For those opting for an additional day, the signs on the Thursday night were not good – heavy rain, which had led to several Oread club members, who were out camping, to also make use of the hut overnight. When Friday came however, the weather was much better than forecast with only a couple of very short showers.

Marcus, Mike and Maggie on Friday

Judy headed up Yr Aran which was fun and a little bit scrambly, then traversed around via the quarry workings along the level and down the steep incline, then took a path to the NT place, Craflwyn Hall, and into Beddgelert on the path from the Copper mines, rounded off by a short bus trip back to the hut. Marcus, Michele, Mike and Maggie headed round to Capel Curig. At the back of Joe Brown’s shop, they found a very nice circular walk towards Lyn Grafnant.

On Saturday, there were several excursions which centred on Beddgelert and the Aberglaslyn gorge. A large contingent started their walk at the NT car park at Craflywn Hall, initially heading north east up the valley to the Sygun copper mine and Llyn Dinas. From there, the route turns south west, towards the flank of Grib Ddu. On the tops there is evidence of several old levels, and as we head down Cwm Bychan, there is the remains of an aerial ropeway that once served the workings.

the gang at Llan Dinas

Looking down on Llan Dinas

Cwm Bychan - Remnants of the tramway

Aberglaslyn Gorge

After a picnic lunch at Nantmoor, by further old workings, we head north up the Aberglaslyn gorge. Always a delight with the water cascading over the various falls. A quick refresh in Beddgelert, before the final mile back to Craflwyn Hall.

Meanwhile, another party had started at Nantmoor and headed up the gorge to Beddgelert. returning via a track on the west side of the river. Don had a solo walk starting in Rhyd Ddu, along a path through Beddgelert Forest, below Mynydd Mawr. His return route was by a lower path above Llyn Cwellyn which goes to the campsite close by the A4085. It’s worth noting that work has now begun on an official footpath in this area, up to the path through Beddgelert Forest, which ultimately will remove the need to walk back along the road.

Saturday night was the usual communal fare, with the menu consisting of a tricolore starter, vegetarian chilli mains and a range of desserts, accompanied by a variety of wines.

Awaiting dinner

Communal meal

Andy on causeway near Rhyd Ddu

Sunday was a further assortment of activities, including a visit Powis castle at Welshpool, with its wonderful gardens and terraces, a there and back into Beddgelert (with an obligatory stop at the ice cream shop – was that twice in the weekend for some?), and an ascent of Snowdon via Bwlch Main, returning along the Snowdon Ranger path and then cutting across the familiar quarry track.

A great weekend as ever, which showed that even the less energetic routes can hold a lot of interest.

Attendees: David Blackett, Ed Bramley, Andy Burton, Steve Caulton, David Clear, Mike Goodyer, Don Hodge, Maggie & Mike O’Dwyer, Judy Renshaw, Elsbeth Robson, Suzanne Strawther, Marcus & Michele Tierney

Report by Ed Bramley

There were just two people on the meet this year, due to many changes of plans by other possible attendees. But we had an excellent time, doing some great walking and scrambling in mainly good weather. The others certainly missed out!

We stayed at the SYHA hostel which had good facilities, helpful and friendly staff as well as shops, pubs and restaurants nearby. It also had public transport and easy access to the Cairn Gorm mountain/ski area and some local paths close to the hostel. We managed to catch the last two days of the sunny weather that the whole of the UK had had for many weeks, before it changed to low pressure and some rain. However, the amount of rain we actually had while out was minimal.

With sunshine in the morning and a good forecast on the first day we decided to do a scramble on the Fiacaille Coire ridge, near the ski area of Cairn Gorm. Max had done this before, so he knew what to expect. We drove up to the ski centre and set out on a major path to the south, before heading up a steep, bouldery ridge to the start of the scramble. It looked more forbidding than in the guidebook, but was all possible once we were onto it. The rock was excellent, granite with good friction and mainly solid, though often quite exposed. There was one section where I had to hesitate and look, with Max’s advice, to find a way around a tricky section. Although the scramble was only given Grade 1 in the Scottish guidebook, we agreed that in England it would have merited at least Grade 2 or even 3.

Max on the ridge scramble

Judy on top of Cairn Lochan

Reindeer herd near Cairn Lochan

Scramble ridge seen from the west

We reached the top of the scramble in time to continue along the ridge of Cairn Lochan (1216m) for a lunch stop with some slight shelter from the wind. We saw a snow bunting near the top and later a herd of reindeer grazing on the slopes. We continued west in order to look down into the Lairig Ghru, a long, narrow valley running south into the centre of the Cairngorms. Then we continued along the top of Lurcher’s Crag before cutting back down to the main path. The dry Spring meant that almost all the bog areas were dry, which made most of the ‘off piste’ routes much easier than usual. As we had finished quite early, we stopped to look at Loch Morlich on the way back, which has a surprisingly large sandy beach with water-sports and cafes – most unlike the Scottish Highlands!

In the evenings we usually ate at pubs and restaurants within walking distance of the hostel as there are plenty to choose from, with a variety of style, atmosphere and cuisine. One evening we cooked in the hostel kitchen, with food bought locally.

