March

I was supposed to be out walking with friends this morning but then we had a sudden heavy fall of snow which made the roads treacherous, so I went outside and took a photo of Tommy in the snow instead.

The weather has been so mixed lately. Two weeks ago guests were walking on the high fells in T shirts and I certainly felt I could have done with my shorts on in the garden. We had frog spawn in the puddles up in the woods (some frogs never learn) and there was a solitary primrose out as well. Now it’s cold and wet again but not quite up to the ‘Beast from the East’ standard of last year.

During our tropical spell we had some beautiful days and the views were amazing particularly in the morning and evenings. I took these pictures on a morning dog walk from the top of Brackenthwaite Howes (up from Lanthwaite Wood). One looks along Crummock to the high fells and the other, which I obviously couldn’t resist, is of the view towards Foulsyke.

I had my son Paul and his family here for half term. They are all keen cyclists and I am amazed by how much the children can do. One day they took ‘L’al Ratty’ which everyone loves, to Dalegarth and cycled back to Ravenglass along the Eskdale Trail. They had a fabulous time – picnic included!

I have myself just got an E-bike as I enjoy cycling but get put off by having to cycle up Scale Hill or Fang’s Brow (of King of the Mountains fame in last year’s Tour of Britain) to get out of the valley. It’s nice just to pop down to Lorton shop  on my bike and I’m looking forward to going up to Whinlatter to try their new Gorse Trail.

PS If you are coming on holiday and thinking about bringing bikes I do provide secure bike storage and cleaning facilities.