Bannerdale the Hard Way and a Stroll Up Souther Fell

Molly is coming for a sleepover tonight (Breeze's Best mate), so we decided to do a walk close to home so we weren't too late going to pick her up. We popped over to Mungrisdale and set off up the Glenderamackin (seen on Breeze's left). This area was hit by December's floods and there are still badly damaged and missing bridges, so a bit of jumping and fording is needed. Mind you it's always wet here, so wet boots and trousers are inevitable at any time.

Bannerdale Craggs is on the Skyline to the right. That's where we are heading first.

We leave the river and start the gentle climb up the grassy slope

Natures Camouflage

Pausing for breath (only because she's been told to sit!) looking over Bannerdale dale!

We are heading up the ridge ahead, through the old slate mines. Breeze is halfway there already (in truth she's probably been back and forth three times already too!)

Pausing for a selfie in the old Mine workings

It's steep up here, but some don't seem to care

Steep, but a really lovely climb. It is a fabulous ridge which thankfully not many seem to use.

On the top of Bannerdale Crags, looking at Blencathra. We are going straight ahead to drop down onto Mungrisdale common briefly, before heading back down the Glenderamackin towards Souther Fell, our next goal.

Looking back you can see the extent of the fire which demolished acres of heather and wildlife too, six weeks ago.

Sharp edge, with a queue of tourists as usual

Heading along the Glenderamackin on the unfrequented slopes of Blencathra

Lunchtime

Not a bad view for lunch, even if Husband has got his back to me!

As we reach the col above Mousthwaite comb we head up onto Souther. The view behind of the western fells is pretty impressive

Looking back at Blencathra and the valley we have just walked through

From the top of Souther, looking across to the ridge we walked up onto Bannerdale. The slate mines stand out among the green fellside

Heading off Souther Fell amongst Sheep and Foxgloves. A really fab walk, there's not much to add that could improve it. Well there is just one thing..................

We had a really lovely walk in ideal conditions and once again saw very few people (although lots in the distance). 7.5 miles approx and still in good time to head over and pick Molly up. Not too sure Breeze will be very playful tonight mind!