BlogWalkers: The Wainwrights

29th December 2007 - the end

2008-01-02T12:39:00.001Z

This was it. After 23 years of mountain walking, I was finally going to be able to say that I was a Wainwright completer! The fellrunner had recommended Loughrigg Fell as a good final mountain and so it was that at 13.30, a group of us were parked at Red Bank ready to climb up the mighty Loughrigg. The party consisted of me, Mr Blogwalker, Mr Blogwalker's mum, the fell runner, both my aged parents and my uncle who has accompanied us on all of our final Wainwright walks.

The rain had decided to stop by the time we were out of the car which made up for its mean behaviour on the day before. We headed along Loughrigg Terrace for a short time before turning right and heading up a steep path past the Grasmere cairn. Despite the steepness of the ascent, everyone did it very well indeed and we were amazed by the beautiful views that we had as we climbed. The sun attempted to come out and we were presented with a lovely rainbow as we made the final climb on to the summit at 1101 ft.

It was freezing cold on the top but I didn't notice as I touched the summit. We had a celebratory glass of champagne, mince pies and chocolate biscuits and admired the views: They were magnificent!

Above are the 4 Wainwright completers!

After standing at the top for a while, we soon got cold and so decided to head back down. It was a simple walk back down to the car and we did it in no time. We then went to Grasmere where we ordered 7 cream teas and ate until we felt stuffed.

Now I just need to think about what comes next. Before that, though, we have the Welsh 3000s to organise!

New fell: Loughrigg Fell

28th December 2007

2008-01-02T12:22:00.000Z

With the next day being planned for the final Wainwright ascent, I still had Tarn Crag left to do. Therefore, the fell runner, Mr Blogwalker and I decided to stop in Grasmere, on the way back to Whitehaven, to climb this fell.

Pleased to see that the weather was similar to the previous day, we set off and parked in Grasmere at about lunch time. The rain had caused an incredible amount of flooding and we were soon wading through streams pretending to be paths. We headed along Easedale Road and then took the path up alongside Sour Milk Gill. The rain was holding off and it was a beautiful walk up along the gill which looked spectacular after the heavy rain of the day before.

Things became less good when we arrived at the tarn and realised that the stepping stones we needed to use to cross the tarn were under water. Being tenacious, we attempted to cross the tarn at various points using rocks, but none of the routes got us entirely to the other side. So we decided to wade across. Yes, that's right, wade across IN DECEMBER. As we were removing our boots and socks, it started to rain which we thought was a bit mean. Just as Mr Blogwalker was half way across and the fell runner was just about to lob his boots across, I decided that it was madness and refused to go any further. So we climbed out, put our shoes back on and decided to walk all the way around the tarn. So that's what we did.

The walk didn't take as long as we had feared and we were soon scrambling up a steep slope to get on to the ridge. From there it was a pull on to the top at 1801 ft and we did the last bit on our hands and knees as it was too windy to stand up.

We decided to follow the ridge all the way back to the bottom rather than going along the gill. It was a tough descent at the top but soon became easier and shallower and we were back down in Grasmere in no time at all.

Then we went home and had fish and chips. Excellent.

New fell: Tarn Crag

27th December 2007

2008-01-02T12:05:00.000Z

Aahh, there is nothing like working under pressure, and by now I was certainly feeling it. With another aborted walk on the 22nd due to very treacherous conditions in Grasmere, I was seriously running out of time. Christmas in Yorkshire had prevented any Lakeland walks since then and I was beginning to worry. So, ignoring the appalling weather the aged parent and myself decided to get up Cold Pike regardless.

We set off early and tried to ignore the persistent rain and howling winds and were chuffed when we actually made a successful arrival at the top of Wrynose pass. All we had to do was scoot up the front - no problem.

We pulled up and immediately put on every item of clothing that we had with us and laughed hysterically at the noise that the weather was making. Dragging ourselves out of the car, we realised that it was probably going to be tougher than we had expected. Slowly we made our way along the path to Pike O'Blisco before turning left on to the less distictive path up to Cold Pike. That was when it began to hail. It lashed at our faces causing certain members of the party to mumble about completing these things in July. However, we perservered and, with the help of the GPS, found our way on to the top of Cold Pike (2259 ft).

The summit was completely covered in mist and was incredibly cold, so we decided to head straight back down after a quick photo. This we did quite quickly. After about 10 minutes, however, the aged parent said 'I don't think that tarn should be there' and we realised that we had headed east instead of south and were going the wrong way. We headed back and tried to start again. This proved to be quite tricky; despite using the compass we soon found ourselves on the edge of Wrynose Breast and looking down a cliff, oops.

The good news was that we could at least see the car, it was just a bit further away then we had hoped. However, with very little grumbling, we followed the contours around the side of the fell and soon made it back to the car. We were cold, saturated and wind burnt but also happy that we had completed the walk.

We then headed back to Ambleside to meet up with the Fell runner who had been taking part in the Wansfell Fell race and with our mum. We decided that what we all needed was a massive lunch in the Mill Inn at Ings so we had one. Very nice it was too.

