The Langdales

The first of many Herdy photos

Today, the weather man promised us good weather, so we decided to head across to the Lake District for a day out at the Langdales.  We left a very gloomy Ingleton first thing and headed West.  First stop was Windermere for a quick trip to Lakeland (had to exchange a baking tray I bought a while ago - it was too wide for my oven).  Then we went to Ambleside where I visited Gaynor Sports (the biggest outdoor shop in the UK) to buy some sturdy trainers (my current pair have recently fallen apart, meaning that if it rains I get wet feet).  I managed to get a pair of half price Mammuts so was happy.  We then stopped off at a bakery to get some sandwiches for a picnic.

We then headed off to the Langdales and parked at Stickle Ghyll car park ready for our 5 mile walk to Blea Tarn and back.  The clouds were still down over the mountains, but we set off optimistic that we would get some sun at some stage.  We took the high track along the valley.  It was very rocky and muddy, but Tom took it in his stride and did really well.

This part of the Lake District is full of Herdwick Sheep, known as Herdys (almost a symbol of the Lake District).  We have quite a liking towards them, Matt had his camera out and took many photos - especially as it is lambing season - there were lots of little ones around.  Tom also likes Herdys - he shouts HERDY at the top of his voice every time he sees one, he didn't tire of this today, even though he saw hundreds of them.

Herdy Lamb

Picnic in the clouds

After an hour, all of us had growling tummies (it was 1pm) so we stopped for lunch.  We were still surrounded by thick clouds, but we did get a couple of glimpses of blue sky so were ever hopeful that the sun would come out.

Stunning scenery in the sunshine

We then headed across the valley and along a zigzag track up a steep hill.  It was quite a gradient, but Tom really didn't seem to notice it at all - he chatted the whole way up it without stopping!!!!  We both reckon he is the fittest member of the family (I was certainly huffing and puffing!)  We walked across the top and down into the next valley to Blea Tarn where we spent a good hour sat on a stony shore, throwing rocks into the water (when I say 'we' - I mean Matt and Tom - I just sat and watched!)

During this time, the thick clouds disappeared and at last we saw the sun - and glorious it was too.  The Lake District really is very beautiful.  We happily strolled back to the car, stopping to drink in the views - there were a lot of walkers out enjoying the scenery and sunshine.  We took the low track back to the car park and then sat in the sun outside the pub next door (a National Trust pub) having a drink and enjoying more spectacular views before driving back home.







Tom was asleep in the back of the car within 5 minutes, slept almost all the way home and woke up happy which is unusual for him.  We got home after 6pm (very late for us) so I quickly rustled up a dinner of burgers (we were going to have a BBQ sometime over the weekend, but today was the only BBQ day and we stayed out playing far too long for it).

Then bath and bed.  A lovely day.

PS - Tom didn't manage a dry night last night - he woke up wet at 6.30am.  Such a shame, but we will see how he goes tonight.  He seems determined to do it (he wants a hay baler)

And yet more wonderful scenery