Ikbal & family from Peterborough had been recommended to us and were keen to make the most of the good weather.
As neither of the lads had been into the mountains before we wanted to give them a memorable day but not push them too far, so chose the Raven Crag, Yewdale scrambling route as a starter.
The rock was dry and warm to the touch, so provided excellent friction. Everyone was soon enjoying the climbing and improving their technique. It doesn't take long before Coniston Water comes into view, so we stopped a while to enjoy the panorama on offer - lunch anyone?
From the top of the rocky section I asked the lads to help navigate us safely back to the road, we discussed a strategy for this and soon the small footpath was located and back to the road we went, easy.
For the afternoon I had planned on a visit to Tilberthwaite to Abseil. However there had been a lot of Mountain Rescue activity going on there and an Ambulance was in attendance, so we thought better of it and headed to Hodge Close instead.
Soon the ropes were all set up above a 40 metre cliff and it was time to Abseil. 3 out of 4 had never Abseiled before and with a 6 year old too! No fear, just a little help and even the little one was enjoying 'space below his feet' during the big descent. Starting young is definitely a good thing and with the right encouragement can be such a confidence boost.
Thanks all for a grand day out in the sunshine.
Mark