New fell: Cold Pike

21st December 2007

2008-01-02T11:45:00.000Z

So, with the date for the last Wainwright set for the 29th and with Christmas coming up, I was beginning to feel under pressure to get the 3 outstanding fells completed in time to do the very last one. I had travelled up on the Thursday with a view to doing Tarn Crag in the afternoon. Unfortunately, an enormous crash on the M6 had meant that it had taken 2 hours extra to get to the Lakes and so I had not had enough time to climb anything.

I was pleased, therefore, when I awoke on the Friday to glorious sunshine. The aged parent and I decided that it would be a perfect day to climb Cold Pike in the morning and Wetherlam afterwards. Therefore, off we set to Wrynose Pass, going through Ambleside as we had heard that the pass was shut on the Coniston side.

We only felt a little bit concerned about the incredibly cold weather as we both had the right gear and knew that the climb would warm us up. What we didn't consider was the state of Wrynose pass in these conditions. When we arrived at the pass, by the cattle grid, we realised that there was no way my little 1 litre car would make it up the pass due to the ice! We had to abandon the Cold Pike plan and focus all our energies on Wetherlam (2502 ft).

Therefore, we parked up and headed up by Greenburn Beck, past Birk Fell and up the steep climb to the summit. The path at the beginning was incredibly icy and we had to put on our spikes early on. However, over the grassier bits it was absolutely fine and it was a thoroughly enjoyable climb. What was interesting was that the last time I had been in the Coniston area it had been packed. Today we saw nobody at all!

We made a quick descent down - more as a way to keep warm then anything else - and were soon back at the car and on our way home to warm ourselves in front of the fire.

New fell: Wetherlam

25th October 2007: A Celebration

2007-12-03T18:36:00.000Z

You may have heard me refer to the aged parent in passing, like a character who pops up from time to time in a story book. Well, today it was his turn to be the main character in the tale.

It was a lovely day as we all got up ready to accompany my dad on his last Wainwright: High Rigg (1163 feet). After 20 odd years, he was now going to have completed all 214 Wainwright fells - can we have a whoop, whoop, please? On the walk there was him and my mum, me, the fell runner, my other brother, a client of my dad's, a friend with whom my dad does the Gable Remembrance Day walk and my uncle (one of the earliest completers who has been mentioned before).

We set off in two cars and parked one of them at Smaithwaite Bridge and the other at the church of St John's in the Vale. We all went up from the bridge and followed the delightful path on to the top. There was much banter and cheerfulness and absolutely no whinging from any party member.

At the top we were surprised to encounter a family who had completed the Wainwrights as a group just a couple of days earlier! We had lots of photos taken and out the champagne came which I had so generously carried up the mountain. We then swapped contact details with the family so that they could meet us on my final Wainwright and headed down to the chuch.

There was a feeling of sadness as we headed home; with 3 completers and one coming up, there was a feeling that a chapter of the book was coming to an end. However, the celebrations began again with a meal out, plenty of ale and excellent company.

24th October 2007

2007-12-03T18:27:00.000Z

As the aged parent had a free day, he offered to accompany me up Rossett Pike (2106). We decided to go up from Wasdale Head. This is the valley that I know the best but had seen little of over the last couple of years due to the fact that completing Wainwrights had taken me to so many other places.

We were in the big car park by 11.oo and set off up the Sty-Head path with a view to following the lower path along the beck. This was definitely the best plan as there were hundreds of others toiling up the higher path. We came across a girl who seemed confused as to where the path was to take her on to the Pike. We suggested that she followed us up and go on to the Pike over Great End; she thanked us for our advice but continued up the incredibly steep and dubious 'path' that she was on.

We got to the col between Great Gable and Great End quickly and admired Sprinkling Tarn. We then left a lot of the people behind as we followed the longish path on to Rossett Pike. We touched the top and headed back down to the tarn as it was freezing on the top. We decided to have lunch over looking Sprinkling Tarn, which was lovely.

It was then a question of retracing our foot steps back to the car with the sun setting nicely as awe went down.

New Fell: Rossett Pike

23rd October 2007

2007-12-03T18:17:00.000Z

Having been away from the Lakes for a couple of months, I was relishing the thought of spending some time in the North over the October half-term.

I set off early in the morning and arrived at Troutbeck at about 2 . I decided that I shouldn't wate any time in climbing a mountain and so decided to tackle the mighty Troutbeck Tongue (1191 ft).

Being impressively organised, I had packed my running trainers in my rucksack and so decided to run along the farm track in order to save some time. I did it without any real difficulty and, at the bottom of the Tongue, changed back into my walking shoes to tackle the steep climb. It was steep and quite difficult to find the path but I had a fun time pushing up through the bracken and on to the nose of the fell.

It was then a quick step onto the top. The views were beautiful as the autumn sun began to set, casting beautiful orange light onto the surrounding fells. The lights of Troutback could also just about be made out: wonderful!

Feeling fantastic, I made a quick descent, changed into my trainers and jogged back to the car with a clear rememberance of why this area means so much to me.

New Fell: Toutbeck Tongue

24th August 2007

2007-09-01T18:31:00.001Z

Having taken a couple of days off to rest the blisters, do some cycling and watch the fell runner come 3rd for Keswick AC in the round Latrigg fell race, myself and My Blogwalker decided to go for it and do the Kentmere horseshoe.

