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SS06
Slipper Strolls
"Slipper
Strolls" are less challenging walks, notionally
where slippers might be worn rather than boots!
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The weather was not looking too promising as the 3
'trainer walkers' - Gill and John Lyons and myself - parked up at Elterwater. In
fact it had started raining again.
Not to be deterred we set off down the Cumbria
Way towards Elterwater tarn at a fair old gallop with Gill demonstrating the art
of power walking. I think even Don would have struggled to keep up!
The shower passed over just as I put my cag on,
then started again when I took it off. By the time we reached Skelwith Bridge
and left the shelter of the trees it had become a little heavier.
We then made our way to view Colwith Force, an
impressive waterfall made even more so by the rain. From this point on it turned
really bad. The skies darkened to the point where it was difficult to see the
path when going thorough the wooded section and the rain was turning the tracks
into mini rivers. Little Langdale tarn was spotted through the gloom before the
trudge along the side of Lingmoor back to Elterwater.
The thought of dry warm clothes and a hot cuppa for
once held sway over any thoughts of going to the pub.
Amazing how even the bad days are still enjoyable -
certainly beats going to work!
No team photo - didn't take the camera - good
decision!
Bryan.
1st August 2006
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SS0602 Potter
Fell
Stuart and Gill Fairclough, Margaret Shore and
myself gathered at 7 p.m. on a beautiful summer's evening in Staveley. The
temperature was still in the mid-20's even at that time, and the pint of cold
lager sat on the table outside the Eagle and Child seemed more appealing than a
5 mile walk.
It says something about the sheltered life I lead
that I assumed everyone in the world owned a rucksack. What do people carry
things around in otherwise? But I now know different. The Fairclough's don't
possess such an item so pockets were stuffed with water bottles and sun cream
before we set off.
The first part of the route follows the Dales Way
alongside the river and it was here that we saw one of Tony's mates - Mr Heron
the fisherman. After a mile or so we then crosed the river and made our way
steadily uphill towards Ghyll pool. Halfway up the John Lyons tactic of pointing
out some distant peak was deployed. Margaret said it was Coniston. I disagreed
and said it was probably Kentmere. 30 minutes later at the top of the climb I
had to admit I was wrong. A humbling experience!
Anyway Potter tarn was reached without too much
heavy breathing and enthusiasm was such that the side trip to Gurnal Dubs was
decided on. By this time the sun was beginning to set (see team photo)
and the tarn looked impressive with two fisherman enjoying the late evening rise
( a technical fishing term which Tony will understand!).
Then it was back to Potter tarn and on downwards as
the sun set over Kentmere ( the real one this time!). A final steep descent was
made into Staveley and a wlecome pint enjoyed whilst sat outside the Eagle and
Child. We finished at 10pm after walking 5.6 miles with 900 feet of climb. It
was still light, as well as being warm enough to sit outside in shorts and
t-shirts. Just like being abroad really. A splendid evening.
Bryan,
18th July 2006
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There was a
distinct lack of commitment for the inaugural Slipper Stroll (or Dogs and Clogs
as it was nearly called but for a lack of either). The day had been wet and the
most people were willing to pledge was that they would meet up at Scout Scar car
park but if it was raining.......
However the
rain kindly moved away and it was a pleasant if a little blustery evening. Gill
Fairclough, Gardiners, Lyons-s and Shores all arrived by car but, naturally,
Bryan, had hoofed it from Kendal Green. Off to the Mushroom and along the Scar
before diving down to Barrowfield Farm and then into Honeybee
Woods.
We
crossed the Brigsteer Road, went along a track and then off left on a fell
runner's secret path and emerged into a field that led up to Helsington. Left
at the road, back across the Brigsteer road and along the Scar to the Mushroom
for team photo.
Returned to the car and repaired to the Rifleman's Arms for a
couple of jars and then, in our case, to the Chinese Take-Away and back home for a feast, more beer and to fall asleep
through Play Misty For Me. Perfect!
A
creditable 5.4 miles and 1,014 feet of ascent. Well done Bryan for getting us
all out and taking us on paths I had never previously
considered.
Don,
11th July 2006
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