Arnside is always a popular draw for our group, and we had a reasonable turnout again today for a damp December morning.  The drizzle soon eased off as we set off along the coast with glimpses of views over to Grange-over-Sands.  High tide was a couple of hours away and for me it is always fascinating to watch the rip tides coming in and the seabirds certainly enjoyed their 'surfing' on the currents.

There are some old favourite haunts which always crop up on our sojourns to this area, and the Pepperpot is one such haunt.  A lovely viewpoint perched above Warton, and just the right timing for our coffee break.  We then continued with a mixture of woodland and very soggy fields to reach the highlight of the day.

Ron and Ann had been good enough to approach the Cumbria Wildlife Trust to get the group a permit to visit Gait Barrows.  This is a little known but splendid area of protected limestone pavement, certainly the largest in the immediate vicinity.  Very different from somewhere like Orton Scars, it is mysteriously hidden amongst the trees and a real delight to stumble upon.  But we are not telling you how to get there!

After this treat, we had another old haunt to try to clambor up - the Fairy Steps.  Claire had heard about the fable of climbing up with no hands to have all your wishes come true.  Well, she tried, but it really can't be done me'thinks!  Anyway, a fairy did appear whilst we were at the steps - in the form of Ann with a lovely collection of mince pies for us all to enjoy. No wonder we all struggled up the narrow gap! 

Thanks very much to Ron and Ann for yet another route which took in a few paths I don't think I have travelled before - you can never be totally sure with Arnside.