Pass to come
to the A592 and so to the car, at the end of another super day on
the hills. Thanks Dad from us all. Click for - Full adventure
19th
August 2010 - Kinn, Grisedale Pike, Hobcarton Head, Hopegill Head,
Sand Hill returning via Coledale
So, after many days
in the Lakes, the day I had dreamed about had finally arrived.,
Amongst the summits we would reach today would be Grisedale Pike,
that would mark the completion of my challenge to climb all the
214 Wainwright fells, like my other pals Shaun, Tetley &
Grizzly. We arrived at the old quarry on the Whinlatter road
about 09.30, getting one of the few remaining spaces. The sign by
the steps at the north end read Grisedale Pike, so we climbed
them and followed the path beyond through the trees that
sheltered us from the rain shower. There were a few of these
early on, but basically it was a dry day, although windy on the
tops. The path wound in a loop climbing above the trees on open
fell by a fence. At a corner in this, the unremarkable summit of
Kinn was reached. We hopped out for the first of our pictures,
Dad planting the flag for extra colour. Walking on a little
descent followed, before the climb steepened over Sleet How,
followed by the steeper final rocky climb to Grisedale Pike.
"Hooray done it" I cried, and immediately posed on my
own by the cairn to mark the achievement. Dad explained to
another couple of walkers, who added congratulations. He then
took all our pictures, before I was photographed again on my own
with the Wainwright book open at the appropriate page. The
gentleman then kindly took me posing with Dad - a lovely reminder
of the occasion. After taking in the magnificent views, we walked
on, descending, to then climb to the intermediate summit of
Hobcarton Head. This was another milestone for me. as I now
caught up with Shaun, Tetley & Grizzly on the Birkett
challenge, this being my 500th top. The path then continued round
above the hugely impressive Hobcarton Crag to the summit of
Hopegill Head, the second Wainwright of the day. It has a small
summit area being at the end of the ridge from Whiteside. There
are tremendous views over Whiteside, and back to Grisedale Pike.
North too over the approach ridge from Ladyside Pike. The massive
bulk of Grasmoor dominates south west, and south is Eel Crag
rising to Crag Hill with Sail etc running east. Breathtaking!
This truly is one of our favourite areas of the Lake District.
Following the path south, we made the short climb to Sand Hill,
where Dad took our last picture of the day. This was while Uncle
Eric was chatting to a couple from Culcheth, who we had met
earlier in the day. Then we made the rough descent to Coledale
Hause, Eel Crag literally towering above us, the narrow steep
ascent being visible above the initial scree. Here turning left
we started the descent into Coledale that was to lead us all the
way to the start. After a short walk we were out of the strong
gusty wind, so settled on some rocks for a late lunch. The path
was rough and stony, and wound down like a snake, eventually
coming beside the top of the impressive Force Crag with its
lovely waterfall. The path descended to its right and below we
could see the buildings of the closed Force Crag mine. The path
led down to cross the beck and join the mine road. This level
easy path then led us all the way directly to the car park, at
the end of another great day. I was over the moon to complete the
214, and Dad was pleased too, to have come to the end of the 56
tops he had had to repeat in the process. Little Eric and Uncle
Eric bagged all the tops today. Then while we sat in the car
musing on the day, Uncle Eric and Dad went to the cafe at the
Braithwaite camp site for a refreshing pot of tea, with Dad
having a scone with jam too. This rounded off their day before
heading home. Click for - Full adventure
8th
August 2010 - Low Birk Fell, Bleaberry Knott on Birk Fell, The
Knight, Place Fell, High Dodd & Sleet Fell from Sandwick
Shaun, Tetley & Grizzly needed
to bag just three tops to break the psychological barrier of 500
Birketts. So it was decided to do the walk over Place Fell, where
three of the six tops were outstanding. Little Eric would bag
them all including the Wainwright. Our start point was Sandwick,
reached along an extremely narrow road from Martindale Church.
Fortunately we did not meet another car! The road just ends by
houses and a farm. By the side of the house is the good track to
Patterdale. Along this we went to eventually cross Scalehow Beck,
then shortly at the wall corner, we struck off steeply up the
fell through the shoulder high bracken that made route finding
difficult. Finally the bracken gave way to grass and a reasonable
path only to disappear in the bracken again. The cairn on Low
Birk Fell was visible now and soon reached. Wow what a viewpoint
- stupendous of Ullswater. From there the path was clearer as it
wound through the bracken and over Kilbert How. Then climbing
diagonally up the hillside and on unerringly to the cairn on
Bleaberry Knott the summit of Birk Fell. Looking south we could
see The Knight the next objective, backed by Place Fell itself.
The path led right round a boggy area, but then crossing rocky
knolls disappeared but Dad kept on in the same direction and
reached as expected the path that rises from Ullswater. This was
followed up to the col where we struck left to the narrow grassy
rock edge of The Knight. Returning to the col we completed the
climb to Place Fell and its trig point. This the Wainwright, was
Little Eric's 80th. The weather had been sunny to start, but now
the low cloud had moved across from the Helvellyn Ridge, so the
views had completely gone. Two couples arrived and saw us, so Dad
explained. After they had gone, another couple arrived. The lady,
Adele Pennington, seeing them remarked to her husband that she is
glad there are people as mad as her. She has a bear that goes
walking but had not come today - he is called Ted the Mountaineer.
She said he would have loved to have met us. During conversations
later it came out that she had climbed Everest and Ted had been
there too! Then a family from Leighton Buzzard arrived and they
spotted us sitting on the trig point. Their son was fascinated by
us and his Dad took his photo with them. He especially liked
Little Eric. All in all it was a very lively time on Place Fell.
In the mist we set off along the path over Hart Crag, coming out
of the cloud as we descended. Onwards to Low Moss, to soon strike
off to the summit rock and small cairn on High Dodd, and another
superb lake view. Descended east to regain the path, following
this to bear left along the shoulder to Sleet Fell. The large
cairn at the north end is clearly not the summit. Consulting the
map Dad read the landscape to determine the loop of a contour
that is two humps split by a depression, the spot height being on
the first one. When we got home Dad measured the map and found
that he had correctly interpreted the map. We had the last of our
many summit pictures today, here. From the ruined wall, a good
path led down steeply at times, to join the outward track at
Sandwick. A very satisfying walk and not only did we reach 500
tops, but we completed all the fells in the Eastern Area as
defined by Bill Birkett. Time for food now, so Dad decided to go
again to the Old School House in Tebay to see Steve and Joanne.
He had a delicious roast beef dinner, followed by a lovely scone
with butter and jam. Excellent. Thanks Dad for another super day.
