Mountain Journeys - Guided Walks - Blog

Guided walking in the Ullswater valley

13/5/2022

#ullswater-way-guided-walks-ambleside

The view from Boredale Hause

Today I have been walking with Janet and Christine. They were looking for a walk of around 4 - 5 hours giving wonderful views and not too much ascent. A circuit of Place Fell seemed to fit rather nicely and that's where we headed, setting out from Patterdale this morning we ascended to Boredale Hause where the wind reminded us the weather is always in charge. Once we had dropped into Boredale there was shelter and we were able to marvel at the expanse of this place. We spotted Deer high above us, they were already on the move, no doubt having spotted us long ago.

We set a leisurely pace back along the shores of Ullswater, enjoying many photo opportunities and a well earned snack stop. Tired legs arrived back in Patterdale, but lasting memories made with so many wonderful views.

If planning a visit to the Lake District and wanting to explore the mountains or valleys more, why not get in touch and we'll plan some guided walks or adventurous activities for you.

Mark

#ullswater-way-guided-walks-lake-district

Ullswater

Rock climbing refresher weekend

13/5/2022

#corvus-hand-traverse-raven-crag-lake-district

The classic 'hand traverse' pitch on Corvus

There has been so much going on here and so many activities, I'm quite behind with blogging.
This one is all about last weekend, when I was helping out my friend Iain of Lakes Outdoor Experience, a Kendal based Outdoor activity provider. Whilst he is taking a well earned holiday, I ran a 2 day refresher climbing course on his behalf. With a father and son team with a long and colourful climbing history. After some time away from the crags, this weekend was all about re-familiarisation with the rock, all whilst enjoying some easy classics.

We started with Corvus on Raven crag, Borrowdale. The rock was a little damp making it more challenging than expected, but all good fun. The route had a few other teams on it making all the belay ledges social times, chewing the fat with fellow climbers. This also meant we took a little extra time on the route, allowing us to enjoy the positions and views even more.

Day two and we moved south to Langdale. Middlefell Buttress was our starter route. The rock was completely dry here and a delight to climb. After lunch Mark needed to head home, so me & Dan moved over to the main crag and climbed Evening Wall and Original Route.

At each belay, we discussed the anchor choices and stance management, all areas that will be useful when these guys are back on the Pembrokeshire sea cliffs they call home. Equalising anchors and abseil set ups were other areas we touched upon and as well as a great two days of climbing, some new skills have been passed on, ace :-)

Thanks to Iain at Lakes Outdoor Experience for the work, much appreciated.

If planning a visit to the Lakes and wanting to sample some of the amazing activities on offer here, please do get in touch, we'd be very happy to help.

Thanks for reading.
Mark

#guided-rock-climbing-ambleside-lake-district

Evening Wall on a busy Raven Crag

#rock-climbing-course-ambleside-lake-district

Middlefell Buttress

#guided-rock-climbing-corvus-lake-district

View from the top of Corvus

Dove Crag, Dovedale

22/4/2022

#lake-district-rock-climbing-dove-crag

Lunch at the base of a cold Dove Crag

Today we walked to a major mountain crag, from home. It would have been considerably easier to drive over to Patterdale and approach Dove crag from there, but for the sake of saving a few km's on foot it seemed well worthwhile to start the approach from home. This worked out very well and definitely something I'd opt for again on a hopefully soon return visit to this magnificent venue.
It's an 8km walk from Church Street in Ambleside. Lots of uphill and some seriously rough terrain as the crag nears, but an adventure every step of the way.

For over 10 years I've had in mind to climb Westmorland's Route on Dove crag. I have put it off time and time again, always going for the more reliable crags of Langdale and Borrowdale. Well today this was address, partly. Approaching the crag I immediately felt intimidated by the steepness, aspect, and remoteness. Just wow, this place is magnificent and that's why we're here, to be intimidated. I love it.
Dove crag is almost exclusively open for the hard and bold climber, and when I say hard, we're talking north of E5. This isn't me. But the route we are here for is a little easier assuming it is in perfect condition, and today it will be. At Severe, our chosen route weaves a magical line up the left arete of the crag, finding easy yet interesting ground to reach the summit. All information we had gathered suggested to only attempt the route in perfect conditions when the rock would be bone dry. After many days of dry weather this seems a good time to try and scale its 6 pitches of impressiveness.

