Spring Walks 2018, Coledale Round with a twist, Sunday 6th May

Reporter: Vanessa Miller

On a rare sunny day in the lakes 9 members plus 2 dogs (Brian Richardson, Brian Beardsall and Peddar, Steve Wardle and Jim, Vanessa and Dave Miller, Liz Moore and Paul Prentice, Nigel Koenan, and Andrew Walker) met outside Middle Ruddings for a prompt start at 09:45.

We had a gentle introduction to the walk along an elevated wooded path across to Thornthwaite before starting our ascent. Passing the Whinlatter visitor centre we crossed the road and made our way up forestry tracks and out onto open ground at Hobcarton End where we then rose steeply onto Grisedale Pike. It was very hot initially, and I was certainly suffering with long trousers on. I had forgotten my shorts. I obviously didn't believe the weather forecast.

But as we climbed we did begin to get some breeze higher up. I think we were all glad to get to the top and a well earned rest and lunch. We all shared Steve's Eccles cakes which have know become a tradition. Sorry Steve but it will be expected every year now.

It got slightly exciting at one point when Jim the new dog to the group started his decent following another group until Steve expertly retrieved him.

The dogs made quick work of the walk, circling backwards and forwards, and completing at least 3 times the distance we did. Peddar and Jim recently introduced, took a little time to weigh each other up. Who would become pack leader? But they soon settled into amiable companions.

We then took in Hopegill Head (770m), Sand Hill (756m), Coledale Hause, Crag Hill (839m) and Sail (773m) before descending in the trough between Outerside and Barrow to reach High Coledale and then our reward of beer and tea at the Coledale Inn. What a beautiful beer garden to end our walk. Where you can look back up and survey all that hard work with a well earned rest and drink. Ah what bliss.

Thanks Dave for another great walk and bringing the weather with you.