21st
July 2010 - Great Calva, Little Calva & White Hause from the
Orthwaite Road by Peter House Farm
The last
few days had been very wet with heavy rain, but today the weather
settled down. A dry day with superb views in the afternoon. Great
Calva was the main objective and I was very excited as it would
be my last Wainwright in Book 5, leaving me with just one to
complete all 214. Uncle Eric and Little Eric bagged it too, and
we all bagged the other two that are Birkett tops. We had walked
the track to Skiddaw House before but not from this start point.
Off the A591 a narrow road leads to Orthwaite, and just before
Peter House Farm on the right is a lay-by where we parked. The
adjacent gate gives access to the Cumbria Way, a road that leads
to Dash Farm, but at the signed junction the Cumbria Way forks
right. Ahead was the spectacular Whitewater Dash Falls, flowing
strongly after the rain. A stirring sight. Once above these, we
passed through a gate and followed the good track that leads to
Skiddaw House (Youth Hostel). To the right towers Bakestall,
reached by the steep Birkett Edge, over topped by Broad End and
Skiddaw - a magnificent prospect. The dark forbidding Dead Crags
below Bakestall, were spectacular with the mists swirling round.
To the right is the slopes of Little Calva and then Great Calva.
Eventually we crossed Dead Beck, immediately taking the thin path
left that meandered upwards through the heather to join another
path coming in from the right. From here it was just short walk
to the south top, and then another 100 yards or so to summit of
Great Calva, with its large cairn. Dad took our picture and one
of me on my own, being as it was my last in Book 5. Then we had
lunch, sitting in the lee of the cairn out of the strong wind. There
are good views from here to Blencathra, Bowscale Fell, Carrock
Fell, High Pike and the Skiddaw Group. Descended following the
fence, before cutting half left over boggy ground to climb to
Little Calva its top marked by a cairn. Then, climbed the fence
and went NW down the shoulder, until we intersected a narrow path.
This we followed right and soon White Hause came into view. The
path contoured round and we left it to make the short easy climb
to White Hause. There are a few boulders and we sat by the one
nearest the summit. The summits done for today, we contoured down
to the path, going right and on down to Dash Farm. There is no
public right of way through the farm, so we walked right by the
wall to a gate. Here, going left across a field, to join the
track from Orthwaite. A short way left, at a gate, we joined the
farm road that was followed to the start. Another corner of
Lakeland done and a good walk. Dad and Uncle Eric wanted a cup of
tea. so they went to the cafe at Dodd Wood. Dad had a piece of
chocolate cake too. No surprise there we all said! I can't wait
for the next walk with Uncle Eric, to Grisedale Pike to complete
my Wainwrights, and catch up with Shaun, Tetley, Grizzly & of
course Dad. Click for - Full adventure
13th
July 2010 - Brown Crag, Helvellyn Lower Man, Helvellyn, White
Side & Raise from Stanah
The day
started bright, sunny and summery, with excellent visibility
providing majestic views particularly to the west and north. As
the day progressed cloud increased with strong gusty winds on the
higher summits, and a consequent drop in temperatures, so feeling
more like winter. Just at the end it came on to rain heavily. We
were with Uncle Eric, and this was to be a good day for him
bagging all the summits and especially Helvellyn. I was very
excited as two of my four remaining Wainwrights would be ticked
off. Set off from Stanah, just at the start of the road to St
Johns in the Vale. Walked up the lane, climbing the ladderstile,
then through the gate to cross the bridge over the water conduit
and finally another gate to open fell. Sticks Pass was ahead, our
return route. We went right along the wall on the path signed to
Swirls. Crossed Fisherplace Gill, which was flowing quite fast
after recent rain. Then to the point where the path comes up from
Thirlspot. Consulting the map and Wainwright Book 1, we
backtracked a short way to find the path climbing up, and after
crossing the gill, took a right fork to climb steeply through the
bracken. This finally gave way to grassy terrain as the path
wound on towards the bulk of Brown Crag our first objective.
Skirting left we gained most of the height, then struck right to
quickly reach its summit - a rocky outcrop. Another Birkett
ticked off and the last in the Helvellyn Group. Walked on
climbing towards White Side, but took the path right to walk
along the slopes to round the mountain above Helvellyn Gill with
the dramatic Browncove Crags across the valley. A steepish pull
finally brought us to the col on the ridge. Here right it was a
fairly short steep ascent to Helvellyn Lower Man (Birkett catchup
Little Eric and I). Then just a short stroll to Helvellyn itself.
Not surprisingly it was busy, but we took our opportunity to bag
the cairn for a short while for our picture. That was three tops
done but still two to go. Returned over Lower Man and down to the
col. Ahead was the steady 200ft of ascent to White Side with its
cairn and lowish shelter. This was used for lunch, but it was now
quite cold so it was only a brief stop-suddenly it was like
winter. Ahead was Raise reached after 250ft ascent from the
depression, its top adorned with a beautifully constructed cairn.
A work of art! I was eager to sit with my pals for my picture, as
it was my 212th Wainwright and the last in Book 1. Descending we
could see clearly ahead the cross roads at the Sticks Pass. Our
route was left on the grassy track with some steeper eroded
sections. Finally we were amongst the bracken again, the path led
to the signpost where we taken the path to Swirls. By now it was
starting to rain, but we were the car and safely inside before it
turned heavy. Another super day.
15th
June 2010 - Rowling End, Causey Pike, Scar Crags, Sail, Crag Hill
& Eel Crag from Stoneycroft Bridge
A glorious
day with sunny periods, warm and hardly any wind - quite a
contrast to last week!. There was excellent visibility too - we
could see all the fells viewable from the summits, if rather hazy
for the more distant ones - magnificent. Just visible too was the
IOM. Parked at Stoneycroft Bridge, where immediately opposite was
a sign post indicating our path - it was obviously there for us,
as it was just a few inches tall. The path led up a steep climb
over Elias Crag to top out finally at Rowling End. The path wound
its way up, a mixture of rough stoney surface and bare rock.
Ahead now was Causey Pike rearing up to its impressive rocky
summit dome. We made easy progress along the shoulder of Sleet
Hause, to then make the steep climb to Causey Pike. Hands &
paws needed on the last rocky scramble. Beyond is the cockscomb
crest of the fell and we made our way over these before dropping
down to the shoulder and making the climb to the cairn on Scar
Crags. A steepish descent then followed to Sail Pass, which we
were to return to later for our descent route. Ahead was the long
diagonal 500ft of ascent to Sail, along a wide rather eroded path.
