Thursday March 31st

 Today, it snowed off and on all morning- thick snow and then 15 minutes later, bright sunshine. We decided to explore the undulating ridge opposite Howegrain Lodge, which we had been looking at for the past three days- Winter Crag and Howstead Brow.

Looking down Howstead Brow and Winter Crag. Our rental is almost visible!

We walked on to Beda Fell, taking a quick break just before Beda Head in a stone-built shelter.
Descending to the stone-built shelter near Beda Head

Beda Fell afforded us some classic, spectacular Lake District views.

Panorama from Beda Fell

We worked our way down, often through snow or hail (which then lifted to give bright sunlight) with multi-layered vistas to enjoy.

The Nab, peeping through the cloud inversion

We came down to Dalehead (the very end of the road), passing the farmer driving his quadbike loaded with freshly deceased deer. It must take something to make a living out here- it certainly feels cut off from the rest of the world. The end of the walk was back along the road past St. Martin's Old Church, which we went into; so simple a place of worship. Out in the churchyard was a 700-year-old yew tree, said to have been the source of wood for the locals' longbows- quite a sight. We wandered back to have a late lunch and enjoy the views from the warmth of our place. David took some snaps of early lambs (and even a couple of goats with their kids) tottering about the fields.

Very new lamb, just about able to walk!

It is a very beautiful dale and very unspoiled which made it a memorable place to visit. Home tomorrow and looking forward to DK, Rachel and Matt being with us for the weekend.

Just over 5 miles, 489m ascent.



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