On the second day the weather was also fine so we went round to the west to do a munro, Sgurr Gaoith, from near Feshiebridge. There was a good clear path all the way to the top, passing through some forest and along a wide valley to A Chailleach before reaching the top at 1118m. The view from the rocky ridge above Loch Einich was spectacular. The descent was much more challenging than the ascent; we followed a ridge North West over 3 further tops but went slightly too far, finding ourselves with several boulder fields to cross. Then it was a matter of plunging through heather slopes to reach a path which eventually met our ascent route. We still had quite an early finish, so there was time to relax after having to move room in the hostel (due to the change of booking arrangements) and finding an interesting Asian/international restaurant for dinner.

Loch Einich from Sgurr Gaoith

The forecast for the following day was for strong wind and possibly low cloud so we decided to do the ridge to the north of Loch Morlich, which is slightly lower. We parked at a bridge near to Glenmore Lodge and followed the slightly complicated guidebook directions through the forest to pick up a path to a rather smart, recently renovated bothy. After a short break there, we took a fairly steep path up to the top of Meall a Buachaille at 810m. The wind along the top ridge was strong enough to make progress quite difficult, but we managed to get over another 2 tops and shelter behind a huge boulder for lunch. After the final top there was a good path down to the forest and through the grounds of Badaguish outdoor centre which seemed to have cabin accommodation and activities. We took a minor diversion around the end of Loch Morlich and heard cuckoos in the forest. This year I heard fewer cuckoos than usual in Scotland at this time of year but, however, I did see a beautiful bullfinch just outside the hostel window at breakfast time that day.

Max at Bothy Ryovan

Judy on ridge of Meall Buachaille

The following two days had forecasts for even stronger winds and considerably more rain, so we did lower walks. On the Sunday we followed a guidebook route from Loch Insh around the Speyside area. From the start at Kincraig we took a short detour to the loch, which had a notice indicating that ospreys were nesting in the area. Max had binoculars and was able to identify a nest, high in the trees on an island. No birds were visible at the time so we continued round, alongside much of the River Feshie and into forest to the south. The path went around several picturesque lochans and up to a viewpoint (Creg Far-leitire) which made a suitable lunch stop. After returning through forest along the Badenoch Way, followed by a short rain shower, we had a further look at the osprey nest, and were lucky to see an adult bird rise up from the nest, fly around and return to it. When we had looked earlier, it had probably been sheltering its chicks from the rain. That made a suitably satisfying finish to the walk. In the evening we ate at ‘Macdui’s bar’ which provided good, typically Scottish fare.

Although we had not actually had much rainfall while out, the last day’s forecast was similarly windy and wet, so we opted for a local walk from the hostel. This took well made paths to the south which were indicated on one map as ‘East Highland Way’, although there were no signs to indicate this. We had around half an hour of serious rain at the start but very little for the rest of the day. The route went to Loch an Eilein, a very pretty loch with a castle on an island. In the morning there were very few people to be seen but later on there were families and other groups, as the loch has car access and parking. We took a route further south to a small bothy (Drake’s Bothy) partly hidden in the woods. This one had some people staying and others camping outside, so we moved on to Loch Gamhna for a lunch stop. Before returning we felt obliged to take in the top of Ord Ban (428m), the highest point in this area, up a steep rocky path way from the crowds but with a trig point on top.

Loch an Eilein with island castle

Max on top of Ord Ban

In the evening we ate at one of the few older restaurants in a hotel which had been around before the ski centre was built. It had chandeliers with deer antlers and traditional food such as haggis on the menu. Then it was time to pack up and leave in the morning. I was lucky to get a lift into Inverness, as Max was meeting his wife Vivien and sister-in-law Janet at the airport, so I visited the very nice museum in town before getting my plane later on. I heard that the others managed to see the ospreys as well, later in the week.

Aviemore was a very good centre for a range of interesting walks and was reasonably easy to reach. I felt sorry for the others who missed this meet!

Present: Judy Renshaw, Max Peacock

Report by Judy Renshaw

The 2025 Peak District Meet was another great melange, with attendees enjoying many of the delights this beautiful hilly area has to offer for those that decide to venture out here.

Céline, Ed and I met at the Robin Hood car park (Free to both National Trust and RSPB members) shortly before 11am on Friday. Lugging our climbing sacks up the path through the trees to Birchen Edge in spring sunshine was certainly no hardship.

We warmed up on Gangplank, a one star moderate, on the isolated slab to the lefthand of the edge. With pleasant balance climbing on polished holds in sheltered sunshine it was the perfect choice for the three of us. We then moved over to the first part of the main edge known as Emmas Slab, where we climbed Emmas Dilemma, a 4a Severe. After refs we moved onto Emmas Temptation, a HVD 4c, with an awkward start, something Birchen has in abundance, but where climbers who persevere are often rewarded with great slightly easier climbing above. I think it was on this route where Céline found the hidden undercut hold that Ed missed and I never reached, which for some reason she seemed doubly pleased with herself about?

All too soon it was time to return to the cars and make our way over to Ilam Hall YHA to meet and greet this year’s attendees, who all duly arrived as planned, always a bit of a relief for the meet organiser. Hats off to Elsbeth for making the three-train journey from Hull with her bike to Matlock and then cycling the 16 miles over to Ilam.