The summit is just right of the path, but the untidy cairn that
Shaun, Tetley & Grizzly remembered in centre of the small
boggy patch has disappeared. Now ahead was Crag Hill our next
objective. About 100ft of descent, before climbing over a rocky
pinnacle, that led to steeper ground of the rocky ascent to the
summit. There is a cairn marking where the gradient eases, from
where it was just a short stroll to the trig point. Wainwright
calls this fell Eel Crag, but on the OS map it is shown as Crag
Hill. Eel Crag is actually a separate summit just a short
distance away. Here is perhaps a good point to say what a social
walk this was for us, Dad and Uncle Eric. An old gentleman from
Ayr was making the same climb as us, and over the day they
chatted to him number of times. Uncle Eric chatted to some people
from Wiltshire and to a gentleman from Devon, while at that time
Dad was chatting a man from Blackburn, where Wainwright was born
(he had been to a meeting of the Wainwright Society there, where
the speaker had acted being the great man!) At the summit of Crag
Hill we met a couple who done all the 214 Wainwrights and were
now doing there favourite tops. Then a party from Staffordshire
arrived (husband wife & son). They saw us, and he asked if he
could take a particular picture for a village photo competition,
they theme being "my best friend." Dad readily agreed.
He needed a picture of just one of us poking out of the rucksack
with Dad looking back. Tetley was the lucky one to be chosen.
Lets hope he wins!! Now we made the short walk across the fell to
the separate top of Eel Crag. The cairn at the highest point had
collapsed, but Uncle Eric built a small one from the stones for
our sake. Well, that was all the objectives of the day achieved,
and we were a very happy lot as a result. Returned to Crag Hill
and on down towards Sail, stopping at some convenient rock seats
to sit and have a late lunch. Then on over Sail and down to Sail
Pass. Left here to descend below Scar Crags and over High Moss,
and on along the path in Stoneycroft Gill. To our left were the
fells, Outerside, Stile End and Barrow while to the right was
Causey Pike and Rowling End. This path led unerringly to
Stoneycroft Bridge. An excellent day!!! Oh, and the summit count.
Shaun, Tetley, Grizzly & Dad bagged the Birketts - Rowling
End and Eel Crag. I bagged as well, Sail & Crag Hill thereby
ticking off another two of my few remaining Wainwrights. Little
Eric and Uncle Eric, bagged all 6. Click for - Full adventure
9th
June 2010 - Ling Fell, Burthwaite Heights, Lothwaite, Rivings
& Sale Fell from Brumston Bridge, Wythop Valley
With Uncle
Eric walking in the Wythop Valley and its surrounding hills. It
is to the west of Bassenthwaite Lake, the hills representing the
northernmost outpost of the North Western Fells. We had been to
Ling Fell & Sale Fell in 2005 but today we were to tick off
the three associated Birketts, too. The day was cloudy with
drizzle early on, cold and windy - more like winter on the tops!
Parked at Brumston Bridge, the small car park being surprisingly
busy. Crossed the bridge and walked uphill to the road junction
at Eskin, going right, to soon pass through a gate on the left
onto the grassy track known as the Corpse Road. This climbed
steadily round the slopes of Ling Fell. We met a lady from
Hampshire, who admired us and chatted to Dad and Uncle Eric. She
gets to come here just a few times a year - how lucky we are to
live on the doorstep. Eventually we took a path left and then
struck uphill off this through the heather (hence the name of the
fell), to the trig point on the summit. From here were extensive
views to Broom Fell, Graystones etc fells we had climbed last
year. Now SE on a clear path to reach a metalled track. Followed
this right, then left it to keep by the fence to a gate on the
left. Through this we followed a small ditch to then climb the
slopes of Burthwaite Heights (Dad used the GPS to locate a near
as possible the highest point on its wide flat top. Descended to
a gate in a wall, then on down the field to another gate and on
to the road at Old Scales. Walked right to the bridleway over
fields and into Chapel Wood, where we walked right on the grassy
track that climbed gently. We kept on this almost to the forest
and as we climbed a superb view over Bassenthwaite opened up.
Just a shame that Skiddaw etc was in cloud. Just before the
forest a narrow trod led easily to the ridge, where going left we
were quickly at the rocky outcrop marking the summit of Lothwaite.
The wide grassy ridge with a clear track led on to Rivings.
However first we sheltered in a little hollow to eat our lunch.
Now just a short stroll Rivings (when Bill Birkett wrote his book
its summit was unmarked but there is now a large cairn). Sale
Fell was away to the right, an easy climb leading to its summit.
A wide clear path led down in the direction we had to go,
eventually meeting the footpath from Kelswick to Wythop Church,
close by a wall. We followed it left to Kelswick. Here, joining
the road turned right and this soon brought us to the car. An
interesting walk, and we all had enjoyed exploring the area.
Everyone bagged the Birkett tops, Little Eric and Uncle Eric
bagging the Wainwrights too. Dad and Uncle Eric then had a
refreshing pot of tea and cake at the Tea Rooms in Portinscale.
6th
June 2010 - Adam Seat, Little Harter Fell & Harter Fell, from
Mardale Head
The
original plan for this Sunday had been to walk over in Eskdale,
but due to Dad having a late night on Saturday for a concert in
Manchester, he decided to take us to Mardale as the drive is
shorter. The weather could not have been more of a contrast to
the previous Sunday. No wind thankfully, but instead low cloud
that persisted all day. From the car park, our route today was up
the zig zagging path by Gatesgarth Beck to Gatesgarth Pass. Soon
after the start Dad snapped a view of Haweswater - just as well,
as soon we were enveloped in the mist. We continued to climb,
reaching the col and the gate in the fence. Here we climbed by
the fence to the corner, where a small stile allowed us in a few
yards to attain the summit of Adam Seat. Here stands a stone with
an H on one side and L on the other, marking the boundary between
the Haweswater & Lowther estates. We sat by the stone of our
obligatory picture. Recrossed the stile and followed the fence to
the main path, crossing this to follow a narrow trod that quickly
brought us to the rocky cairned top of Little Harter Fell. That
was the main objective of today done, and two more Birketts
ticked off. We now simply followed the track by the fence to
reach summit Harter Fell. This a Wainwright too, was bagged today
by Little Eric. We were only sorry that the mist obscured the
views. Headed on west over the flat top of the fell, to descend
the rough path to the crossroad of paths at Nan Bield Pass with
its large shelter. This was the only section where there was any
wind. Our way was right. The first part was rough, eroded and
steep in places to the pretty tarn of Small Water. There we
passed two small shelters that we considered were very suitable
of us. At the outfall from the tarn we crossed Small Water Beck
to descend its right bank. A gate was reached in a wall, by which
time we had finally come out of the mist and Haweswater lay
before us. On easier ground now we were soon down to the car.
