Sunday, 18th October 2009
| Walk: | Tilberthwaite, Birk Fell, Wetherlam, Red Gill Head Moss, Coppermines Valley, Far End, Yewland Fells, Yewdale Beck | ||
| Start Point: | Tilberthwaite Quarries | Grid Ref: | NY 306 009 |
| Distance: | 8 miles | Ascent: | 3,100 feet |
| Weather: | Early intermittent drizzle gradually became constant 'wetness' | ||
| Accompanied by: |
8 members of the group led by John L |
||
| Comments: | With a reasonable forecast we had been hoping for a mainly dry day with a possibility of rain later on but this was not to be. After only 30 minutes or so it was necessary to don the full waterproofs as we climbed ever-upwards, initially over Birk Fell and onto Wetherlam Edge. By this time the mist had closed in and the day didn't look promising. Eventually reaching Wetherlam summit we managed to locate the cairn that was hiding in the mist. Taking a break for elevenses it was then decided to abandon the planned route up Prison Band to Swirl How and on to Coniston Old Man. Instead we descended the Lad Stones ridge and by the time we reached Coppermines Valley there was a slight improvement in the mist - but not in the drizzle. However, the best was yet to come as John led us up a steep scree slope onto the Yewland Fells. Wainwright describes this area as 'a gently-undulating broad plateau with little interest, a great disappointment'! Getting wetter by the minute we eventually joined the Coppermines Valley to Tilberthwaite Path and descended by Yewdale Beck to the sanctuary of the cars. However, it was an enjoyable walk and the waterproofs did their job! | ||
Scroll down to see photos of the walk
The day looks promising as set out along the road from the quarry car park at Tilberthwaite . . .
and past a picturesque cottage with a balcony
However, before long we are in the mist and drizzle . . .
which has only got worse by the time we reach Wetherlam
A damp elevenses stop, and we decide change the route . . .
and head straight sown to Coppermines Valley - passing a 'treerock' in the mist
The cottages and Youth Hostel in Coppermines Valley as we descend out of the heavier mist . . .
passing the hydro-electric scheme . . .
and the Miners' Bridge . . .
where a Mountain Ash hasn't lost its berries to the birds - yet
A short section on a flat surface . . .
before heading up a scree slope . . .
rather steep in places
Hope this wasn't an ex-Ramblers member!
The colours would be spectacular in the sun - but the mist does add atmosphere to Yewdale Beck
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