We were at the church at Kentmere nice and early and the weather had turned around completely and it was a beautiful day. We took a track to Stile End and then headed up the steep path onto Shipman Knotts (1926 ft) which was a fun and sweaty climb. There was then a clear path up to Kentmere Pike (2397 ft) and the sun was beating down on us as we sped up to the top. Unfortunately, the sun had also brought out the midges and horse flies which meant that we were always on the look out for marauding insects.

From there we followed the same path up to Harter Fell (2539 ft) from where there were fantastic views. An exciting stride along Nan Bield Pass took us up to Mardale Ill Bell (2496 ft) but we did stop on the pass itself to take in the views which were amazing. We decided to avoid the crowds by avoiding High Street and Thornthwaite Crag and instead take a more direct route up onto Froswick (2359 ft). The climb was very exciting and the whole walk over Ill Bell (2476 ft) and Yoke (2309 ft) was very impressive. It was quite steep but brilliant all the same.

From Yoke we then took a long walk back down to Garburn Pass and back to the car. Even though it was a tough walk, it was a brilliant one. The views were incredible and it was pretty exciting from Harter Fell onwards. We were also incredibly lucky with the weather. Most exciting, however, was the fact that this left me with just 6 Wainwrights left to do.

New Fells: Shipman Knott, Kentmere Pike, Harter Fell, Mardale Ill Bell, Froswick, Ill Bell, Yoke.

21st August 2007

2007-09-01T18:10:00.000Z

As the aged parent had another free day today, we decided to head all the way to the far east again and do the four most eastern Wainwrights. Therefore, we set off early and parked at the most Southern point of Haweswater with lots of other people. It is always a sad place to be since the village of Mardale was flooded by the Manchester Water Authority in order to create the reservoir.

We them took a tough path up to Gatescarth Pass and headed left on to the top of Branstree (2333 ft). It wasn't long before we were in the clouds but it was a clear path on to Selside Pike (2142 ft). On the way we stopped at the marvellous Artlecrag Pike cairn which was very exciting.

Unfortunately we then had to retrace our steps over Branstree and it was a long descent and then ascent on to Tarn Crag (2176 ft) where there was another fantastic cairn. We navigated back to the wall and then headed up to Grey Crag (2093 ft) which was a quick climb but our legs were already beginning to ache.

We had to go back over Tarn Crag and down a path back to Gatescarth Pass. It was quite a long walk but quite pretty, if a little wet. Imagine our surprise when we realised that we had come down the wrong side of the pass and so had to walk back up it and down the other side to get on to the right path. It was a hard climb and it took us high enough to get back into the clouds but we set our minds to it and it was soon done.

It seemed like a long descent down to the car but we felt as though we had done very well and were pleased with the walk.

New Fells: Branstree, Selside Pike, Tarn Crag, Grey Crag.

20th August 2007

2007-09-01T17:56:00.000Z

I was joined by the aged parent today and we decided to do some tidying up of some smaller fells in the far east. We chose to begin with Sour Howes (1568 ft) which we tackled from Kentmere where we were lucky enough to find a parking space by the beautiful church.

We headed up along the Garburn Pass (where we saw some nutters carrying bikes up just to cycle back down again) and took a stile which led us along a ridge and onto the summit. It was clear but blustery and we didn't hang around but headed quickly across to Sallows (1691 ft) from where there were some cracking views. Again it was very cold but we had a quick lunch and then headed back to the car.

We then drove over to Troutbeck and took a stomach crunching walk up Nanny Lane and along a wall for a while until we found the wall which took us up onto Wansfell (1597 ft). We found a much better path, which was more direct, on the way down and so we were back at the car in no time at all.

There was then lengthy discussions about going on to do Troutbeck Tongue but we decided that we just didn't have the time and so we headed back home.

New Fells: Sour Hows, Sallows, Wansfell.

19th August 2007

2007-09-01T17:42:00.000Z

Having been a bit over-keen with the running the week before, I was suffering badly with enormous blisters. Having administered extensive first aid to them I felt ready to give the feet a trial walk; therefore, the fellrunner and I decided to do a quick walk up Hart Side (2481 ft) which would also mean that the Eastern Fells book would be completed.

We parked near Aira Force and headed up a very muddy path which made for some fun squelching and sliding: the path had clearly suffered after the days of heavy rain. After some excellent map reading we found the higher path which took us through a copse and onto the open fell. Unfortunately, the cloud came down and the fell runner did some outstanding navigating to get us onto the right summit.

Having reached the top, we decided that it was too cold to hang around so we made a quick descent and were back down in no time at all. The blisters had survived very well despite the fact that we both had wet feet.

New Fell: Hart Side

5th August 2007

2007-08-09T15:37:00.000Z

We were joined today by the Fellrunner who was looking to do a recovery walk after doing a 14 mile fell race the day before - the question was whether he would be able to keep up with us!

We parked at the same place as before, near Hartsop, but headed west rather than east. It was a steady, but long, walk up onto Hartsop Above How (1870 ft) but the weather was significantly improved! We reached the top in good time and then headed onto Hart Crag (2698 ft) which had previously been conquered as part of the Fairfield Horseshoe. There was then a quick step onto Dove Crag (2603 ft) from where we headed down to Little Hart Crag (2091 ft) where we had a very tasty lunch.