This was a short walk by our standards, but it had served to
achieve the objective. Adam Seat is the first Birkett on the list,
so we are glad to get it done, and that Dad can finally put in a
climbed date. Something else too that made Dad's and our day. On
the drive along by the reservoir, to the start, one of the
increasingly rare red squirrels darted across the road. Wonderful
to see.
30th
May 2010 - Rough Crag, High Street, Rampsgill Head, Kidsty Pike,
High Raise, Low Raise & Castle Crag (Mardale) from Mardale
Head
Just with
Dad today to tick off a few more Birketts, and take in four
Wainwrights, which were bagged by Little Eric. It was Bank
Holiday, and the car park at Mardale Head was already nearly full
when we arrived around 09.30. Haweswater reservoir was low with
the top end dry, but unsurprisingly as there have been weeks of
dry weather. Walked round the head of the lake then right, to
take a narrow path climbing steeply left to reach the ridge of
The Rigg that forms one side of Riggindale the home of the only
Golden Eagle in England. Now a narrow at times steep winding
rocky path led over numerous rises to eventually reach the
cairned top of Rough Crag. There were superb views of the lake
and to the fells at the head of the valley - Harter Fell, Mardale
Ill Bell. The tarns came into view with a superb view of Blea
Water. Descending to Caspel Gate with its little tarn, we then
made the steep rocky ascent of Long Stile over which the narrow
path wound its way up to High Street, emerging at the cairn on
the edge of the flat grassy plateau, with just a short walk left
to the trig point. We had never climbed this ridge before - it is
a great climb and recommended. The view to the Helvellyn Ridge
etc was superb. No rain today unlike last Wednesday. It was windy
here and this got worse as we walked along to round Twopenny Crag
on the path towards Kidsty Pike. However first Dad walked the
short distance to Rampsgill Head for Little Eric's sake. Then it
was just a short stroll to Kidsty Pike. We met a couple who were
doing the Coast to Coast walk, and they were carrying a bear just
like me, except he had trousers. Now there's a coincidence! I
wonder where the trousers came from? They would make for warmer
walking! Now we followed the path and made the easy climb to High
Raise. Little Eric's 4th Wainwright today. It was extremely windy
now, but we sat below the shelter, facing south out of the wind,
for lunch. Low Raise could be seen to the north east, and it was
an easy 10 minutes stroll on the clear track, to its summit
adorned with a large cairn and shelter. We were doing well, but
the next part took longer than expected as the SE ridge was
totally trackless and rough going on the steady descent, that
eventually steepened and here Dad had to pick his was through the
craggy outcrops to Lady's Seat. A short walk left now brought us
to our last summit today, the separate little top of Castle Crag.
From the south side it looks nothing, but on the north side it
drops away vertically and stepping over would have meant certain
death. We circled left to pick up an old narrow trod that
contoured down to a small enclosed plantation. Looking back the
impressive vertical crag could be seen in full glory. Now
followed the trod right to join the path by the lake. Going south
we crossed Flakehowe Crags, Gate Crag, Bowderthwaite Bridge, The
Rigg to return to the car. A super walk and three more Birketts
done. We all enjoyed it despite the wind, but it was lovely to
get into the calm of the car. On the way home Dad went to
Junction 38 Services at Tebay - roast beef dinner, chocolate cake
& tea. We enjoyed the rest of our picnic in the car. Click
for - Full adventure
26th
May 2010 - Birkhouse Moor & Catstycam from Glenridding, via
Mires Beck returning by Red Tarn Beck
Walking
with Uncle Eric again, and to an area he had not been to before.
I was very happy too, as the summits were another two of my
outstanding Wainwrights and Birkett tops. It was a day when the
weather would be perhaps the most talking point. We started from
Glenridding in sunshine and it was quite warm. Walking past the
camp site, left the road and set off on the long haul, steepish
at times ,on the winding path up Mires Gill. The path has been
repaired and is graded so made the ascent easier. Finally we
topped out on the col and reached the wall. It was raining now so
we huddled in the rucksack to keep dry. The path wound on up by
the wall rounding the corner to soon reach the untidy pile of
stones that mark the highest point on Birkhouse Moor (2356ft),
where we sat in the rain for our picture. The most dramatic part
about this ascent had been when Catstycam came into view, its
tall pyramid shape backed by Helvellyn with its edges Striding
& Swirral. The scene was very dark through the rain, and cast
some doubt on whether our second objective would be reached. To
make the round we continued on to the Hole-in-the-Wall where the
ascent of Striding Edge starts. Our route was then on the path to
Red Tarn, and as we continued the weather brightened and the rain
stopped. After viewing the tarn backed by mighty Helvellyn, we
continued on the right side climbing the path towards Swirral
Edge. At the ridge a path doubled back right to make the quite
easy climb to Catstycam (2919ft). This is a proper mountain
summit with a small area and cairn, the ground dropping away
steeply on all sides. Superb! The clouds were coming in again and
swirling below in the valleys, making wonderful effects. Returned
the same way. Stopped by the side of the path for lunch. The
skies had darkened and next there was two loud rumbles of thunder.
Time to get going again! Then the rain started and we huddled
inside again. First it was hail then just heavy rain, and poor
Dad and Uncle Eric were soaked. Taking the path left we descended
the steady good path by Red Tarn Gill. It wound its way down with
good bridges over the becks, finally returning to the gate that
we had gone through on our outward route at Gillside. By now the
rain had thankfully stopped. As a variation, crossed Glenridding
Beck and walked in past the pub and houses to the car park. A
great walk and Uncle Eric, Little Eric and I were very pleased to
have ticked these tops off. It had been cold when we had lunched
and all the way down in the miserable conditions, so for Dad and
Uncle Eric the warming tea and piece of cake at Fellbites Cafe
was very welcome. A really typical Lakeland day weather wise.
Click for - Full adventure
6th
May 2010 - Watches, Ullock Pike, Long Side, Carl Side & Dodd
(Skiddaw) from Dodd Wood
I gave a cheer when Dad said he and Uncle
Eric were taking us to the Lakes, especially as it would mean I
would tick off a third of my outstanding Wainwrights. Our start
was at Dodd Wood above Bassenthwaite Lake. We crossed the bridge
then headed on the forest tracks that led north through woods
called Old Plantation and Rabbit Warren, finally joining the path
that leads up from the road by the Ravenstone Hotel. Through the
gate took us to open fell, and we followed up by the fence,
before striking right to the ridge. Away to our right was Ullock
Pike my first Wainwright today. However we walked a short
distance left to the cairned top of Watches, a Birkett top we all
needed to bag. Then it was the ascent of The Edge. A series of
bumps that take you ever higher before the final steep section to
the dome of Ullock Pike. This however is not the top, as a
further dome ahead is higher. Time for our picture. To the west
is Bassenthwaite Lake with the Whinlatter Fells beyond. One of
the many magnificent views today. The other south is to
Derwentwater and all the fells in its vicinity - breathtaking! As
we had climbed we could see to the left lonely Southerndale.