Your Editor Mike G. also enjoyed a Friday outing, which he recounts for you all below:

Setting off from Wiltshire before 9am saw me arrive at Ilam Hall car park before midday, so I was able to do a full afternoon walk. The sun was out, the sky blue and no wind – a great, if warm day. Looking towards Thorpe Cloud View down Dovedale from Thorpe Cloud I headed off across the fields to Dovedale, finding only a few people around. Crossing the stepping stones, I headed up Thorpe Cloud. The path loops around the back of the hill and then quickly takes you up to the ridge and summit – there were extensive clear views from the top. I returned to Dovedale and walked the length of the dale to Milldale, leaving the majority of the visitors in the stepping stone area. I had a late lunch at Milldale – a lovely quiet spot with a bench next to the river. My return involved a short walk up the road towards Hope before turning steeply up a green lane to Stanshope. The trees offered welcome shelter from the sun. From here I dropped back into Dovedale at Ilam Rock via the dry Hall Dale. There wasn’t another soul in the narrow valley. Entering Hall Dale Returning to the stepping stones there was now a number of families picnicking on the grassy area, complete with rugs, or tables and chairs – there was even a pop-up tent. It was great to see so many folks enjoying the late spring sunshine. I walked back to Ilam Hall and met up with Ed, who shared a couple of beers with me. A perfect end to the afternoon.

Various plans for Saturday were discussed and made after dinner in the hostel. Here are the accounts of what the various groups enjoyed.

Paul, Mike G. and Céline set off first for a walk that Paul had found near Matlock. Here is Paul’s report of the Saturday Giddy Edge Walk:

Celine, Mike and I set off by car to Matlock early on Saturday morning. On arrival we parked by the River Derwent in Matlock centre and set off along the river side road to the footbridge and crossed to immediately start walking uphill. Once we reached the ridge top of High Tor, we had many scenic stops to view Matlock from above. On reaching the summit of High Tor we found the half-hidden path towards the cliff face and Giddy Edge. The obligatory safety warning signs were given due diligence and then we made our way to the path which cuts across the cliff face for approximately 80m. Giddy Edge is a little-known footpath with a bit of exposure but also some rails embedded in the cliff for those that feel the need. Paul on Giddy Edge Celine and Mike on Giddy Edge After our little bit of excitement, we descended High Tor to pick up a path to Wards End and Riber Castle. The castle is no longer in use which is a real shame for such an imposing building. looking towards Riber Castle One way system! From Riber Castle we passed through Hearthstone and entered Coombe Wood. We were completely blown away by the fields of bluebells as we passed through the woods. Shortly after exiting the woods, we arrived at the Pump House on the Cromford canal and walked along the towpath to reach our lunch stop at the cafe at the end of the High Peak Trail. Bluebells After lunch we walked up the long ramp on the High Peak Trail and then down to Cromford where the path crosses the road to climb up to the Heights of Abraham. After passing through a field containing a bull which luckily seemed too interested in attacking the fence. The path from the Heights of Abraham lead us directly back to the car park. After a quick change of footwear, we walked down to Matlock Bath for a cream tea before making the journey back to Ilam Hall.

Ed set off next, closely followed by Margaret Moore who went to hire a bike at the Ashbourne end of the Tissington Trail as she did last year.

Here is Ed’s recounting of his first 50 miles plus ride as he trains up for his LeJog epic ride in June.
Please support his charitable efforts if you can.

Around the Dove and Manifold watersheds (and a bit more, to boot) I was up and on the road before 9am to beat the expected Dovedale crowds, which meant I had a quiet climb up the steep hill to Thorpe. Then it was uneventful back lanes for the most part to Parwich, where the locals are installing two spitfire silhouettes in readiness for VE day. There are then a great series of minor roads up limestone Dales, including Long Dale, which goes from just east of Hartington right the way up to Earl Sterndale. Almost immediately, it’s obvious which way the wind is blowing, as I’m having to pedal hard, even on the flat, and I’ll be in the same direction all the way to the Cat & Fiddle Inn. At one point, I meet a peloton of cyclists coming the other way, the swish of their pedals and their maroon livery making it look and sound like a living express pullman. I take a quick break at Earl Sterndale and observe that the Quiet Woman pub has now been converted into housing, and I reflect on the times that we’ve enjoyed a pint and a pork pie in there. Further on, I pass what was RAF Harpur Hill, the typical fencing posts and other features giving a clue to its past. Now the site is home to the HSE flame and explosion labs, hence the warning flag poles and CCTV cameras. As I cross the top of Axe Edge moor, which marks the divide of water flowing east or west, there’s now no shelter from the wind as I edge ever closer to my lunch stop at the Teapot café, just beyond the pub. As a reminder of the dry conditions, I can see and smell patches of heather burning on the moorland nearby, and there are still a pair of fire appliances in attendance. Refreshed from a soup and coffee, my ride then drops steeply into the valley of the Clough Brook, a tributary of the river Dane. Now I hardly need to pedal as I follow the valley downhill, with woodland providing shade from the afternoon sun. Unfortunately, I need to turn off the continuation of this road before it reaches Wincle and its brewery – maybe another day. Passing through Allgreave, I’m ascending again, following the undulations of the Dane valley upstream. Gradbach seems to be one of those out of the way places that attracts tourists, partly because of the river, and because of its proximity to the feature known as Lud’s church. From there, it’s the second big climb of the day, back up onto the ridge about a mile north of Ramshaw rocks. They look impressive backlit in the afternoon light, but for some reason I’m not in a photography mood today. Despite having a bike computer, I miss my turning for Warslow at the top of Mooridge, so end up following the ridge road down all the way to Waterhouses. A few learning points for me there. Then it’s the last pull of the day up to Calton and down the hill through Throwley, with its farm astride the road and remains of the old hall just beyond. From here, it’s a joy to follow the final winding descents back to the Manifold and Ilam Hall, although the loose gravel on parts of the road is a constant reminder to remain vigilant. As I’m packing my bike away, others in our group are arriving back from their own ride and Margaret kindly treats me to an ice cream before the café shuts. A perfect end to a great, but tiring ride! Photo on the right is promoting Eds Lands End to John of Groats ride in June. Ed with his 'domestiques'

