2019 January to June


Wed, 9 Jan 2019

The A group met at Grasmere on a glorious sunny and crisp day and headed to Stone Arthur and then climbed the relatively gentle path to Great Rigg where it seemed that the whole of the Lake District was visible in fabulously clear conditions. Turning down the ridge, Heron Pike was crossed en route to Nab Scar and then to the tiny (and dry!) Docky Tarn and larger (and full) Alcock Tarn. A short return route descended into Greenhead Gill to admire the “shiny” new bridge before returning to the cars and refreshments at The Traveller’s Rest. The walk was a winter favourite of Tony Rogers who died in 2015 and who was remembered by a number of those present.

Ten B walkers set off from Spooney Green lane to walk up Latrigg to the Gale Road car park and across Whit Beck to walk around the base of Lonscale fell and along the west side of the Glenderaterra, crossing at the end of the valley and returning on the eastern path to the Blencathra centre. The footpath down to Derwent Fold was then followed, crossing the river and climbing back up to the higher path through the woods on the face of Latrigg in glorious winter sunshine, before joining the main path back down to Spooney Green.

The C walkers had a short walk from Spooney Green through Keswick to Hope Park. Then to the Derwentwater shore. A good path led round the Isthmus, where lunch was taken, with beautiful views towards Portinscale and Cat Bells. A circuit then took the walkers to the boat landings, where an active flock of long tailed tits were seen in the trees.

Sun, 13 Jan 2019

The B group prepared for wet and windy weather as they proceeded up Tongue Gill towards the waterfall. A brief lull in the weather gave the opportunity for a coffee stop before they crossed the stream below the fast flowing and picturesque cascade. Spirits were high as they approached Hause Moss and despite ever increasing wind the group continued to Hause Gap and the view of Grisedale Tarn. With no shelter or respite from the weather now the goal had been reached they returned to a sheltered spot below Hause Riggs, overlooking the Moss for a lunch break. The happy group then descended via Little Tongue Gill.

Sun, 20 Jan 2019

An A group travelled over to Pooley Bridge and in good conditions took the road and track up towards Moor Divock, turning right to The Cockpit and right again towards Howtown. Leaving the bridleway, they took to the narrow footpath overlooking Ullswater, above Long Crag and Whinny Crag and with the white-topped Helvellyn range visible in the distance, to gain the summit of Arthur’s Pike. Bonscale Pike was next, and after lunch by the side of the upper tower, the group descended steeply below the towers to the Ullswater Way which they then followed back to Pooley Bridge and a welcome hot chocolate at Granny Dowbekins!

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 – Headtorch Walk

The forecast was not good, but 20 walkers set out from Spooney Green Lane at 5.00 pm. Taking a meandering route to join the railway line path at the Forge and following it until turning up through Brundholme woods to the Brundholme Road. At the east end of Latrigg a few spots of rain and a breeze found them, steadily increasing to the summit of Latrigg. A wonderful display of the lights of Keswick, unfortunately not a glimpse of the full moon; if only the walk had been the previous night when the ‘blood moon’ had been in full view. Not to linger in the wind on the top, the tourist path took them back down to the start and a wonderful gathering in the Pheasant Inn on Crosthwaite Road for a warming and very enjoyable meal.

Wed, 23 Jan 2019

‘Let them eat cake!’ said the A group leader, who had provided some home-made sticky date cake for the coffee stop just below Coledale Hause. They sat on the snow and enjoyed the warmth of the sun as they took a break. The circular route started in Braithwaite and followed the path past Force Crag Mine up to Coledale Hause where they then ascended the rocky route up to Eel Crag, across to Crag Hill, down to Sail and Sail Pass, up past Scar Craggs to Causey Pike and back to the path across to High Moss. They then travelled back to Braithwaite bypassing Stile End. Snow underfoot both added to the enjoyment of the walk as well as challenging them on some of the slopes.

The B group left Portinscale and walked through Fawe Park and Lingholm Woods to Hawes End, where they climbed up to the terrace path under Catbells. Walking along the path there were many stops to admire the snow-topped fells. Above Manesty the group walked down to the road and on to the lakeshore path. A stop was made for lunch on the lakeshore in the wintry sun where the peace was only disturbed by some noisy gulls waiting for their lunch. The group then returned to Portinscale.

