There were no signs of any grey skies as I left the motorway at Shap and drove the walled lanes passing through Bampton before finally arriving at Haweswater Reservoir. Passing the lay-by close to Rowantreethwaite Beck I spotted one space left right at the front of the lay-by and not wanting to miss it I tucked the car straight in. Opening the car door to views of Mardale Head felt like one of those 'pinch me' moments, everything was perfect from the view to the blue skies and a climbing temperature. I walked over to the wall just taking it all in before remembering I'd come here to do a walk so I returned to my car and laced up my boots.
There was no need to add a layer over my technical T and should I need one the 'back up' fleece that I keep in my pack for emergencies would do just fine. It was warmer than expected and I hydrate by finishing the last half litre of hydration during my drive north before making a mental note that I'd only filled my 3ltr bladder with around 2.0ltrs of Summer Fruits, given todays route it should be plenty. The sound of a gate latch opening then wood clashing against wood broke the silence, it was a girl with a Collie and a Jack Russell in tow who by now were making their way towards Mardale Head. It's a longer walk than you think but the views make up for it.
Closing my tailgate I left the lay-by and opened the gate then began the steady climb towards the ruined Peat Huts not forgetting the view I had over my shoulder. |