Elsbeth and Judy went off walking on their own, and once Michele and Marcus arrived from home, the remaining six of us assembled our trusty steeds and set off from the front of the hostel through the lovely, tied estate village of Ilam and up the steep hill to Thorpe with views into Dovedale whenever we stopped to catch our breath, and push. Crossing over the A515 into the Tissington Hall Estate we joined the trail where coming towards us as if planned was Margaret on her electric bike. From here we followed the Tissington Trail along the trackbed of this former LNWR branch line which opened in 1899 and closed in 1963, all the way to the Royal Oak at Hurdlow.

ABM cycle team

We all made good time keeping up with Margaret and Don on their electric bikes, stopping at Hartington Station to use the conveniences before carrying on up to Parsley Hay where the High Peak Trail connects in. At this point the trail is over 1,000 feet (305m) above sea level, and whilst we were afforded long views, the cool and freshening cross wind meant we were very glad of a hot drink here. Carrying onto the Royal Oak where Ben found us all seats in the snug for a pint and a warm.

Then came the return. With its favourable railway gradient going southwards we all cruised back to Tissington where at the Hall café a cream tea was enjoyed, before the slight up and down back to Thorpe and the steep sweeping downhill back to the hostel completed a great 30-mile round.

Sunday morning, we were joined by Steve Caulton for breakfast. With everyone suitably replete we set off from the hostel through the grounds of Ilam Park and along the Lower Manifold Valley.

As Elsbeth had walked the first part of this walk the day before she led us all out and up past the impressive pile of Castern Hall, still a massive work in progress, but all quality work in keeping and respecting the original construction. We suspect it will become a hotel and wedding venue. Time and deep pockets will tell.

Above the old mine workings, the group halted at the obvious viewpoint to look at the Manifold valley from its eastern rampart. Great view of Beeston Tor and down to Weags Bridge, and across the valley to Throwley Hall Farm, which we would walk through later.

Ready for the off

Towards Beeston Tor

Elsbeth led us unerringly through the little ups and downs across the chequered field pattern to the edge of Wetton Village, where there were toilets and a popup trailer café directly by the car park. This is the main access parking for Thors Cave, and the field parking extension was rapidly filling up as we enjoyed a quick cuppa.

Following the roads that skirt the western end of the village we joined the unmade lane all the way down to the Thors Cave complex. When approached from this direction there is so much more to the place. I remember Michele and I coming to this area for the first time with Mum and Dad some 60 years ago via this same route.

It was busy then and still is now. A lot of work has been done recently to improve the footpath, control the erosion and direct visitors safely to the main attraction. Underneath the main cave mouth, we descended to the dry riverbed and walking along the Manifold Way to Weags Bridge.

Above Thors cave

Looking towards the cave

Following the unmade road that parallels the trail we walked left through the permanent campsite at Weags Barn and picked a spot by Beeston Tor Farm to have lunch in the sun. With the added entertainment of the farm owner accessing his roof with an extendable ladder wedged in the base of a digger bucket raised and lowered by his mate as required and Marcus regaling us with routes he had done on the impressive Beeston Tor above us, the time fair flew by.

the old hall

Now following the Manifold Trail, not the Way, which is on the adjacent old trackbed which follows the River Hamps, we walk up and over to Throwley Hall Farm. Stopping to see the remains of the old hall and read the info board history of this ancient landscape and its long since vanished settlements, we carry on down the road to Rushley. Here you can either follow the trail along the road back over the Manifold (no longer dry at this point) or take the footpath right, up and over to the footbridge that leads directly back into Ilam Park. With a surfeit of ransoms (wild garlic flowers), other unusual plants and the magnificent estate managed trees this ten-mile walk ended as it began. Throw in a Manifold café finish, what’s not to like.

Sunday evening saw some attendees take advantage of the easier evening drive home. Others relaxed with dinner and a beer and planned the BH Monday walk.

stepping stones

Saying goodbye to Elsbeth as she began her cycle ride back to Matlock, we set off across the fields to Dovedale where people were already beginning to arrive. Crossing the River Dove via the now repaired and raised stepping stones we made our way through this lovely valley with its many limestone pinnacles, often part hidden now among the trees, along with many caves that nestle in the steep slopes on our side waiting to be explored by each successive generation that wander by.

Crossing the little packhorse bridge at Milldale we took advantage of the facilities before disappearing at the end of the cottages up Sunny Bank to Alstonefield. Having established that the George was still there and due to open at noon we walked out of the village towards Hope and down to Dale Bottom. Following the lane right we found ourselves unerringly at the Watts Russell Arms nestled in the top end of Hopedale.

On seeing the Thornbridge Brewery supply truck parked at the pub I relaxed in the knowledge that the pub was open and likely to have plenty of good beer. The six of us enjoyed a convivial Bank Holiday quaff here before setting off on the return leg.

