Langdale Pikes from Borrowdale.

We've wanted to do the Langdale Pikes again for a while but didn't fancy the drive round to Langdale on a Bank Holiday weekend. The solution was to start from Borrowdale which would also make for a longer day out. We headed out early to make sure of a parking space at Stonethwaite and were happy to see clear skies.
Our route took us first along the Coast to Coast path up to Greenup Edge. When Susan completed the C2C seven years ago she saw nothing due to low cloud. Today the views were stunning thanks to a cold, clear northerly air flow.

Looking down towards Stonethwaite from the top of Lining Crag.

The Central Fells form Lining Crag.

From the col we turned south west and headed for our first top - High Raise. The views into the Central Fells were great and we only saw two other couples to this point.

High Raise Trig Point - Scafell Pike, Great End and Great Gable beyond.

Thunacar Knott was next followed by Pavey Ark, Harrison Stickle, Loft Crag and Pike of Stickle. We expected the Pikes to be busy but it wasn't too bad and the great conditions made us very glad to be out on the hill.

Thunacar Knott on a cool May day.

Pavey Ark summit with Bowfell in the background.

Scrambling up Harrison Stickle with both sets of trekking poles.

Bowfell from Loft Crag.

On route to Pike of Stickle.

Gimmer Crag and Langdale from Pike of Stickle.

To get back to the car we headed for Stake Pass and dropped down into Langstrath. The view of Cam Crag ridge made us keen to repeat the scramble this summer and several teams climbing on Sergeant's Crag Slabs brought back memories of some great evening’s cragging.

On route to Stake Pass.

Looking down Langstrath towards Skiddaw.

It was a great day out and showed that you can dodge the crowds with a bit of thought and enjoy a new route into the bargain.