It gets me out of the house

Langdale Pikes - 8 May 2010

2010-05-09T15:25:00.000+01:00

Blackstone Edge - The Long Way

2008-02-07T19:32:00.000Z

Date of Walk : Saturday 2nd.February

Route : Shaw - Crompton Moor - Rooden Reservoir - Piethorne Reservoir - Windy Hill - Blackstone Edge - Ogden Reservoir - Shaw

Distance : 17.2 miles

It's not often I get out on a Saturday but with the weather, the football was postponed, and the forecast for Sunday was rain. Also, the ground was covered in white stuff so I had to get out. The route started exactly the same as my last walk through the Piethorne valley. However, I ventured off up Windy Hill towards Summit (top of the M62) and then over the top of Blackstone Edge. I only took pictures and videos up to the summit as I was running late due to a lift I had promised my father in law, so the last 4-5 miles were almost at running pace. Well at least quicker than my usual pace anyway.

Crompton Moor

The view from the top of Crompton Moor

Looking down on the village of Denshaw

The route to Summit. After all the recent rain, the only route without getting your feet soaked was to walk up the banking on the right hand side!

Looking towards Blackstone Edge

Flickr Album - Blackstone Edge - 2 Feb 2008

YouTube - Blackstone Edge - 2 Feb 2008

Piethorne Valley

2008-01-20T20:29:00.000Z

Date of Walk : Sunday 20th.January 2008

Route : Shaw - Crompton Moor - Rooden Reservoir - Piethorne Reservoir - Ogden Reservoir - Crompton Moor - Shaw

Distance : 9.2 miles

I had just had enough of this weather and decided I was walking whatever the weather. It was rather murky earlier on but considering the forecast it wasn't a bad day although extremely damp. It's a walk I've done before although never with such rain and damp ground. It also allowed me to continue testing the G9 and I had a couple of attempts at using the video. Hopefully this can become more of a feature especially if we eventually get some better weather.

Rather murky conditions on the route over Crompton Moor.

This is the footpath!!

Flickr Album - Piethorne Valley - 20 January 2008

Nab Scar - Happy New Camera

2008-01-04T21:19:00.000Z

Date of Walk : Thursday 3rd January

Route : Rydal - Nab Scar - Heron Crag - Great Rigg - Stone Arthur - Grasmere - Coffin Route - Rydal

Finally managed to get out and give the camera a road test. Set off just before 10 o'clock after parking near Rydal Mount. We headed up to Nab Scar and then continued to Heron Crag and arrived at Great Rigg around lunchtime. We contemplated heading over Fairfield but decided it was rather cloudy and it was extremely cloudy and cold to head any higher with a 9 year old. In fact, it was Beth's decision rather than mine. We then headed back to Grasmere via Stone Arthur and had a wander through Grasmere, which I have never seen so quiet. The walk was completed by heading back along the Coffin Route to Rydal Mount. Unfortunately, very few pictures were taken after Heron Crag. Don't worry the camera's fine, but it started sleeting so I didn't spend all that money to get it wet!! I suppose I'll have to show a bit more bottle in the future!!

Looking up to Nab Scar

Looking down on Grasmere and Rydal Water

Windermere viewed from the path to Nab Scar

Alcock Tarn
Zooming in on Easdale Tarn

Beth's latest idea is to collect an object on each walk! I don't know where she's going to keep them yet.

Flickr Album - Nab Scar - 3 Jan 2008

Dovestones Reservoir

2007-12-30T15:21:00.001Z

Date of Walk : Sunday 25th.November

Had actually forgot that I'd not posted these pics, but due to a combination of the horrible weather and a huge flood in my kitchen have been unable to get out recently. It's a bit of a pain as I have a new Canon G9 which needs testing out in the hills. The walk was a 7 mile circular round the lower edges of Greenfield and Dovestones Reservoir.

Flickr Album - Dovestones - 25 Nov 2007

Blackstone Edge

2007-11-24T18:19:00.000Z

Date of Walk : Sunday 18th November

Route : Ogden Reservoir - Kitcliffe Reservoir - Piethorne Reservoir - Windy Hill - Blackstone Edge - Lydgate - Ogden Reservoir

Distance : 10.4 miles

This was a walk with a new walking group (40s Walkers North) and the weather was pretty dire but the company was great and it was good to put names to faces. We set off from a rather damp Ogden Reservoir with a little excitement as sleet could be seen up on Crompton Moor. What is it that turns perfectly behaved adults into children when there's a bit of white stuff about. The walk continued up the Piethorne valley and then we headed up to Windy Hill. For those unfamiliar with the area it is the top of the M62 at Summit. Then we followed the Pennine Way path over Blackstone Edge. This saw quite a reasonable amount of snow as we gained height. After negotiating Blackstone Edge we came down the Roman Road and then followed the route back to the M62 before heading back down to Ogden Reservoir.

Ogden Reservoir

The path on the way up to Windy Hill

Not quite Striding Edge but it involved a bit of balancing.

Blackstone Edge

Flickr Album - Blackstone Edge - 18 Nov 2007

Remembrance Sunday

2007-11-11T20:46:00.000Z

Date : Sunday 11th November

Distance : 2.5 miles

It's certainly not the achievement of Great Gable and I promise to do that one year, but this is the local service on Pots & Pans which I have walked on plenty of previous outings.

