http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/index.htmlLatest News!en-gbmozaic@lakeland.uk.netCopyright 2007 Phil Kirby2012-05-07T17:35:26+01:00 hourly 1 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00 Mon, 7 May 2012 17:41:43 +0100mozaic@lakeland.uk.netRoute2012-05-07T17:35:26+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Moor_How.html#unique-entry-id-51http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Moor_How.html#unique-entry-id-51

Moor How Farms from the south

There is however a further 'unofficial' diversion now that follows a different route. Both High and Low Moor How are set on a steep slope. The 'alternative' route drops even further down the slope and now seems to be the route that is followed by most people, the official route being somewhat overgrown. The 'alternative' route is signposted by large home made laminated signs.


The official route is on the left, the ‘alternative’ one on the right.

There really isn't a problem with the 'alternative' route being used, until you get to the point where it rejoins the official route. This junction is not obvious and if not careful you will find yourself heading downhill towards Oaks Farm. Once past Low Moor How, you need to double back up the old path and then through the yard to join the Road. By this point you are well past the house anyway but this is apparently where the trouble lies. Although it is a matter of a few yards and you have a right of way through the yard there is seemingly no direct connection between the path and the road. Most of the time you will not find anyone around and there shouldn't be a problem. I myself have visited Low Moor How on several occasions and not found anyone there to impede my progress.



If you are challenged at this point, the only real recourse is to descend towards Oaks farm and join the road (A on the map). Alternative routes avoiding Low Moor How altogether are to ascent Moor How and then take the obvious path down to Park Cliffe joining Birks road (B on the map) or descend directly in a northerly direction from the top of Moor How which will bring you out on Birks Road, slightly higher up (Option C).



The approach to Low Moor How from the north. The ‘private’ bit is between here and the greenhouse.

If you are walking the Windermere Way anti-clockwise and get to Low Moor How and encounter a problem the only diplomatic course is to retrace your steps I'm afraid, back as far as the crossroads, then choose on of the alternatives.

Personally, I can't imagine that an official footpath diversion would have been put in place without it connecting up to the original path at both ends and I am seeking to establish the validity of this 'alternative' route. In the meantime I suggest using the alternatives where possible.
]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netReader Accounts2010-08-05T18:59:37+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/paul.html#unique-entry-id-49http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/paul.html#unique-entry-id-49I received some very interesting and useful feedback today from Paul who has just completed the walk. He had a little difficulty in Blakeholme plantation. The route is potentially confusing in there. I plan to visit that section again shortly and see if we can’t improve the route somewhat.

Here’s Pauls account.

Back in April I ordered a copy of the Windermere Way map from your website and set about planning a weekend for myself and a few work colleagues. Having recently returned I thought a bit of feedback would be deserving.
 
Our plan was to complete all four linked walks over the course of three days (16th-18th July) starting at Windermere and walking anti-clockwise replete with all camping and cooking equipment, your guide and an OS map.
 
Our first day covered the section from Windermere, Ambleside, Loughrigg Fell, Skelwith Bridge and then onto the National Trust campsite at Low Wray. The weather was pretty poor but fortunately cleared up beautifully by the time we got to the summit of Loughrigg Fell. This part of the 'Way' although quite circuitous was well worth it - the view from the summit south across Windermere and north across Grasmere were breathtaking. In hindsight I think this section was the highlight of the entire route. In fact as a short walk from Ambleside to the pub/hotel and Skelwith Bridge, pause for a beer or a cuppa and then back to Ambleside by bus would have to rate as one of the nicest walks in the area. Even the gentle decent past Loughrigg tarn was extremely peaceful and picturesque.
 
The second day saw us walk from Low Wray to Lakeside. Our aim was to get the ferry over to Fell Foot and then camp in Fell Foot Wood - a strange campsite-come-timber yard. Still, it provided all the necessities.
 
Weather-wise, this day followed the same pattern as the previous - rain to start with and then cleared up to become a quite beautiful afternoon and evening. Fortunately the tree canopy on the shoreline part of this walk afforded additional shelter. However, it was on this section where we made our first mistake. Leaving Rawlinson Nab we missed the turning that would've led to the lake's edge. Instead we stayed on the minor road passing Graythwaite Hall. Perhaps for the best as it was still raining quite heavily and there was some suggestion that the correct path could get water logged.
 
Fortunately we rejoined the prescribed route via the gate opposite the YMCA. Not a particularly well sign posted gate I have to say. I'm glad we found it though as the summit of Scott Park Heights was a real gem - again, as with the previous day the weather cleared up to afford us some fabulous views.
 
As planned we made the small ferry across to Fell Foot and that evening a detour to Newby Bridge and the Huntsmen's Inn (i think) provided some much deserved R&R.
 
The following day our luck ran our weather-wise. We woke to rain and it didn't stop until we finished our walk in Windermere. We left Fell Foot Wood, back-tracked down the road slightly and took the minor road up the hill to the car park for Gummers How.
 
We made the summit in good time but unfortunately the low cloud reduced visibility to a few hundred feet. There were several paths descending from the summit and partially by luck and partially by the paths marked on the OS map we took the correct route. However, we did miss the stile into the woods and had to back track to pick this up. At this point i think we were guilty of being in head down, trudging in the rain mode and, in part, this contributed to our second and quite major mistake.
 
