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After the Covid pandemic in 2020 resulted in the cancellation of the Alpine Meet in the Val d’Anniviers, it was good to finally have a Meet in this beautiful valley surrounded by high peaks. From Sierre the road climbs southwards alongside a deep gorge to reach Vissoie, where it divides into three branches: south-west leading to Grimentz and Moiry; due south to Zinal; and south-east up to St Luc and the highest village of Chandolin. Linked by an efficient post bus service, they provide a wealth of walking and climbing possibilities. We were based in the picturesque village of Grimentz, its narrow main street lined with traditional wooden houses and old barns on stone stilts, all decorated with window-boxes of colourful geraniums. In the centre a water-wheel activates a sawmill and a flour mill, both still in use. During our visit there was a weekly market and then a folk music festival, with small groups of musicians performing outside the hotels, the highlight for us being the group of five men playing alpenhorns up and down the main street.
The weekend before we arrived there had been torrential storms in this part of the Valais, with flooding, landslides and rockfalls closing roads and trails. The direct road from Vissoie to Grimentz was impassable while we were there, necessitating a longer diversion to St Luc and Chandolin, though the road to Zinal was still open.
We soon reached the pastures and farm building of the Alpage de Torrent, and then the small Lac des Autannes. It was a lovely spot, with the snow-covered peaks of the Dent Blanche and Grand Cornier rising above the Moiry glacier at the end of the valley.
The easiest way to gain height from Grimentz itself was to walk through the woods or take the gondola lift to Bendolla, from where a plethora of walking paths radiated in all directions.
Mike and Marian headed off on a little used traversing trail to Moiry, while others walked up to the waterfalls below the Becs de Bosson, although Don was the only one to reach the Cabane des Becs de Bosson, at 2982m the highest point of the Meet. Another easy way to gain height was to take the cable-car up to the Espace Weisshorn, constructed only ten years ago and not on all maps. From here a short rocky path leads up to the Corne de Sorebois, 2895m, but although the view of the surrounding peaks is magnificent, it is a bleak and stony site.
Later in the week a group returned to Zinal to attempt Cicerone author Kev Reynold’s favourite walk in the Valais, the Roc de la Vache, a circular walk beneath the Pointe d’Arpitettaz. It is a steep and rocky climb of nearly 1000m, but it was worth the effort for the views at the top extended from the Wildstrubel range across the Rhone valley to the nearer Weisshorn, Zinalrothorn and Dent Blanche. The path on the way down proved more difficult as one of the bridges had been washed away, and the group had to walk back up to find a safe crossing point over the stream.
Our next group walk was from the funicular at Tignousa, 500m above St Luc, on the second half of the annual Sierre to Zinal Mountain Race. Ours was a 16km hike with a steep descent of over 900m at the end, while the whole race from Sierre is much more challenging - a gruelling 31 km, with 2200m height gain and 1100m descent. Not all of us were planning to walk the 16km to Zinal, but everyone was keen to reach at least the Victorian Hotel Weisshorn. As we set off along the Planets Trail, past scale models of the planets in the solar system, a pair of golden eagles soared over our heads, easily identifiable after Aurel’s film the previous evening.
After passing the group of planets closest to the Sun, and then the models of Saturn and Uranus, the track became steeper, and we finally crested the rocks to see the large hotel building above, with its attractive terrace.
Another lovely walk from Tignousa is the Sentier des Lacs, the Lakes Trail, which Alan and I had discovered while staying at St Luc on our “Meet for Two” in 2020. This is one of my favourite walks in the valley, and I was pleased to introduce it to others. The trail starts along the Planets Trail but turns off before the Hotel Weisshorn to reach the first lake at Plan Torgon and then the Lac d’Armina from where the high peaks of the Val d’Hérens can be seen in the distance. The final lake is the Lac de Bella Tola below the summit of the 3000m peak, and then it was a rocky scramble down to the Cabane de Bella Tola and back to the funicular station. Above St Luc is Chandolin, the highest village in the valley and the last to be visited by our group. A chairlift wafted us quickly up to Tsapé, and from there we started on a circuit around several small lakes on another of my favourite walks for its variety of alpine plants. The first lake we reached was the Lac Noir, which had flooded so badly in the recent storms that gentians were flowering under the water.