There were not even any sheep and we wondered if anyone visits it.
Beyond this was mighty Skiddaw whose summit stayed stubbornly in
the clouds all day. Being much higher it did keep the cloud off
the ridge we were walking and made it less windy too. Ahead was
the gentle 200ft ascent to Long Side, which was soon accomplished.
Descending the path continued ahead and cut left below Carl Side
towards Skiddaw. At this point we climbed over grass to the main
path to and from Skiddaw and the cairn on Carl Side's summit. So
that was four tops out of the way and we just had Dodd to do.
First down on the main path then leaving this right to make the
steep and winding descent eventually to the stile in the fence
giving access to the forest road. We had come down about 1100ft
in all. Dad and Uncle Eric commented that they would not relish
climbing that path. Now in front was Dodd, but first lunch was
most important, and we had spotted a seat just a little way up on
the route to Dodd. It was perfect, as it afford a most
spectacular view of Keswick and Derwentwater. Then best foot
forward along the meandering path that soon took us to Dodd
summit, marked by an upright slate memorial slab. Here too was
our final spectacular view of Bassenthwaite. It is on the west
slopes of this fell that the Ospreys were currently nesting.
Reversed our route, then along the forest roads and so to the
start. A wonderful day. Little Eric and I bagged all the tops as
did Uncle Eric. Click for - Full adventure
9th
February 2010 - Binsey & Green How on Aughertree Fell
We had not been on the fells since
December due to the extreme winter conditions, so it was great to
be able to start ticking off those final few Wainwrights I have
to do. A really cold winter day with a bitter east wind. From the
road side parking at Binsey Lodge we passed through the new gate
in the wall and climbed the track steadily to Binsey's summit.
This is long narrow ridge with a huge pile of stones - an ancient
tumulus, trig point and modern cairn. Despite the wind we hung in
on the trig point for our picture. Uncle Eric and Little Eric too
bagged this top. Superb views across to Scotland, but not so
south as clouds were down on Skiddaw range and other fells.
Descended by same route. A short drive beyond the village of
Uldale, we parked just off the road on the left. This was so we
could climb Aughertree Fell, a Birkett top and the most northerly
in the Lake District. To make more of this hill, we first walked
north east to the cone of Dale Hows. Then turned west across the
rough grass to come by a wall, where lies Elfa Well. There was a
depression, still filled with snow, close to the wall which we
took to be it. Now south west up to the high ground and the flat
top of Green How, it's summit. There is a cairn but this is not
at the highest point, which is unmarked. We sat on a tiny ridge
for our picture. There were fine views to Scotland from here too.
Both the hills are Birketts, so Little Eric and I bagged two
today.
8th
October 2009 - Thorn Crag, Langdale Pikes, Thunacar Knott &
Pavey Ark
I had
longed to climb these fells, being the obstacle to my completion
of Book 3. So on a glorious sunny morning we set out with Dad to
Langdale. Starting from the New Hotel, our route climbed by
Dungeon Ghyll. A convenient seat allowed us to pause and enjoy
the fantastic view of the Crinkle Crags and Oxendale. As we
climbed further, Great Langdale was spread out below - a
breathtaking view. The initial ascent, gave way to level ground,
before the final steep climb to the col. Here going right we soon
reached Thorn Crag, our only non Wainwright summit of the day,
but another Birkett top bagged by all. To the west, Loft Crag and
Pike o'Stickle were in view. The first was soon reached by an
easy climb. Terrific views of Mickleden below and across the
valley to Blea Tarn. The Band was clearly seen rising to its col
and above this Bowfell etc. Traversed to Pike o'Stickle making
the rocky scramble to its summit. We could see the ridge rising
from Harrison Stickle, to Thunacar Knott, our route for later.
Returning by the ascent route we crossed the boggy ground, then
steeply up the narrow path to the rocky summit of Harrison
Stickle, the last of the three Langdale Pikes. It was busy with
walkers here, including a group who arrived just after us. The
lady leading them saw us and said to Dad, "I have met you
before, on Wetherlam, where I took your picture". Dad
replied, "yes I remember now". What a coincidence we
thought! The classic view of Great Langdale was wonderful from
here. A clear path now led to Thunacar Knott. It has two tops
divided by a depression containing a small pretty tarn. Both were
visited, as the first is the highest and thus the Birkett top,
but the north and lower one is the one Wainwright considered as
the top. This was my 200th Wainwright too. It was east now over
some boggy areas to climb to the rock summit of Pavey Ark, and my
last in Book 3! Well, all downhill now, but hard going as the
North Rake descent to Bright Beck is very steep and hard on Dad's
knees - he was glad to get it over. At Stickle Tarn we sat a
while looking across to Harrison Stickle and Pavey Ark towering
over it. Majestic! Now all that remained was to descend Stickle
Ghyll to the start. A wonderful walk! Little Eric bagged all the
tops too. Click for - Full adventure
27th
September 2009 - Whinlatter, Tarbarrel Moss, Seat How, Ullister
Hill, Lord's Seat, Broom Fell, Graystones & Kirk Fell (Lorton)
A rather
poor day with low cloud and some rain in the middle of the day.
Picture opportunities were limited, so this is the sole record of
this adventure. Little Eric was to bag all nine tops, the rest of
us just five. From Spout Gill we took the path behind Darling How
through three gates. Immediately then went right on a narrow path
climbing steeply through the forest to a fence. Now on open fell,
continued steeply up to Brown How on Whinlatter. AW considered
this the summit, but the east top (Whinlatter Top) has since been
shown to be the highest point. We walked on to this. Over the
rough ground we dropped down and climbed to the fence corner and
the heathery summit of the bizarrely named Tarbarrel Moss.