We successfully navigated our way round the reservoir and picked up the very clear path through the woods which, as stated in your guide, came to abrupt end. We continued along the obvious path through the woods and it was some time after this point where it all started to go wrong.
 
Soon after we came to a crossroads. Ahead was a path carrying on up through the woods. Running left-right was what can only be described as a gully - left was downhill and right was uphill (I can't recall the compass bearing). We carried on straight over for a few hundred yards and then very quickly the path petered out to nothing. We back tracked to the crossroads. Within the dense forest it was difficult to get any sort of reference point and with the path winding and turning quite frequently taking a compass bearing was of little use.
 
After some debate we chose to go down the gully. This is where I think we chose incorrectly. After a short time this gully came to a T-junction. A post with an yellow arrow signified what we assumed was a major thoroughfare. We turned left, shortly passing another path to the right which led to a stone wall and derelict stone building. We ignored this and carried on finally reaching some duck boards over a very marshy area.
 
At this point I was convinced we had gone wrong. We continued and some time after the realisation of our error was clear for all to see...or hear...as the sound of the traffic on the A592 filtered through the trees.
 
Realising that we were well off the path we elected to continue along the A592. In hindsight we could've rejoined the path by following Birks Road or turned at Ghyll Head and took the path at Rosthwaite Heights but a pressing engagement with a train at Windermere led us to continue along the A592. Bad choice and not to be recommended as I'm sure you know - fast traffic, no pavement and not particularly picturesque.
 
I'd love to know where we went wrong!
 
Finally the A592 gave way to Bowness. What a fantastic town. In different circumstances and weather conditions it would've been the ideal place to stop for lunch a few beers leaving us the the last mile to Windermere to complete at a leisurely pace. As it was we were soaked through and so carried on to Windermere where we could change into a dry set of clothes. A real disappointment not to spend any time in Bowness.
 
All in all though a great few days and a great route, thank you.
 
By way of a postscript I was surprised how few pubs, tea houses and 'corner shops' there were along the route - especially the western side. Clearly not something under your control but just thought I'd mention it!  
 
Thanks again though for being the source of inspiration and providing the guide that allowed us to walk around England's largest lake!
 
Rgds,
 
Paul]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWindermere, Ambleside2010-04-01T15:59:28+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/prince.html#unique-entry-id-48http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/prince.html#unique-entry-id-48






On disembarking at Waterhead Pier he unveiled a plaque commemorating the visit.




]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netRoute2009-11-21T20:34:51+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/windermere_flooding.html#unique-entry-id-47http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/windermere_flooding.html#unique-entry-id-47






]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWeather, Flooding2009-11-20T19:16:49+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Lakes_floods.html#unique-entry-id-46http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Lakes_floods.html#unique-entry-id-46
These pictures were taken today at Waterhead and Rothay Bridge.













]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netGuiding2009-01-21T14:46:06+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/walks_prog_2009.html#unique-entry-id-45http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/walks_prog_2009.html#unique-entry-id-45http://www.lakeland-walks.co.uk]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWindermere2009-01-01T19:09:56+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/skating.html#unique-entry-id-44http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/skating.html#unique-entry-id-44
When I arrive he was already zooming around on the ice which was really thick. We stayed mostly near to the edge where the water was shallow but despite an occasional alarming crack the ice held firm. Just to add to the merriment a couple of women walked by and gave us a right mouthful about how dangerous it was. We wished them a Happy New Year and they left muttering to themselves.

A great start to 2009. Paul is the one who looks like he knows how to skate, I'm the one who doesn't…











Happy New Year!]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWindermere2008-11-30T16:22:24+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/early.html#unique-entry-id-43http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/early.html#unique-entry-id-43




The forecast for this weekend was so good however that for once I rose really early, and was up on the ridge above Elterwater at 6:00 am. It was pitch black at the time and away from the street lights, the stars were magnificent. I didn't have to wait too long for dawn to start peeking over the horizon. The mist ebbed and flowed across the ridge and the clear sky gave way to a layer of mid height cloud. Great for a good sunrise.



It was a cold 2 hours before the sun finally edged out from behind a distant Ingleborough and illuminated the snow covered Coniston and Langdale peaks with a beautiful rosy glow.





It was really a day to spend on the fells but due to work commitments I was back home tucking in to bacon butties by 9:00.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netEnvironment2008-10-13T17:10:11+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Fells.html#unique-entry-id-41http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Fells.html#unique-entry-id-41
Utter tosh. Even if the hill farms were abandoned overnight, which is not going to happen, the sheer numbers of people wandering the fells would ensure that paths remained open just by walking there. If woodland were to reclaim the fells it’s density will naturally lessen as the height increases and the fell tops are unlikely ever to be covered. As for buildings, well if they’ve got a use they’ll be kept in good repair, simple as that.

But just suppose for a moment that the sheep were removed and the fells were left to their own devices. Reforestation would be a gradual process. Only the youngest amongst us would live to see the hillsides carpeted with forests. But this is only an extension of what is already there and what was once the way the fells looked anyway. Many parts of South Lakeland are already heavily forested. Walk anywhere around Windermere and a good part of your walk will be amongst trees. More trees are being planted all the time. In the last ten years, several thousand have been planted on the slopes of School Knott. Further south, the Rosthwaite estate has also seen large scale reforestation.