The last day came all too soon, but those of us not rushing off for a plane back to the UK were able to make the most of the sunshine with a final mountain expedition. As we left, we realised how many other hikes there are in this beautiful valley, with more high huts to be visited and peaks to be climbed. I am sure that many of us will return before long to what is one of the loveliest valleys in the Swiss Alps. But for me this is an ending, for after organising 22 Alpine Hotel Meets since 2000, the first 12 with Alasdair and the last 10 with Alan, it is now time to pass on the organisation to someone younger and fitter. Fortunately, Andy as Meets Secretary has agreed to take this on, so the club can look forward to many more years hiking in the Alps. My final words are of thanks: to Alan for all his help on recent Meets, to the committee for their support during these years, and to the “Bhutan Group” who have accompanied me on most or all of my Meets since our trip in 2011 - though this year we sadly missed Rick and Carol Saynor, and John Dempster and Dinah Nichols, present on all previous Meets since that time. Participants: Pamela Harris & Alan Norton, Daniel Albert, Andy Burton, Geoff & Pauline Causey, Heather Eddowes, Celine Gagnan, Philip Hands, Don Hardy, Richard & Katherine Heery, Roger James, Margaret Moore, Rebecca Norton, Mike & Marian Parsons, Max and Vivien Peacock, Mervyn Powell, Jay Turner, Bill & Rosie Westermeyer, and our local expert Caroline Thonger who joined us on most days. Photo contributions from Daniel Albert, Andy Burton, Heather Eddowes, Céline Gagnan, Pamela Harris, Alan Norton, Rebecca Norton, Max Peacock, Bill Westermeyer, Rosie Westermeyer Report by Pamela Harris |
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Always a classic favourite with people, this years’ North Wales meet did not disappoint. Several of us arrived early on the Thursday evening, to get an extra day of walking in the next day. On the Friday, three of us chose to revisit a walk that I had done last year – a round of the Carneddau. We were up early to avoid parking difficulties and were at the parking at Gwen Gol Isaf just after 9am. From there, it’s just a short walk along the Snowdonia Slate Trail before crossing over to the north side of the A5. A diagonal track ascends to some buildings and then almost directly to the bridge over the catchwater, which is the start of the broad gentle ridge heading up to Pen yr Helgi Du.
Putting the cherry on the cake, the Red Arrows fly down the valley, banking over Llyn Ogwen as they head down Nant Ffancon, and we then remember that the day before was the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
Saturday sees many of us embark on another favourite, an ascent of Cnicht, ‘the Welsh Matterhorn’, from Croesor, to take in a round of the Croesor slate quarries. The first half mile of the route is about getting onto the open fell, but once there, it’s a great ridge to ascend and much more straightforward than its nickname would suggest. Part way up I meet a fell runner from Delft in the Netherlands who has specifically come over for the weekend to enjoy the Welsh mountains – Now that’s commitment.
For the communal Saturday night meal this year, the starter was a tricolour of mozzarella, tomatoes and avocado with a honey and chilli dressing, accompanied by olive bread. This was followed by mains of vegan mushroom vegetable ragu and pappardelle pasta, whilst dessert was a mix of the usual pies and puddings, with either vanilla custard or cream topping. With suitable amounts of wine as accompaniment. On Sunday, the weather just about held for walking, with some of us opting to walk down to Beddgelert for some comestibles including the obligatory ice cream, whilst others were more adventurous and pulled in Moel Hebog as part of their excursions. As ever, the meet offered a number of alternatives for people to do something that suited them best during the day, as well as being able to meet up and exchange stories over another well received meal. Attendees: Ed Bramley, Andy Burton, Steve Caulton, Heather Eddowes, Celine Gagnon, Don Hodge, David Matthews, Margaret O'Dwyer, Mike O'Dwyer, Judy Renshaw, Marcus Tierney, Michele Tierney. Report by Ed Bramley |
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Eight club members participated in the Scotland meet this year, a good turnout. We were lucky with the weather, as Scotland has often seen drier conditions and more sunshine than England this year, so some good routes were achieved. We stayed at the SYHA hostel in Crianlarich, which proved to be a useful base for a range of Munros and Corbetts (those over 2500ft), as well as other interesting tops. It is within easy walking distance of the train station and the West Highland Way. With its excellent road links from Glasgow and being situated at the junction of the A82 and the A85, many possible walking destinations were available to the eight of us during the week. The hostel was efficient and friendly, providing all we needed, as well as having a shop and pubs nearby. I had brought a new guidebook for the local area, but regretted having left behind the Cicerone Munro guidebook (to reduce weight) as we ended up doing a couple of routes that were further away. Later, after the routes had been done, I discovered there was a copy in the hostel lounge after all!