Looking up Chew Valley.

Beth on the way up striking a pose.

Flickr Album - Remembrance Sunday

Haystacks

2007-11-11T20:28:00.000Z

Date of Walk : Friday 2nd November

Distance : 4.5 miles

Route : Gatesgarth Farm - Warnscale Bottom - Haystacks - Scarth Gap - Gatesgarth Farm

This was the last walk of our short break, and we also took my dad and stepmum along as well. This was a really enjoyable walk although it feels more than 4.5 miles. I would love to repeat it on a day with a little less cloud to get some even better images, but I suppose it is November.

Looking to where we are heading.

Buttermere and Crummock Water

Flickr Album - Haystacks - 2 Nov 2007

Mellbreak

2007-11-11T20:02:00.000Z

Date of Walk : Wednesday 31st October

Distance : 6.2 miles

This was an excellent walk with Roger and Ann Hiley (plus Harry and Bethan of course). We met up at their cottage in Loweswater and decided upon heading up Mellbreak and headed for Scale Force before walking back along the shore of Crummock Water. It was great to finally meet up with Roger and Ann who were excellent hosts for the day as well as super company. Beth is also hooked on having a go at completing the Wainwrights but insists we need a dog to do it. I said we'll have to trade her older brother in for a dog!!

Ann and Beth leading the way (although Harry and Bethan are probably further ahead.)

Fleetwith Pike

Two Beths and Harry

Crummock Water and Buttermere

Scale Force

Beth helped Roger tidy up the old gate.

Beth after a quick shower and change!!

Flickr Album - Mellbreak - 31 Oct 2007

Loweswater Cam - report and photos on our walk

Ashness Bridge

2007-11-11T19:42:00.000Z

Date of Walk : Tuesday 30th October

Distance : 6.2 miles

Route : Castlerigg Farm - Springs Wood - Keswick (town centre) - Friar's Crag - Calfclose Bay - Ashness Bridge - Great Wood - Castlerigg Farm

This was the start of our short break in the Lakes. The initial plan was to go up Walla Crag, but Beth wanted to pop down into Keswick. We went down to Keswick and walked along the side of Derwent Water and eventually arrived at Ashness Bridge. After leaving Ashness Bridge, the weather appeared to be turning a little grim, so we re-routed through Great Wood. My theory here was that if the heavens opened at least the wood would give us a little shelter. Of course, it never rained but Walla Crag can wait for another day.

Looking across Derwent Water.

Friar's Crag

Looking down Derwent Water towards Castle Crag.

Ashness Bridge

The view towards Bassenthwaite Lake.

Flickr Album - Ashness Bridge - 30 Oct 2007

Saddleworth Circular

2007-10-29T20:22:00.000Z

Date of Walk : Sunday 21st October

Distance : 17.5 miles

Route : Shaw - Crompton Moor - Denshaw - Castleshaw - Standedge - Diggle - Uppermill - Dobcross - Delph - Denshaw - Crompton Moor - Shaw

The weather was unbelievable for October so the day couldn't be wasted. The plan was to go over the top of Crompton Moor (The same route as my last walk with Beth) and then head over to Castleshaw in the next valley via the village of Denshaw. From Castleshaw I went to the top of Standedge and then moved down the valley and followed the Huddersfield Canal all the way down to the outskirts of Uppermill. From here I picked up the old railway track (know locally as The Delph Donkey) and from Delph I continued up the valley and returned to Denshaw before heading back over Crompton Moor to home.

Residents of the llama farm in Denshaw.

Looking down to Castleshaw.

Castleshaw

There was once a Roman fort here.

The entrance to Standedge Tunnel.

The canal towpath on the route from Diggle to Uppermill

'The Delph Donkey'

Flickr Album - Saddleworth Circular - 21 October 2007

Crompton Moor and beyond

2007-10-14T20:11:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Sunday 14th October

Distance : 8.7 miles

Beth was out with me today so we walked over Crompton Moor and did a circuit of the reservoirs in the Piethorne valley. (Rooden, Kitcliffe, Piethorne and Ogden) We walked back through the woods but she was feeling a little tired so walked back along the main road from Ogden Reservoir.

Looking down to Ogden Reservoir from the path on Crompton Moor.

Beth with the mast at Summit (J22 of the M62) visible in the distance.

Which way is it?

Shall I leave you here?