I was in Ennerdale recently, a valley I have shunned for most of my adult life, assuming it to be a blanket Sitka forest. It’s not. It’s a wonderfully diverse, but also essentially wild and beautiful place.

And there are further benefits. Managed woodland is a sustainable resource and an eco fuel source. And, it could be argued, using the fells to grow a sustainable forest would be a far lesser evil than allowing them to be covered with wind farms.

The fell tops are and always have been an industrial landscape, going right back to the romans and even to the stone age. In that timescale sheep farming which is responsible for the way the fells look at present is a very recent, man made alteration. We should not be afraid of change, we should embrace it.

]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWindermere2008-08-12T17:32:27+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/windermereorbowness.html#unique-entry-id-40http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/windermereorbowness.html#unique-entry-id-40
Most of my respondents take pains to point out that it’s Bowness that is ‘on the lake’. True it is. But so is Windermere. The lake is not as accessible from Windermere as it is from Bowness but Windermere is still on the lake. In any case, since the two parish councils joined forces as Windermere Town Council, de facto, Windermere is on the lake.

But dear reader, this site is being viewed in Bowness and in Beijing and in a global context it makes sense to use the name that everyone knows. Apologies if you don’t agree.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPersonal2008-07-02T09:25:01+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/knoydart5.html#unique-entry-id-39http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/knoydart5.html#unique-entry-id-39My original plan was to spend four days walking with a day spare, to enable me to get back to Fort William. Anyway some quick research at the hostel revealed a bus at 9:17 which would get me back to Fort Bill in plenty of time for my train the following morning. I did consider a slow mooch around Glen Sheil but the weather had bucked up it’s ideas again so cadging a lift from a fellow hosteller round to Morvich, set off for Ben Fadha.

Again a superb path leads up Gleann Choinneachain. After the waterfalls a path branches off to the right up Allt Choire an Sgairne.


Allt Choire an Sgairne



Allt Choire an Sgairne

It was whilst climbing this path I saw a large bird circling high overhead. You know what they say, ‘If you’re not sure whether it’s an Eagle or a Buzzard, then it’s a Buzzard’. Anyway I’ve seen plenty of Buzzards in my time and this looked just like one. Only it was very high up. I watched till it disappeared over the crags opposite and continued up out of the corrie and on to the summit plateau, eventually tumbling in to the shelter to escape the once more biting wind.

It didn’t seem to matter which directing the wind came from - even the south - it was still bloody freezing. Whilst sheltering in here and taking pics of the surrounding area, I saw the bird below me again cruising swiftly, very swiftly over the broad ridge and out across the corrie. There was no doubt this time, it was far too fast and probably too high and certainly too large for a Buzzard. So there it was, my first Golden Eagle. Sorry no pics, it was too far away. I waited for about twenty minutes hoping for another sighting before the cold and yet another impending shower sent me scurrying for the shelter afforded by the corrie walls.


Bheinn Fhada


Bheinn Fhada


Sgurr nan Ceathreamhnan


Glen Affric

Returning to Gleann Choinneachain, it was still relatively early in the day so I continued on up to the Bealach and started up A’ Ghlas-bheinn which was surmounted with much less effort than Ben Fadha. Apart, that is, from the ridiculous number of ‘False summits’ that had to be negotiated first. That's the main difference I have noted on this trip compared to my usual jaunts around The Lakes. Not only does everything seem bigger, it's usually further away and you have to climb over innumerable other 'tops' to get where you want to go.


Loch Duich from 'A Ghlass-bheinn


Looking back to 'A Ghlass-bheinn

The descent was made to Bealach nan Stroine on the north side where I fell into conversation with another walker, returning from the falls of Glomach. We walked together back to the car park and she kindly offered me a lift back to the hostel, even stopping at the shop to let me buy my tea. Whoever you were, many thanks!

… and a few pics of Loch Duich and the Five Sisters to round off.







]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPersonal2008-07-02T07:50:12+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/knoydart4.html#unique-entry-id-38http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/knoydart4.html#unique-entry-id-38Well it seemed like a good idea at the time, a high level camp, that is. Anyway the morning weather appeared no better than the night before and after a poor night’s sleep I was in no rush to get going. Eventually emerging from my sleeping bag I did for one moment consider heading for the valley. But there was the Saddle, looming over me and just asking to be climbed.

I considered traversing round and climbing the Forcan Ridge but quite frankly I’d had enough of messing around with ridges in poor weather (If you’re reading this Ridge - nothing personal). Anyway from what I understand it was too good to squander on a bad day so I took the easy option which was the path straight up from the Bealach.


On top of the Saddle


Spot my tent - bottom right corner!