Alas it was not to be. 50mph winds coming straight from the east and battering the crag head on caused us to pause for thought. The roar of the wind made it difficult to communicate even when standing next to each other. We all knew the climbing plans were off so took some time to enjoy lunch in the sun whilst looking out over Dovedale.

The route looks amazing and I can't wait to get back there to climb it, so fingers crossed for some kinder weather with less wind.

We aimed for the Priest Hole then followed a mildly scrambling route up onto the summit of Dove Crag before following the broad ridge back to Ambleside.

Distance was only 16km which is pretty good going for a visit to a major mountain crag from the doorstep, happy with that.
Thanks to Anna and Kristina for joining today and being happy and cheery about the change of plan to just taking climbing gear for a walk :-)

Mark

#guided-walks-near-ambleside-priest-hole-and-fairfield

Seeking shelter in the Priest Hole

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Topping out on the summit of Dove Crag

Helvellyn for sunrise

21/3/2022

#sunrise-on-helvellyn-lake-district

Approaching the summit of Helvellyn as the sun comes up

This morning the alarm sounded at 3am. Giving me just enough time for a quick brew before driving the short distance to Swirls at the northern end of Thirlmere reservoir. Here I was meeting Jamie, Josie, and Leanne to take them up to the summit of Helvellyn in time for sunrise.
Getting up at 3am is never going to be a highlight, but I knew it would be well worth the effort. We got so much more than expected though.

By 4am we set off walking, it was bitterly cold but with lots of ascent in store this didn't matter, we were all warm and had plenty of spare clothing just in case.
Headtorches were needed until around 5.15am, after that we could walk by moonlight and the morning haze. Ahead Brown Cove Crags loomed forebodingly with dramatic effect. All the while the light improving and a dreamy skyline of mountains lay over to the west, a magical sight. An orange glow was hinting at us ahead, as if the summit was on fire. Our anticipation grew and just a couple of minutes before reaching the summit of Helvellyn we were greeted by a most spectacular sunrise.
There was a light but bitterly cold breeze on the summit, so we couldn't stay too long, but a good 10 minutes was had absorbing the magnificence of the landscape. We spotted a tiny tent a couple of hundred metres away, that must've been a chilly night. Nearer by a couple of Ravens danced on the steep slopes below the summit shelter, maybe they were trying to warm up.

After a few more photos it was time to make our way back to the valley, breakfast was calling. Soon we were sheltered from the breeze and warming up a little. Taking our time to take in all the wonderful views to the west and north as well as the serene waters of Thirlmere far below.

Thanks to Jamie, Josie, and Leanne for joining us on this.

We offer lots of outdoor activities here in the Lake District. Sunrise and Sunset walks, Daytime walks, Rock climbing, Scrambling, Gorge scrambling, Canyoning, Abseiling, Adventure days, and Navigation courses. All are tailored to suit you. If you're thinking of visiting the Lake District and want to try some fun activities please do get in touch.

Mark

#guided-walks-at-sunrise-helvellyn-lake-district

Summit plateau of Helvellyn circa 6.20am

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Striding Edge and Red Tarn at sunrise

#view-from-helvellyn-summit-lake-district

Looking towards White Side and Raise from Helvellyn

Glenridding Beck - Gorge scrambling near Ullswater

20/3/2022

#outdoor-activities-ullswater-glenridding-beck

Taking the plunge in Glenridding Beck

This week we are being treated to a spell of glorious weather, with a big area of high pressure sitting just east of the country. This is allowing for bright blue skies and sunny days. It is still a little chilly though. However, we have thick and warm wetsuits so taking the water this morning was no problem for this couple from Thame.

As they were staying in the Ullswater area, Glenridding Beck was their preferred venue as it's so close by. This has nice easy access from the Helvellyn footpath and enjoys a sunny aspect, which is especially important at this time of year.