Flickr Album - Crompton Moor and Reservoirs

Black Hill & Chew Reservoir

2007-10-07T20:19:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Sunday 30th.September

Distance : 13.5 miles

This was an excellent ramble with super weather for the end of September. It sort of covers a couple of walks I have done before. I parked at Binn Green, but walked round the reservoir and up the road rather than going over the moors. This doesn't make it as exciting, but probably knocks about an hour off the walk. Once at Chew Reservoir I continued towards Laddow Rocks and then picked up the Pennine Way and followed this up to the A635 (the main road between Greenfield and Holmfirth)

Chew Reservoir

Looking back to Chew Reservoir

Looking down the valley towards Crowden from Laddow Rocks

Crowden Great Brook

Black Hill summit

Looking down to Dovestones Reservoir from the A635 road

Flickr Album - Chew Reservoir & Black Hill - 30 Sept 2007

Easdale Tarn

2007-09-03T21:02:00.001+01:00

Date of Walk : Wednesday 29th August

Distance : 6 miles

This walk was a request from Beth as it was the very first walk she did in the Lakes. It was quite interesting to watch as she raced ahead as she knew the route even without looking at the map. It was extremely busy on the way up but we went back down on the other side of the valley and hardly met a soul. I don't know why so many people go up and down on the same path. Beth had the same complaint as yesterday saying the walk was too short!! She'll be running up Blencathra soon at the rate she's going. Sadly this walk signalled the end of our Lakes trip but we'll back soon. Hopefully our next trip will be at October half term but we might manage to sneak a weekend in before then.

Sourmilk Ghyll and Beth

Looking down the valley

Easdale Tarn

A well earned rest.

Flickr Album - Easdale Tarn - 29 Aug 2007

Loweswater

2007-09-03T20:54:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Tuesday 28th August

Distance : 3.6 miles

Just a short walk around Loweswater which is a walk that Beth enjoys especially as her older brothers who I could never get to walk complained it was too far last time we walked round!! She also complained saying it was too short.

Flickr Album - Loweswater - 28 Aug 2007

Castle Crag

2007-09-03T20:41:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Saturday 25th August

Distance : 4.9 miles

After a few days camping, myself and Beth headed up to my Dad's house on the Solway. It's really handy because we can stay in the Lakes even when the weather doesn't allow and even better, after camping it allows the use of a washing machine. My dad is recovering from a serious Achilles problem so wanted a short walk to see how it was bearing up. We didn't follow the Wainwright's Walk route but parked at Seatoller and after climbing Castle Crag walked towards Grange and then followed the river back to Seatoller village where we encountered our only rain during our 8 days in the Lakes. Well we were in Borrowdale so what do you expect?

Our target can now be seen.

Derwent Water

Beth on top of the cairn.

Typical Borrowdale weather

Flickr Album - Castle Crag - 25 Aug 2007

Tarn Hows

2007-09-03T20:29:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Thursday 23 August

Distance : 7.9 miles

This walk was further than I initially planned but so what. Beth had never been to Tarn Hows but we both fancied a walk. We set off from Hawkshead village rather than driving up and then walked round the tarn. We returned through the woods and walked a little towards Coniston, but decided that was a little too far for Beth so re-routed back to Hawkshead. Sometimes I forget she's only 9!!

Hawkshead Church

Not a bad spot for lunch and Kendal Mint Cake.

Flickr Album - Tarn Hows - 23 Aug 2007

Helm Crag

2007-09-03T20:07:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Wednesday 22 August

Distance : 6.9 miles

Beth had often observed the top of Helm Crag when we passed through Grasmere by car and so I had suggested one day we went up. Having also seen the walk on TV a few days before going to the Lakes also had her asking to walk up there again. We did the walk setting off from just before White Moss Common. I ended up parked in a layby rather than using my National Trust membership as both car parks were full.

Looking at the top of Helm Crag from Grasmere village.

Contrary to rumours, my recent car problems weren't caused by ignoring this sign!!

I think someone is enjoying herself.

A rare picture of yours truly.

Flickr Album - Helm Crag - 22 Aug 2007

Water Water Water

2007-08-01T19:49:00.008+01:00

Date of Walk : Sunday 29th July

Distance : 17 miles

Route : Shaw - Crompton Moor - Rooden Reservoir - Piethorne Reservoir - Rakewood - Hollingworth Lake - Milnrow - Tunshill - Kitcliffe Reservoir - Piethorne Reservoir - Rooden Reservoir - Crompton Moor - Shaw

This was an extremely long walk but with the golden ball finally arriving in the sky and no sign of rain, one had to take advantage. The initial plan was to head past the reservoirs and go to Summit (the top of the M62 for those that know it). However, upon arriving at the path to Summit which goes over Windy Hill I was met by a 3 foot deep puddle which I could just about cope with but I also came across a group of quad bikes and wanted a peaceful walk rather than to spend the route dodging bikers. I head off the beaten track to avoid these sort of numbskulls!! Hence I decided to walk down to Hollingworth Lake which was far too busy for my liking (OMG, I'm sounding like a grumpy old man and I'm only 37!!) but once I followed the track to Milnrow it became a lot more peaceful. After this I crossed the M62 (not literally) and the remainder of the route was almost a repeat of the beginning although I varied the path to make it a little more interesting.

The mast at Summit which was one of my original targets.

An un-named reservoir on the OS map, but I found it was actually ......

...... Hanging Lees

The first crossing of the M62 is going under it, with Hollingworth Lake visible in the distance.

The camera never lies. Believe it or not this shot was taken about 100 yards from the M62.

Hollingworth Lake from the path towards Milnrow.

I'd be 5 mins from home if I was on the M62 rather than crossing it by foot.

I think these are my footprints 4 hours apart!