Ratagan


Moody evening light on Loch Duich

Leaving the tent and kit it took just under an hour and now suitably warmed up I returned to the tent, struck camp and took the long route down Allt a Choire Chaoil to Sheil Bridge where I made a bee line for the Youth Hostel at Ratagan.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPersonal2008-06-30T22:07:31+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/knoydart3.html#unique-entry-id-37http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/knoydart3.html#unique-entry-id-37

Loch Hourn


Ladhar Bheinn


Ladhar Bheinn


Ladhar Bheinn

An early start saw me on the long path up to Kinloch Hourn. Ladhar Bheinn was at last standing in all it’s glory across the loch and I slightly wished I’d been a little more flexible in my plans and waited for a day like to today to climb it. Still the walk alongside the loch was superb. Didn’t see a soul for the first couple of hours then when I did meet someone going in the opposite direction he kindly pointed out a pair of Otters who were fishing languorously out in the loch. I’ve always wanted to see an Otter in the wild and although they were some distance from shore I spend quite a while watching them.


Loch Hourn

At Kinloch Hourn the temptations of the cafe proved too much and a pot of tea and cake for just £2 was a real pick me up and set me up for the afternoon. I wanted to get over to Glen Shiel, or at least close to it, as i figured that that would be my best route home. Leaving Kinloch Hourn in a northerly direction I set of up the remote Allt Choire Sgoireadail on a mostly excellent path. This really came into it’s own higher up as it approached the Bealach and although not well used was simply a delight to walk on.


Allt Choire Sgoireadail


Glen Quoich

As the day had been warm and sunny I planned a night camp in the mountains but really wanted to get over the watershed and into Glen Sheil before stopping. I dropped into Glen Quoich then up again, this time without the assistance of a path to the top of Bealach Dubh Leac. Slowing down all the while I put on a brew whilst deciding on the next move. There was a small lochan between Sgurr na Sgine and The Saddle which on the map at least offered interesting possibilities. This also had the advantage of taking me across the top of Sgurr na Sgine which would add a further Munro to the tally.


Sgurr na Sgine

The weather, and my stamina were deteriorating as I finally reached the top of Sgurr na Sgine, only to be overtaken by a posse of runners, one who was making an attempt on the Munros 24 hour record. I wished them well and turned my attention to a campsite. From above it did not look at all promising but by this time I was too knackered to descend to Glen Shiel and soon found a little niche between the boulders on the sheltered side of the Bealach.


Campsite

No sooner had I settled in than the weather, which had been deteriorating since about 5:00pm took a turn for the worse and the wind and rain started. Thankfully I was fairly sheltered but soon realised my ancient 3 season sleeping bag was no longer up to the job. Oh how I wished for a fleece hat and spent a cold miserable night, sleeping fitfully.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPersonal2008-06-29T12:29:32+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Knoydart2.html#unique-entry-id-36http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Knoydart2.html#unique-entry-id-36After a decent kip in the bothy we awoke to find that the rain had almost cleared overnight and it was now merely showery. I resolved to continue where I had left off and made an early start for Luinne Bheinn, minus all the camping paraphernalia which I’d left in the bothy.


Barrisdale


The approach to Luinne Bheinn

Not being too impressed with the state of the path coming down from Mam Barrisdale I thought I’d try the other side up Gleann Unndalain and a few minutes after leaving the bothy came almost face to face with this magnificent beast.



I was walking quietly up beside the burn which was in full flow and as I came out from behind a tree there he was. I have a feeling that he might have been slightly domesticated as there were a few deer hanging around the bothy the night before and he might have been one of those. Nevertheless, once the scent of sweat and midge spray reached him across the burn, he was off.

The path is really good up as far as the bealach then it’s make it up as you go for a while till things improve a the ridge narrows. The showers returned, this time hail, in June, I ask you. I sat one out then made a push for the top. Once there the mist came down again and I was just about to descent when I realised the the top might be a little further on.


Loch Hourn from the top of Luinne Bheinn

Two more ‘tops’ were surmounted in due course and at last the cloud lifted sufficiently to give a decent view of the source of yesterdays’ tribulations, Ladhar Bheinn.


Ladhar Bheinn

Another shower hurried me on my way to Meall Bhuide. I could not believe how cold it was for June. Every spare bit of clothing was put on but as I was travelling light, items such as warm hats and gloves were left at home. Need a rethink if I do this again.


Meall Bhuide from Luinne Bheinn

The summit of Meall Bhuide was just as bad as Luinne Bheinn. Freezing winds and intermittent showers, so seven minutes after arriving, I was off again, retracing my steps back to Luinne Bheinn and on to Barrisdale, knowing that at least this night was going to be dry.

About 10:45, three of us left the bothy for a short walk along the foreshore. A shower had just passed over leaving a magnificent rainbow and clear evening light. We didn’t return till nearly midnight and it was still light enough to read by. Summer in Scotland just does not get any better than this.







]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPersonal2008-06-27T11:57:23+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Knoydart1.html#unique-entry-id-35http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Knoydart1.html#unique-entry-id-35
Day One
As the overall plan was to walk across Knoydart, taking the car, just to leave it parked for a week seemed a little extreme so I did my bit for global warming and took the train, saving about fifty quid in fuel costs along he way. Left Windermere on the 8:10 train, then after changes at Oxenholme and Glasgow, arrived Mallaig late afternoon. Finding absolutely nowhere to stay I got back on the train and returned as far as Arisaig where there's a superbly situated campsite, right on the beach at Invercaimbe that I visited many years ago.