Sun, 27 Jan 2019

An A Group set off from Spooney Green Lane across the fields to Applethwaite. Taking the sheltered path towards Howgill Tongue they then contoured through the snow covered heather to meet the main Skiddaw path. At this point the strong wind became much more noticeable and the group were buffeted all the way up to the summit of Lonscale Fell where standing still proved to be a problem. Here the route was quickly revised and the descent via the fence to the Cumbria Way was thought to be the best option to get away from the worst of the wind. The circular walk was completed via Latrigg, Brundholme Wood and the railway path.

To the soundtrack of a howling gale, the Bs, resplendent in their winter finery, including multiple scarves and an assortment of woolly hats, followed a picturesque section of the Cumbria Way between Elterwater and High Park, the latter perched above Little Langdale. The foaming cascades of Skelwith Force and Colwith Force were among the delights of this undulating route, which then made a whimsical detour to High Tilberthwaite before swinging back towards Little Langdale, the disused quarries dotted across the rugged slopes of Low Fell failing to diminish the charm of both bridleways. Having visited the magnificent Cathedral Cave and crossed the intricate Slater’s Bridge, the group then endured the final lashing of the day before descending to Elterwater.


Wed, 6 Feb 2019

The A group set off eagerly from Grasmere through the grounds of Lancrigg, taking time to admire the animal carvings before starting the ascent to Helm Crag.  Greasy rock made the true summit decision easy.  Atmospheric conditions gave an interesting ridge walk to Gibson Knott and then onward to Calf Crag.  After a break, the ground towards Steel Fell was covered, passing the frozen tarn, and the group happily encountered larger patches of snow en route to the summit of Steel Fell where the wind was at its strongest.  A swift descent down Cotra Breast was made.  Following this a refreshing end to the walk was enjoyed.

On a grey wintery morning the B party set out from Rigg Beck quarry following the beck to the crossing at the start of the Ard Crags climb.  Once the ridge was gained the party were at the mercy of the elements, fighting a cold wind all the way to Knott Rigg.  Descending down the shoulder to Keskadale and across the fields to admire the new developments at Low House farm, difficult to believe the changed weather conditions at this level to how it had been on the top.  Crossing Newlands Beck at Low Snab before heading in the direction of Little Town.  At the road turning down to Chapel Bridge, the road took them back to their cars.

The C group left Portinscale and walked through fields and lanes to Little Braithwaite.  The Newlands Beck footpath was then taken, continuing on the road to Stair before returning again by the beck to Portinscale.  A final circuit in the area was made to view the high level of the lake.

Sun, 10 Feb 2019

Ten A group walkers set out from the primary school at Threlkeld up Blease Fell in grey weather.  They climbed steadily until they had to don spikes and warm clothing for the cloud, snow and ice.  At the top of Blencathra the wind was cold but as they returned the cloud dispersed somewhat revealing fine views.  They descended, partially retracing their footsteps, into increasingly sunny weather towards the Blencathra Centre for a short lunch break with excellent views in the sun over the fells.  Through the centre they followed the footpath to Latrigg in spring weather.  They then walked down into Keswick having completed over 3000 feet of ascent and 7-8 miles while the drivers returned for their cars in Threlkeld.

From Borrowdale school the B group climbed the 250! steps through the glorious Stonethwaite Woods, waiting for catch ups and coffee, then up by the lovely Willygrass Gill to Dock Tarn and the sight of a lady, of an age achieved by some of the group, swimming out to an island.  On up to find the summit of Great Crag, then descending and yomping to the Watendlath/Rosthwaite path and the by then dirty dozen returned to cars and a Glaramara tipple.

Sun, 24 Feb 2019

The A group set off from Rydal Hall on a glorious sunny day, near windless, morning.  Through the grounds the group continued to Ambleside and over the picturesque Miller bridge to join the Loughrigg Fell path, enjoying the view to Windermere and passing the beautiful Lily Tarn en route to the busy summit.  After descending to the terrace and crossing Red Bank road, the ascent to Silver How via Dow Bank and Spedding Crag saw layers being shed as the temperature rose.  A rapid descent via the stony gully from Silver How and Wyke plantation brought them to the shores of Grasmere and along to Rydal Water, both happily busy.  A visit to Dora’s field and the churchyard took them back to the Hall.

