Back in the Lakes.

After 5 days of dark mornings and evenings we wanted to get out and doing something on the fells. The forecast wasn't too promising and as we drove east towards or objective - Blencathra - Radio Cumbria was suggesting heavy rain by 9.30am. 

We parked up at Threlkeld and headed off for Doddick Fell our chosen route of ascent. Along the Intake wall the sun shone but cloud covered the summit ridge and rain looked likely. The climb up Doddick is steep at first but then eases along the ridge until the final section where it joins the Scale Fell track. We were in the cloud by this point but there was no sign of any rain. The wind picked up as we climbed higher and there was an occasional break in the cloud as we approached the summit which was occupied by a lone walker.

We didn't linger long and headed for Blease Fell along the Saddleback ridge. At one point the wind dropped and we took the opportunity to share a hot flask before continuing the descent. 

Amazingly the rain held off until we reached the car  but started heavily as we parked up in Keswick to start our Christmas shopping!!!! A good day back in the Lakes.

Sunshine as we walk along the Intake wall heading for Doddick Fell.

Susan negotiating a new stile with gate.

Below Halls Fell.

Climbing steeply up Doddick Fell.

Sunshine and cloud approaching Doddick summit.

Doddick Fell ridge leading to the cloud covered summit of Blencathra.

On the ridge.

Once more on Blencathra summit.

A brief break in the clouds.

Heading for Blease Fell.

Autumn colours hanging on almost back down to Threlkeld.