Invercaimbe Beach

Back in Mallaig the following morning, I boarded the Western Isles for the trip across to Inverie.


The Western Isles

Resisting the temptations of the Old Forge Pub I set off for Ladhar Bheinn. The first part is on easy land rover tracks but once these end, the climb begins in earnest over featureless saturated bog. All the guide books suggest climbing Ladhar Bheinn from the opposite site and I have to agree, there’s not too much of interest on the west. If I’d known what the weather had in store for that afternoon I would probably have changed my plans and approached this one later. As it was I arrived on top in a buffeting wind, low cloud and rain which just increased as I progressed along the ridge.


Ladhar Bheinn Summit

Abandoning all thoughts of a high camp for the night, all I wanted to do was get off the mountain and out of the appalling weather. I dropped down to Barrisdale and sought refuge in the bothy. Never having stayed in a bothy before I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I was met at the door and welcomed in by a Swedish guy who was staying there with his wife. They were walking from Fort William to Cape Wrath and staying in bothies were possible and had arrived earlier from Sourlies.



Barrisdale Bothy

Being adjacent to a small croft, the bothy was well maintained with running water and surprise, surprise, electricity courtesy of a small hydro generator that produced power for the croft. Luxury indeed. Later that evening we were joined by three guys who had motored up from London, then walked in from Kinloch Hourn and were drenched. ]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netEnvironment2008-05-31T10:37:01+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Traffic%20survey%20for%20Lake%20District.html#unique-entry-id-33http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Traffic%20survey%20for%20Lake%20District.html#unique-entry-id-33Click here for details. It only takes a few minutes and who knows, it might turn up some interesting results.
]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPeople2008-05-18T16:29:44+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Windermere%20Marathon%202008.html#unique-entry-id-32http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Windermere%20Marathon%202008.html#unique-entry-id-32
Since a couple of my friends were running I sat and took photos, waiting for them to pass by. Pics are here (for a couple of weeks only).

Well done to Lorna, Graham and anyone else I missed.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netRoute2008-05-13T13:36:18+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Guided%20Walks.html#unique-entry-id-31http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Guided%20Walks.html#unique-entry-id-31
Well, few people know the route as well as I do and as more requests were coming in I decided to set aside a few dates to lead small groups around the Lake.

The dates planned so far for this year are

June 4th - 7th (Wednesday to Saturday)
July 8th - 11th (Tuesday to Thursday)
August 11th - 14th (Monday to Thursday)
September 12th - 15th (Friday to Monday)
October 10th - 13th (Friday to Monday)
November 13th - 16th (Thursday to Sunday)

I’ve set up another website lakeland-walks.co.uk to promote the walks and explain all the details and how to book. So if you fancy a gentle walk around the best lake in England, make a date in your diary now and send in your booking.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netRoute2008-02-20T18:19:32+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Walking%20from%20the%20Ferry%20to%20High%20Dam.html#unique-entry-id-30http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Walking%20from%20the%20Ferry%20to%20High%20Dam.html#unique-entry-id-30

This little chap was hoping for an early lunch.

At the top I left and turned down the road to Cunsey, rejoining the lakeshore path a little further on. There were a few folk on the path but very little activity on the lake itself, until I neared Rawlinson Nab when a farmers shotgun startled a large flock of Canada Geese who honked noisily across the lake before settling a flurry of spray.



Further south, and across the road the day really warmed up and the views back up the lake from Stott Park Heights were really clear. Moving on I swiftly arrived at High Dam which despite the sunshine was completely frozen over.



Not having time to continue the last mile as I had an urgent appointment, I dropped down to the road and returned back to the ferry. Unfortunately I failed to heed my own advice. The ferry was there but it was full. I had to wait 20 minutes for it to return and was late back. Still the day was too good miss.

]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netRoute2008-02-08T22:51:52+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Winderemere%20Way%20on%20Samoodi.html#unique-entry-id-29http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Winderemere%20Way%20on%20Samoodi.html#unique-entry-id-29Samoodi site. Samoodi lets you record details of your walks, runs, cycling routes etc for everyone to share. The route is overlaid on to Google Maps so you can see either the route or using the satellite view, the topography. It also links to flickr so you can see scenes along the way. You can also see the distance of the route (the website shows this part of the route to be 9.6 miles) as well as a graph showing the elevation along the route.

It's loads of fun and I'll add the rest of the route soon.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWindermere2008-02-01T15:47:51+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/ccb0219825a9c11474bb3ce2a125cebc-28.html#unique-entry-id-28http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/ccb0219825a9c11474bb3ce2a125cebc-28.html#unique-entry-id-28Lake District Outdoors website is one of the leading information portals for the Lake District. Whatever your sport, if it takes place in the great outdoors and in Lakeland, you’ll find information here. There are links to walking, climbing, cycling (on and off road), canoeing, sailing and much more.