Flickr Album - Reservoir Round - 29 July 2007

Pots & Pans

2007-07-25T22:21:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Wednesday 25th July

Distance : 6.9 miles

Route : Binn Green - Greenfield - Uppermill - Saddleworth Church - Slade Rocks - Dick Hill - Obelisk (Pots & Pans) - Binn Green

This was another walk I had done before, but Beth wanted to go and have a look at the war memorial as I had mentioned that the name of one of our relatives was on it. We decided we weren't just going up to the memorial and back and made it into a circular walk which gave me chance to show Beth where I spent some of my childhood. It was a pleasant day with no rain (Yes that is correct!) although it was a little boggy in places.

Looking across Dovestones reservoir at the start of the walk.

This is where we are heading to eventually.

Beth in the stocks at Saddleworth Church. I don't think she'd be smiling if I was lined up with rotten fruit as a punishment.

Beth approaching Slade Rocks.

Saddleworth Church (where the stocks were) and beyond.

The main reason for the walk.

Dovestones Reservoir from a much higher viewpoint.

Flickr Album - Pots & Pans - 25 July 2007

Heavy Going

2007-07-15T16:48:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Saturday 14th July

Distance : 6.5 miles

Route : Binn Green - Dean Rocks - Dove Stone Moss - Chew Reservoir - Dovestones Reservoir - Binn Green

Wanted to walk a bit further than this but waited for the decent weather to arrive, so it was 2 o'clock in the afternoon before finally getting going. The initial plan was to climb up to the top of Dean Rocks and then head over to Chew Reservoir and to continue from there. However, the land across Dove Stone Moss is generally made from peat so at times it was like walking through treacle!! By the time I got to Chew Reservoir my legs felt like lead and they felt as if I had done about 20 miles at this point. To show this point, the last time I did this walk I got to Chew Reservoir in about 90 minutes, and today it took well over 2 hours!!

Looking down to Dovestones from the path up to Dean Rocks.

The war memorial on Pots & Pans

It's so clear that you can see right into Oldham Town Centre.

The view from the middle of Dove Stone Moss.

The King of Tonga was here in 1981. Apparently he was in the UK for the Royal Wedding.

Flickr Album - Dovestones - 14 July 2007

What's That In The Sky?

2007-07-11T21:53:00.001+01:00

Date of Walk : Sunday 8th.July

Distance : 5.8 miles

Route - Shaw - Grains Bar - Sholver - Besom Hill - Clough - Shaw

This was nothing spectacular apart from the sudden appearance of that great yellow ball in the sky at last. I had wanted to get my feet moving again but didn't fancy a total soaking. When it got to 4 o'clock on Sunday afternoon, the sun finally came out for a little and I decided I couldn't return to work on a Monday without a little exercise. It was just a short stroll from home but at least it got a little air into my lungs.

Looking across Besom Hill

Looking across the wonderful views of Shaw!! (Sarcasm is the lowest form of wit!!)

Tameside Football Walk

2007-07-11T21:47:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Sunday 1st.July

Distance : 18.5 miles

Route : Mossley - Ashton Utd - Curzon Ashton - Droylsden - Hyde Utd - Stalybridge Celtic - Mossley

This was the walk I had previously mentioned in my blog. It is a pretty long walk and it is fairly tough as the majority of the walk is on roads or canals. The weather didn't help with various rainstorms during the day, although apart from one deluge near the end, the outcome was probably better than had actually been forecast. For a slightly more detailed report, read my other blog.

Mossley Mania Blog

Saddleworth Round - 24 June 2007

2007-06-30T18:51:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Sunday 24th.June

Distance : 13 miles

Route : Greenfield - Uppermill - Dobcross - Diggle - Standedge - Castleshaw - Delph - Scouthead - Grasscroft - Greenfield

As previously mentioned, I have a longer walk to come next week. (There will be a post relating to this but it is a walk round all the non league football grounds of Tameside.) I went and bought another pair of lightweight boots and these were much better. I got a couple of small blisters but as the walk next week is somewhere between 16-18 miles (depending on the exact route) I now know where to stick the plasters before setting off next week.

The walk today took me through most of the villages of Saddleworth. For those unfamiliar with the area, this is part of the Peak District and some of my previous walks have been around this area, although at a higher level. This walk took me along the canals and the only off road walking was the stretch from Diggle over to Castleshaw.

The canal in Uppermill.

The magnificent Saddleworth viaduct seen from the canal at Dobcross.

No barges going through the Standedge Tunnel today.

Looking into Diggle from the path up to Standedge.

Even the sheep are sheltering from the rain!

The Castleshaw Centre from where I have run numerous school trips and tried to get youngsters interested in walking and the outdoors.

Looking into Dobcross. Even though this wasn't the end of the walk it was the end of my pictures as within 5 minutes there was a torrential downpour although I was still about an hour away from the car.

Flickr Album - Saddleworth Round - 24 June 2007

Crompton Circuit - Well Almost!!

