Blencathra Ridges.

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It's been another very changeable week in Cumbria with a lot of wind and rain. The forecast for today was, however, good so we headed out to climb Blencathra. Wanting to do something a little different we parked in Threlkeld and then headed up Gategill Ridge. The weather was not, however, as forecast   and we were soon climbing into the 'clag'. As  we climbed higher we also discovered that light snow had fallen overnight and that there were icy patches on the ridge. The steeper top section required some care but as we approached the main ridge the cloud began to break and we were rewarded with fantastic views across Lakeland.
Susan added a layer and her reversible Buff before we continued to the main top above Hall's Fell ridge. There was quite a crowded on the top so we took a few pictures and then headed for the top of Foule Crag to find a quiet spot for a hot drink and a piece of Susan's Tea Loaf. 
Our descent route started down Scales Fell ridge but we soon broke off this and headed  down Doddick Fell ridge before traversing below the hill back to the car. 
The day was rounded off with a great bowl of Chicken Broth in Fishers and a wander around town. Susan bought her new bike tyres so hopefully there'll be a few less punctures over the coming months.

Climbing above Threlkeld at the foot of Gategill ridge.


Poor visibility and light snow cover on the ridge.


Climbing carefully up the upper slopes.


The cloud beginning to break as Susan approaches the main ridge.


The summit of Gategill ridge.


The improving view SW into the Lakeland.


Walking the summit ridge to Hall's Fell top.


A great day to be on the hill.


Looking back to our ascent ridge.


On Blencathra summit - again!!!


Heading for the top of Foule Crag.


Looking to Skiddaw.


Heading down.


On Doddick Fell Ridge.


Nearly down and fancying a bowl of soup.


Note - On Thursday Susan was award her Post-Graduate CBT Dip. in Carlisle Cathedral by the Bishop of York. It was a very wet day so we didn't get many photos. I was very proud of her!!!!



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