The site is managed and published by Cumbria Tourism so the information is high quality and useful. There’s also a simple to enter competition this month where you can win £100 worth of Lowe Alpine clothing courtesy of George Fisher in Keswick.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWindermere2008-02-01T10:54:59+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/1263c6c44cd61846f170ca2a7ffdc729-27.html#unique-entry-id-27http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/1263c6c44cd61846f170ca2a7ffdc729-27.html#unique-entry-id-27www.flyingboatsonline.org

The site is now a popular caravan and chalet park. One of the Chalets for hire is Langdale View Lodge. Click this link for details www.lakeslogcabin.co.uk/index.htm ]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netEnvironment2008-01-01T15:15:00+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/windfarms.html#unique-entry-id-26http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/windfarms.html#unique-entry-id-26
Seen by some as desolate empty countryside these wild areas make an ideal site for wind farms. But to the outdoor enthusiast they are potential blots on the landscape. The Berrier Hill development would dominate the views from Blencathra and many other fells.

Just as we are starting to see the decommissioning of Sellafield, a long standing scar on the western fringe of the Lakes are we now to see it replaced with a necklace of wind farms, blighting every view outward?]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPeople2007-12-29T00:17:01+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/512da6a155d9dd4b0cabac5621e6ae63-25.html#unique-entry-id-25http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/512da6a155d9dd4b0cabac5621e6ae63-25.html#unique-entry-id-25www.northpix.co.uk has many fine pictures of Windermere and the surrounding area, like this atmospheric shot, looking north from Brantfell.


Copyright:John Morrison]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netRoute2007-12-14T14:09:59+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/4ae8a3dda6e5e68e06bc2619523a9b10-24.html#unique-entry-id-24http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/4ae8a3dda6e5e68e06bc2619523a9b10-24.html#unique-entry-id-24December therefore is a bit of a mixed bag but if you're looking for peace and quiet it' certainly a good time to walk. Just make sure you check Ferry and steamer times if you're planning to use them. If you've emailed me recently and not had a reply, sorry but one or two emails didn't have a proper return address. Anyone wanting more info just use our contact form.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPersonal2007-12-10T16:32:40+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/8cbf1398d3303adeba374c6bc86c3956-23.html#unique-entry-id-23http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/8cbf1398d3303adeba374c6bc86c3956-23.html#unique-entry-id-23mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPersonal2007-12-03T17:35:28+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/5b1ebfcc68fdb1fff2c44d754266ea78-22.html#unique-entry-id-22http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/5b1ebfcc68fdb1fff2c44d754266ea78-22.html#unique-entry-id-22
The lease has finally expired and the final payment been made and I assumed the copier would be collected. No such luck. I’ve had to call Konica several times and each time they promised to ‘get back back to me’. Finally today they did get back to me. “Yes, we’ll be happy to collect the machine”, the man said, “but we’re going to charge you £120 for the privilege”.

You do wonder what planet these people are on sometimes. It’s their machine, I never owned it, only leased it and now the nice people at Konica want £120 to recover their own property. I’ve told them in the nicest possible way, where to put their £120. Watch this space.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWindermere2007-10-31T08:38:33+00:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/c7c46b068fa9aaac26bba0fa830f1bc9-21.html#unique-entry-id-21http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/c7c46b068fa9aaac26bba0fa830f1bc9-21.html#unique-entry-id-21
A remarkable piece of research has pieced together memories of those involved with the project and photographs of the factory and the site. This was on display at the Marchesi Centre this weekend but has also been published online at www.flyingboatsonline.org

The factory was located at Calgarth, just north of Troutbeck Bridge in an area now occupied by a White Cross Bay caravan site.

A small community built up close to the site on land that is now occupied by The Lakes School. At the end of the war the accommodation was used to house child survivors of the concentration camps. Not much remains of the original works today, save for the large concrete slipway, used today by residents of the park.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netEnvironment2007-10-13T10:00:11+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Autum%20colours.html#unique-entry-id-20http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Autum%20colours.html#unique-entry-id-20
Many other trees are just beginning to turn but the autumn winds have not yet arrived to strip them of their foliage.

The forestry commission has a useful website that monitors the changing colours nationwide. The link for Grizedale Forest is at www.forestry.gov.uk. ]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPeople2007-10-08T14:30:00+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/A%20link%20with%20the%20past.html#unique-entry-id-19http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/A%20link%20with%20the%20past.html#unique-entry-id-19
One of the earliest writers however was Thomas West and walking with one of his guidebooks was a much more formal affair. West selected what he thought were the best viewpoints and constructed small stone lecterns or 'stations'. The visitor, having reached the designated 'station' placed his or her book, open on the lectern and the view was laid out for them.


West's Station above Skelghyll

There are two of West's stations on the WIndermere Way. The one between Troutbeck and Skelghyll is particularly prominent and attracts many visitors, very few of whom seem aware of it's true purpose. Most of these assume it's another cairn and add rocks to the top making it a more like a short obelisk than a flat topped platform.

The station has suffered in recent years and is danger of collapse. The trouble with old monuments such as these is that they are only of minor significance and the responsibility for it's upkeep could lie with anyone of a number of organisations.

Oner thing is certain. West did appreciate what made a good view. ]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWindermere2007-10-07T12:50:32+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/9af1ca20f00071e57a16b461fb95c0d8-18.html#unique-entry-id-18http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/9af1ca20f00071e57a16b461fb95c0d8-18.html#unique-entry-id-18
There are many parts of the Windermere Way that pass through woodlands that are putting on their best display at this time of the year. Amongst my favourites are Blake Howe Plantation and the area around High Dam, where the variety of woodland species makes a truly magnificent display.