We all went out to eat at the hotel in the evening, which everyone enjoyed, although the manager had needed persuading to take a booking for 8 of us and had put us onto 2 separate tables. We did notice a number of other people from the hostel who were there too.
We had to backtrack a little as we went slightly in the wrong direction at first, corrected it, then somehow managed to miss the main south top in the mist. We looked around for a while then descended via a circuit over a minor top and grassy ridge running South East. Quite a long way from the top we were surprised to see Andy and Celine heading uphill around 3pm. Since there was plenty of daylight they were happy to take their time and have a late finish. The rest of us went to the local pub for a meal later on, which was very good, although the portions were too large for some of the group.
Philip and Roger visited the Cruachan hydro-electric scheme and continued to Oban for lunch. The next day started clear and sunny and had the best forecast of the week, so we all wanted to make the most of it. Max and I decided on the round of Ben Cruachan, a spectacular round with 2 Munros which he had not done before and it had been at least 16 years since I had been there. We drove round to Loch Awe, which was about the same distance as the previous day, and parked near the electricity pump storage visitor centre. It took a while to find the start, under a railway footbridge through a gate that was extremely difficult to open (having the correct guidebook would have helped us here!) and up through forest on a steep and intriguing winding path with plenty of tree handholds.
After the forest we continued past the dam for the pump storage scheme and onto the ridge to the East. On this route there was a path almost all the way, which made it reasonably easy, although quite long. The sun stayed out all day and there were wonderful views all the way, across to the coast and islands, as well as to the highest tops including Ben Nevis. We reached the first major top, Stob Garbh, before midday and took in the views. We also noted orchids and other flowers on the hillsides and a raven flying around. The ridge continued to the first Munro, Stob Daimh, where we stopped for lunch. Though sunny, the wind was quite cold, so I put on a few layers and a windproof, but kept to my shorts. The ridge sections were rockier than I remembered so some reasonable scrambling was required, on good quality granite, with nice friction. We were on the final top of Ben Cruachan (1126m) around 2.30, where we met a few people, having seen almost no one up to then. The decent was easier and less rocky than expected, with a few people now coming up. Most people appeared to have gone down from a first col to the reservoir and along a track to the dam, but we decided to take a ridge route over a final smaller top, Meall Cuanail. This then led down a grassy hillside and across country below the dam to pick up the forest path again. We were down just 5 minutes before the visitor car parked was due to be locked, so were glad we had not parked there! Everyone cooked meals in the hostel that evening in different groups, but all sat together, catching up and checking the forecast for the following days.
By the Wednesday we had all had several good days out and were feeling a little tired. In addition the forecast had been threatening rain for some time, mainly after midday, so most people expected to have a less energetic day. Max opted to go up to a local viewpoint above the village and I decided to investigate part of the West Highland Way, which was almost on the doorstep. Andy and Mike took a car drive to places along the coast, but Paul and Celine decided at the last minute to take a rapid jaunt up Ben More from the front by the shortest and steepest route. Philip and Roger visited Inverary. The West Highland Way, a long distance path from just north of Glasgow to Fort William, is popular with people from all over the world, some of whom were staying at our hostel in Crianlarich. From the hostel it took me around 15 minutes to reach the well-signed path, on which I went south, the opposite direction to most of the walkers. It was fairly quiet at first but later I met more people. The route went gradually up and down, past farmland and looking up at the high hills. It was interesting to join a section of the route, which felt almost like a pilgrimage trail, with everyone heading to a given destination, comparing notes with each other and making friends as they went.