Through a gate a path dropped steeply in a dark tunnel in the
trees to one of the many biking tracks, then to the main forest
track at a fork. Went left then and left again before taking a
track climbing right. This skirted the forest and led to a hollow
where a narrow path through heather climbed to the bare top of
Ullister Hill. To complete all the tops in this area, we took a
detour. Descending back to the track and going left through the
forest we finally emerged from the trees and so to the rocky bare
top of Seat How. Here Keswick and Derwentwater provide a superb
view, but sadly not today. Returning to Ullister Hill, headed
roughly north on a good stone track through boggy ground, and on
to climb to Lord's Seat. It is the highest fell in this area, but
the tiny pile of stones as a cairn does not do it justice. A
clear ridge led us to Broom Fell, where a tall well made cairn
clearly marks the summit. We enjoyed fine views to Ling Fell and
Sale Fell, which we will be revisiting to bag some other smaller
Birkett tops. A long walk down the shoulder led to Widow Hause,
then the short but steep ascent to Graystones, the south cairn
being the highest point. A short distance west lies flat topped
Kirk Fell. A small cairn marks the summit. "Phew", we
said, "that's the last of the day". All that remained
was to traverse over Sware Gill to the slopes of Graystones. A
very steep descent now to the road, and along to car. Quite a day!
15th
September 2009 - St Raven's Edge, Caudale Moor & Hartsop Dodd
Another
fine day with lots of sunshine, affording more superb views from
this walk. We were walking with Uncle Eric too, which pleased us
all. Used two cars to avoid a long walk up Kirkstone Pass at the
end. From the Inn, made a shortish but steep and at times rocky
climb to the ridge of St Raven's Edge. Here there is a large
cairn, but the actual summit is a rocky outcrop a little further
along. Onwards by the wall off the ridge, then up the gentle
slopes of Caudale Moor. First we went over left to view the Mark
Atkinson Memorial, before making the short climb to a large cairn
marking the summit known as John Bell's Banner. Fabulous view
from here towards Ullswater. Along by the wall again and soon the
cairn on Stony Cove Pike was reached. This is the highest point
and is the Wainwright top Caudale Moor. Uncle Eric, Little Eric
and I bagged this top. More terrific views, this time to the
Kentmere Fells. To reach the cairn we had crossed the north/south
wall, and this we now followed descending the ridge, before
making the final short climb to Hartsop Dodd. I was very excited
to reach this Wainwright top, as not only did I bag it, but it
was also my last summit in Book 2 - Far Eastern Fells. Now a very
steep descent was to follow. Fortunately Uncle Eric and Dad
located the groove, which traversed left and right across the
fell taking us all the way down to the Kirkstone Pass road, where
Dad's car was parked. He then drove Uncle Eric up to his car, by
the inn. Another great walk and over the last three walks my
outstanding Wainwrights tops has dropped by 10 to just 18. It was
to Wilfs at Staveley now, for tea and cake. Well deserved too.
Click for - Full adventure
13th
September 2009 - Lonscale Fell, Skiddaw, Broad End, Bakestall etc
Finally
the weather had settled down, so Dad decided to take us up
Skiddaw. Little Eric and I were over the moon as we were to bag
all the 12 tops reached today. Instead of taking the tourist path
we went along the Cumbria Way, and at a gate turned up the fence
for the unremittingly steep climb to Lonscale Pike. A short walk
now to the summit of Lonscale Fell, then on to Jenkin Hill. Ahead
now steeply again to Lesser and Little Man. Now just the final
climb passing South and Middle tops to High Man on Skiddaw. There
had been superb views to Derwentwater and the fells behind and
beyond, during our ascent, and now there was a terrific view of
Bassenthwaite. Despite the strong winds it was just wonderful to
see the landscape laid out before us. The North top was next,
then after descending to the col, a short walk brought us to the
wide flat top of Broad End. Now we followed the wall losing
height, before a short ascent to the Bakestall, the final summit
on this ridge. Then steeply down Birkett Edge, to the main track
near Dash Falls. We now felt really sorry for Dad on the long
long trek back via Skiddaw House to eventually reach the car park.
I was overjoyed however that he had enough energy left to take us
the short walk to the top of Latrigg. This was our final summit
today, and we were wowed by that fantastic view over Keswick
& Derwentwater. The tally was 12 Birkett tops, which include
5 Wainwrights. Click for - Full adventure
6th
September 2009 - Little Hart Crag, High Hartsop Dodd, Middle Fell
& Red Screes
The weather had been appalling this
week, but Dad resolved to take us out today. For me this was
great as I would tick of another three Wainwrights. From
Ambleside we took the road then track that leads to the pretty
High Sweden Bridge, then on up the valley of Scandale, with Low
and High Pike towering to the left. Not surprisingly is was muddy
in places and the streams were swollen, but Dad forded them
safely. Now the steady ascent started to the Scandale Pass.
However part way up we struck left to gain the wall, and then
ahead and right to climb steeply to Little Hart Crag. Now
crossing to the east summit, we then took the path down the ridge
over a number of small humps to the small cairn marking the
summit of High Hartsop Dodd. Returned up the ridge, but cut left
below Little Hart Crag and so to the Scandale Pass. The steep 900ft
ascent to Red Screes now faced us , and our little hearts sank,
but Dad climbed steadily resting now and then. We were in fact
first going to Middle Dodd, so when he judged we had reached the
level of that summit, we cut left on a path that bought us to the
bottom of Smallthwaite Band. It was then just a gentle stroll its
summit. From here, and from High Hartsop Dodd, we had had fine
views to Brothers Water and the fells beyond. Now all that
remained for climbing, was the ascent of Smallthwaite Band to the
trig point and shelter on Red Screes. Here, as at all the summits
it was very windy, and knowing the vertical drop a few yards
behind us, we were glad to get safely tucked up in the rucksack.
It had been dry, but now the rain came on, which together with
the strong wind, made for an unpleasant descent off the fell to
the Kirkstone Road and down to Ambleside.
9th
August 2009 - Eycott Hill, Little Eycott Hill & Great Mell
Fell
A walk of two parts today.
First we were Birkett bagging. From the Mungrisedale road, we
tramped across fields, forded the Naddles Beck and crossed rough
boggy terrain, to ascend to the rocky summit of Eycott Hill. Then
heading north after crossing a beck and boggy hollow, we made the
second summit, Little Eycott Hill. Descended and traversed across
to Naddles beck, then via outwards route. These tops we suspect
are little visited, but provided fine views to Blencathra,
Souther Fell, Bannerdale Crags, Bowscale Fell etc. Also south to
Great Mell Fell our next objective. Dad parked on the Matterdale
Road. Climbed the rough track then at the second gate, followed
the clear path that eventually led all the way to Great Mell Fell's
summit cairn. Extensive views all round the Dodds being
particularly clear. Steeply down towards the old rifle range,
then right on an intermittent and at times wet path following,
but above the boundary fence. This eventually led to the first
gate by the track. Then just a short walk to the start. Little
Eric and I were very happy as Great Mell Fell is a Wainwright we
had not climbed.