The B group set off from Scale Bridge, Lanthwaite Woods towards Mellbreak and once early morning mist had cleared, as promised, the weather was glorious, sunny, hardly any wind, excellent views and unseasonably warm.  The scramble up to the North top was chosen, giving the best views.  After the initial struggle up loose shards the zig zag path was much easier.  The North top provided tremendous all round views.  Then followed an easy walk to the South top (slightly higher), and now it was all downhill to Scale Bridge footbridge.  The return walk along the lake was a delight, early frogspawn was spotted, and the group had a welcome rest on Low Ling Crag peninsula, before the final push.

Wed, 27 Feb 2019

On a glorious sunny day the A group started from Steel End car park, climbing from Stenkin towards the Beacon from which they had splendid, if rather hazy views over Thirlmere towards Helvellyn.  Another splendid viewpoint was from the cairn on Nab Crags.  The group had a coffee break overlooking Black Crags and then continued to Ullscarf.  A pleasant ridge walk continued to Standing Crag where it was sunny enough to sunbathe.  The walk continued to Blea Tarn Fell, named by Birkett but not by the OS.  The group lunched on Brown Rigg and descended through the forest and along the lake path back to the car park.(13km, 4¾ hours, 650m ascent).


Wed, 20 Mar 2019

After several weeks of wind and rain an A group ventured up Fairfield.  Unfortunately, most of the day was spent in cloud!  From Deepdale there were two steep ascents, first to Arnison Crag and then Birks.  On the next rocky climb up St Sunday Crag, the group went into the mist, continuing across Deepdale Hause and up the rough ascent of Fairfield via Cofa Pike in very poor visibility.  Now on “the horseshoe”, Hart Crag was easily reached and careful navigation located the top of the descent down the long and normally spectacular Hartsop above How ridge, but they didn’t emerge from the cloud until near the valley floor.  Little was seen, but the enjoyment level was high!

The B group set off from Yew Tree Tarn on the footpath to Tarn Hows Cottage and Low Yewdale before picking up the Cumbria Way into Coniston.  From Shepherd Bridge and then Lake Road the shoreline was followed before heading in the direction of Monk Coniston.  Lunch was taken in the woods soon after Monk Coniston and then the path led directly to Tarn Hows.  By now the cloud was well and truly down and, although the other side of the tarn could not be seen, the group walked anticlockwise around it and chose a gentle slope back to the cars instead of the steeper, rocky and more popular descent by the waterfalls.

A small C group parked in Braithwaite and followed the footpath along the edge of the Whinlatter forest, passing Hallgarth and Thornthwaite in glorious sunshine before lunching at Powter How overlooking Bassenthwaite.  From there they dropped back into the valley and returned to Braithwaite after a thoroughly enjoyable walk.

Sun, 24 Mar 2019

Seven A group walkers set off, in sun and a fresh wind, from the bridge at Little Town.  As they passed the farms at High Snab they decided to walk up the valley towards Robinson rather than on the ridge.  They laboured up to Robinson in a strengthening wind, finding shelter for a cup of coffee.  In increasing gales and arduous walking they climbed Hindscarth where the wind reached 50 mph.  Bashed and buffeted they continued up to Dalehead.  The clouds gathered but the good views were not appreciated as the wind dominated everything.  After descending a little way down into the valley they stopped for lunch before following Newlands Beck and arriving at the cars just as the heavens opened completing 8/9 miles and 2900 feet.

After leaving the Woolpack Inn in Eskdale, the B group (of 17) crossed Doctor Bridge to climb above the valley to Lower Birker Tarn.  Devoke Water and Ulpha Moor were observed in the west.  The path led under both Tarn and Crook crags to ascend to the col below the summit of Green Crag.  Upon reaching the summit, the group appreciated the panorama of both the sea and high mountains.  The descent over Crook Crag and around Kepple Crag was somewhat tricky in places due to very high cold wind.  The group safely and happily reached the Old Peat road leading to Penny Hill farm and the comfort of the Woolpack Inn.

Wed, 27 Mar 2019

The A group set off from Mosedale and ascended Carrock Fell via Further Gill Sike. After a coffee stop on the summit in misty weather the group walked to High Pike and then to Miller Moss, defined as being over 2000 ft (and therefore a mountain) only last year. Some discussion took place as to which bump in the heather constituted the summit, and once agreed a summit photo was taken. The group then had lunch in the Lingy Hut before ascending Knott and returning via the Carrock mine road.