The forecast for Thursday was for very strong winds again and some rain. Several of the group wanted to do Ben Lui by a short route from the West. As I had done this top some years ago, I decided instead to take the northern section of the West highland Way and Max decided to attempt the local Munro, Cruach Ardrain. He said it was a bit of a battle through the forest at the bottom and a lot of wind at the top, though not in between, if a bit cold! My route was enjoyable and gave the opportunity to see some different places, as well as being a full day out, with more distance and more ascent than the previous day. The wind was surprisingly cold, so I was glad not to be up high. The path went up and own through forest before crossing the valley and leading into Tyndrum, the largest centre in the area. I passed a campsite where I had stayed some 17 years ago, which had become more upmarket and offered many ‘glamping pods’. Although I was back by early afternoon, most others were there before me, some having had to retreat from the col below Ben Lui in the strong wind, and another having almost lost himself in a forest.
This was our last evening of the meet; we had a lovely meal the pub in Tyndrum and back for a chat in the hostel lounge, sharing thoughts about possible options for next year. We had all had a really good time and everyone was keen to come to Scotland again. During the week we had seen a variety of wildlife, including birds such as buzzards, green finches, swallows and sand martins and heard cuckoos on most days. Present: Andy Burton, Celine Gagnon, Judy Renshaw, Max Peacock, Mike Goodyer, Paul Stock, Philip Hands, Roger James. Report compiled by Judy Renshaw with contributions from Andy, Roger and Phil. |
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This years Peak Meet following on from last years stay at Hartington Hall YHA which allowed access to the northern end of Dovedale, was based at Ilam Hall YHA at the southern end of Dovedale about five miles north of Ashbourne. With the Tissington Trail only a couple of miles away, Dovedale with its iconic flat-topped hill, Thorpe Cloud, at its entrance, overlooking the Stepping Stones, just 20 minutes’ walk from the front door of the hostel, and both the Manifold valley with its own cycle trail, and the Hamps valley all within easy walking distance of this beautifully maintained Hall and its associated village and Church, this fully catered hostel nestling just inside Staffordshire certainly did not disappoint.
Eight of us arrived at various times during Friday from both North and South and places in between. We all quickly made ourselves at home. Parking after offloading was in the Trust car park, free to members and available to visitors using the hostel at a discounted daily rate.
Don and Judy arrived just in time to avoid being locked out, and this years group was complete, and off to their respective bunk beds for some well-earned rest as the journey for most had been a tedious rainy one. Saturday morning brought dry weather albeit a little overcast. Five elected to cycle and three were going to set off on foot in the general direction of the Manifold valley. Margaret shot off to the Tissington Trail Bike hire centre near Mapleton to rent a velocipede and Myles and I started up the hill towards Thorpe village on our own bikes. At the four ways corner by the Old Dog pub a figure in black lycra whizzed by as Myles and I were checking the map.
We turned round and started along the No. 68 trail heading north. We were passed by Don going the other way, and after ascertaining that he was happy doing his own thing, we carried on up the trail heading north. At the bridge over the road to Biggin we took the off ramp, and crossed over the busy A515 onto route 54, which was an unmade road that was clearly popular with the green laners especially after a day of heavy rain. Letting a group of trail motorbikes go ahead Myles and I ended up walking some of the lumpier bits until we crossed over the lane between Pikehall and Parwich where the track took us smoothly round and up onto the High Peak Trail at Longcliffe. Here we were able to use the new bridge installed to replace the one made unsafe by a lorry striking one of the stone abutments in April 2019, and enjoy extensive views across most of Derbyshire to the south. This stretch had a profusion of primulas (cowslips) on either bank and both verges, as well as various bits of industrial archaeology dotted along the trail to both inform and entertain.