It all starts with a waterfall climb. With a powerful chute of water in the face, it's a tricky one, but both cruised it. Then it's loads of fun scrambling up and over rocky outcrops. Being sure to stop from time to time and admire the surroundings.

At the top of the gorge is a wonderful plunge pool with crystal clear waters. Here we can jump from the side of the waterfall into the deep water for the full immersion experience.

This gorge packs a lot into a short length of river, meaning our walk back to dry clothing is short and soon we are enjoying a hot drink too.

Such a wonderful way to spend a morning and one of the best things you can do when visiting the Lakes.

Are you planning a visit to the Lakes this Easter / summer and want to try some fun activities? We offer a wide variety of days out to suit all. Please get in touch and let's make a plan.

Thanks for reading
Mark

#gorge-scrambling-ullswater-glenridding-beck

Loads of fun and exciting challenges in the gorge

#activity-days-ullswater-glenridding-beck

A refreshing dip in the plunge pool

Spring days on Lakeland classics - Gimmer crag

18/3/2022

#guided-climbing-days-windermere-lake-district

Pitch 3 - the traverse - on Bracket and Slab, Gimmer

After a period of unsettled weather, a corner was turned today. The sun shone, it dried the crags and warmed the rock, as well as our skin. When the days are like this, climbing on a mountain crag here in the Lakes is absolutely magnificent. There really is no place in the world I'd rather be.

We had a late start and I cycled into Langdale to meet Sam at the Old Dungeon Ghyll around lunchtime. The plan going forward is to cycle instead of drive whenever that's possible.
A short walk led us to the base of a busy Raven crag. We cruised up Evening Wall in a couple of pitches. I noticed a girl on an adjacent route was climbing in short sleeves, it really has been a warm day.
Lots of easy scrambling leads from the top of Raven crag up to the Gimmer path and very soon we were enjoying a break at the base of Gimmer. We noticed a couple of teams were on here too, good to see.

It was decided we'd climb the classic 'Bracket and Slab' route. About 100m in length and given a grade of Severe (under graded in my opinion). Each pitch gives varied and nicely challenging climbing on rough, solid mountain rock. Such a delight to be up here. Sam led the initial pitches, these are almost certainly the most difficult. I had it easy, taking the upper two pitches.
Arriving at the top we changed into our trainers and continued scrambling all the way up to the summit of Loft crag. Here the views over to Pike O'Stickle are quite lovely. I was on a bit of a schedule so I could cycle home before dark, so a quick retreat back into the valley was up next.

A fantastic afternoon incorporating two multi-pitch climbs, lots of scrambling and a mountain summit. Thanks to Sam for joining me on this.

If you're looking to fill your next visit to the Lakes with mountain adventures, please do get in touch. We can plan a bespoke itinerary for you.

Mark

#learn-to-lead-climb-ambleside-lake-district

Original Route, Raven crag. Yes that's bare arms!

#pike-o-stickle-from-gimmer-crag-rock-climbing-near-ambleside

In case we needed a reason to climb - just check out the views

Navigation and mountain skills course

14/3/2022

#navigation-course-ambleside

Walking on a bearing and measuring distance using pacing techniques

Over the weekend we've been running a navigation skills course for a couple from Lancashire. Living within easy reach of the Lakes they are starting to work their way through the 214 fells detailed in the Wainwright guides. Until now they have been reliant on GPS technology to keep on track, but are keen to lessen the reliance on this. So with mobile apps and GPS devices safety put away, we started to explore the maps and all the information they contain.

Starting with orientating the map so it matches the landscape and slowly adding to this all through the weekend, but always reinforcing its importance.
From the village of Torver we progressed south towards Beacon Fell and Beacon Tarn, using a network of small footpaths for some of the journey. We also used the map to identify where we could find shelter from the wind. During the afternoon we headed off-piste in search of smaller features including ring contours, re-entrants, small tarns, sheepfolds and cairns. After a damp start the weather settled and remained good for the rest of the day.