Then we quickly headed down to High Hartsop Dodd (1702 ft) and then back up again. By now it was actually warm and we were in good spirits. The final challenge was the 900ft of ascent to get onto Red Screes (2541 ft) which was actually really enjoyable and the views at the top were fantastic. It was very busy on the top and we were pleased to head down onto Middle Dodd (2106 ft) which seemed to me much less popular.

We went down the front of Middle Dodd, which was very steep, and through some beautiful countryside back to the car.

New Fells: Hartsop Above How, Little Hart Crag, High Hartsop Dodd, Red Screes, Middle Dodd.

3rd August 2007

2007-08-09T14:58:00.000Z

We decided that today would be a day for pushing ourselves. This was despite the fact that it was very over-cast and windy. That wasn't going to stop us! So we drove a couple of miles down the road and parked at Cow Bridge, near Hartsop. From there we followed Hayeswater Gill up to the impressive Haysewater reservoir and up onto The Knott (2423 ft). Sounds simple? Well, it would have been except for the rain. And the wind. And the cold.

However, we pushed on and used the compass to guide us onto Rampsgill Head (2581 ft). We had to use the compass and we couldn't see any further then about 10ft in front of us. Without too much ado we made it onto High Raise (2634 ft) but from there it got a bit tricky. Having already climbed Kidsty Pike, we decided to leave it out and go straight onto High Street. 10 minutes later I began to recognise a cairn that we were coming up to: Kidsty Pike (2560 ft).

Nevermind, from there we followed the ridge around to High Street (2718 ft) where we actually saw some other mad people who seemed to be enjoying themselves immensely. A short wallk took us onto Thornthwaite Crag (2569) where, out of the mist, we saw the impressive beacon that you cannot miss. This was helpful as it guided us onto the Gray Crag (2286 ft) ridge which we would otherwise have struggled to find. This ridge was devilishly windy and we were continually walking into the wind and the rain which was very painful and hardwork. However, we made it to the top and then headed back over to Thornthwaite Crag.

From there it was a sharp descent and even sharper acsent onto Stony Cove Pike which knocked us for 6, but off we went and wandered about on Cauldale Moor (2502 ft) feeling, wetter, colder and more frustrated the longer it took us to find the summit. By this time visibilty was appalling and I was getting concerned about the time. However, from there it was an easy hike onto Hartsop Dodd (2018 ft) which we carried on over and down the front. It was exciting, however, when we could actually see things once we had come out of the clouds.

A walk to the car gave us a chance to stretch our legs out after the steep descent and we deposited 5 litres of water into the car before heading back to the campsite and having a top meal in the truely excellent White Lion of Patterdale.

New Fells: Rampsgill Head, High Raise, High Street, Thornthwaite Crag, Gray Crag, Caudale Moor, Hartsop Dodd

2nd August 2007

2007-08-09T14:41:00.001Z

We decided to have an easier day today - it is a holiday after all! So we chose to follow a route suggested by Trail magazine.

It was a lovely warm day as we took the same route up the side of Place Fell and onto Boredale Hause. This time, however, we took a left and headed up onto Place Fell (2154 ft) whose summit is much further back then you would imagine! However, we perservered and soon reached the very impressive top.

We then carried on over the fell and down the other side. There was then a long walk through some beautiful countryside to the edge of Ullswater around Hallin Fell. The route took us along the Lake's edge where we, to our great surprise, had to overtake about 50 very slow, small children who were using the same narrow path as us. We overcame this obstacle and made it to the pier where we caught a steamer along the lake to Glenridding. It was fun but very cold.

Upon arriving at Glenridding, it was then a short walk along the road to Patterdale.

New Fell: Place Fell.

1st August 2007

2007-08-09T14:16:00.000Z

Having decided to camp at a site in Patterdale, we were nice and close to many Eastern and Far-Eastern fells which I had out-standing.

So, on the first day of the holiday, we decided to do a walk right from the campsite which would save us from having to drive anywhere. We left the campsite and headed up the side of Place Fell onto Boredale Hause. This is also the route that you would take for the Coast-to-Coast Path and so it was packed full of people. We made good time and, with a little difficulty, located the summit of Angletarn Pikes (1857 ft). We took a very brief break to appreciate Angle Tarn and then took a superb Cowboy-Roy route onto Brock Crags (1842 ft) which gave the legs a good work out.

Having crossed mire and marsh, we then followed a wall over to Rest Dodd (2278 ft) where we sat and had a good old rest before heading down to The Nab (1887 ft).

Now was the difficult bit. To get back to the campsite we could either take a long walk around the valley or head over Beda Fell (1664 ft), thereby collecting another Wainwright and cutting the time down dramatically. Off we went up the fell which was an easy path to follow but tiring for the weary legs. It was worth it, however, when we got to the top, walked along for a good way and then back again. The views were fantastic, but we were tired.

We then headed back to Boredale Hause, showered and went out for a heart meal.

New Fells: Angletarn Pikes, Brock Crags, Rest Dodd, The Nab, Beda Fell.

30th May 2007

2007-05-30T19:33:00.000Z

To the south, a group of fells had been ruining my clearing up rate: the Coniston fells. For months I have been meaning to do somthing about them and today I did.