The relative lack of rainfall and wind means that many leaves are still on the trees and if the weather holds it’s going to be quite spectacular.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netEnvironment2007-10-05T16:10:29+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/A%20good%20summer%20overall..html#unique-entry-id-17http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/A%20good%20summer%20overall..html#unique-entry-id-17
But it's the first week in October, the sun is shining and it's very warm. I've just returned from a jog along the Windermere Way, from Troutbeck to the summit of Wansfell. It was glorious and there were plenty of people, out and about enjoying the weather.



Clear autumn skies from Wansfell

Getting to the point of this ramble. With the superb spring and autumn that we have had, combined with a few good days during the summer, I think it's been a really good year. A summer that starts in April and goes through to October is OK in my book even if there were a few wet days in between. It's certainly been a better summer than many I can remember and makes the winter seem that much shorter.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWindermere2007-08-30T13:42:07+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/789935e29a58f361e0786a0e1fdf22cf-16.html#unique-entry-id-16http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/789935e29a58f361e0786a0e1fdf22cf-16.html#unique-entry-id-16
Being a pleasant afternoon there were many boats out on the lake and although it's been a few years since I last had a paddle, the conditions were better for small craft like mine. The 10mph speed limit however was being ignored by a handful of boats. Their tactics seem to be to put on the power for a short burst then slow down again, see if they have drawn any attention and if not try another burst of speed. Most of this was over by the west shore and didn't really cause any anyone any inconvenience.

I don't think the authorities really want to make waves and punish anyone. I have only read of a couple of prosecutions since the ban came in. Both sides seem to know the rules of the game, if the boaters don't overdo it, the authorities will keep a low profile. This formula seems to work for now but I would hazard a guess that once the powerboat fraternity realise that they are getting away with it they'll keep pushing and we'll see more and more speeding incidents. ]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPersonal2007-07-27T11:34:33+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Walking%20from%20Beddgelert.html#unique-entry-id-15http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Walking%20from%20Beddgelert.html#unique-entry-id-15
We had grand plans for Grib Goch and Snowdon but the weather was pretty much the same as the rest of the country and no one fancied anything too difficult in the wet. Instead we headed for Beddgelert and set off down the Aberglaslyn pass which after the recent rains was quite spectacular.



I had never actually walked the pass before. I used to go through the old railway tunnel but as this is now in the process of being restored is closed to casual walkers.

We then made tracks for Cnicht, a mountain we had all climbed in our youth and being of a lesser stature, probably more achiveble. Our plan was to take the most direct route which involved crossing two smaller ridges en route. The first was easy and we stopped for lunch in a small wooded valley. At this point the group split, three returning to Beddgelert and the remainder of us attacking the steep slopes of Yr Arrdu. This involved following an indistinct path through lush bracken that was at time six or more feet high. The bracken gave way to heather slopes and the path disappeared. We toiled upwards and after negotiating several wet slabby sections finally came out on top of Yr Arrdu.

I think I can honestly say this is the first time I have ever stood on top of a summit (there was a small cairn) and seen absolutely no sign of a path in any direction. Cnicht was now just across the valley. We descended, far more easily, crossed the valley bottom wetly and headed for the ridge and a much better path. However at this point, thoroughly wet, the concensus was that there was no insufficient time and we headed back to Beddgelert and some excellent ice creams.

Despite the weather and the lack of a notable summit we had had a truly interesting walk. You don't always need to actually get somewhere to have a satisfying day in the hills.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPersonalEnvironment2007-07-19T17:08:24+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Waste%20management%20in%20Cumbria..html#unique-entry-id-14http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Waste%20management%20in%20Cumbria..html#unique-entry-id-14
No so our elected representatives it would seem. ]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPersonalGreece2007-07-15T21:42:50+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Mount%20Olympus.html#unique-entry-id-13http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Mount%20Olympus.html#unique-entry-id-13 here]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWildlife2007-06-10T10:34:24+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Ospreys.html#unique-entry-id-12http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Ospreys.html#unique-entry-id-12
This week's Westmorland Gazette has a picture of one taken at Staveley-in-Cartmel, just last week. The terrain around the south end of the lake is similar to that where the Bassenthwaite birds are nesting with limited public lakeshore access which would give any resident birds an opportunity to hunt in peace. There are also other smaller tarns and reservoirs in the area which would afford a good source of hunting for these magnificent birds.

Further information on the RSPB Bassenthwaite Ospreys can be found here.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netRoute2007-06-08T11:02:35+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Skelwith%20Footbridge.html#unique-entry-id-11http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Skelwith%20Footbridge.html#unique-entry-id-11


However, I think the most amazing thing about this bridge is it's contemporary design. Usually in places like this the Planning Board insist on local stone and timber construction. Here they have been brave and allowed an outstanding design which beautifully compliments it's surroundings.

