Leader: David Shepherd
Reporter: Chris Fildes
Ahead of the official walks, 3 people (all carrying knee injuries) plus 3 dogs did a hike over Blawith Fells, described by Wainwright as “An enchanting walk, full of surprises.”
Early Saturday morning Chris and ‘The Boys’, Steve, David.S, Jim, Freddie & Fossie, set off from Fairholme Green, Blawith, via Slatestone Fell, for an anti-clockwise circuit over the Blawith Fells.
After ‘morning coffee’ above Beacon Tarn, we followed the Cumbria Way northwards for a mile or so until turning off to reach a disused reservoir. Walking around the northern end of this we continued west over Torver Low Common, eventually descending to a farm lane by Hazel Hall, and Greaves Ground. On reaching Haveriggholme, we climbed gradually between Yew Bank and The Knott. Then it was time for lunch and to admire the views over the Duddon estuary towards Black Combe.
Off we set again, beneath Bell Knott. Climbing this was an option but we decided to make our way down eastwards to the Cumbria Way again. Crossing this, we carried on upwards over Woodland Fell, before descending to Greenholme Farm. The route became unclear here but ‘The Boys’ ‘sorted it’. Turning immediately left and west, we followed Tarn Beck upwards, to reach our outward route and Slatestone Fell.
The weather forecast was spot on! Sunny, until mid afternoon when clouds and mist gradually enveloped the fells. Eventually the rain crept in, as we descended to Fairholme Green and our cars.
Steve and I left David to pitch his tent at Hoathwaite Campsite, and we drove to Coniston and the Sun Inn to unpack, and then to the bar!
Thanks David for a most enjoyable walk. and for ordering the sunny day of course!
Members can view or download the full newsletter containing this article here.