It's a fairly long drive over Birker Fell to Seathwaite and I had left at 7 in order to get a full day's walking in. Therefore, I was ready to walk at half 8.

I began the trek over farmland and up Walna Scar Road with the sun shining brightly on my back. It was a hot, sweaty and long climb and layers were removed at a startling rate. However, I soon reached Brown Pike where I had a short rest whilst I compeed-ed blisters already forming. It was then a stretch over to Dow Crag (2555 ft) whose summit terrified the life out of me - I was convinced that I was going to plummet to my death.

There was then a short descent and a seemingly long ascent onto The Old Man of Coniston (2633 ft) where I only met two other people! The summit was very interesting with an odd shaped cairn and a trig point. After having a chat with the two old men, I retraced my steps and soon found myself on Brim Fell (2611 ft). This had another interesting summit and I took time out to admire the amazing views, which included an incredible panorama of the Wasdale fells.

The path then went on to Swirl How (2630 ft) where I met another Wainwright bagger. He gave me some good advice on leaving out Wetherlam and doing it another day; he pointed out the enormous black clouds following me from The Old Man and the fact that it would take me an hour and a half extra to do it. However, I still hestitated before the old men from The Old Man repeated the given advice.

Therefore, I went straight onto Great Carrs (2575 ft) which was another terrifying summit. I had to sit and pretend to admire the views whilst collecting myself. This wasn't helped by a man standing right on the edge, talking loudly and ruining my inner peace. I, therefore, crept away from the edge and had a bone-stilling lunch by the memorial to the fallen pilots of 1944.

There was then the climb onto Grey Friar (2536 ft) where I found myself to be entirely alone. It was a long top and I was pleased to find the cairn guiding me down the front of Grey Friars over Troutal fell. The path was a bit sketchy but it guided me nicely down to Seathwaite Tarn where I really enjoyed the walk along the reservoir. The only down side was that it had begun to rain - heavily. This made the decision not to do Wetherlam a bit more bearable - I would never have found the path down in the msit.

It was a long but enjoyable 4 miles down to Seathwaite. The rain grew increasingly heavy and my legs were aching but I enjoyed the walk along Tarn Beck nevertheless.

I got back to the car and hung my various articles of soaking wet clothing around the car before heading off to Nether Wasdale for afternoon tea with my Uncle of the Scafell trip (Yorkshire 3 Peaks' blog).

New fells: Dow Crag, The Old Man of Coniston, Brim Fell, Swirl How, Great Carrs, Grey Friar.

29th May 2007

2007-05-29T19:20:00.000Z

A decision had been made to do some joint tidying up of fells with the aged parent. Therefore, we were up early and heading down to Ambleside first thing this morning.

Even though we had planned to do three small fells today, we had also planned to do them in style. We did not like the idea of simply 'bagging' them for the sake of it - we wanted to make them count. Therefore, we parked near High Oxen Fell and started on our way to Lingmoor Fell (1530 ft). It was a beautiful walk along tracks to the foot of the fell; we were even lucky enough to spot a red squirrel. We made a quick (but sweaty) ascent and were really pleased to see the Langdale fells in all their glory shining in the sunshine.

We then headed back down the same way and tramped along to Holme Fell (1040 ft). The walk was fantastic and we were particularly taken by Slater Bridge where there was a perfect little picnic area. We circled the quarry and were a little worried about any slight noise sending an avalanche of slate down on top of us. This grew as we realised that we were on an incredibly popular path which meant small children shouting - we didn't dawdle!

By the time we had made the reached the top of Holme Fell, we were beginning to feel quite tired. The double ascent and descent were beginning to play havoc on the joints. However, we perservered and made our way via Yew Tree Tarn onto Black Fell (1056 ft)The journey up was only managed due to some cunning cowboy-Roy manoeuvres. The top was freezing cold but we liked the fact that there was an Ordnance Survey on top to tell us that we were in the right place. Another tricky descent brought us back to the car, tired but pleased with our progress.

The fact that these were meant to be 'easy' fells but that we were exhausted afterwards made us feel as though we had done them justice.

New Fells: Lingmoor Fell, Holme Fell, Black Fell.

28th May 2007

2007-05-28T16:58:00.000Z

With both aged parents set to join me today, we had to decide on a walk which we would all be happy doing. A late start meant that we weren't convinced that we would be able to park near some of the Langdale-area fells. Therefore, we decided to go up Seat Sandal from Dunmail Raise. We had meant to do this one before when we had done the Clough Head - Dollywagon Pike walk, but by the time we had got to Grisedale Tarn, we were knackered. It had remained an awkward one since.

We parked easily at Dunmail Raise and began the ascent up Raise Beck which was thoroughly enjoyable. There were some lovely waterfalls and the rain was holding off. At Grisedale Tarn there was then the steep climb up onto the summit (2415 ft). It was a slog but the views made it well worthwhile. I could see exactly where I had walked the day before. Fairfield was also temptingly close, but a suggested ascent did not go down well.

The descent was made easier by the old sliding down on the waterproofs method (now a favourite). We stopped at the tarn to have a quick snack and to watch everyone else heading up either Fairfield or Dollywagon Pike. It was then a lovely stroll back to the car and a stop in Cockermouth for a cream tea.