Walking up to Stanshope via the lane of the same name we joined the footpath down to Hall Dale. Just through the gate into the Dale proper we took the path right up the bank. This allowed us to follow the ridge until we reached an unmade lane that took us down to the road at Beechenhill. On the map this area is dotted with tumuli and ancient low markers, the highest one at 336 metres is Ilamtops Low.

returning to Ilam

the village below

Leaving the road just below Beechenhill we traversed along the slopes of Bunster Hill and at the obvious nick in the ridge we walked along this limestone reef remnant that affords such a great view from above of Ilam village and the Hall itself.

I remembered last walking this little ridge with my brother Michael and my German penfriend Eckehart when I was fifteen, on our very first camping venture into the Peak District on our own.

Happy Days to be able to enjoy this area with friends and family in my 70th year.

Postscript: - Don and Judy like to pull in a visit to a National Trust pile on their journey home. This year they stopped off at Hardwick Hall, where they bumped into Suzanne Strawther, another ABMSAC and Alpine Club member, who volunteers as a guide there.

This year’s attendees were Margaret Moore, Elsbeth Robson, Céline Gagnon, Heather Eddowes and Dave Matthews, Don Hodge and Judy Renshaw, Mike Goodyer, Paul Stock, Ed Bramley, and Andy Burton.
Michéle and Marcus Tierney joined us from the Izaak Walton Hotel (a shadow of its former self) each day, and Steve Caulton joined us as a day visitor.

Report by Andy Burton

Once the rocking and rolling of administrational mishaps and hut commitments settled down, the actual meet itself was a delightful three day sandwich, combining a great day out climbing up onto Helvellyn via the discreet path up Nethermost Pike, with a days training on the Via Ferrata bolted to the side of Fleetwith Pike above the slate mine at Honister Pass, followed by a third days walking in the fells accessible from the Birkness Fell and Rock Hut situated at Buttermere.

Tony Howard and I travelled up on Wednesday evening to our Hut in Patterdale in order to liaise with the builders on Thursday morning as they commenced work on the drying room improvements. Whilst the work did not quite go to plan, good progress was made because Tony was able to discuss various important changes with Alan as the day evolved and further problems were discovered.

David Clear joined us in time for elevenses and strode off up St. Sunday for the afternoon.
Once the builder left for the day Tony and I walked up to Glenridding and sat in the walled garden area at the Travellers Rest and enjoyed a pint in the glorious early evening sunshine overlooking Ullswater. Here we were joined by Ed and eventually David who received my text message too late to avoid the Lanty’s Tarn up and over to join us. I suspect his pint of orange and soda never tasted any better.

Thursday evening the four of us wandered down to the White Lion for dinner. Here we were joined by Steve Creasey and Paul Stock who had cruised their way up from Southampton in time to order food and a pint. As usual possible routes for Fridays Walk were discussed and plans were made.

In the morning with another fine day on the fells beckoning through the windows of the Hut five of us left Tony hoping that the builder would come and finish the work later that day.

As Ed had unfinished business from a walk he did with Celine on the Dinner Meet, and some of our group had not done the route before, we set off up Grisedale taking the path towards Eagle Crag. This time we found the grassy path off up into where the Nethermost Cove Beck comes down via some waterfalls as it cuts its way through the underlying rock band.

At the summit windbreak a quick decision where to descend was made with David and Paul electing to go down to Raise and use the zigzags. Steve, Ed and I went down Swirral Edge and up onto Catstye Cam. With a quick look into Keppel Cove and the old dam we setoff down the very dry grassy fellside to join the path that Red Tarn Beck runs at the side of and past the old HEP pipeline.

From the opposite side of the valley words of encouragement were shouted across by Paul as we approached the footbridge above the Greenside weir. Ed and Steve went across and made their way down the concrete road to Glenridding to join them.

By this time my new boots were reminding me that the only breaking in I had done before today was up and down my carpeted stairs, so I stayed on the path that runs under the disused leat under Birkhouse Moor making my way into Glenridding via the campsite lane at Gillside. A welcome bottle of chilled Lucozade sat on the wall outside the corner shop saw the others come by and I followed them back to the Hut.

Here we saw Tony and over a cuppa and cake it was decided that we would all go over to Buttermere, leaving just Ed’s car in the car park. The journey over was in of itself a real treat as the evening spring light lit up the fells on our journey across.

Taking the left off the A66 at Portinscale the three cars regrouped at the Swinside Inn where a table was not available till after 8pm. Carrying on to the FRCC Hut Birkness just above Buttermere via Stair and through Derwent Fells over Newlands Hause into Buttermere.

With a quick hello to the remainder of the group and off-loading our stuff, Ed and I made our way down into Buttermere for a meal at the Bridge Inn (formerly the Buttermere Hotel). Here we were very well looked after by the staff despite our late arrival. Back at the Hut a final chat with everyone about the timings for the morning before I climbed into my pit to read what was written under my eyelids.

Heathers perspective of the Skills weekend:- Thoroughly enjoyed it.

Saturday - We had the perfect weather with clear conditions, great views but not too hot. F&R Club hut was a great venue next to Buttermere, very handy to get to Honister Pass. Chris, our instructor took us to The Shed to get the Via Ferrata kit which once on meant we were ready to walk up to the beginning of the route.

The first descent of the Via Ferrata down a ladder to a gentle overhang was a good starter for us all, requiring focus and ‘hanging on’ ability in order to unclip and then clip on to the next cable whilst being unbalanced. We all passed. Then metal staples, a ladder or three and even real rock led us round into a deep chimney with a breeze blowing gently up the rock face.