Passing under Harboro Rocks, which had a fair smattering of people climbing on the little limestone outcrops, we took the offramp down and crossed over the road into Wirksworth and took the lovely long downhill curve all the way into Hopton with its well-kept estate managed landscape, past the Miners Arms and across the B5035 onto the trail that goes alongside Carsington Water, where suddenly it was much much busier. Here at the Severn Trent visitors centre we secured our bikes and took advantage of the very reasonable facilities for lunch. Our route then took us away from the Water, across the B5035 and through Bradbourne, one of only 14 Doubly Thankful villages in the country. Crossing back over the busy B5056 just where the road going back into the Tissington Hall estate goes through a ford. With the water being well over a foot deep and flowing strong, we all used the little wooden footbridge and started off up the quite steep hill. Here Margaret’s electric bike paid even more dividends than it already had, as she sped off up the hill saying she would save us a seat at the café built into the Hall wall in Tissington village itself. As a result, we were able to enjoy a mug of tea and watch the staff close up the cafe. Margaret then returned back along the trail to the Bike Hire centre, and Myles and I cycled across the A515 through Thorpe village back to the hostel, where Ed having done 10 miles more than us was already waiting for us.
Saturday’s evening meal was enjoyed by all eight of us in the Izaak Walton Hotel, a fifteen-minute walk across the fields from Ilam Hall. Sunday dawned and along with the sunshine we were joined by Steve Caulton, who single handedly and valiantly held the fort for the day visitors this year. After breakfast we said cheerio to Myles who was hotfooting it back home to get ready to fly to visit family in the USA on the Tuesday. We all set off past the church in the hall grounds and back across the fields to Dovedale itself, where we all successfully negotiated the stepping stones, despite them being officially closed for repair, and just relaxed into walking along this beautiful and very popular dale in the sunshine. In Milldale we stopped briefly to use the facilities and enjoy a homemade ice cream before disappearing up the footpath onto Sunny Bank and across the fields to Alstonefield. Here we found a footpath that quickly took us out of the village and across the fields and down into Hopedale, where after about quarter of a mile on the road we arrived at the Watts Russell Arms, our lunchtime watering hole. As there was no food available at the pub, we were able to enjoy a pint with our own sandwiches, sat in the sun without having to suffer the ire of the staff. Retracing our steps back along Hopedale and up out of the dale and into the collection of houses known as Stanshope, we found ourselves walking down a beautifully spring green grassy sward path into Hall Dale where the orchids gave us a very fine display.
Turning right at the bottom where this dale meets the river Dove, we quickly found ourselves, albeit on the opposite bank, back at the footbridge close to Ilam Rock. Here the two Dave’s bid their farewells as they were driving back home to Sunderland that evening. We swung round under Ilam Rock now festooned on its vertical faces with at least half a dozen rock climbers and climbed up the steep path behind the tor out of the dale and up onto a footpath that skirted along the edge of the woodland. Passing through Ilam Tops and down around and under Bunster Hill we found ourselves back in Ilam village close to the memorial, where Margaret yet again led the charge to get in the National Trust café in the hall before they closed. Again, as a direct result, the staff were very generous with their timekeeping, everyone who wanted a cream tea got one. Judy and Don managed to meet up with their friend Joan at the Royal Oak for dinner. Ed and Margaret and I enjoyed another righteous meal in the hostel.
With a strong coffee and just one more homemade ice cream each we both left Ilam Hall with a desire to return again to explore this quiet corner of Staffordshire sat right next to one of the most visited Dales in this part of the country, anytime soon. The attendees were: Myles O’Reilly, Margaret Moore, David Clear, David Blackett, Judy Renshaw, Don Hodge, Ed Bramley, Andy Burton and Steve Caulton. Report by Andy Burton. Photos from Andy, Ed, Dave and Judy.
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This, the third, ABMSAC ‘Skills’ meet took place at our club home in Patterdale over the weekend of the 5th-7th April 2024. As well as a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills and become immersed in the mountains, it was also a celebration of 50 years of the much loved birthday boy Jonny Dixon, who had chosen the weekend as one of his ‘fifty things to do at fifty!’ Thursday
Friday
After a snack above the lake looking over Dovedale, the hunt was on for the Priest’s hole. We did eventually find it but it was looming 50m above us and the wind was so strong we decided not to pursue it further. However we did ascend Hart Crag and encounter gale force winds along the ridge which at times blew us over and was a lesson to us all in communication and decision making.
