NUFWS descended upon the western lakes for its first weekend trip at Felldyke bunkhouse, setting off from Newcastle on time (for once) meaning everyone could get a good nights rest ready for the big walk on Saturday. Waking up bright and early, we trailed down to Wasdale head to have a go at an extended version of the Mosedale Horseshore (adding Great Gable and Kirk Fell). Popping up onto the summit of Great Gable we were welcomed with a stunning cloud inversion, the isolated lump of Pillar poking its way above the blanket, after a moody start this was ample reward.

Below: View of Pillar from Great Gable.

Along onto Kirk Fell we were again greeted by the weather, meeting a jolly couple who were one Wainwright away from completing an 11 year journey. Dropping back off of Kirk Fell we then spied into Ennerdale as Pillar loomed into view. The high level route gave a stunning view of Pillar rock and a final scramble up onto the summit gave us a fading sun in weather more like mid June than October. Descending down a scree we loped down the rest of the valley with heavy legs, finding Isaac and Jake playing a game of poker with pebbles from the pub car park that they were situated outside of.

Below: Jake with Nads playing Pebble Poker

A hearty bangers and mash was well received back at the bunkhouse, a NUFWS classic that has been squandered in the past (due to questionable cooking techniques). Nevertheless this one was successful. Rising for the last day early, everyone mucked in with the cleaning and we were able to get out on time to enjoy another beautiful day.

Below: A Teeny Tiny meal for a certain triple T.

A late night for many members meant that Sunday was to be an easier day, as a short group took a stroll up to the summit of Red Pike and High Stile, enjoying a dip in Buttermere on their return. A longer route enjoyed the whole ridge, popping up onto Haystacks and looping back down to Gatesgarth where we were generously picked up by the others after spending some time scrambling.

Below: View of Buttermere and Grasmoor from High Stile. (Can also see some peaks in Galloway if you zoom in on the left)

Another day of perfect weather, a water filter came in handy when we ran out of water due to the heat of the day, but nevertheless it was well worth the wait. A sleepy drive back to Newcastle concluded the trip, an George was disappointed at not stopping at Booths, other than that a successful first weekend trip. Thanks to everyone who came along and a big thanks to the drivers that made it possible. Next stop Patterdale.

Laurence