2007-06-30T18:32:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Sunday 17th June

Distance : 8.5 miles

Route : Shaw - Jubilee - Crompton Moor - Crompton Fold - Brushes Clough Reservoir - Grains Bar - Dog Hill - Shaw

This was nothing spectacular but I am doing a rather longer walk in a couple of weeks so had bought a new pair of lightweight walking boots. I love my leather boots but the walk in a fortnight is mainly on canal paths and roads so they wouldn't be suitable. The new boots felt reasonably comfortable but a little soft in the centre of the shoe so I could feel stones a little too much. Back to the drawing board I think. It's a good job it's pay day this week if I am going to buy another pair before next weekend!! The idea when I set off was to complete the whole of the Crompton Circuit but for one reason or another I set off rather late as the whole circuit is 11 miles, and also being Fathers Day I knew I had to leave time to visit my Dad. Even in my 30s I still think of my old man as he is responsible for getting me into walking in the first place and at the moment he can't walk with me due to an Achilles problem.

The view from up on Crompton Moor.

Looking down into the town of Shaw. This is my home until I can earn enough money to buy a house in the Lakes!!

Brushes Clough Reservoir

Flickr Album - Crompton Circuit - 17 June 2007

Buttermere

2007-06-10T23:21:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Sunday 3rd June

Distance : 4.7 miles

Route : Buttermere Village - Burtness Wood - Peggy's Bridge - Gatesgarth Farm - Wilkinsyke Farm - Buttermere Village

This was the final walk for the holiday as were heading back home on Monday morning. It was another excellent walk with reasonable weather.

Looking down Buttermere

Looking across from Burtness Wood

The river near Peggy's Bridge

Flickr Album - Buttermere - 3 June 2007

Birdoswald Roman Fort

2007-06-10T23:10:00.001+01:00

Date of Walk : Friday 1st June

Distance : 3.2 miles

Our base was no longer Keswick but we were now at my dad's house in Allerby which is situated roughly between Cockermouth and Maryport. This wasn't a very long walk but was an interesting look around a Roman fort and also allowed a look at Hadrians' Wall which I haven't visited for about 15 years.

Flickr Album - Birdoswald - 1 June

Osprey Spotting

2007-06-10T23:04:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Wednesday 30th.May

Distance : 4 miles

Just a couple of short rambles today. Had no change so parked on the road at both the Osprey Viewing Point and at Whinlatter Visitors Centre. We wandered up to the viewing point and were lucky enough to see the osprey descend upon the lake for fish. No pictures I'm afraid as I can't operate binoculars and a camera at the same time. As most people probably know there are now two chicks in the nest with hopefully a third arriving very soon. After viewing the osprey, we went to the Visitors Centre but parked further down the road and observed from the webcam and did a little bit more finding out.

Lake District Osprey Home Page

Catbells

2007-06-10T22:53:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Tuesday 29th. May

Distance : 8.2 miles

Route : Castlerigg Farm - Keswick Boat Launch - Hawes End - Catbells - Hawse End - Keswick Boat Launch - Castlerigg Farm

Decided to intoduce Beth to Catbells but thought it would be busy for parking, so left the car at the tent and used the boat to get across Derwent Water. It was an extremely enjoyable walk but at times the path resembled the M6 on Bank Holiday Monday.

The poser in the middle of Derwent Water!

Views of Bassenthwaite Lake on the way up.

Derwent Water

Are we there yet?

Catbells

Flickr Album - Catbells - 29 May 2007

Loughrigg Round

2007-06-10T22:30:00.001+01:00

Date of walk : Monday 28th. May

Distance : 6.1 miles

Route : Elterwater - Skelwith Bridge - Loughrigg Tarn - Intake Wood - Loughrigg Terrace - Caves - Loughrigg Fell - Loughrigg Tarn - Skelwith Bridge - Elterwater

An excellent Bank Holiday walk which initially wasn't going to include Loughrigg Fell but after getting to the caves Beth decided she wanted to go over the top rather than round the side. It was a good job I didn't mind!!

Not a bad spot for a house (with views of Loughrigg Tarn and the fells)

I wonder how many photos have been taken from here.

The caves are still out of bounds.

Beth at the top of a rather blustery Loughrigg Fell. I'm sorry to say that some idiots(s) have written on the cairn since we were here last December.

The path down from Loughrigg Fell needed some care but is obviously ready for a rebuild looking at these boulders.

Loughrigg Tarn

The waterfalls at Skelwith Bridge

Flickr Album - Loughrigg Round - 28 May 2007

Derwent Water

2007-06-10T22:15:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Sunday 27th.May

Distance : 4.3 miles

Route : Castlerigg Farm - Springs Wood - Keswick - Boat House - Friar's Crag - The Ings - Deerclose Cottage - Watson's Park - Castlerigg Farm

The only day where we had to sit in the tent waiting for the rain to stop. Later in the afternoon we wandered down to the lake and went for a short walk along the edge and then back up through the wood. I saw a deer but it was too fast for the camera!

Looking across Derwent Water

Derwent Isle from the Keswick launch

Beth's little island

The wood near The Ings

You wouldn't believe it had been raining about an hour ago.

Flickr Album - Derwent Water - 27 May 2007

Castlerigg Stone Circle

2007-06-10T21:59:00.000+01:00

Date of walk : Saturday 26th.May

Distance : 6.1 miles

Route - Castlerigg Farm - Springs Wood - Castlerigg Farm - Stone Circle - Keswick - Springs Wood - Castlerigg Farm

For those knowing the area, this may look a rather strange route, but we had just put the tent up and wanted to check out the path to Keswick, but then decided to reroute to the Stone Circle and go to Keswick on the way back. (Beth was in charge as after all she is a 9 year old girl!!)