Some route planning 'homework' had been given and Sunday morning started with a discussion about the route for that day. Starting out from Elterwater a good and varied route had been chosen, taking in some terrain new to me too which was really nice. More off path terrain was covered and we ticked the summits of Lang How and Silver How. Some refining of skills covered before setting a course back into Elterwater and arriving back at base just as the rain started. Result :-)

More and more of us are now using digital technology to navigate in the mountains. I'll admit to doing so too. Most of the time it works, is convenient, easy and very quick. In short, it makes sense.
However, using it one thing, relying on it is something else entirely and not to be recommended.

Learning even the basics of map reading can enhance your experiences in the mountains, will certainly lead to more satisfying days out, and helps with route planning. If the batteries on your GPS device run flat, the ability to use a map and compass effectively become essential skills for a continued safe day out.

We can teach you how to navigate in the mountains, here's more about our Navigation courses - please get in touch if you'd like to discuss further.

Thanks for reading

Mark

#learn-how-to-navigate-in-the-mountains-lake-district

Top of Beacon Fell - now to navigate back down

#guided-walks-near-ambleside-silver-how

Linking Lang How with Silver How

#map-of-ambleside

Our custom made Ordnance Survey maps

Fell running - to kick start the season

9/3/2022

#fell-running-lake-district-guided-days

Running amongst the Langdale Pikes

Getting conditioned back to the Cumbrian weather and mountain environment is vital for us after our winter away. Almost every day I've ventured into the mountains for some form of activity, be it climbing, scrambling, walking, cycling, or running.
So a couple of these trips have been running. One more of a run/scramble, which if I'm honest is my favourite sort of run.

Setting out from the New Dungeon Ghyll in Langdale I followed the valley path linking with the Old Dungeon Ghyll before ascending up to Raven crag. Sometimes from here I'll scramble up Middlefell Buttress, but as I was in slightly floppier fell shoes and it was so cold, decided this wasn't a good idea today. So instead I took the grade 2 scramble up the right hand side of the crag. This has a few tricky steps but nothing difficult. Above is lots of easy and fun scrambling to reach the Gimmer path, some of this can be done at jogging pace. I then followed the Thorn crag scramble, this is a grade one rock spur and from the top of here a short run over to just below the summit of Loft crag allows the final and most interesting rocks to be followed up onto the summit. My plan from here was to run over to Pike O' Stickle and check out another scramble on there. However, the wind was blowing quite strong making it feel very cold, so I decided to cut it short and head over to the top of the Dungeon Ghyll and run down this path to regain the valley, stopping for one more scramble on Pike Howe along the way.
A short but top quality route with a wide variety of terrain.
For runners who are used to mountain terrain and can handle some exposure this route makes a great training ground for Sky-running events.

And my most recent run was much more of a run. Setting out from the village of Torver, near Coniston. I followed a web of excellent paths in search of Beacon Tarn. This is a remote and idyllic place with a Highland feel to it. Well I say remote, even on a weekday in early March there were a fair few walkers out enjoying the landscape. I spotted a Buzzard nearby - it had clearly noted my presence too - and watched as it came in to land atop a rocky outcrop. I fully expected it to fly away again as the path I was on took me a little closer, but no, it stayed, just watching. I stopped running, choosing to walk and be as quiet as possible so as not to startle. It is rare to come so close to a bird of prey and for all parties to feel okay with it, but I had the distinct feeling the Buzzard was indeed okay with me being there, albeit for a fleeting moment. I was maybe 25m away and just kept on my trajectory so as to cause her/him no bother.
Soon I was by Beacon Tarn, it shimmered in the afternoon sunlight, hinting of being warmer than it actually was. The setting is rugged and it makes for extremely good running along the undulating shoreline. I then turned away from the waters edge to ascend rough slopes to connect with the return route back to Torver. I didn't see another person until I was back on tarmac, bliss.
This was about a 12km run through fairly remote terrain that is tricky to navigate even though it never goes high. For Trail runners looking to make the transition to Fell running this would make a great start.