New fell: Seat Sandal.

27th May 2007

2007-05-28T16:38:00.000Z

Being half term, I had driven up on the Saturday in order to add to the Wainwright checklist. Unfortunately, however, the half term also happens to coincide with the Bank Holiday; this meant that I had followed most of Britain up the M6 and into the Lake District.

With an understanding that it was going to be difficult to park anywhere, I was up early and in Grasmere by 9.00. My plan was to collect Silver How, Tarn Crag and Stone Arthur. I began with Silver How and had a beautiful climb up onto the top (1292 ft). As it was so early there were few people around and I was lucky enough to see a deer! I headed back down via Allan Bank with a mind to head up onto Tarn Crag. Half way down, though, it began to rain. A lot. Therefore, I decided to head onto Stone Arthur rather than completing the 7 mile round journey onto Tarn Crag.

So, I headed over the A591 and up a steep slope onto Stone Arthur. I was all on my own and felt quite lonely as I watched people milling up Heron Pike opposite me. I carried on and took no time at all in reaching the summit (1652 ft). Whilst eating my sandwiches, I began eyeing up the fells around me and noticed that Great Rigg was only 1.5 miles away. Having missed out Tarn Crag, I decided to do the right thing and climb Great Rigg (2513 ft). So I did. It wasn't a new one but I felt better for doing it. Until it hegan to hail.

I decided to head back down to Stone Arthur, until I realised that Heron Pike was only 1.5 miles away and I could use it as an alternative descent. So I did. It was cold and windy but definitely worth doing. I saw a fell runner in tiny shorts (mad) and a lot of ill-prepared looking people on my way to the top (2003 ft). I saw even more on the way down via Alcock Tarn. There was even one girl with trainers on and a pashmina instead of a coat.

A quick stop for some hot squash on a well-placed bench kept me going until I got back to Grasmere, where it rained, heavily.

A very enjoyable day with some beautiful views.

New fells: Silver How and Stone Arthur.

11th April 2007

2007-04-15T13:43:00.000Z

Another beautiful day so the fell-runner and Mr Blogwalker joined me in deciding to head over to Patterdale and do a couple of the eastern fells. We started with a calf-stretching climb up Arnison Crags (1424 ft), which was painful, sweaty but very quick. The views were lovely but I was only allowed to lie down for 30 seconds.

We then followed a wall up onto Birks (2040) which was another tough climb, but very enjoyable; despite the fact that it was a great mountain we saw nobody else on the top at all. The reason for this was because they had all by-passed it for St Sunday Crag (2756 ft), which was another great mountain with fantastic views onto Striding Edge. We watched as 2 Mountain Rescue helicopters did something at the base of Hellvellyn, but we couldn't really work out what it was.

There was then talk about going onto Fairfield but we decided to head down to the White Lion Inn instead for a drink and then home for the cricket.

New fells: Arnison Crag, Birks, St Sunday Crag.

10th April 2007

2007-04-15T13:30:00.000Z

Mungrisedale Common (2068 ft) had to be done. Was accompanied by both aged parents as my dad had also been avoiding this mountain. Lovely weather, if a bit cold. A long walk up, wandered around on the top for a bit, a long way back. There was a nice foot bridge though and we watched the millions of people going up Blencathra over Sharp Edge. Not the best mountain. That's it.

In the evening I went with the fell runner as he ran around Sail Fell as a club run. I wrote down numbers as all the crazy people ran up the mountain, around it and then back down. The fell-runner came 8th out of 26 - great success.

8th April 2007

2007-04-15T13:10:00.000Z

Another beautiful day and so we decided to start tidying up my fells a bit so that in the summer we can camp in the East and polish off a load of Wainwrights that way. Therefore, we were in for an easy day...or so I thought.

We began with Rosthwaite fell (1807 ft), starting at Stonethwaite and heading up a gut-crunching path through a copse and onto the open top. There was discussion with another couple as to where the top was, but we picked the right one in the end. On the way down we saw some wild campers who may or may not have been responsible for the empty Fosters can that we had picked up on the way up the fell.

We then walked down and back to the car to get the second Wainwright book that we needed. We set off up a track which took us onto Great Crag (1500 ft) which seemed to also be very steep. There were lots of people on the top but we managed to avoid them by using less used paths through heather which took us onto the top. Having eaten our hot cross buns, we then decided to walk down the other side and walk to Castle Crag rather than drive there.

A long walk took us down to Rosthwaite where we followed the road to Castle Crag which the entire population of the world seemed to have decided to visit. We saw some exciting cow and bull action as we walked through some farmland and up a steep slope onto the summit (985ft). It was an interesting climb through slate and woods. Ian then took us a sneaky way down so that we avoided much of the crowd. It was then a couple of miles back to the car. Phew.

New fells: Rosthwaite Fell, Great Fell, Castle Crag.

7th April 2007

2007-04-15T12:59:00.000Z

With it being a bank-holiday weekend, we scratched our heads trying to think of somewhere quiet where we could walk. Clearly Buttermere and Grasmere were out of the question and so we decided to go north o' Skiddaw.

