Ambleside and Windermere

Was really pleased not to have suffered any ill effects from yesterday's walk, particularly when it came to the Achilles, which stood up to the 20,000 plus steps very well, including the steep ascents and descent.

We’d agreed to another fell walk today, with Chris and Ann joining us to climb Lower Pike and Higher Pike on the other leg of the Fairfield Horseshoe. I was a little frustrated to have done the lower fells of the horseshoe without taking in the peak that bears its name, but there’s always another day and there are many other fells in the area that will need to be bagged.

Compared with yesterday the climb out of the valley was much more gradual. Constant chatting throughout the walk made the day pass quickly and it was only when we reached Higher Pike that the biting wind hit us. Thankfully we could rest behind a high stone wall that had been our companion for much of the ascent along the ridge,

We returned along the same route and headed for the Golden Rule pub where we were met by Hazel and Lorna, who had walked from the hotel, along Grasmere and Rydal Water.

Once back at the hotel we were joined by John and Debs Gravett for an evening meal and catch up. Another grand day in the Lakes.