Snow on the fells
Blencathra in the clouds
Vickie & I met up for a hike up Blease Fell and Blencathra. The forecast was not good, but we both wanted (and needed) to get out and get some fresh air. It turned out to be a ‘not bad day’ on the fells. Sleet and rain did not dampen the conversation, and with the …
Canoeing and Kayaking on the River Eden
The River Eden was in flood – perhaps too much water for the coaching we wanted, but it was great opportunity for us to practice ferry-gliding across a swollen river. With a fast current and a strong wind, it certainly made me work hard. I was the only open boat on the river, with 6 …
Cold Grit
Saturday dawned sunny but cold and windy so after doing some chores I headed out into the Peak. Unfortunately when I reached Burbage Bridge the sun had gone and rain was threatening. Having come this far I opted for Higgar Tor East, sheltered from the cold SW wind. There was enough dry rock for an …
Frozen Toes
Laetitia went out shopping 😯 with her sisters today leaving me to get up to my own mischief! Silly me, I chose to go for a ride up Kentmere on my bike. It’s been raining cats & dogs and it’s pretty windy too. So, the combination of cold temperatures, being wet through and a fair …
Doom’s Retreat, Ink Sump
After the post on the recent trip to Doom’s Retreat Pete asked if any of the photographs Clive took would be available. Clive has kindly agreed to this. Working mainly in black and white Clive is one of the most widely known and accomplished cave photographers in the UK. His pictures can be found in …
Bikes, Bogs + Boulders
Having done no real exercise since Jack Scout Scar I decided to make an effort today. Weather restricted the options to a walk, so as I was due at my parents for tea, I opted for an old favourite Cut Gate to Outer Edge and back via Little Don. Cut Gate being a bridleway was …
Novice Trip down Giants Hole
Our novices Caroline & Martin & Old hand from the OUCC Jim Sheppard These guys all work with me and we had discussed doing a caving trip together for a while. Rachel & Richard organised the gear and met us at the woodbine in Hope. We all set off to the cave for an excellent …
Tarn Crag, Longsleddale, Pinnacle Ridge
After a sedentary weekend at the Kendal Film Festival, I felt the urge for a good ‘blast’ on Tuesday. Nothing too far away, with the short days, and Longsleddale came to mind. So Chris and I set of for ‘Sadgill Wall, only to be met by an army of hostile sheep. No need to tell …