Tuesday 4th July 2017Rosthwaite (100M) to Grasmere (75M). Distance 10 m

We take the track alongside Stonethwaite Beck then a rocky path climbing steadily alongside Greenup Gill. We walk steeply up the steps and rocks (a bit tricky but not technical) to the left side of Lining Crag (500M) and admire the views to the north and east. Continue to Greenup Edge, today’s high point at 620M, and then descend the rocky path to the head of Far Easedale. Our guide then considers several factors and decides to either follow the ridge walk across Calf Crag, Gibson Knott and Helm Crag before descending steeply into Grasmere or take the less arduous route down Far Easedale. Very very wet weather.

• Grasmere is rich in art and poetry. It was once home to the poet Wordsworth.

• There are many little shops, cafes and a few pubs serving evening meals in Grasmere.

• There are several outdoor equipment/clothing shops.

• 09:00 start from Rosthwaite.

• Arrive Grasmere approx 15:00

Monday 3rd July 2017Ennerdale Bridge (100M) to Rosthwaite (100M). Distance 14 miles - Strenuous - Height Gain 530m/1740ft - 8 hours

We follow the country lanes to Ennerdale Water then the rocky path along the banks of the Lake. At the far end of the Lake we take the forest track that climbs gradually along Ennerdale valley to the remote Black Sail Hut YHA (290M). From the YHA continue to the bottom of Loft Beck and a steep ascent to the high point of the day at 600M. The views back to the sea are spectacular. We follow the rocky path across the fell and descend to Honister (330M). Continue descending into the beautiful Borrowdale valley to the village of Seatoller (120M) then follow the footpaths to Rosthwaite.

• Ennerdale YHA is 5 miles after Ennerdale village at the 19 mile point.

• Wainwrights ashes were placed near Innominate Tarn on Hay Stacks, this was one of his favourite places.

• At Honister there is a slate mine and shop (serving coffee and tea).

• Rosthwaite has a pub serving evening meals and small shop where you can buy packed lunches. Nearby Stonethwaite has a pub serving evening meals.

• 09:00 start from Ennerdale Bridge.

• Arrive Rosthwaite/Stonethwaite approx. 17:00

Sunday 2nd July 2017St Bees to Ennerdale Bridge (village height above sea level 100M).Distance 14 miles - Strenuous - Height Gain 685m/2250ft – 7.5 hours.

A plaque on the seafront marks the start of Wainwrights coast to coast walk. Tradition says to dip your toe in the sea and then collect a small pebble to carry with you to the east coast. Initially our route heads north along the coastal path with views of Scotland and the Isle of Man. We leave the coastal path and head east towards the Lake District Mountains. The route passes through the villages of Sandwith, Moor Row and Cleator followed by a steep walk up Dent (352M), the high point of the day. Admire the views before continuing across the hilltop and descending steeply down a forest track to Nannycatch Beck. We follow the beck and then a roadside path to Ennerdale Bridge.

• Ennerdale Bridge has two village pubs serving evening meals and packed lunches.

• 09:00 start from Stonehouse Farm.

• Arrive Ennerdale approx 16:30

The Inn at Grasmere

Lovely hotel, we met Janet, Megan and Jade and had a lovely dinner. Such a treat to meet them in England. So enjoyed their company. 

Rothswaithe - Gillarcome B&B

Lovely day up and down dales and vales. Hay Stacks prominent in the distance throughout our walks with two of the waters behind us. The path is steep and rocky in many places which creates a ghost like atmosphere. In awe of the colours of the countryside.

Passed a slate mine and stopped for tea and an ice cream.

St Bees - the Irish Sea

Arrived around 15:00 on the train and explored the coast. Stark scenery in wind and brief rain showers. 

Manchester Airport to St Bees via the transpenine express train

Arrived in Manchester. 14 degrees and cloudy. Michael tucking into breakfast - full English at Joes Kitchen.Then onto the railway station.