Poor forecast.

The forecast for the weekend was poor with strong winds and heavy rain from Saturday lunchtime. With this in mind we decided to stay low and head east to avoid the rain for as long as possible. Our chosen hills were Carrock Fell and High Pike - tucked away behind Blencathra in the northern fells. It was dry and breezy when we left the car but very mild for the time of year. Cloud covered the high tops but in places sun shone through. We made quick progress up the steep start and were soon at the top of Carrock Fell. The ground from here was very wet and the wind had picked up but it was much brighter than we expected.

Before heading for High Pike we detoured to the Lingy Hut bothy to get out of the wind for a hot drink and sign the visitors book again. It was then on to High Pike on the slopes of which we passed the first walker of the day. The views were again better than expected but the wind was getting up so we soon headed down to the car. 

As it was still early we headed into Keswick and couldn't resist the delights of Fishers Cafe.

Climbing Carrock Fell with some sun breaking through.

Susan heading for the summit.

The summit cairn.

A bright spell on route to the Lingy Hut.

Unbolting the hut door to get some shelter.

High Pike summit seat.

High Pike summit marker with Carrock Fell beyond.

Looking to Bowscale Fell from High Pike.

Sunday dawned wet and windy so we went on our coastal walk from home in the morning. After lunch the frequent heavy showers had eased so we decided to head off to climb Sale Fell despite the strong wind. At times we were blown off line by the wind but it wasn't too bad and the rain stayed off.

A windy day on Sale Fell.

Leaning back into the wind on Sale Fell summit.

Looking across Bassenthwaite Lake from Sale Fell.