Sun, 7 Apr 2019

The A group walked from the car park and climbed steeply to Glenridding Dodd and then Heron Pike, mist spoiling the views. The walk continued to Sheffield Pike and Nick Head before another steep climb to White Stones took the group into thicker mist. The leader followed a path to Sticks pass and then had to drag the group through thick grass and patches of snow to Stybarrow Dodd. Sticks Pass, Raise and Whiteside followed and the decision was taken not to descend by Swirral Edge but by the cart track round Keppel Cove, when the mist lifted, the sun came out and the group passed from winter to summer to take a well-earned drink at the Travellers Rest.

As forecast, mist dominated the fells as the group of 12 B Group walkers left Gale Road car park to walk up the straightforward but unforgivingly steep path to reach the path leading off left up to Skiddaw Lower Man with its pile of iron fence posts acting as a cairn. The wonderful view described by Wainwright was unfortunately invisible as the party continued onto Skiddaw Little Man, from where a snow-laden way was made down to the main path. Turning left, the group reached Lonscale Fell for lunch and a gradually expanding view of the fells below was followed by sunshine which cheered the group returning down to Gale Road.

Wed, 10 Apr 2019

Nine A Group members set off from Kentmere village in bright sunshine and a cold easterly wind heading in a clockwise direction gaining 300m of ascent by initially walking up Gardale pass. A turn north took in Yoke, Ill Bell, and Froswick Pike before a brief break behind the wall of Thornthwaite Crag Tower. After the winter gales it seems to have lost a foot or so of its height! Proceeding past the grassy top of Mardale Ill Bell to the stone and rusty metal cairn of Harter Fell, the group finally turned South over the tops of Kentmere Pike and Shipman Knotts, before returning to the cars. Unfortunately Wilfs cafe was closed, so they just HAD to go into the brewery for refreshments.

A five Wainwright adaptation of the Longlands Round was the mission for the B Group. After ascending gentle paths to Longlands Fell and Brae Fell, it was Little and Great Sca Fells next in line to be accomplished. The group then had Knott in their sights and map reading skills identified the newly designated mountain Miller Moss a few hundred metres distance to the East. After reaching Knott, the group returned to Great Sca Fell and lunch on sunny grassy slopes overlooking Trusmadoor and far beyond. Meal Fell summit was next and then the descent and sheltered valley return along Longlands Beck to complete an enjoyable day.

Wed, 17 Apr 2019

It was a lovely day for it and the A group started at the top of the road past the Black Bull Inn for Wetherlam. The track headed up the Coppermines valley, past the Miners Bridge, past the Youth Hostel to the left and followed the contours of Kennel Crag before ascending alongside the beck and heading up to Levers Water. From there the group went up and along the ‘undulations’ leading to Black Sails. Good visibility meant that the path to Wetherlam, 762m, and beyond was easy to find. The group descended via the path passing Lower Hows, Red Gill Head Moss and eventually meeting with the original track just above the Miners Bridge and back to the start.

The B group travelled on the Borrowdale bus on a glorious spring morning. Alighting at Grange Bridge the group then made the steep ascent through woodland to King’s How the first of Grange Fell’s several tops. After a short but rough descent to Long Moss the group then continued on to the interesting ‘moonscape’ of contorted rock towers that form Brund Fell, the highest top. A descent to Puddingstone Bank was then made and the popular bridleway was then followed to Watendlath. Although tempted to stay and soak up the sun at the Tarn the group continued the descent via Watendlath Beck to Ashness and finally walked back into Keswick via the scenic terrace path below Falcon Crag.

Sun, 21 Apr 2019

A small A group left Braithwaite along the footpath following Coledale Beck towards Force Crag Mine.  Their steep route, a direct ascent of Eel Crag, was in view and soon after crossing the Beck the group left the main path and made their way towards Crag Hill via Tower Ridge (named by Wainwright).  Their steep ascent and short scramble earned them a cool breeze atop Crag Hill before they proceeded over Sail Fell and Causey Pike.  They then doubled back a short way and a return was made over Outerside, Stile End and Barrow.  (Length 14.95 km; total ascent 1,095 m)

On a beautiful, sunny day the B group started from Lanthwaite Green Farm, through Lanthwaite Wood and the village of Loweswater, to Maggies Bridge, observing many spring flowers along the way. They followed the lakeshore path, ascending towards Fangs Brow. The higher return route provided excellent views of the Loweswater valley and surrounding fells. Welcome refreshment was taken at the local hostelry before the return via Lanthwaite Wood.

