Yet more stormy weather.

As I write Storm Henry is battering Cumbria and last week was another stormy one. Not wanting to battle against the wind on the fells through the week we stuck to coastal walks. The sea was very rough at times and quite spectacular to watch and listen to.

The Solway Coast on Wednesday.

Over the weekend the 7th named storm of the winter - Gertrude - struck. On Saturday we wanted to try and have a fell walk so picked some lower Lakeland Fells - Barrow, Stile End and Outerside - above Braithwaite. We parked on the Newlands Hause road and then climbed Barrow via it's pretty steep NE ridge. It was windy but the visibility was good and a light covering of fresh snow made for great views. 

We were prepared to turn around if it became too windy but having ticked off Barrow we continued over Stile End and onto Outerside. As we gained height it became harder and we were pleased not to have chosen to go higher. From Outerside we turned and headed down the valley back to the car. With the wind on our backs it was a little easier and we found a sheltered spot for lunch. A short but good walk given the wind.

Heading off from the Newlands road.

Starting the NE ridge of Barrow.

Looking to Grisedale Pike.

Higher up the NE ridge.

A steep step on the ridge.

Shafts of sunlight illuminate Cat Bells.

Looking back to Skiddaw.

The view up Newlands to Dale Head.

Susan almost at the summit.

Battling into the wind on Barrow summit.

Heading for the next top.

The view to Skiddaw and Blencathra.

On the summit of Sile End.

Heading for Outerside.

Looking back along our ridge route.

The view east from near the summit of Outerside.

Causey Pike.

Grisedale Pike.

Outerside summit.

Pole adjusting on the summit.

The head of Coledale and Crag Hill.

Dropping down the valley.

The final track back to the road.

Back at the car.

Sunday was forecast to be wet but a little calmer. Again we fancied getting onto the fells and chose Sale Fell and Ling Fell near Cockermouth. Low cloud covered the higher fells and light rain fell for much of the walk but we enjoyed getting out without getting battered by the wind.

Getting ready for the off.

Tightening up the boots.

An easy burn crossing.

The final slopes of Sale Fell.

On Sale Fell summit.

Heading for Ling Fell.

Reaching Ling Fell summit Trig Point.

Summit shots.

The view west from the descent.

Sale Fell - Skiddaw in the cloud behind.

Binsey and Lake Bassenthwaite.

Nearly down after a good wander.

The forecast for the week ahead is not very encouraging!!!