On the way to Via Ferrata

Dave en route

Celine en route

Ed and Instructor Chris

Rope Bridge

The major test of the cable bridge was spectacular. It was a strenuous walk across with even just a moment to two to take in the side of the rock face shearing down to the valley bottom. "Push your arms OUT” will always remind me of it. Relief to reach the other side with the gentle scrambling route leading us up through the old mine tramways and tunnels.

Team on top of Fleetwith Pike

We were rewarded with great views from the summit from Fleetwith Pike (648m).

A winding drive to our evening meal at the Kirkstile Inn which was very tasty and with convivial lively company.

Sunday - Four of us walked up to Scarth Gap. Steve C. went east up Haystacks whilst Celine, Andy & I went west to ascend High Crag (744m), High Stile (807m) then Red Pike (755m). More fantastic views over the western fells greeted us despite the relatively short hail/rain shower and low cloud - just to give some atmospheric views. The descent from Red Pike was initially steep with an over worn ‘path’ - worse to descend than ascend I think. Then a man-made stone path took us down to the lake side - eventually. Long and slow for me, but I did it!! A relief to get down to the flat lakeside walk back to the hut.

Heather and Andy on High Stile

Celine and Heather on Red Pike

Heathers takeaway memories are the drive over Newlands Pass, sun shining on the lake with the lovely shadows and reflections in the water, honking geese, the peaceful picturesque situation of the F&RC hut and being able to walk down to the lakeside path, plus having one of the Ladies dorms to myself - a real treat.
I was left with the sense of accomplishment of having completed the VF and then the ridge walk to Red Pike.

Paul was first up on Saturday and out the door before anyone else, and this is the account of his Saturday walk.

I left the hut at 7:30 to walk along the road towards Honister Pass and turned southwest to cross the stream entering Buttermere at Peggy's Bridge and pick up the path to Scarth Gap Pass. I passed through the gap at 0820. Once I reached the bottom of Ennerdale I turned west on the forest road until I joined the path up Pillar. Pillar Rock buttress was very imposing as I got closer to it. I picked up the rising traverse past the Robinson Cairn to reach the ridge path from Pillar to Kirk Fell just before Black Sail Pass. I followed the path up Kirk Fell where it splits in two and took the northern path which led me to a very wet chossy gulley with a very loose rock chimney exit which raised my pulse rate somewhat.
On reaching the summit of Kirk Fell I had my first break in the very welcome windbreak. The views towards Scafell and Wasdale were superb. I followed the path down to meet the path coming up from Wasdale and followed the procession of walkers heading for the very busy summit of Great Gable. As it was busy I didn't stay long on the summit and made my way down the path to Windy Gap for a lunch stop at 12:00.
I watched as many people were making their way across Moses Trod towards Great Gable. After lunch I ascended Green Gable and then on to much easier ground across Brandreth and Grey Knott's before turning northwest to Fleetwith Pike. From that summit there were fabulous views towards Buttermere.
I then dropped down the steep descending path to join the shores of Buttermere and back to the Fell and Rock Club hut arriving at 14:30.

From the positive feedback I have received a future club meet at another hut in the Lake District each year would not go amiss.

This Skills meet was mainly aimed at people who had expressed an interest in attending the Dolomites Via Ferrata meet in mid-September.

Attendees: Heather Eddowes, Celine Gagnon, Tony Howard, Paul Stock, David Clear, Steve Creasey, Steve McCain, Ed Bramley and Andy Burton.

Report by Andy Burton

Three members arrived at Avebury on a glorious sunny spring morning, with a remarkably cool easterly breeze which made for a chilly start.

We set off to Fyfield Down via the stone circle and up the worn chalky farm track up to the Ridgeway. Crossing the national trail we entered Fyfield Down, the source of the stones in the circle at Avebury. These are sarsen stones, made from silicified sandstone, also known as 'grey wethers' as from a distance they resemble sheep.

Avebury stones

view of Fyfield Down

We walked on the main Marlborough track to the gallops and then turned off down a small valley on the Downs to the 'Devils Den'. This is the remains of a neolithic burial chamber, originally about 270 foot long before being ploughed out over time. All that remains is a dolmen like burial chamber of dubious origin. Crossing the Down and the A4 we entered the village of Lockeridge to visit the 'valley of stones' at Lockeridge Dene. The oddly named pub- 'Who'd A Thought It' - was shut but a picnic bench on the nearby playing fields was an ideal lunch stop. The sun was now fully out and we enjoyed our spring picnic! We continued going through small villages, often alogside the River Kennet, until we came to the West Kennet barrow. This is a more comlpete burial mound with a few chambers open to visitors.

Devils Den

Lockeridge Dene

West Kennet Barrow

Leaving the barrow we returned to Avebury, passing Silbury Hill, completing a 12 mile walk in srpring sunshine. The day was rounded off with afternoon tea at the National Trust cafe.

Attendees: Margaret Moore, Paul Stock, Mike Goodyer

Report by Mike Goodyer

On the first day of Spring, six of us met in the carpark at Stourhead for the inaugural South-West day walk.

We walked East out of the estate, with the house in the background, crossed the busy B3092 until we reached the 18th century Drove track. We followed this track, lined with beech trees, up towards Whitesheet Hill. From there we did a circuit round the hill fort, with magnificent views of Wiltshire and Somerset.

On the summit!

view from the hilltop.

wood anemones along lane

We descended along White Sheet lane, before crossing the road again to walk along the ancient Long Lane track.

