GRINDSBROOK HORSESHOE IN REVERSE

We have always said we would never climb up Grindslow from Edale because it is so steep. We have always gone the other way which never seemed to be quite so intimidating.

But this time we decided to go for it, despite not having walked for ages. If we collapse en route we have only ourselves to blame.

 

Yes, steep and rocky, but what a revelation. Not only is it good to see the views that are usually behind us, but we did the ascent without any drama or problems whatsoever. Perhaps we are a lot fitter than we give ourselves credit for.

On the top it was blowing a hooley so we kept away from the edge as we skirted to the top of Grindsbrook. Our intention was to find somewhere for lunch, preferably out of the wind. A tall order.

Circuiting around the head of  Grindsbrook and looking down the valley is spectacular, and we managed to find a picnic spot for lunch, coffee and homemade apple cake. Does everyone have an absolute glut of apples this year?

Then it was the long but pleasant amble around the eastern side of the horseshoe.

The downward part always seems the worst wherever we are and this rubbly section needed care, but once past it was easy on the way after. Why did we think that going up the other way would be so difficult, it is certainly steeper than this bit but shorter so it is over and done with quicker.

We have taken our time, allowing ourselves to enjoy the views and catch-up on much gossip. But we have timed it perfectly, the clear day breaks into rain just as we are on the final stretch to the car park. A brilliant day out after too long away from the hills.

LOCKERBROOK

What started out as a gentle wander along the upper part of Derwent turned into an ascent to Lockerbrook and again, another post with sparse writing but some fantastic photos.

Summer has taken its toll and the reservoir is pretty low.

Mollie feeling the heat.

A split in the path where we helped to redirect a rather confused cyclist relying on his phone's GPS. All that scrolling - no thanks, proper maps for us.

The final descent with good views across to Derwent Edge.

LATE HOT-CROSS BUNS IN LATHKILLDALE

We had planned to draw a line under these walks and not post them, due to my being unable to get the writing done, but the photos are so nice that I decided to do a very abridged commentary and let the pictures speak for themselves.

Verdant scenes with a lot of lush green growth.

Plenty of water and the perfect spot for an early lunch.

With scrummy bun.

Wonderful views of the rocks before we decided to make a circuit of it which vastly increased the length of the walk, and the speed at which we went! Perhaps allow a little more time next time.

ELEPHANTS' FEET ON DERWENT EDGE

As you will see from the photos, this walk was some time ago. Events have conspired against me so although PC put up the pictures, I haven't been able to post the words. So, all in all, this is going to be more of a slide show than anything else.

Although we often return to Derwent we hadn't walked there for a while and this seemed to be a hard walk on a hot day. Whether it was the weather, or our lack of fitness has not been determined.

We went up onto the Edge from the bridge, and the daffodils were blooming lovely.

And the views spectacular, though a little hazy in the bright sun.

New lambs being carefully watched.

The Edge looking dry.

And the buns looking (and tasting) wonderful.

And Mollie looking as tired as we felt.