It was a relief to descend Hartsop Over How via Hoggil brow, Gale Crag and Blueberry Knot, with myself at 6 months pregnant finding I had walked farther than planned, and with the exertion against the wind, was suffering new injuries. For the evening meal, Jonny T and I cooked up a vegan Bolognese for all to enjoy. With Heather’s special apple crumble for dessert. The group were joined by Mike and Marian. And later Nan, Anna, Will, Martha, Paul and Charlie arrived after a long day spent on the M6. Saturday
The wind was so strong that the waterfalls had become water-ups and the spray was blowing up and covering the outdoor via ferrata routes. And so the group were taken inside the old mine for a rather different experience than expected. There were three tiers within the old mine, with traversing tunnels, climbing ladders, suspended wire bridges, zip lines and stapled climbs. It got a little Lord of the Rings at times, although no dragon spotted this time…
There were demonstrations of how to rescue a person who had fallen off the staples (Jonny T rescued Simon and instructor Jonny rescued Charlie in single pulley rescues). The whole group enjoyed climbing inside the mountain and appreciated the shelter too! Looking ahead to a potential Dolomites trip now to practice what’s been learnt.
To celebrate a successful day of VF training, we ate a delicious dinner at the Langstrath Pub, a great find, just down the road from Honister in Stonethwaite. Upon our return to the hut, Nan held a late night birthday quiz in which was very much enjoyed by everyone (especially Jonny)!
It has been a pleasure to run the ‘new members’ meet since 2015 and the ‘skills meet’ since 2022. Thank you to everyone over the last 9 years who has attended, become ABM members, trained us across many disciplines and generally supported us in the hills and on this spring time meet. And thank you to the ABMSAC committee for subsidising the training this year. It was such a fantastic opportunity for those new to Via Ferrata and has already inspired a couple of members to tackle some VF routes on the costa Brava in Spain. May there be many more adventures to come! I shall be handing over the reins for next year’s meet, as Jonny T and I take on a new challenge of raising a human! Yes, it is an extreme way to secure new ABM members, but we’re doing our bit! Wish us luck! And hope to see you in the not too distant future, Mary x Attendees: Nanette Archer, Anna Kaszuba, Simon Palmer, Mary Eddowes, Jonny Taphouse, Martha King, Paul Clarke, Heather Eddowes, Andy Burton, Jonny Dixon, Will Priestly, Charlie Rawson, Louise Mundy, Simon Coleman. Report by Mary Eddowes |
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As there was only Ed, Michele and Marcus it was decided that the group would go off piste and visit an area quite well known to Marcus through his fishing exploits. Meeting at Dixie’s cafe near Sprotborough just outside Doncaster (or Donny as those from Scunny would call it) meant fuel could be taken on board in the traditional breakfast way. A short drive up the road was made to a car park in Sprotborough where the walk was to start.
Eventually crossing over a small footbridge the route continued along the Trans Pennine Trail before unfortunately coming to a path closed sign. This meant a diversion back to the road near to Dixie’s cafe and through a housing estate, meaning the walk became very urban. After the diversion we crossed the trail and entered the grounds of Cusworth Hall. The Hall was built in the 1700’s for William Wrightson a local land owner. If it can be said, there were good views across towards Doncaster.
The walk ended up back in Sprotborough after a modest eight miles or so. An unusual walk compared to our usual Peak District haunts, but very enjoyable nonetheless the less. Participants:Marcus, Michelle and Ed Report by Marcus Tierney |
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We all met at the New Forest car park at Fritham, five regulars and a Northern visitor - Andy. It was trying to rain (not again!) and we all donned our waterproof coats and some even went all the way to include overtrousers. This seemed to work as the light rain soon stopped, but is was quite windy.
Setting off trough the woods we quickly reached heathland and walked on the Hampton Ridge. This gave us extensive views of the North part of the New Forest. This area has a bit of WWII history, as Steve recounted. The Ashley Walk Bombing Range was operational from 1940 until 1946, and was used for target practice by aircraft from RAF Boscombe Down, Salisbury, as well as explosive and bomb testing. There were airstrips, control and observation towers, as well as different target types within its boundary, which enclosed a total of 5000 acres.There is very little evidence today.
We arrived at the Potting Shed cafe in Hyde, which providing us with brunch. We returned via Hasley and Sloden Inclosures. A good 10 miler with great views. All well planned and booked by Steve Creasey, who also found us the Green Dragon at Brook to finish.