Looking across to Catbells from Springs Wood

This does spoil the scenic view.

Beth at the Stone Circle

I nearly managed a shot without people on it!

Flickr Album - Castlerigg Stone Circle - 26th.May 2007

Reservoir Round

2007-05-11T22:06:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Monday 7th May

Distance : 11.2 miles

Route : Blackstone Edge Reservoir - Light Hazzles Reservoir - Warland Reservoir - Gaddings Dam - White Holme Reservoir - Blackstone Edge Reservoir

This was another road test for my new boots but I set off with the intention of doing about 7-8 miles. You know what it's like when you think just a bit further and pop along the next ridge and so on. Sadly I paid for it later as I had a few blisters but it won't stop me getting out this weekend, although the weather might.

The start of the walk with Hollingworth Lake visible in the distance.

Blackstone Edge Reservoir

Chelburn Reservoir (I didn't walk round this one!)

Light Hazzles Reservoir

Warland Reservoir

Flickr Album - Reservoir Round - 7 May 2007

These Boots Are Made For Walking

2007-05-05T22:24:00.000+01:00

Date of Walk : Sunday 29th April

Distance : 6.2 miles

Route : Shaw - Crompton Moor - Ogden - Shaw

This walk was nothing special and it was a spur of the moment walk at about 4.30 on a Sunday afternoon. I had some new boots so wanted a reasonable walk but not too far as new boots can cause problems so I wanted a ramble of about a couple of hours to test them out.

Looking back into Shaw (my home) on the way up Crompton Moor.

The view from higher up on Crompton Moor.

Piethorne Reservoir

Looking up towards Bleakedgate Moor

Flickr Album - Crompton Moor - 29 April 2007

Easter Week - The Lakes

2007-04-22T19:57:00.000+01:00

I wanted to hit the Lakes for Easter weekend but as my football allegiance was taking me to Kendal on Easter Monday, I decided to continue after the football and spend the week on the Solway. (My dad has a house about 5 miles outside Maryport which makes a good base.)

Action from the Kendal Town v Mossley game on Easter Monday

Date of walk : Wednesday 11th.April

Distance : 4.9 miles

Route : Stonethwaite - Rosthwaite - Watendlath Tarn - Dock Tarn - Stonethwaite

Yet another fine example of dry stone walling.

Looking back towards Stonethwaite.

Beth nearly manages a smile!

Watendlath Tarn

Looking back to Watendlath Tarn on the path towards Dock Tarn.

Views across the Borrowdale Valley. (I think)

Dock Tarn

Date of Walk : Thursday 12th April

Distance : 4.4 miles

Route : Mawbray Bank - Mawbray Hayrigg - Newtown - Mawbray Bank

Just a short stroll along the side of the beach today aiming to reach a rather nice cafe at Mawbray Hayrigg. Unfortunately, it was such a nice day that half of the Solway seemed to have the same idea!

The beach at Mawbray Bank.

Looking across to Scotland.

Date of Walk : Friday 13th April

Distance : 3.9 miles

Route : Pooley Bridge - Howtown Pier - Pooley Bridge (via ferry)

Looking across Ullswater.

Beth looks a little happier this time.

Looking up towards Barton Fell.

Looking down Ullswater.

Flickr Albums - Kendal Town v Mossley - 9 April

Watendlath & Dock Tarn - 11 April

Ullswater - 13 April

Blast From The Past

2007-04-07T22:56:00.000+01:00

Pots & Pans

Date of walk : Thursday 5th April

Distance : 5.7 miles

Many people have given me advice regarding my ankle while I have been unfit to walk but I decided to take the plunge and invest in some walking poles to see if they will help me. I am still unsure even after this walk but I'm not getting any younger as Beth keeps reminding me. I decided to walk along the old railway through the Saddleworth villages of Greenfield and Uppermill for those familiar with the area. This where I spent my youth so it was interesting to walk past one of my old houses and both my schools. Very few people are left in these villages from when I lived here due to the astronomical house prices. I then cut through the fields leading to Saddleworth Church and I think it was in these fields that I embarked on my first camping trip. After arriving at the church and spending time studying graves (I don't know why!!) I then took the plunge and hit the hills so to speak.

Having been unable to walk on rough ground for the best part of two months made this quite a momentous occasion. I walked up onto the ridge and headed towards Dick Hill and then to the War Memorial and I couldn't belive quite how warm it was when one considers the height I was now walking at.

After leaving the memorial I headed to the top of Alderman's Hill where on a day like this the views are pretty spectacular. Not quite the Lakes but I think a pretty close second. People unfamilar with this area will wonder why it's called Pots & Pans as there is no mention of this on a map. Some local historian will probably prove me wrong but some locals felt the stones looked like kitchen utensils!

Wikipedia page for the area (for anyone interested)

Flickr Album - Pots & Pans - 5 April 2007

Road to Recovery Continues

2007-04-07T22:41:00.000+01:00

Hollingworth Lake

Date of walk : Monday 2nd April

Distance : 2.4 miles

Not a lot can be said about this walk as once again apart from giving my foot further exercise it is pretty frustrating to be walking round reservoirs when I want to be much higher. It could be worse as I suppose it could be raining.

