Southport Fell Walking Club

 Photo: by Darren Geoff’s group began their walk in Derbyshire at Buxton, where they took in the famous hot springs before wandering through the beautiful Pavilion Gardens. From there, they made their way up to Solomon’s Temple, enjoying the views before passing the HSE labs and an industrial estate as they headed towards open countryside. The real climb soon began, and it was broken up with a well-earned lunch stop at an old WWII pillbox. Refuelled and ready, they set their sights on the main objective: the Dragon’s Back hills. The second ridge proved more challenging, with a steep scramble up loose scree—one that Barry wisely chose to bypass. After the excitement, they descended into the valley and crossed the stepping stones, taking a moment to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Their route then led tghem up to Pilsbury Castle, adding a touch of history to the day, before easing into a relaxed and nonchalant amble towards Hartington. The group finished with refreshments at t...

 Photo: by Geoff Finally for the first time in quite a few weeks, the Club had a ‘dry’ walk with no need for a complete change of clothing as has recently been the norm! The 41 walkers set off in a multitude of groups and from a variety of locations but generally heading for Keswick via the A591. Geoff’s group, after a tough start climbing 2400 ft in the first hour and getting most of the climbing done, had a great walk. They got onto the Dodds and the walk was easier but very windy. After descending from Clough Head they got soaked in a shower which was only brief thankfully. At this point they decided to continue on to Castlerigg stone circle and Keswick rather than Threlkeld, which added a couple of miles and some height to the walk, but it was all very enjoyable and great to be out in decent weather again. A couple of pints in Keswick Wetherspoons polished off a great day. They did 12 miles and 4000ft in the end. Keith’s group left the coach at Town End, and were instan...