Wednesday 1 May 2013

Days 46, 47, 48 and 49 Home. I came home for a rest and to sort out some things before going north. The resting part of this plan is going fine, unfortunately rest is degenerating into slothful inactivity. However, James and I gathered out remaining strength to mount an expedition to the summit of Black Combe. This is a much neglected peak on the extreme south western edge of the Lake District. The hill is not very high (600 metres), itdoes not overlook any of the lakes and is a long way from anywhere. We had the hill to ourselves on the most glorious afternoon with clear blue skies and a cool wind. The first part was quite steep as we tacked up the western flank but once on the ridge the path was clear and the ascent gradual. On the way up the views over the Irish sea were fantastic with the Isle of Man and Snowdonia visible to the west and south west, as we gained height the view north to St Bee's Head, the Solway Firth and the hill of Galloway came into view and the view south to Barrow and Walney Island developed. Only when we reached the summit did the view east appear with the Coniston and Scafell ranges spread out and bathed in sunshine revealed in all their glory. We had 360 degree vista with something of interest in every direction, it was truly breathtaking perhaps one of the best views in Britain. I had long suspected this would be one of the most rewarding walks and have waited a long time for the weather and opportunity to find out. It exceeded my expectations and to have the place to ourselves made me feel very privileged. Today I have been busy waterproofing tent, shoes and outer garments and getting new poles for the tent. I am planning to go north next Tuesday, watch this space. Good night. Pics of view east and summit of Black Combe, wind blown tree at base of the hill and view north to Ravenglass, Sellafield and St Bees.

2 comments:

  1. I went up Black Combe maybe 20 years ago, and remember a parrot in a cafe in Millom too. It's a beautiful area.Hope your preparations go well! Simon

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  2. I've just read your last many, many days blogs, the first moment I have had in ages to feel that I shouldn't be doing something else. They were highly entertaining and have made me chuckle a lot. You've been near Michael - shall have to ask him about helicopter raids - to good Old Sarum which we visited in October while seeing him, near Devizes, where we were at a wedding a couple of weeks ago and Winchester where my brother, many, many years ago, was at college: all lovely places. I will also have to check out Black Combe. Very much looking forward to your further adventures and am going to suggest to hockey club members that we donate something to the hospice and see what the feeling is and will let you know. Good luck, take care and will watch out for RSS feed activity soon.

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