In a mild, overcast November dawn we departed Newcastle for Threlkeld enjoying the tunes on the coach.

Once we arrived in Threlkeld and were dropped off by the coach we split into our different walks. The short walk saw a very cute cow but also had a lovely walk over to High Rigg (354m) via Low Rigg then onto the end enjoying views out over Derwent Water and having the added advantage of staying below the clouds all day.

The medium split into two walks doing the same route but reverse to each other one group with Simon and Josh the other with Jacob and Laurie. Simons group headed up the steep end of Blencathra up to Blease fell first enjoying the views south over the lakes before entering the thick cloud at about 600m elevation. After continuing to the top of Blencathra (868m) and it’s modest summit marker we descended down to Scales tarn via Scales fell ridge and a nice contouring correction. Once at Scales tarn several of us enjoyed a quick dip in the tropical waters and whilst we were eating our lunch the cloud even parted slightly giving a glimpse of the corrie. We then descended out of the cloud and down around the bottom of southern ridges of Blencathra overcoming the small ‘step’ on the path. Returning to the pub in Threlkeld to meet the other groups for a pint. The other medium group went the other direction and decided sensibly to only skim stones at Scales tarn instead of swimming. After summiting Blencathra Jacob led most of the group along the plateau and down past Blease fell whilst Laurie led down Doddick fell ridge.

The long walk had a great time bagging a few Wainwrights and bog walking before coming back over Blencathra; including Bannerdale crags (683m) and Bowscale fell (702m).

Overall a lovely day out and lovely views were gained below 600m and the friendly Lakeland clag was present all day on the higher fells. -Josh

Above: Looking southeast towards Great Mell fell and Clough head from the lower slopes of Blencathra

Below: Walking along the Blencathra plateau

Above: Scales tarn

Below: Blencathra summit