25th
July 2009 - Hindscarth, Dale Head and Robinson
A superb walk taking in
the Newlands Fells, where Eric and I bagged three more Wainwright
summits - Dale Head, Hindscarth & Robinson. From Newlands
Church we ascended to Hindscarth via the Scope Fell ridge. Along
this we took in the three Birkett tops, that none of us had
climbed before - i.e. Scope End, Red Knott & High Crags, before
the final steep climb to Hindscarth. Then we crossed Hindscarth
Edge to Dale Head with its tall shapely cairn. Now returned along
the edge and then over Littledale Edge to climb to the summit of
Robinson. Steeply down to reach High Snab Bank and so to the
valley and the start. Views all day were stupendous - one of the
best days ever. We will remember this walk for a long long time. Click for - Full adventure
19th
July 2009 - Sleddale Fell
A glorious day with plenty
of sunshine. We started from Sadgill Bridge, reached from the A6
north of Kendal along a narrow road for 5.5 miles in the
Longsleddale Valley. Here it becomes a track that leads
eventually over Gatesgarth Pass to Mardale and Haweswater. This
was our route initially, with fells towering up either side.
After a level section and passing Buckbarrow Crag, the path rises
to a gate. After this a signpost points right for Mosedale &
Swindale. This boggy path was taken rising to a fence. Here we
climbed steeply beside it, to the highest point on Sleddale Fell
- Tarn Crag. This is a Wainwright and Birkett that Little Eric
and I bagged. Returning to the fence we descended into a hollow
then climbed up to the fence corner. Here for Little Eric's sake
we diverted left to soon reach the tall cairn of Harrop Pike.
Fine views here over the Shap Fells and to the Pennines. Returned
to the fence corner, and then ahead to climb gently, and soon
reach the cairn on Grey Crag. A clear path now descended to a
stile. Crossed this, then proceeded along the spur of Great Howe,
its summit being just off the path. Down to a fence and over this
to descend rather steeply to Sadgill. I should add that Little
Eric bagged all the tops today. Superb views, unlike the last
time Dad did this walk when it was misty. Click for - Full adventure
5th
July 2009 - Loweswater Fells East of Lamplugh
It was raining when we
arrived in Lamplugh, but the clouds soon cleared and good
conditions prevailed all day. Today we were ticking off a number
of Birkett Fells, but visiting two Wainwrights that Little Eric
bagged. Opposite the church a track led over the fields. Past the
double gates went left on the rising track to another gate and up
left to climb the fence. Then on up the fellside to the large
cairn on Oswen Fell, providing good views to the coast and
Scotland. An easy walk down and up and we were soon at Burnbank
Fell. Along the fence, Blake Fell was directly ahead, but first
we had Carling Knott to climb. Crossed the stile then over the
fence to the left and 20 mins or so over rough boggy ground
brought us to Loweswater End on Carling Knott. Then returned on
the ridge to Carling Knott proper with its large cairn/shelter.
During this we had super views to Loweswater, Grasmoor etc,
Mellbreak and Hen Comb. Descended, then a steepish ascent finally
brought us to Blake Fell - highest point in this area. Sharp
Knott was next. Down to the col and just a short climb to the
cairn. From the col steeply down to a stream. Just before to the
left was the start of a good forest road which we walked to a
junction. Right on a track and at the second of two sharp left
bends, took the indistinct path right by the trees to a fence.
Climbed this then immediately the fence to the left. Walked up by
the wall and trees through the long grass and then struck right
to the top of High Hows, marked by a single stone. This was the
last of the day. All the tops had cairns, so good seating for our
pictures. Now down over fields using the gates in the fences to a
track down a field to another track going right. Crossed the
stream and stile. On the left were the double gates. A great walk
and super views. All the tops in this area now done!! Click for - Full adventure
24th
June 2009 - Brae Fell, Knott etc
We were with Uncle Eric
today. While some of the tops to be bagged were Birketts, it was
the Wainwrights that were most important, as will be explained.
It was a very warm summers' day with few clouds, but thankfully a
cooling wind. From Green Head, we set off along the road that
then became a track, almost to the ford at Charleton Wath.
Climbed the path in a groove up the slopes of Brae Fell, bearing
left on a clear track that led to the summit. Uncle Eric bagged
this, as did Grizzly, Little Eric and I . Superb views across to
the Solway Firth and Scottish hills. Also of the Lakes Fells and
Bassenthwaite. A clear track led to Little Sca Fell and then just
a short walk Great Sca Fell. On a boggy and at times rather
indistinct path to the summit cairn on Knott. This was a cause
for celebration, for our pal Grizzly, as this was his last
Wainwright. Dad took his picture on his own. I am so proud of him!
Little Eric and I bagged it too. Now west on a path, then over
rough moor to Burn Tod, its top marked by a single quartz stone.
A narrow path led back along the side of the fell, after which we
contoured left to the flat and unmarked top of Frozen Fell, the
final summit today. Climbed to regain the path to Knott and so
return over the Sca Fells and then on a path left towards
Lowthwaite Fell. Instead of going up the fell we kept low and
followed a track until it turned away left, whereupon we
descended to the path above the gill and down to Charleton Wath.
Crossed the ford and walked the track and road to the car. An
excellent walk. Grizzly was ecstatic having completed his 214!! Click for - Full adventure
31st
May 2009 - Western Circuit of Gavel Fell
This walk would result in climbing
another eight Birketts. The day was cloudless and promised to be,
and was, very hot. Behind a "football score"sign -
Kirkland 1 Rowrah 2 at a junction, through a gate, a clear track
led by hawthorn bushes glorious in blossom. After another gate we
climbed right to the summit of Kelton Fell at a cross of walls.
