We set off on a beautiful sunny Sunday morning from Newcastle and were greeted with beautiful views of snow capped fells as we approached the Lake District. The hills really were wearing their Sunday best.

After arriving in the picturesque village of Braithwaite we split into 3 walking groups for the day. The short walk had a lovely 11km route taking them over to Catbells not before they had had a chance to play ‘Pooh sticks’ in Rigg Beck in the preceding valley. On summiting Catbells we were greeted with lovely views east over Derwent water towards the Dodds, north to Skiddaw and Skiddaw little man but the best view was up the Newlands valley towards Dale Head and Hindscarth with the impressive Sail completing the panorama. As we descended Catbells we encountered a couple of Alpacas having a photoshoot before we cotinued back across the valley and around the base of Barrow back to Braithwaite.

The long walk had a great time as they completed a lovely horseshoe to the south of Braithwaite crossing the snowline and enjoying the recently fallen powder. They set off up Grisedale Pike (791m) before continuing on to Hopegill head (770m) then descending over Sand hill before climbing to the summit of Crag hill (Eel Crags 839m) the highest point of the day. After this the walk continued over the beautiful Sail (773m) before returning to the coach in Braithwaite via Outerside (568m) and Stile End.

The medium walk despite an early navigational issue by Matthew also had a lovely time in the sun under clear blue skies taking in a lovely 14km walk. First ascending Stile End and Sail before cresting Crag hill (Eel Crags) and continuing on over Wandhope (772m) before returning to Braithwaite down the valley alongside the Coledale beck.

Overall a wonderful day with perfect weather conditions to experience the beauty of the Lake district. – Josh