It was a beautiful day as we set off for Carrock Fell (2174 ft). We parked just further on from Mungrisedale and headed off up a nice green path. However, we soon realised that it was taking us up the long way on to Carrock Fell; therefore, we Cowboy-Royed it across a beck and on to the more direct path up the fell. We were on the top in no time and started off to High Pike (2157 ft). We passed a fell-runner and a couple of other people, but it was decidedly quieter than anywhere else would have been.

After a quick rest on the bench we headed back down the fell, following the longer path and, with a bit of confusion, made it back down to the car in no time at all.

New fells: Carrock Fell and High Pike

25th March 2007

2007-03-28T19:04:00.000Z

We were heading back today, but felt as though we ought to do something to make me driving for 7 hours on Friday worthwhile. Therefore, we decided to tackle Blencathra on the way home; this was a mountain which had twice beaten me previously, once due to blisters and once due to lack of time.

We were joined again by the aged parent and drove to Scales where we, unsurprisingly for a scorching hot Sunday, struggled to park. We did manage in the end and set off up Scales Fell. We had initially planned to go up Hall's Fell, but the older member of the party, having read that even Wainwright termed it fit for 'active walkers', decided that we should go up via Scales Fell.

We did the climb fairly quickly and followed the rest of the world up the ridge and onto the summit at 2847 ft. Although we were surrounded by millions of people, we couldn't blame them for being there as the views were outstanding and the weather lovely (if a bit windy).

We made a quick descent and were pleased to see that we had gone up and down in 2 hours and 20 minutes - not too shoddy.

A great mountain!

24th March 2007

2007-03-28T18:02:00.000Z

With our fell-runner off to the Lakes to take part in a fell-race, it seemed to be a perfect opportunity to spend a couple of days doing some walking in the north. Therefore, we had driven up on the Friday night and I was up early on Saturday ready to do some trekking.

I was accompanied by the aged parent and we decided to go up Grange Fell, a small fell near Stonethwaite. We made our way to the pretty village of Grange and, with some difficulty, managed to park.

The sun was beating down on us as we set off along the road and onto a bridleway, which we followed across some pretty countryside. To begin with there was some concern over the huge number of people we saw at the bottom of the fell. However, as the climb became substantially steeper, the crowds thinned out until we were just about on our own. We climbed up the steep path and were rewarded with some magnificant views.

We took a detour up onto King's How, which was an absolute joy, and then onto Brund Fell, the summit top of Grange Fell (1363ft). Although it was only small, the fell was beautiful and we thoroughly enjoyed the climb.

A quick descent off the fell meant that we were on time to see the fell runner before his race up onto Causey Pike, which he was running as part of the Keswick Fell Running club(http://www.keswick-ac.org.uk/). Both aged parents were also watching and we were very impressed to see over 120 people running up a big mountain...for fun! The fell runner made it up and down in 50 minutes - marvellous!

Day 5

2007-02-16T20:34:00.000Z

After having a day off in order for the blisters to heal themselves, we decided to do something a little less taxing today. Therefore we made the decision to do the smaller fells around Skiddaw: Carl Side, Long Side and Ullock Pike; they were, after all, blighting my northern range checklist.

The day was grey but not quite raining as we set off, saying goodbye to one of the earliest completers of the Wainwrights, our Uncle. A slow drive along the A66 took us to Millbeck, under Skiddaw, where we dutifully placed our money in the honesty box and set off.

It was a steep but rewarding climb up the front of Carl Side (2420 ft) from where we had fantastic views of Keswick until we hit the clouds at about 2000 ft. We reached the summit in good time.

We then made our way along the ridge to Long Side (2405 ft) where we were enormously excited to see a buzzard and some lovely views as the clouds lifted further. The climb to the summit seemed unfairly simple after the last few days.

We then had an easy time getting onto the summit of Ullock Pike (2230 ft) from where we turned around and headed straight back again.

At Carl Side tarn we had to make the decision whether we would go on to do Skiddaw or not; I decided that we wouldn't as I wanted a cup of tea and slice of cake at the Strawberry tea-shop in Keswick. Best decision ever made. As we headed down we decided to stop at a halfway point so that we could eat our lunch. We sat down, looked at each other and realised that we hadn't packed our lunch. Oops.

We headed down at a surprising rate and had a lovely lunch in Keswick and a fantastic afternoon strolling around.

Total distance: 6 miles and 2750 feet of ascent.

New fells: Carl Side, Long Side and Ullock Pike.

Day 4

2007-02-14T17:45:00.000Z

Contrary to what the weatherman said, the weather was perfect for walking today: blue skies, glorious sunshine and a fresh chill in the air. Therefore, big things were planned: Bowscale Fell onto Bannerdale Crags, then down to Mungrisdale Common, up to Blencathra and back down over Souther Fell. Perfect.

We set off with an aged parent to Mungrisdale where we parked up and dutifully put a pound in the honesty box. It was then a very straightforward climb up the side of Bowscale Fell and right onto the summit (2306 ft). The weather was fab and, although it wasn't the fastest ascent in the world, we made it up to the top in good time.

