A weekend in Derbyshire with the inlaws was planned, so in preparation, Richard and I headed into Derbyshire a couple of hours in advance to burn some energy. We arrived in Hope at about 0930 and were soon on our way to Castleton. After helping one of the two remaining true WMCEG members with some dive gear, we headed up Cave Dale, over the top of Winnat’s Pass, and then after a quick look into Windy Knoll, we ascended Mam Tor. It was really quite windy on top, but surprisingly warm.
We followed the Mam Tor ridge along to Lose Hill before descending just in time for a quick dip in the river before a tasty lunch with the in-laws.
After lunch, we re-traced our footsteps with Chris and Monica in tow, at a more leisurely pace.
On Sunday we provided our visitors with a micro-tour of Derbyshire. First we visited Cheedale, then Monyash (for well dressings and lunch) and finally Stanton Moor.
Were there some climbers to entertain you and your guests in Cheedale?
yes, there were loads of climbers… but most of them were cheating by using long poles to clip on their quick draws.
And all this in the UK where tradition is sacred?! :sarcy:
Did you want to say Cheatdale? 👿
This area of Cheedale is a sport climbing (bolt protected) venue where working (practising) a route, which includes getting the quick draws in place by any means necessary, is normal ahead of a red-point (a clean free ascent clipping each point of protection as you go). So it’s not cheating, it’s practise. 😉
Personally I don’t enjoy this sort of sport climbing (red-pointing) much, preferring on-sight climbing (traditional or sport). But for the hardest routes it’s really the only way…
For info, the opposite side of the river is more traditional…
There were lots of people on the opposite side of the river…