Descended over boggy ground, then
climbed to the grassy top and small cairn of Godworth. Beyond
climbed up, then into the ravine of Croasdale Beck. A number of
streams feed in here and Dad actually ascended by the wrong one,
so we did the opposite two sides of a square, to the flat top of
Banna Fell. Climbed the fence then down over wet ground before
the short climb to Floutern Cop, with a nice view of Floutern
Tarn. Superb views too, of the high fells around - Gras moor Group,
Buttermere Fells, Starling Dodd & Great Borne. Now crossed
Whiteoak Moss to climb the fence then up by this to the summit
cairn on Gavel Fell. This was our single Wainwright top that
Little Eric bagged. On a clear path through the heather we were
soon at the next cairned top High Nook on Gavel Fell. Now
followed a tough trackless walk over rough ground to a stile in
the fence that descends from Gavel Fell. We now followed a track
until clear of the steep descending ridge of Blake Fell to gain
this at a lower level and cross the fence onto a clear path,
which crossed the next tops of High Pen and Low Pen. Then on down
to and right on the forest road. Although not easy to spot Dad
found the narrow path up through the thick forest. It was
exceedingly steep and in the heat of the day made for hard going,
but Dad was determined and would not give up. After the stile
over the fence there was more air on the open fell, but the
gradient was unrelenting as we made the final climb to Knock
Mur ton, with its large cairn and superb views to Blake Fell,
Ennerdale and the coast. A rough descent down to the track and
then along the remains of an old railway to the road. Click for - Full adventure
2nd May 2009 - Across Birker Fell
The lonely
Birker Fell Road that runs between the Duddon Valley and Eskdale
was our start point. A real mixed bag of tops today. The first
was Great Worm Crag, a Birkett, and one of our few remaining
Outlyers. Then we crossed White How and the rocky spine of Birker
Fell, reaching a high point at Green Crag (1604ft). This is a
Birkett top, but more importantly for Little Eric, it is a
Wainwright summit which he bagged. The rest of the summits were
all Birkett tops, first the rocky tower of Crook Crag, then
descending to Great Whinscale and lower still to Kepple Crag. A
long traverse now over rough and boggy ground. Dad admitted he
got rather too low here so made harder work of it, but eventually
he sighted the final tops on Birker Fell, namely Broad Crag and
Great Crag. After these summits it was easier going keeping high
up to avoid the bog and rounding Rough Crag to rejoin the
outwards route. Click for - Full adventure
19th April 2009 - Ullscarf Round
This was our second attempt on this
walk. Last time ice had closed Dunmail Raise so preventing us
reaching the start at Dobgill. Today warm and sunny with a light
breeze. Along the road then through a gate. Then a steep
unrelenting ascent of the fellside. Wow, what superb views back
to Thirlmere. As it eased off we could see the first objective.
Soon then we were at the balanced rock on summit of Brown Rigg -
first of seven summit photos today. Now slightly roundabout, made
the next top Blea Tarn Fell. That done it was to Standing Crag.
Descended to cross the gill, followed by a very steep climb to
the ridge, then a slight back track on this to the summit marked
by upturned fence posts at the fence corner. Wonderful view of
Blea Tarn from here. Keeping up walked in an arc on pathless
terrain to Coldbarrow Fell-Low Saddle with its neat cairn. Then
an easy walk down and up to High Saddle - bouldery cluster with a
small cairn. Although hazy the views were still superb of the
whole range of fells behind Borrowdale etc - magic. Dad said it
made his effort worthwhile. Now it was an easy ascent to Ullscarf.
This is a Wainwright that Little Eric bagged. On totally
trackless terrain as we headed east to pick up the ridge above
the Wythburn Valley. Dad, as advised, kept near the edge but not
perhaps quite as close as intended but in doing so he missed a
lot of the rocky crags. Finally Wythburn Fell came into view and
the rocky top was reached. A magic view now of Thirlmere and the
Helvellyn ridge. Dad picked his way off the fell, avoiding the
crags. Once under the beacon, we found the old path and followed
this down to Harrop Tarn. Then the constructed path down to
Dobgill. A superb day and 6 Birketts done too. Click for - Full adventure
19th
March 2009 - Tarn Crag etc from Grasmere
This week had been the best so far
this year with blue skies and sun, so we were excited to be out
on the high fells. An attempt last year of this walk had ended in
disaster when Dad fell so we were laying the ghost today. From
Grasmere, ascended via Stythwaite Steps (now a bridge, but Dad
used the stepping stones), so avoiding the boggy area where Dad
fell. We now climbed the east ridge over a number of humps and
crags, and so finally to the cairned summit of Tarn Crag. The
onwards route was over rough ground on a path that at times was
intermittent. This brought us to a steep climb up the ridge and
so to the rocky top that is Codale Head (Birkett top). All the
way at times great views of Easdale Tarn and Codale Tarn, and the
surrounding fells. NW the summit of High Raise could be seen, and
being so close Dad took us to it - great as Little Eric and I
bagged it and indeed all the tops we did today. After a steady
trudge the trig point was reached. There was a party of people
there - mostly foreigners from Dad thought Tibet. He chatted to
one of the English guides, who helped to hold us while Dad took
our picture on the trig point. After lunch we walked the easy
half mile or so to Sergeant Crag. We met a gentleman who Dad
chatted to. It turned out he had done all the the Birkett Fells,
except for Pillar Rock. We will be in a similar situation when we
have done them! He is the first person we have met who had done
them all. Now down and along the ridge, following a meandering
path to the final summit Blea Rigg. To ensure we got to the top
Dad checked the summit plan in AW's book. An at times rough
descent to Easdale Tarn, and along the tourist path via Sourmilk
Gill eventually to Grasmere. A great walk and Little Eric and I
had knocked off 4 more Wainwrights. Click for - Full adventure
1st
March 2009 - Bleaberry Fell & High Seat
A wet walk - from the sky at times
and almost always underfoot. Little Eric and I were to bag these
two Wainwrights today. Along the road then on a bridleway that
skirted by the woods below The Benn. This continued to a gate and
bridge over Shoulthwaite Gill. Crossed this and then started the
steep climb up to and below Goat Crag. Dad admitted it was a
struggle today, but did not want to disappoint Little Eric and I,
so plodded on. Eventually the rocks were crossed and rounding the
crag we soon made the rest of the climb to the summit of
Bleaberry Fell. There were good views at times and nice effects
of the light on the hills to the north. As we settled for our
picture, a couple reached the summit and they asked what it was
all about. The lady kindly offered to take us with Dad too. It
was nice as it was Dad's birthday and Little Eric's 1st. Then
along the very boggy and muddy track that wound its way to High
Seat. It is always wet on this ridge. Soon the trig point was
reached and it was our picture time again. Looking to Borrowdale
it was raining heavily yet sunny in Keswick. How often must that
happen? We did not linger here, and after climbing to the outcrop
called Man nearby, crossed the stile and headed east down towards
Shoulthwaite Gill. Tussocky and boggy ground but Dad is well used
to that from the walks in Yorkshire. Some of the weather we had
seen in Borrowdale crossed over here too with rain, hail and even
a few flakes of snow. Ahead was a gate in the fence and after
first crossing the stream that forms Shoulthwaite Gill, we headed
to this. Beyond was the forest road that was quite dry and a joy
to walk on after the rest of the walk. This brought us to the top
of the path where the final ascent of Raven Crag is made. Great-this
saved Dad a loop round, instead just descending straight to the
car. Click
for - Full adventure