It was then just a case of following a wide green path over to Bannerdale Crags. Or was it? About half way across one member of the team began to realise that the blister plasters on her feet weren't doing a very good job and so decided that at the top of Bannerdale Crags she would change the plasters. No problem. She realised the difficulty of her task when she remembered that she had left them on the bathroom shelf back at the guest house. By the time that we had reached the summit (2230 ft) it was becoming clear that there was no chance of her going on to do the bigger and further away fells. Much debate followed and we decided that we would all stick together and head back down over Souther Fell.

A cowboy-Roy style descent down the back of Bannerdale Crags became much more fun when it was discovered that it could be done using the old-age style of sitting down and lifting up the feet. What would have been a very painful and slow descent quickly became an enormous amount of fun. Therefore we reached the River Glenderamackin in no time at all and made a fairly quick ascent onto Souther Fell (1680 ft).

It was very cold on the top so we headed down towards Mungrisdale and had our lunch on the brow of the fell. It was then a quick ascent down into Mungrisdale which was only made longer by the fact that we had to take a seemingly unnecessary detour around a field.

We arrived back at the car, slightly disappointed.

Total distance: Approximately 5 miles and 2000 feet of ascent.

New Fells: Souther Fell

Day 3

2007-02-13T17:48:00.000Z

After day 2 was given up to admin tasks and a compulsory visit to the Jennings brewery to pick up a case of Cockahoop, the team decided that day 3 needed to be impressive.

Another early start meant that we were parked near Newlands Church and ready to walk up the mighty Robinson by 10.15. A gentle stroll along Scope Beck took us up to the reservoir which was calm and peaceful - naturally it couldn't last. As we followed the path we felt as though we should be heading more 'up' and so decided to take a cowboy-Roy route up the side of Robinson. A tough climb allowed us to join the High Snab Bank path from where it was a thrilling climb onto the summit of Robinson (2417 ft).

We then followed the direct route up onto Hindscarth (2385 ft) where, the weather being very kind, the clouds lifted to about 3000 ft meaning that we had tremendous views of the fells in Butteremere and even over to Wasdale.

As well as being a lovely walk, this was also a chance for the fell-running member to make a reconnaisance of the final leg of the Bob Graham round, although it was being followed backwards.

A walk over to Dale Head (2473 ft) was interrupted by lunch in a dell which protected us nicely from a bitingly cold wind. It was at this point that we noticed that the fells had begun to become increasingly busy; whereas before we had been just about the only people around, we were now surrounded by groups of enthusiastic walkers.

This became even more noticeable as we headed down to Dale Head tarn and onto High Spy (2143 ft). The 550 ft climb up the back of High Spy was fairly painful but completed with a focused and enthusiastic approach.

It was then just a case of covering the 3 miles over Maiden Moor (1887 ft) and Catbells (1481 ft) in order to complete the planned walk. This was done with one of the party feeling it in their legs whilst the other member seemed to be having no trouble whatsoever. However, the views made up for any discomfort, both down over Catbells and back up to the fells where we could see just about everything that we had climbed.

All we had to do then was to retrace our steps slightly and then head down Yewthwaite Gill in order to reach the car. This was delayed slightly by a hot squash and biscuit stop.

Total distance: 12 miles and 3810 ft of ascent.

New fells: Robinson, Hindscarth and Dale Head.

Day One

2007-02-11T16:19:00.000Z

Due to the cricket, the team were up very early this morning and ready to walk with packed-lunch, water-proof gear and various navigational tools by 9.00. The weather forecast was fairly depressing and a drive through the Lakes yesterday had shown there to be a lot of snow on the hills. Therefore, a plan was formed to include smaller fells than had been previously planned.

A drizzly drive to Orthwaite did little to dampen our spirits and we set off along Horsemoor Hills farm road at approximately 10.30. A stroll along a bridleway quickly took us up Great Cockup (1720 ft) (you in the back row, stop giggling!) and into the cloud.

Undaunted, we took a quick picture and headed down to Trusmadoor and then up to Meal Fell (1770 ft). Walking down to the col there were some intimidating views and our perspective was surprisingly affected by the snow on the mountains ahead. However, the climb up to the summit was not nearly as hard as it had looked from the bottom.

Another picture was taken and then there was a long slog up onto Great Sca Fell (2131 ft). The steepness of the ascent and the thick cover of snow over the 'path' made this slightly taxing on the calves but we pushed on without stopping for breath. We were chuffed to see that we had reached the summit by 12.05.

By this time it was clear that the weather man had lied when he had said that the wind-chill would be 'insignificant': it was freezing! Therefore, there was no time for a break, instead we made a beeline for Knott (2329 ft).

Again, this seemed to take us a lot less time than expected and we decided that we had plenty of time left to go on to Great Calva (2265 ft). As there was still no sign of the cloud lifting we had to use the compass in order to determine the correct direction and, miraculously, we were spot on. We followed a fence up to the top and were once again a bit troubled by thick snow on the path on the way to the summit.

My brand new walking pole was put to great use on the way down as we were freezing and wanted to get down as quickly as possible. We picked up the path down Hause Gill which proved to be a bit tricky to begin with but we were soon making good time down past Burn Tod. We finally ate our sandwiches by a lovely little stream and washed them down with some tasty hot squash and then worked them off by making a good pace down to the car. We were back there by 2.40.

Total distance of 9.75 miles and 2460 feet of ascent.

New Fells: Great Cockup, Meal Fell and Great Calva.