There was then a short road section before we joined a footpath towards Alfred’s Tower. This tower, a 49m high folly, commemorates the accession of George 111 to the throne on 1760. It is believed to mark the site where King Alfred rallied his troops in 878. Here we stopped for lunch, enjoying the spring sunshine, supplementing our packed lunches with purchases from a mobile van

St Alfreds Tower

Instead of taking the planned route through the forest, we returned to the estate via St Peters pump at Six Wells Bottom

Then we were able to walk along the path round the garden lake before returning to the visitors centre to enjoy excellent refreshments

The walk was just under 10 miles and around 850 ft of ascent.

Attendees: Steve Butterfield, Mike Goodyer, Alison Henry, Margaret Moore, Rick Snell and Paul Stock.
Report by Margaret Moore

Marchs Tuesday Northish day walk saw the four of us park up at Southwell Leisure Centre.

From here we walked past the Minster School along the Potswell Dyke to the Archbishops Palace. Part ruin and gardens, part flexible resource space in the restored Great Hall, which is sat right at the side of Southwell Minster (the County Cathedral), known locally as the ‘Pepperpots'. The view of the church from across the fields illustrates why.

Looking back to the Minster and the 'Pepperpots'

At the Refectory café we tarried over breakfast before exiting the Minster grounds and making our way across the road and onto the footpath that leads around the backs and across the A612 to Easthorpe.
Here we cut across the fields to walk the other side of the hedge from the Racecourse access road before joining the meandering River Greet as it wends its way through the fields and through Upton Mill, literally.

Clearing the southern end of the Racecourse we crossed the Nottingham to Newark railway line and entered Rolleston village briefly. Cutting across the extensively leveed fields we joined the Trent Valley Way close to the confluence of the Greet and the Trent.

Walking alongside the River Trent we were able to cast an informed glance across the fast-flowing waters towards East Stoke with its Hall and Church clearly visible at the foot of the bluffs on the southern side of the Vale.

At the Bromley Arms, and its adjacent former wharf, now a private residence, they run a passenger ferry service on request, which enables people to visit the Red Gutter and walk the site of the Battle of Stoke Field (16th June 1487).
The last battle of the infamous War of the Roses, and Nottinghamshire’s only registered battlefield.

As the pub did not inspire us, we carried on through Fiskerton village and followed the field path to Morton. Here we found the Full Moon to be open and serving great beer from the Clarkson/Cotswold Brew Co.
The large poster photo of Jeremy plonked outside was a bit over the top, but clearly not putting off the steady flow of lunchtime clientele. Whilst the sun shone, we sat outside and enjoyed a pint. As soon as it disappeared and the nithering breeze made its presence felt we were off.

Looking back to the Minster

A quick photo stop at the Pinfold then back across the railway line along the little lane past Poplar Farm and across the gently rising land towards Brinkley Farm.

Here we met a team who were busy planting several acres with dry-rooted saplings of native trees as part of an initiative to encourage landowners to convert some of their land back to woodland.

Swiss sorbet advet at the cafe

At the back of the garden centre and allotments we used the back lanes to rejoin the Robin Hood Way near Park Hill, all of 50 metres above sea level, which unerringly led us back to the Refectory café for afternoon tea.. As the café closed, we made our way back through Southwell to our cars, rounding off a very enjoyable 10-mile early Spring Walk through the fertile land that gave us the Bramley apple. A great home for a few thousand deciduous trees to thrive in over the years to come for all to enjoy.

Those present were Michele and Marcus Tierney, Steve Caulton and Andy Burton.
Report by Andy Burton.

The ABMSAC Southern day walk on 11 March began at the West end of Amersham, which was accessible for car drivers from the West and for London-based people from the station on the hill above. The weather was better than forecast, dry and with reasonable periods of sunshine, though still with a cold northerly wind.

Max. Mike & Margaret at Penn Street Church

Finishing the walk, with Amersham Old Town in the valley

We took a circuit across open land, woods and fields, passing through the villages of Penn Street, Winchmore Hill and Coleshill. A circuit of Hodgemoor Woods, and northwards to Bottom House Farm, brought us back over the hill to the picturesque Amersham old town. There we were lucky to find a good tea shop with home-made cakes to complete the day.

At one point we saw a group of 7 roe deer feeding in a field, before they saw us and leapt elegantly into the nearby wood. There were also red kites, now common in this area, wheeling above some of the fields.

Present: Margaret Moore, Max Peacock, Mike Goodyer, Judy Renshaw
Report by Judy Renshaw.

North Day Walk Peak District, February

Seven of us gathered at the Outside café in Hathersage for breakfast, followed by some retail therapy of the outdoor gear kind.

Eventually, we all returned to our cars and donned full waterproofs before setting off out of Hathersage and down to the Derwent River. We managed to avoid going into the David Mellors stainless steel cutlery design studio, factory, and museum, which is always a great wet weather bolthole.

