As COVID restrictions continue to lift we are able to venture further and to more exciting and beautiful venues. The 3rd weekend of May and we’re in Rydal, Cumbria. We stayed in the youth hostel at Rydal Hall. Catherine’s sister Carole and husband Simon had booked a Yurt as they were celebrating Simons birthday. Without sharing too many details the administration seemed a little confused so Simon and Carole ended up in a log cabin and we had an entire hostel to ourselves!! It was ‘special’ 😮

Despite forecasts of rain we managed two wonderful hikes close to Rydal some of which were in glorious (and hot) sunshine!

Saturday was the longest with OS Maps suggesting it was 9.5 miles and 2,400 feet total ascent but the recorded route on Simons Garmin showed 13.5 miles!! It certainly felt like the latter – but then I’m from the fens :-). Stunning views back over Lake Windemere and all around Loughrigg Fell, Grasmere and Rydal Water.

Saturdays route..

Sunday was quieter (not least because we were feeling the impact of Saturday and a few beers had been drunk!). We walked along the eastern edge of  Thirlmere Reservoir to Great How. There was little wind and the sun brought a humid scented walk to life. At the end of the reservoir we climbed to the top of Great How (330 metres) where we had our lunch, basking in the warm sunshine. As we climbed down, the weather closed in and the reason I always carry a full rucksack was revealed.. wet weather gear… all of it! However, sunshine and showers was the order of the day so there were regular stops to remove and replace various jackets and fleeces.

Sundays route…

All in all a wonderful excursion to The Lakes 🙂