Wed, 24 Apr 2019

The C walk started on a forest path, which led steadily up to the Osprey view-point in Dodd Wood. The weather was rather hazy, but with the help of the Osprey watch team two birds could be seen together on the new nest platform. The walkers then descended to the visitor centre, and crossed over the road towards the church. On the way back to the cars at Scarness a raven was heard and seen, also several Willow Warblers were singing in the trees.


Wed, 1 May 2019

Ten intrepid A walkers set off for the Fairfield Horseshoe, despite an unpromising forecast. They made good time over Heron Pike and Great Rigg with occasional glimpses of other fells and tarns. By the time they reached Fairfield heavy drizzle and cloud had set in. This did not dampen their spirits. They navigated successfully off the Fairfield plateau and emerged from the cloud at High Pike. The group split into two parties at High Brock Crag. One group choosing to go round whilst the other ascended the crags by various slippery rock steps. By the time they reached Rydal Hall the weather had improved considerably and they enjoyed tea and cake by falls.

Horton in Ribblesdale Station on the Carlisle to Settle line was the starting point for seventeen B walkers. Their first ascent joined the Ribble Way towards the limestone slabs of Moughton Scar and as the group continued through small hamlets including Feizor local architecture was evident. The landscape continued changing as deserted stone barns with long sloping roofs and stone walls created a patchwork of lush green meadows breached only by numerous high stiles. All the fields had colourful spring flowers. After an unexpected warming glow from the sky, a few knees were revealed during a stop at The Wash Dub, an ancient sheep dip. The walk ended at Settle and the group returned to Langwathby by train after a very enjoyable day.

Sun, 5 May 2019

Eight A groupers assembled at Troutbeck in time to catch the 9.50 bus to the top of the Kirkstone pass. Disembarking they began to climb Cauldale Moor overtaking several younger parties on the way before reaching the summit of Stoney Cove pike. A descent of nearly 1000 feet followed down into Thresthwaite Mouth before the long scree grind up to Thornthwaite crag, where the party rested for coffee. They then began the traverse of the ridge above Kentmere taking in the peaks of Froswick, Yoke and Ill Bell. Lunch was taken at the last peak before the long descent back to Troutbeck via the Garburn pass. The day ended with a welcome pint in the pub at Troutbeck.

The B group again ventured away from the Lakeland Fells and travelled to Nateby near Kirkby Stephen from where they enjoyed a circular walk including Pendragon Castle in Mallerstang, the picturesque valley flanked by Mallerstang Edge and Wild Boar Fell. The outward route was a few hundred feet above the valley, crossing the end of Wharton Fell on the intriguingly-named Tommy Road. After “Pendragon” the return route followed the young River Eden, passing another ancient ruin – Lammerside Castle – and also Wharton Hall which boasts both a ruined fortified medieval manor house and its attached more modern but strikingly beautiful replacement. The (20th century?!) Nateby village inn provided welcome refreshment after an enjoyable walk.

Sun, 12 May 2019

The C group parked at Scalehill, and walked to the lake shore. The path was taken through the woods, where two slow worms were basking in the sun on the stones. The walkers then climbed slowly up towards the Rannerdale Valley, where they could see a splendid display of wild bluebells. A higher path was taken for the return route, arriving back at the lake beside the boat house, and continuing back to the car park.

Wed, 15 May 2019 – Club outing to Grassington

The A group crossed the River Wharfe at Linton Falls, taking them first to the village of Linton, then to the tiny hamlet of Thorpe. A steady climb up onto Burnsall & Thorpe Fell followed, reaching the superb lunchtime vantage point of Numberstones End. Further along the edge of the Fell the group saw the beautiful village of Burnsall from above before descending to the village. After a short stop, they returned to Grassington along the River Wharfe via the ever-popular Dales Way, pausing to “play” on the 2 sets of stepping stones en route!

The B group meanwhile started their walk on the banks of the River Wharfe opposite the church following the river all the way to Burnsall, crossing it near Hebden before admiring the limestone cliffs of Loup Scar and heading for their lunch stop on Burnsall’s beautiful village green. The return route involved some gentle climbs, lots of very narrow stiles, the hamlet of Thorpe (where they learnt of the theft of its Maypole in days gone by) and the picturesque village of Linton, glorious in the wonderful sunshine, before passing its church, crossing the Wharfe again, and meeting the bus for the journey home.