The paths that link the bridge to the roads are gently graded and suitable for wheelchairs users. It's well worth a visit if you're in the area.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPeople2007-06-03T08:59:32+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Arthur%20Ransome.html#unique-entry-id-10http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Arthur%20Ransome.html#unique-entry-id-10Arthur Ransome. For many people their first introduction to the Lake District may well be the writings of A. Wainwright. For others it's Wordsworth or maybe Beatrix Potter.
For me however, my first literary encounter was through the books of Arthur Ransome. My uncle, Alex Kirby, an inveterate traveller and another renown journalist was given many of the Swallows and Amazons books as a child and passed them on to me whilst I was still young and they remain amongst my most treasured possessions.
Arthur Ransoms books are notionally set on Coniston Water but for several years he lived at Ludderburn in the Cartmel Valley, which is just a short distance from the route of the Windermere Way. The house is in private ownership, but it is possible to view it from the road. The best approach is to leave the route at the Birks Road crossroads and take the road that goes East, rising slightly.
The house is only a couple of hundred yards on the left.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWindermere2007-06-01T09:18:23+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/735d1f16f3630213f62c7ad3d1f8e2a5-9.html#unique-entry-id-9http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/735d1f16f3630213f62c7ad3d1f8e2a5-9.html#unique-entry-id-9The fun begins from 9am each day and goes on until 9.30pm. For details of the full programme go to www.golakes.co.uk/wow. Windermere – inspiration for the famous children’s book Swallows and Amazons by Arthur Ransome – will see Pirate-style island treasure hunts for kids through to taster events in sailing, canoeing and kayaking on the 10-mile-long lake.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netRoute2007-05-31T12:31:15+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Waymarking%20the%20Windermere%20Way.html#unique-entry-id-8http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Waymarking%20the%20Windermere%20Way.html#unique-entry-id-8


To get the ball rolling, the first waymarks have been added around the southern end of the walk and from Bowness up to Robin Lane on Wansfell. Our objective is to mark where the path leaves or joins a road first then later on add more waymarks at suitable points along the route.

]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWindermere2007-05-14T09:40:39+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Marathon.html#unique-entry-id-7http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Marathon.html#unique-entry-id-7Windermere Marathon. The marathon of course takes a slightly shorter route than the Windermere Way and we would say a less interesting one. Nonetheless it's a good way to get a quick taster of the scenery on offer. The record for the run stands at 2' 23" 16.
I did run the inaugural marathon back in the eighties, my time was 4' 10" and I don't know how many seconds.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netWindermere2007-05-07T04:24:15+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Seaplanes%20on%20Windermere.html#unique-entry-id-6http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Seaplanes%20on%20Windermere.html#unique-entry-id-6There are other lakes the service could use of course, but Windermere has several hotels right on it's shores and the appeal of a direct service from the capital is very appealing.
Friends of the Lake District have their usual concerns about 'disrupting the tranquility of the area'. If they think Windermere is tranquil, perhaps they should get out more. ]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPersonal2007-05-01T16:00:52+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Handkerchiefs.html#unique-entry-id-5http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Handkerchiefs.html#unique-entry-id-5sotto vocce, 'Handkerchiefs, now you don't see those very often these days'.
It was me with the hankie of course and I make no apology. True, I was brought up in a time when every schoolboy went to school in short pants but we never left the house without a handkerchief. Not only that, I come from a long line of 'runny noses'. Hay fever, sneezing, blocked noses - they run in the family. So I thought about it for a while, 'What's the alternative'? I asked myself. Tissues are more hygienic, or so goes the argument. Not with my nose. I'd need a man size box most days and my pocket is just not up to it.
Besides, handkerchiefs are better for the environment being re-usable. Not only that try using a tissue in a gale on a Lakeland fell top. Add the fact that (a clean one can be used as an impromptu bandage, a neckerchief or (if it's big enough) as a bandana to keep the sun off and probably a dozen other things.
So lets hear it for the Handkerchief and my small contribution to the environment.
]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPersonal2007-04-30T16:07:42+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/114425bddbbf058f7d8e838257d41770-4.html#unique-entry-id-4http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/114425bddbbf058f7d8e838257d41770-4.html#unique-entry-id-4mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPeople2007-04-30T09:19:00+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/e7d45fd4584669a51726e9088163c833-3.html#unique-entry-id-3http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/e7d45fd4584669a51726e9088163c833-3.html#unique-entry-id-3Before you do set foot on the island however, check whether the dogs are around. I have a feeling they will still be in residence.]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netEnvironment2007-04-22T08:31:40+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Repair%20or%20Ruin.html#unique-entry-id-2http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Repair%20or%20Ruin.html#unique-entry-id-2"This path has also been paved for most of it’s length. Care is needed as some parts have been left rather poorly finished although on the whole it is quite good."
Not so now. ]]>mozaic@lakeland.uk.netRoute2007-04-10T13:04:55+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Route%20updates.html#unique-entry-id-1http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Route%20updates.html#unique-entry-id-1mozaic@lakeland.uk.netPersonal2007-03-31T05:49:49+01:00http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Introduction.html#unique-entry-id-0http://www.windermere-way.co.uk/news/blog_files/Introduction.html#unique-entry-id-0The Windermere Way route was first published in 2003. The map was available from local bookshops but promotion and distribution cost more than I was making from selling it so this was abandoned. Publishing the route as a website is a way to bring this lovely walk to a much wider audience. I hope you enjoy it. ]]>