Flickr Album - Hollingworth Lake - 2 April 2007

Almost back

2007-04-07T22:21:00.000+01:00

Dovestones Reservoir

Date of walk : Saturday 31st.March

Distance : 3.1 miles

The ankle injury was much worse than I had anticipated and it has been extremely frustrating. It annoyed me so much that I didn't bother writing in my blog. I went to the Lakes mid February as I had promised Beth but it was pretty scary as the minute I left the firm ground on the road it just felt like my ankle was going to give way.

This made me decide to have the ankle checked again and what I hadn't realised at the time was that as well as damaging my ankle I had caused considerable damage to my achilles tendon. I decided to give it healing time and and once I was moving reasonably well (early March) I put myself on a regime of walks involving footpaths and roads and sadly where I live this didn't involve anything worth blogging or photographing.

The ankle isn't perfect yet but I will have to take my time. Anyway, I decided to use the lower level at Dovestones Reservoir to see how the ankle was feeling. It's not the most exciting walk in the world but the scenery isn't too bad. In fact, Beth refused to come with me as she said it was a boring walk and she would only come once we could go back in the hills. Kids!!

Flickr Album - Dovestones Reservoir - 31 March 2007

Ouch that hurts!!

2007-02-08T21:57:00.000Z

Wessenden Moor

Date of walk : Sunday 4th.February

Distance : 7 miles

At last a wind free day in this neck of the woods and the sun was shining, so what could go wrong I thought. Why?? I set off across a fairly treacherous route heading to pick up the Pennine Way. This meant a trek of about a couple of miles across some pretty slippery mounds but I thought my previously problematic left ankle could cause problems so I decided caution was necessary and to take my time. I was within about half a mile of picking up the Pennine Way when disaster struck but not my left ankle but the other one. I slipped and the ground gave way as this time my RIGHT ankle twisted but the pain that ensued at first made me wonder if I had broken it. Anyway I decided I was going to get back to the car somehow but I didn't think the treacherous route I had just covered was the best route so decided to head for the Pennine Way and complete the walk I had planned. This would mean a walk of about 4-5 miles on a knackered ankle but I thought that was better than slipping again and breaking it. Was I wise? Who knows. All in all it was still a pleasant walk but the last couple of miles did result in rather a lot of pain. I finally got back to the car and once I got my boots off the ankle seemed to swell a little but I decided to drive home and have a bath and stick some ice on it. However, when I got my socks off the ankle looked so swollen that I decided to brave the local A&E. Luckily it was only a very bad twist but I have decided I need to give it time for a rest but hopefully I will be back on the peaks in about a month. The shame is I was heading for the Lakes next week. I will still go as I had promised Beth but I'm afraid there will be no peak bagging.

The reservoir in the distance marks where I will pick the Pennine Way up.

Wessenden Reservoir in the distance.

The river near Blakeley Reservoir.

Wessenden Reservoir

I had to slide down this hill on my backside due to my ankle injury!

Wessenden Head Reservoir & Wessenden Reservoir (in the distance)

The route with the red flag for the ankle injury!!

Flickr Album - Wessenden Moor - Feb 2007

Black Hill (or should it be Bleak Hill)

2007-02-02T20:58:00.000Z

Date of walk : Sunday 28th.January

Distance : 9.5 miles

The weather was reasonable and the forecast was for slight drizzle so on arriving at Crowden I decided to head up to Black Hill and to double back. (Well that was the theory but more of that later!) It looked a little murky up on the tops but people I met coming down from Black Hill said that it wasn't too bad up on the tops.

However, as on my previous walk I seemed to meet people coming towards me. Is there something they know that I don't? The path I followed was part of the Pennine Way and headed through Rake Rocks and Laddow Rocks. As I kept climbing up I was a little unsure about the weather as it got windier and windier but looking back down to Crowden the vision seemed fine. However, as I moved further up towards Black Hill the weather took a turn for the worse and the wind was howling and the rain became torrential.

It was so windy that I felt like I was going to lose my hat but the howling wind made me use my hood as well. The brooks were pretty full and in places one just had to walk through them and in a couple of places the level did slip over my laces. The view up at Soldier's Lump (top of Black Hill) was well not a view at all. I reckon you could see about 10-15 metres at times and for a bit I missed the path as I was supposed to double back and head back down toward Crowden.

However, eventually I located the route but I was so soaked by this point that I just kept on going and made my way back to the car. The pictures are only on the way up as I didn't want to test the waterproof ability of my camera. At least I got out but maybe I should have turned back. As I write (Friday evening) my boots are still damp but they should be OK for another pounding on Sunday.

This is as long as I chase off my cold. It was flu earlier in January but getting a soaking brought all my ailments back again. Anyway the forecast looks good so far so the fresh air will blow all the bugs away before heading back to that place thay pays my mortgage on Monday.

