Catching up.

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In the 90's and early 00's I did a lot of climbing and caving with an active west Cumbrian group including Jeff Langstaff, Pete Baines, Richard Morton and Simon Willis. Yesterday I met up with Richard at Bowness Knott in Ennerdale for a wander up Pillar. We've not been out on the hill together for several years so it was a good chance to catch up. We mountain biked the 6 miles up to Black Sail Youth Hostel then climbed Pillar via Black Sail Pass and the Climber's Traverse. Any thoughts of climbing Pillar Rock via Slab and Notch route disappeared when we found the initial slab wet and greasey. The views from the summit were extensive despite a blanket of high cloud. We could see the Mull of Galloway, the Isles of Man and most impressively Snowdonia in North Wales. A good day on the hill.

Having a rest before starting Climber's Traverse.


Approaching Robinson's Cairn.


Having a look at Slab and Notch on Pillar Rock.


Starting the descent to Black Sail.


Approaching Black Sail Youth Hostel.


Starting the cycle back to Bowness Knott.

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