Sunday, 28th April 2013

 

Walk: Wet Sleddale, Swindale, Sleddale Hall
Start Point: Wet Sleddale Reservoir Grid Ref: NY 554 114
Distance: 10 miles Ascent: 2,000 ft
Weather: Mist and showers Time: 6 hours
Comments: We set out with the group, gradually climbing the ridge between Wet Sleddale and Swindale. With no visible path and very boggy terrain the climbing was tough and we were pleased to begin the descent into Swindale. At this point Phil and I decided to leave the rest of the group and head down the valley to make our way around the end of the ridge and back to the car. This was a pleasant route though the weather was determined to provide sun and rain in equal amounts (fortunately we were dry when we reached the car!).

Scroll down to see photos of the walk

A misty start . . .

 

as we make our way across Sleddale Beck bridge . . .

 

and climb up the ridge

 

Frogspawn with developing tadpoles

 

It looks a little clearer as the group poses by the cairn

 

Another pause beside Gowthercrag Gill . . .

 

gives John time to check out the waterfall

 

Descending into Swindale . .  .

 

near Truss Gap

 

Looking back up Swindale there is still mist on the higher fells

 

A sheltered spot for lunch between the showers

 

Mirk Gill

 

A lost lamb - no response from mother despite a lot of bleating

 

Wet Sleddale comes back into view . . .

 

as we descend to Sleddale Grange . . .

 

and check out the log patterns

 

Heading back over the bridge . . .

 

there is time to take a photo of the beck . . .

 

and Phil spots the 'icicles' below the arch . . .

 

and I get a last shot of the bridge

 

Looking over the reservoir the sun highlights the cement works

 

I don't remember crossing this bridge on the outward journey . . .

 

because we then took the newer bridge on the other side of the wall

  Return to top

Return to 2013 Diary