Sun, 19 May 2019

The A group ventured into the quiet confines of Crinkle Gill. The splendour of the Gill from “inside” is a sheer joy. Short bursts of scrambling, including the exit route at the top end, was all made “interesting” by greasy rocks! They emerged elated (and relieved!) onto a steep grassy slope which took them to the base of the middle Crinkle where a zigzag route up mostly grassy slopes took them to the top. A few more “Crinkle Crags” were visited followed by a direct descent southeastwards for a view into the Gill from its northern edge and the return walk along Oxendale. A day when a few people saw a different side to the Lakeland Fells. Wonderful.

Thanks to our ex chairman, Roger Heckingbottom, who originally took an A group on this route in October 2012!

The B party climbed Sale Fell and Ling Fell. Starting at the Pheasant Inn, they followed a zigzagging forest track through Wythop Woods above Bassenthwaite Lake, emerging onto the open fellside, where an easy path took them to the summit of Sale Fell. They descended to the quiet Wythop valley, crossed Brumston Bridge and then took the old coffin route that contours the northern flank of Ling Fell, eventually turning uphill to reach the summit. After a lunch break they descended towards the north-west, re-crossed the bridge and headed east on a bridleway, past the ruined Kelswick chapel and through Chapel Wood, finally re-entering Wythop Woods and descending to the starting point.

Mon, 20 May 2019 – Evening Walk

Twelve club members met at six pm at the Kirkstile Inn for an evening walk lasting two hours. Walking conditions were ideal. The group went by field paths to Crummock Water shore. Then it was a steady climb to the summit of Brackenthwaite Hows on a myriad of paths. A brief rest to take in the panorama was followed by a meandering return to the Kirkstile. The world was put to rights during an excellent meal. As dusk fell, each went their separate ways and to bed, carrying images of the Buttermere fells that would delight the dreams to come.

Wed, 22 May 2019

The C party set off from the RSPB centre at Campfield Marsh, and followed the lonning down towards the bird hide.  A short break was taken here, where there were good views of a pair of buzzards and Skylarks could be heard.  A circular route was taken along paths lined with Hawthorn blossom, and a Heron in flight was watched as it took off from a small pool.  Arriving back at the centre time was taken to view the slide presentation.

Wed, 29 May 2019

Undeterred by the rain, the B-group embarked on their circuit of Ennerdale at Bowness Knott.  Amid lush greenery, they followed the bridleway past Low and High Gillerthwaite to the middle bridge, overtopped by the mighty Pillar, its summit swathed in mist.  Having crossed the River Liza, they turned into a path weaving its way along the river and adorned by sweet-smelling hawthorn and vivid-pink rhododendrons.  The delightful path conveyed them to the River Liza Enclosed Settlement, the earliest confirmed settlement in the valley, dating from the Iron Age.  Safely ensconced in Ennerdale Forest, and thus impervious to the wind, the group continued past the secluded Moss Dub and over Woundell Beck before completing the enjoyable circuit along the initial bridleway.

The C group walkers met at Dalemain House near Penrith.  A green lane was taken which gave fine views of a group of deer on the estate.  The walking was on a good path all the way to Dacre castle, then arriving at Dacre, a short ascent led to the church.  The group explored the church and church yard, looking at the old stone carved bears, and a scull and crossbones plaque on the church wall.  The walk was reversed back to Dalemain house.  Four members decided to round off the day with a visit to the garden, where the blue Himalayan poppies were splendid.


Sun, 9 Jun 2019

The sun was deliberating whether to come out as the B group followed the River Kent out of Staveley, crossing verdant pastures and a somewhat brooding woodland.  Rising ahead was their objective, the sprawling Potter Fell – a tangle of hillocks carpeted with heather, bracken and tussock grass and boasting the odd rocky outcrop.  Among its delights were several tarns, with the largest, Gurnal Dubs, nestling high up among heathery knolls.  Onwards and upwards they went, along the undulating and meandering route, until they reached the summit of Brunt Knott, the highest point on the fell, where the 360-degree panorama was breathtaking.  Having descended along the pleasant Hall Lane, the group stumbled across Wilf’s Café, which was impossible to resist – naturally.

Wed, 12 Jun 2019

An intrepid A group set off from Hartsop, heading diagonally up Prison Crag into a world of mist.  They soon found Brock Crags, the first Wainwright of the day, followed by Rest Dodd, The Knott, Rampsgill Head and Kidsty Pike.  Turning back onto the course of the Roman Road they continued to the highest point of the walk on High Street at Racecourse Hill.  Thornthwaite Crag was chosen for lunch before the group proceeded to their eighth Wainwright, Gray Crag.  After a brusque descent they emerged out of the mist and were entertained by some impressive shepherding.  (Distance: 15.57 km; total ascent: 1,010 m.)