Flickr Album - Black Hill - January 2007

Blackstone Edge - dry but very windy

2007-02-02T20:43:00.000Z

Date of walk : Sunday 14th.January

Distance : 8.5 miles

Really needed a walk and the weather for mid January was pretty wonderful. Set off mid morning from nearby Hollingworth Lake (near Rochdale) and headed out via the Visitor's centre through some rather muddy fields. The walk takes you through a rather picturesque golf course but this wasn't too dangerous a task as there were only a couple of golfers around. In fact, the fallen tree was more of a hazard but for some reason I didn't bother with a picture.

Once through the golf course, I headed onto an old Roman road which takes you out towards the M62. To be honest I think I missed a path here and ended out adding about half a mile on!! This meant I had to cut across the moors a little and pick up the path.

Once up on the tops it was extremely windy and it was one of those days where you had to find shelter even for a brew. There were plenty of walkers about on the ridge and the wind even blew me over at one point and I am about 16 stone and 6 feet tall!! Most people I met seemed to be walking in the opposite direction to me and as I was walking into a strong headwind they seemed to have made the correct decision even if I hadn't.

Eventually the route meets the main road to Halifax at 'The White House'. (No, not that one!) The route then meanders back to Hollingworth Lake. This was a worthy walk which certainly got a few cobwebs out of my system.

Flickr Album - Blackstone Edge - January 2007

Diggle Round

2007-02-02T20:37:00.000Z

Date of Walk : Saturday 6th.January

Distance : 3 miles

The weather was absolutely shocking so didn't set off until after dinner. Even then, we (me and my Dad this time - Beth didn't fancy attempting drowning) sat in the car park for 30 mins waiting for the rain to ease. In view of the conditions I decided not to take the camera and this was probably a wise decision as the only shots I could have taken would have been torrential rain and mist!

I'm Still Alive!!!

2007-02-02T20:28:00.000Z

Not posted anything recently due to a combination of :

too much work - I know it's a pain but I can't find a way yet of getting paid for walking!!
a dose of flu (not man flu!!) that wiped at least one weekend out in January
couldn't get on the computer for the kids

Will try and keep up to date from now on. Honest folks!!

213 to go!!

2006-12-28T21:13:00.000Z

Distance : 4 miles

Date of walk : Saturday 23rd. December

Taken a while to write this one up due to Christmas festivities etc..... Myself and Beth had been sent out of the house so that the house could be tidied for Christmas, so being the wonderful husband I am I said to Mrs H that I would keep us out for the day.

Not a bad excuse for hitting the fells. I have only introduced Beth to real walking recently so decided it was time to do her first Wainwright. We did it from White Moss and went through the woods and then headed towards Loughrigg Terrace. It was quite an enjoyable walk being one of the easier Wainwrights and also allowing me a chance to test out my ankle.

I was amazed how few people I passed on the way up yet by the time we reached the top, people descended from all angles and enjoyed their lunch at the top. Beth really enjoyed this especially when she realized she could see Elterwater which was a walk we had done in August.

On the way down we entered the caves which is one of her favourite places to visit. Well for young Beth there's only 213 to go now and I am honestly not sure where I am up to so I will start again and cross off the next 213 some time in the next few years! (hopefully)

Loughrigg Fell - December 2006 - Flickr photos

Who's stolen our reservoirs?

2006-12-20T13:24:00.000Z

Distance : 6 miles

Climb : 750 feet

Date of walk : Tuesday 19th. December

Well decided I fancied a walk. No work this week which is great but I'd rather have done a few more days and not have to go back on January 2nd. Anyway that's not a worry at the moment. Beth wanted to come so I had to consider where to walk as she is a damn good walker but sometimes I forget that she's only 8 years old. Most of her class would complain if they had to walk to school! Also my dad was coming although he's still very mobile for someone approaching 63!! (It's a good job he can't find this blog!) On the way over towards Dovestones it was looking a little misty but I decided to go for it as we could always turn round. It doesn't bother me but I have to consider Beth. The forecast was for the mist to lift during the afternoon so let's go for it.

Parked up at Binn Green (too tight to pay at Dovestones) and went up the hill towards the peak.
Beth was finding it pretty tough and I was wondering whether I was being a responsible parent but she was just about still smiling.

Once at the top we headed for the Memorial Cross. The story behind this is that a local MP James Platt was grouse shooting when he accidentally got shot. Being in the 1800s there was certainly no Mountain Rescue so his helpful friends carried him back down the hill and left him at Chew Castle (which no longer exists) to take him home later. Unfortunately, when they arrived back at the bottom the MP was dead. All I can think of is that their grouse were more important than their MP. Also, as the climb is about 800 feet, so that's an awful lot of climbing.

Anyway we continued the walk through Ashway Stone and Dean Rocks. Then we continued along the ridge to join the road from Chew Reservoir and walked back d0wn the hill and round the other side of Dovestones Reservoir and back to Binn Green by which point it was pretty dark and we had two generations of wives/mums ringing to check we were OK!!!!

All in all a cracking walk and when the fog lifted it was a decent day although it did keep swirling around and on the descent it was quite atmospheric as the temperature dropped. The only downer was I twisted my ankle again about half a ile from the car. I wrenched it on Derwent Edge at the end of October and it hasn't been right since, so I'm going to buy an ankle support so that I can still get out of the house.

Flickr Album - Dovestones - December 2006