For more information about the Fell running we offer please check out this link

Thanks for reading

Mark

#trail-running-in-the-lake-district

Pike O'Blisco and the Coniston fells from todays run

#coniston-fell-run

Beacon Tarn

Duddon valley cragging

8/3/2022

#guided-climbing-lake-disrict-wallowbarrow-crag

Stella conditions for climbing at Wallowbarrow

Having only recently returned from a winter in sunny Spain, I was a little apprehensive about climbing at the weekend, thinking it would be just too cold. Well thankfully the sun worked some magic, there was no wind, and we found rock that was actually warm to the touch. Oh, and it was dry :-)
Achieving this took some planning, but knowing the crags so well it was easy to narrow things down to just a few candidates. A South Lakes crag was also high on the priorities list and soon we settled for Wallowbarrow. Arriving at the farm it was still feeling positively baltic, but the farmer gave out plenty of encouragement. We actually chatted with him for well over half an hour, trying to learn a little more about the valley and farming & conservation. All this time was allowing the air temperature to rise a little and the sun to saunter on around onto the crag, warming the beautiful Lakeland rock.

We started off with a route called 'Bryanston' a 3 pitch VS. I had a coat, hat, and gloves on! The hat and gloves soon found their way into a pocket, thankfully not being required. The rock was warm and touching it a complete pleasure. Lakeland rock really is glorious. Solid, rough, textured and colourful. I have missed the Borrowdale volcanics and granite, such wonderful rock.

Next route was 'Malediction Direct' which is a 2 pitch VS and a little trickier, with steep moves leading off the 1st belay. And to finish we cruised up the beautiful slab of 'Digitation' VS. The 2nd pitch has got a little bit tougher now a foothold has broken off!
7 pitches of climbing filled our afternoon along with some sitting around gazing at the views, they are spectacular. Time for home as the sun sets, another fine day at the crag.

Thanks to Claire for a top day.

You may now be starting to think about a trip away to the Lakes. It is starting to warm up and Easter is now pretty close. We still have availability during the Easter period. If you'd like to try out some activities please get in touch and let's make a plan.

Mark

#rock-climbing-course-duddon-valley-lake-district

Enjoying a multi-pitch climb in the Duddon valley

#duddon-valley-lake-district-rock-climbing

Good views :-)

Espolon P.D.P - Redovan

15/2/2022

#espolon-pdp-redovan

Name plaque at the base of the climb

It has always been the big routes that have given me most satisfaction, so my interest is forever turning towards the next long climb. During our winter stay in Costa Blanca, there have been multiple big days out on big crags, enjoying long routes of trad and sport climbing. Last week being a highlight when Espolon Central and the Edwards Finish were linked together in a single push.
Yesterday we headed south to the balmy flanks of Redovan, for a big multi-pitch sport route. Maybe 10 pitches, but we didn't have a proper topo and just a hand scribbled page of info, so weren't quite sure what we would get.
It turns out the info we had was perfect and we climbed 9 long pitches and linked these with 3 pitches of scrambling.

A short walk of only 15 minutes leads to the base of the route and a name plaque identifies the route and gives the grade. All the routes appeared to have this. Very helpful.
Often, multi-pitch sport will be sparsely bolted, but not this one. We had 21 quickdraws and were often using most of them on a pitch, most pitches were very long though. This eased route finding and took out any fear factor, making for a very stress free day out.
Something else that is normal on these big routes is loose rock. Again, we hardly found any. Almost the whole route is on very solid limestone with lovely solution pockets that give technical climbing. Pitches 1, 2, 6, 7 were the hardest overall, but I'd say the climbing is sustained throughout.

By the time we were at the top of the climbing pitches, all 500m of it. There was still plenty of energy in the tank to scramble up to tick the nearby summit for 360' views of the flatlands fat below.

The descent walk was scramble at times, and care needed for most of the way. But it is very well marked with green and white paint.

All in all a really good day out and better climbing than either of us expected.
For anyone visiting the Costa Blanca and wanting a long multi-pitch route with climbing at no more than 6a, this is definitely worth a look.
Thanks to Neil for a top day out :-)

Mark

#climbing-espolon-pdp-redovan

Me and Neil part way up the route

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The steep start to pitch 7. This was a big pitch of over 60m

#costa-blanca-mountaineering-routes-redovan

Scrambling to the summit

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Redovan crag