Summer - been and gone?

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After last weekends glorious summer weather this week has been very disappointing in Cumbria. With wind, rain and low temperatures it's felt more like autumn than summer. Despite this we've had two good days out this weekend.

On Saturday we headed east for a lower level fell walk as the forecast was for showers and gale force winds. We parked below Carrock Fell just as another couple arrived but we were ready first and headed briskly up the hill. The wind was strong but the sky suggested that we'd not get much rain.
We reached the summit well before the others and didn't see them again once we'd left and headed towards the Lingy Hut. The ground was surprisingly dry and we made good time to the wee bothy, which is maintained by the National Park. It gave some welcome shelter from the wind while we had a piece of cake and a drink. As it was still early we decided to extend our planned round by heading out and back to Knott. It was worth the effort and we were soon back at the bothy for lunch.
Our last top was High Pike and from there it was down to the car and off to Keswick for a tea/coffee and scone - our first for a wee while. The forecast rain only arrived as we drove home but it was torrential.

On the summit of Carrock Fell.


Bowscale Fell from Carrock Fell.


Heading to the Lingy Hut.


Seeking shelter from the wind.




Skiddaw from Knott.


Heading for High Pike with Carrock Fell in the background.


Leaving High Pike summit.


Descending below Carrock Fell.


Almost back to the road.


Sunday was forecast to be a better day so we decided on a wee cycle from home. We headed to Buttermere and another of our favorite Lakeland Cafes in the village. Our route took us via Fangs Brow and Loweswater and had some challenging wee climbs to test our fitness. It wasn't that warm but there was a lot of pleasant sunshine and good views. We returned home via Lorton, Eaglesfield and Greysouthen.

On the climb out of Mockerkin on route to Fangs Brow.


The Lakeland fells from above Fangs Brow.


Mellbreak from the Loweswater road.


Heading along the Buttermere valley.


Looking to Red Pike and Ling Comb above Crummock Water - heading home.


Mellbreak, Crummock Water and Susan on the road again.


Having a wee rest on the road home.


The fields of Buttercups are amazing this year.


Me and the bike below Grasmoor.


Another great wee ride from home.



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