GRASMERE - 1st February 2026

Forty-eight walkers set off for the Lakes, with the weather forecast suggesting yet another wet and challenging day. But they were pleasantly surprised for once as the Met Office’s pessimism was proved to be generally unfounded. Sure, there were some light spits and spots, but nothing to write home about, and apart from the Oldhams cavorting in the wet snow, most of the groups remained relatively dry! It was even mild for the time of year!!

Geoff’s group found that much of their walk was enveloped in low cloud with limited visibility. The walk was tough from the start with the climb up Steel Fell being particularly difficult. Greenup Edge to High Raise and Sergeant Man was deep in snow and in other areas boggy ground made progress slow and demanding.

They only just made it back in time and arrived back at the coach 16:55. Sadly there was no time for a pint, but they all enjoyed a good day’s fell walking. It was a tougher walk than expected with 13 miles travelled and an ascent of 3,300ft.

Steve’s group found their route take them to the Head of Far Easedale from Grasmere, Calf Crag, Steel Fell and eventually back down to Grasmere. It was a walk of 9.25 miles and 2,100 feet ascent.

They had an atmospheric day in the dry & calm conditions after the forecast rain failed to show, but Simon managed to find a bog to drop into up to his knees!!

Reindeer lichen fruiting bodies showing on a valley dry-stone wall; snowdrops in flower; one daffodil flower seen…….Spring is coming!!

Martin’s group had a good day out in Grasmere. The conditions were overcast and calm and they had a scenic route to Loughrigg Tarn, Rydal Cave and Rydal Hall. The hills were dotted with speedy runners in colourful outfits taking part in the Grasmere Map Run. The popular Rydal Cave was not crowded for a change.

They took the opportunity to venture into the massive cathedral like cave. The acoustic inside was amazing when they heard a trio of walkers humming a beautifully harmonised cappella.

It was interesting to find the Hydropower turbine at Rydal Hall which was made in 1917, and which powered a saw mill and lighting at the hall until 1980. It was replaced by a more powerful one later that provides all the power to the hall. It’s good to know they continued to invest in renewable energy like hydropower. 

A cold beer at The Tweedies Bar completed a very enjoyable day of hiking.

Stu’s group left the coach at Ambleside RUFC along with several other groups, and set out at a brisk pace over Rothay Bridge and through to Clappersgate.

Winding through Pull Garth Wood and the Pull Woods, the views opened up affording lovely views across Blelham Tarn, and not a ripple to be seen on the surface.

A couple of miles further on, the tranquil little village of Hawkshead, first target of the day was reached, with coffee and cake at one of the welcoming cafes.

Onwards and upwards to Hawkshead Hill heading for the ever beautiful Tarn Hows. Never a place that disappoints, the tarn was like a mirror and there were fewer visitors than expected.

A quick pause, then northwards to join the Cumbria Way to High Park and Stang End, crossing the outflow from Little Langdale Tarn, climbing up to Howe Banks before dropping down into Elterwater hamlet.

Resisting the temptation to take a stop at the Britannia Inn, they passed through and began the final steep climb to Huntingstile Crag, to descend through Redbank Wood and the minor road down to Grasmere.

The 13.5 miles planned route had increased to 14.5 miles by the time they reached the coach, probably due to their efforts to avoid one or two boggy fields and footpaths.

Accumulated climbing had reached just over 2,000 feet over the day's walking, even though it was a 'lower-level’ walk!

Keith’s Oldham’s group started from Ambleside, heading up over Red Screes, Middle Dodd and on to Dove Crag, where they first met the snow. From there they continued over Hart Crag and Fairfield. Here a number of the group decided to have a snowball fight. On the descent the clouds finally broke, giving them their first views of the day. With time against them they missed out Seat Sandal, but four out of eight of them made it to the pub for a very quick — and very welcome — pint.

Pat’s group consisted of the two Pats & Steph and started their walk from Ambleside Rugby ground. They followed the minor road from Rothay Bridge all the way to Pelter Bridge and over the footbridge and main road to Rydal. After climbing up to Rydal Hall and admiring the waterfalls, they started to make their way along the Coffin route back to Grasmere, resting on the Coffin rests on their way to eat their lunch. 

A good day and for the first time in many walks it didn't rain.

Thanks again to the leaders - Geoff, Clare V, Martin, Keith, Stu, Steve, Pat G, John, Suzy and Mike J. And to a whole host of photographers for their continued contributions including Geoff, Mike C, Monika, Darren, Mike K, Clare V, Mike B, Pam B, Michelle, Eric, Neil O, Howie, Pete, Stu & Steve. Phew!!!! Did anyone NOT take photos??? :-) Keep up the good work!

Click HERE to open the album.

Click HERE to view Darren's latest video.

Next Walks:

Sunday 15^th February 2026 - Threlkeld via St Johns in the Vale

5.00 p.m. departure

Northbound to Preston, M6 north to junction 36, A591 through Windermere and Ambleside to Stanah, B5322 through St John’s in the Vale to Threlkeld. Park in Threlkeld. Morning coffee stop at Burton services.

Sunday 1^st March 2026 – Gargrave to Skipton

5.00 p.m. departure

Northbound to Preston, on to the M65, M65 eastbound to junction 7, via A6185/A678 to the A680, A671 to roundabout N of Whalley, A59 to Skipton roundabout, A65 to Gargrave, return on the A65 to Skipton. Park in Skipton. Morning coffee stop at Darwen services, M65.

Sunday 15^th March 2026 – Coniston via Torver

5.30 p.m. departure

Northbound to Preston, M6 north to junction 36, A590 through Newby Bridge and Penny Bridge, A5084 to Torver, A593 to Coniston. Park in Coniston. Morning coffee stop at Burton services.