R*n 708: Stonethwaite

Like setting off on a school trip we checked that everyone had refreshments, applied suncream, paid a visit to the toilets and then a quick headcount and we were off.  Bubbles had warned us all that it was a near vertical start, that there was no short cut for wimps, and it was a long downhill return.  For a change - the hare was absolutely spot on, no lies!

More than an hour later we had covered .83k, yes, less than 1 kilometre - but the views back down to the valley and our campsite were amazing on the frequent rest stops as we caterpillared our way up through the jungle with Lurch taking every opportunity to scramble up the ghyll and Whitenoise leaning over to admire the wildflowers. 

As we approached Bessie Boot, the egg sandwiches came out (told you it was a school trip!) Rectum and Fishflaps took the map and ramboed back to the campsite. Speedbump and Dormouse kept up a steady pace with the help of their poles, Many photos of the spectacular views from Coombe Door were taken - we still don't know if we were looking at the Isle of Man or Dumfries; but the views of Langdales, Hellvellyn, Skiddaw and Blencathra were superb.

Many hours later we all arrived back at the campsite running and walking, some with 4 legs, some with 3, some with 2 and some on wheels. But a cold pint was definitely in order at the Langstrath before we returned to the campsite and a reviving and most welcome barbecue which lasted all evening - with endless down downs, laughter and high spirits - maybe a bit too much of the latter for some - but it helped us sleep - well, apart from the Addams family whose tent was pitched rather too close to Party Central.

What a stunning valley and glorious weather. We must do it again sometime - I'm sure there were some mountain paths that we didn't cover!