Marcus en route

At Leadmill Bridge, we hung a right and continued alongside the river before cutting up over the natural river bluffs to Callow Farm where we joined the little back lane for a short while as we walked around the very well-maintained Offerton Hall estate and back onto the above riverside path just a little west of the stepping stones and continued onto Shatton. Here, we crossed the busy A625 and made our way around the back of the garden centre and across the playing fields into Bamford. Much to our disappointment, the combined pub and Post Office, the Anglers Rest, is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. However, a friendly passerby let us know that there was a covered seating area at the back of the pub that was open to the car park, which we could use. With bait boxes and flask contents enjoyed and shared around by those who remembered to bring theirs (some left theirs in the fridge at home), we left the welcome shelter and continued out of the village on the opposite side of the valley. We skirted around the Bamford Filters land and crossed a couple of valleys to Thorpe Farm where the café was also shut. Crossing over the farm lane, we continued slipping and sliding our way across the fields, popping out on the lane which took us straight back to our cars in Hathersage.

We finished the day off with a cake and a cuppa back at Outside.

Attending this 8-mile epic walk in spite of the forecast were Ed Bramley, Michele and Marcus Tierney, Steve Caulton, Heather Eddowes, David Matthews, and Andy Burton.
Report by Andy Burton

It was good to resume our day walks, as our last two walks had been cancelled due to unavailability.

We met at Lardon chase carpark on a cold day. Our walk began through the woods, turning down to reach the river at Streatley.

We then walked along the Thames path to Moulsford. Some of the path had been restored with gravel, which was welcome, but much remained muddy.

River Thames

View from the Ridgeway

At Moulsford we left the river, walking up a bridleway towards Moulsford Down. The underlying rock was chalk, with plenty of mud. We climbed up to the Ridgeway. On a clear day there are great views from here, but we had low cloud. We walked along the Ridgeway until we reached the golf course, from where we had a steep climb across the course back to the carpark.

Lunch stop!

From there we drove across the river to Goring and had a late lunch in the excellent Pierreponts café. A good day, with a variety of terrain. A total of just over 9 miles and around 870 foot of ascent.

Attendees- Mike Goodyer, Mike O'Dwyer, Margaret Moore, Paul Stock
Report by Margaret Moore

As my first AGM and dinner as president, and with a number of more experienced committee members unable to attend, I approached this weekend with some trepidation. Thanks to everyone who contributed, it ran like clockwork.

Margaret and Daniel

As many chose the softer option, the hut crew was quite small. Having arrived early, I was invited to join Marian and Margaret for a lovely local walk over Arnison Crag and Hag Beck.

Ed Bramley:
As I crested the summit of Kirkstone Pass, there was the view I’d been waiting for. A clear, sunny day and the pass below stretched away to Brothers Water, with no other cars in sight. Now, time to enjoy caressing those curves as I descended the pass, arriving at the hut on the Friday just after midday. After a short lunch, it was time to make the most of the good weather.

I headed out on the familiar track to Boardale Hause, but I’d only just got past Side Farm when a flash of furry red brought me to a halt. It was a red squirrel running along the ground and wall – slow enough to enjoy, but too fast to photograph. A great start to the afternoon. On I went up the path, keeping my steady tap-tap rhythm going to the Hause, where I could take a short stop and look around and enjoy the landscape still in some vestiges of winter raiment. On I went, up to Bedafell Knott and the wide ridge that runs along to Beda Head. Easy going, with some tantalising glimpses out to the Pennines, and a great position with the two valleys on either side. It was almost deserted as well, meeting less than a handful of people on the ridge. Coming off the ridge at Garth Head, it was then only a short connecting piece of roadway before I was on the Ullswater Way, heading back on or near the lake to the hut. As I passed Long Crag, the lake steamer came past, sending ripples to the shoreline. All too soon, I was back at the hut, but felt refreshed. Just ready for a short Friday evening sojourn to the White Lion with others who had begun to arrive.

Lake shore

Friday evening dinner at the White Lion hotel was excellent. The new management provide a limited choice of great food (much appreciated over doing it the other way around).

Saturday morning inspired us with fine weather: wet snow high up and wet rain in the valley, all served with high winds. Ed and Céline combined ambition with common sense, heading for Helvellyn via Nethermost Pike and turning back when it became silly. They still got to use their crampons, have a long day out and return looking weather-beaten. Margaret and I took the easier path to Angle Tarn and back, invoking various excuses that I don’t remember.

Ed Bramley: Saturday saw low cloud roiling around the Helvellyn tops, but undeterred, Celine and I headed out for Nethermost Cove and Nethermost Pike. Our plan was to get onto the tops and then along and down the Red Screes zig zags into Glenridding. The reality turned out to be a little different.
We reached the old sled track by the side of the old mine on Eagle Crag and made our way slowly up into Nethermost Cove. Some way to our right was the clear outline of Striding Edge, quickly cloaked by the clouds that were circulating round the tops. As we pulled onto initially the wide ridge that leads up to Nethermost Pike, it was evident that the winds were now much stronger, and we would soon be in cloud.

Celine and Nethermost Cove

After a quick snack, we started on the upper part of the ridge, which soon changed into a proper winter ridge with large areas of snow, so it was time for ice axe and crampons. Whilst the route through the broken ground was evident in places, in other areas there was no sign of the track, which meant breaking trail through a substantial and crusty layer of snow. We were also mindful of straying too far off the route into the crags on either side of the ridge. This was getting hard work and despite the cloud and wind, I was sweating away. From where we were, it was less than 500ft of ascent to the summit plateau, but as it was already early afternoon, it was decision time – press on, or turn back. It only took a short discussion to reach the safe decision – descend. We retraced our track down the ridge and then branched right into Ruthwaite Cove, avoiding the small outcrops of crags.

Before long, we were back at Ruthwaite Lodge and the route back to the hut for a well deserved cuppa and cake.