Walk Report

We woke on Sunday to cloud and mizzle-drizzle but, fortunately, this cleared and held off for the most part. We were meeting at Great Wood NT car park 2miles outside of Keswick along the Borrowdale Road for a 10.5 mile walk. While yesterday, Saturday, we were in what Wainwright groups together as the North Western Fells, today, Sunday, on the other side of Derwent Water we were in The Central Fells. It was a steady ascent through woodland to Walla Crag with views over Derwent Water to Cat Bells on the far side and north to Bassenthwaite and the Northern Fells. From here it was a gentle walk over Bleaberry Fell until the final stepped climb to the summit and more beautiful panoramic views. The route from Bleaberry to High Seat wasn't met with much praise by Wainwright, 'Recommended only as penance for sins'! This due to the very swampy nature of the fell but the dry weather and the stone path installed in recent years made it eminently amenable and there were no soggy feet as we made our way to the relatively small hillock and cairn of High Tove beyond before dropping down along the zigzag path to Watendlath Tarn. At this delightful location there is a farm stead and, more particularly, a cafe. It was our good fortune that it was open on this occasion, as, I understand this isn't always the case, and if offered very welcome tea and cake. It was a steady away walk from here over the pack horse bridge, passing Surprise View and Ashness Bridge. The growth of the trees hides the view of Derwent Water and Skiddaw from Ashness Bridge which are now almost obliterated and, indeed, the misty cloud had obliterated Skiddaw. The return walk on a narrow path above the Borrowdale Road through woodland led us back to the car park and just in time, as the increasingly glowering clouds finally broke. This meant hasty farewells as we left and drove back into Keswick. A log jam of traffic into Keswick delayed our departure but we were dry and it had been a fabulous weekend, much enjoyed. Much appreciation and many thanks to John Scott and Paul Nellist who organised and led the walks and to everyone for their lovely banter and company which brightens any mood. (Beryl Massey)

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