It was dull, cold and windy as twelve KRC B group members boarded the 9.30am bus in Ambleside.  Arriving at the Old Dungeon Gill at the head of Great Langdale, the party set off undulating along the valley through fields to Chapel Stile.  The rain held off as the group continued to Elterwater and Skelwith Bridge.  A steady climb gained height to Todd Crag and the mystical Lily Tarn.  A short scramble onto Lough Brow provided views over Windermere and the distant high Lakeland fells.  Finally, it was down into the buzz of Ambleside and the call of a coffee shop.

Sun, 16 Jun 2019

An A group set off from Wasdale Head and headed alongside Mosedale Beck before crossing and following Gatherstone Beck to Black Sail Pass.  After an interesting scramble through Kirkfell Crags they reached the shelter cairn at the top of Kirk Fell which by this time was shrouded in mist.  The mist soon cleared and a much brighter day saw the group descend Rib End to Beck Head.  An easy scramble to the west of Gable Crag brought them to Great Gable’s summit.  It was a relentless path down to Sty Head and thence back to Wasdale Head.  Once safely inside the Wasdale Head Inn the heavens opened – perfect timing.  (12.7km, 990m.)

Sun, 23 Jun 2019

The three car B Group convoy left Keswick early, the walk leader concerned about parking at the foot of Haweswater Reservoir.  The last three spaces were ‘bagged’ at 09.10.  Geared up, the group ascended steadily to Small Water and on to the Nan Bield Pass.  Then it was the usual enjoyable scamper to the summit of Harter Fell where the expected strong wind awaited.  Hunkered down out of the wind, lunch was taken before the steady descent to the Gatescarth Pass and back to the cars.  The Haweswater Hotel provided much needed liquid refreshment before a lazy drive back to Keswick.

Wed, 26 Jun 2019

On Wednesday 26th June nine members of the A group met in the Duddon valley and walked an easy mile to Seathwaite Tarn. By way of a grassy gully and faint path they reached the top of Grey Friar. Great Carrs was the next top stopping on the way to visit the war memorial. Swirl How and Brim Fell came next on the ridge to Coniston Old Man. A sharp descent and ascent to the rocky scramble of Dow Crag followed with a pleasant walk back along the ridges of Buck Pike and Brown Pike to the Walna Scar road and back to the start. Refreshments were enjoyed at the Newfield Inn Seathwaite

On an excellent walking day, warm but not excessively hot with good visibility, the B Group set off along the Walna Scar Road from the car park and walked almost to Walna Scar before turning right and making the short climb to Brown Pike. Thereafter it was a straightforward path via Buck Pike to Dow Crag where the last 50 metres offered members a variety of routes ranging from a tricky scramble over the top to a grassy path skirting the peak. Lunch was taken here admiring wonderful views before continuing northwards and then descending to Goats Water and ultimately rejoining the Walna Scar Road back to the cars and a welcome drink at the Travellers Rest at Grasmere.

Sun, 30 Jun 2019

The A group started from the Woolpack Inn in Eskdale, walked to Doctor Bridge and followed the path towards Low Birker Tarn. Since the leader had not reconnoitered the walk navigation became a team effort. There were several paths leading towards Green Crag for the team to consider. The path across Ulpha Fell disappeared in the more boggy section but reappeared on the climb towards Harter Fell. The path towards Hardknott Pass was self-evident, as was the climb to Hard Knott. The group returned via Border End but the team found a safe descent to the Roman fort. From Jubilee Bridge the group walked across fields to Doctor Bridge. Refreshments were taken at the Woolpack Inn – 18km, 5½hours 1000m ascent.

Defying the unappetising weather forecast, the B group embarked on the ascent from Hartsop to Hayeswater, which has undisputedly grown steeper over the years. Dodging the reservoir, the bridleway climbed towards The Knott, only to execute an extravagant swing to Satura Crag. The gloomy sky was sagging ever lower when they reached Angle Tarn, intent on bewitching all and sundry with its charms. There was little opportunity to delight in scaling the twin rocky summits of Angletarn Pikes, as almighty gusts tried their utmost to sweep the walkers off their feet. The descent was thus one of the swiftest on record, with Boredale Hause reached in no time. Then down to Patterdale and back to Hartsop along a delightful bridleway.