Participants:Mitch, Paul, Mike O'D, Steve, Mike and Andy Report by Andy & Mike |
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“One lump or two” said Andy to Marcus, as we sat in Tilly’s café, watching the rain come down. I wasn’t sure whether he was talking about the rain, or sugar cubes. But I needn’t have worried – by the time we had left the café, the rain had stopped, and the weather was slowly brightening up.  leaving Castleton after the rain Our route started inauspiciously down a small ginnel in one of the back streets in Castleton, but soon became a proper limestone gill, with water running down what should have been a dry path. As we went higher up Cave Dale, it was clear why this limestone valley was so named. Both hillsides were dotted with cave entrances, and from one (with a grille on), there was a low whistling noise. “That one connects to Peak Cavern” remarked Marcus, sharing some of his caving knowledge of the area.
It's a straightforward track out to the road beside Mam Tor, and we take the opportunity to detour to Windy Knoll cave, (a fissure cave) where a large number of late Pleistocene bones were found in the late 1800s, including bison, reindeer, bear and wolves. From the road, it’s a short pull up onto the top of Mam Tor and the ditch remains of the middle and late bronze age hill fort. A cracking view, including the next part of our route, which has been dubbed ‘The great ridge walk’. It's certainly a favourite of mine. We move easily along the path, which now has flagstones to protect it along part of the way. A short pause for lunch at Hollins Cross before ascending Back Tor (looks like a mini Eiger from this aspect when it’s got snow on) and along to the top of Lose Hill.
From there, we descend to Crimea farm, and then follow several good tracks back into Castleton. And we still had time for a finishing cuppa at the same café we started at. Participants:Marcus, Michelle, Andy and Ed Report by Ed Bramley |
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It was yet another wet winter’s walk, this time starting and finishing in Oakley Hampshire. The route started in the village centre avoiding main roads we were quickly on footpaths, heading towards Bulls Bushes Copse the first of many deciduous woodlands that we walked through on this 11 mile circuit. On leaving there Copse, we picked up the Wayfarers Way long distance path, for only a short distance before we diverted to Steventon and St Nicholas Church where Rector Austen, (1731-1805) the father of Jane Austen was in residence in the mid 1700s.
Stopping in the porch of the Holy Trinity Church for lunch, continuing on through Ashe Park with a significant diversion as the underground tributaries to the River Test were above ground and ankle plus deep. We by passed All Saints Church at Deane as it was cut off by flood water.
Picking up again the Wayfarer’s Way back into Oakley via Keith Able’s newly plant vineyard - he of Able & Cole Organic food supplier fame. Finally we welcomed hot drinks and homemade cakes at Jolly Ollie’s Cafe All the churches are Commonwealth War Grave Commission sites. Participants: Margaret, Judy, Mike G, Paul, Mitch and Mike O'D Photos: Mike G, Mike O'D, Judy Report by Mike O'Dywer |
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Today’s walk began at the Outside shop at Hathersage. After breakfast and and drinks the group left Hathersage via the A6187 for a few yards before ascending through High Lees. The walk continued topping out on Owler Over Tor. At this point there were great views over the Burbage valley and across to the Longshaw Estate.  Group on the march
The walk continued across to the Hathersage Moor sheepfold and with bad weather expected we stopped and took stock. Keeping an eye on the weather the walk continued past the huge leaning block of Higgar Tor. At this point Marcus explained how ambition and ability weren’t evenly matched when he attempted the infamous climb called the Rasp in 1987. However he looked stunning in his purple and blue tie dyed outfit so it mattered not whether he climbed it or not, looking good was more important at the time.
A decent was made to Dennis Knoll where a decision to descend at this point was made. The route descended through the North Lees estate under North Lees Hall. This was a building regularly visited by the Brontes and the building itself was the inspiration for Thornfield Hall in the novel Jane Eyre. The walk ended at Hathersage and coffee and cake was most welcome as the drizzle was heavy with little visibility left on the tops so the timing was good.  Keep smiling
Andy, Steve, Marcus and Michele later stopped for a drink on the way home in Mansfield to celebrate a significant birthday for Steve. Congratulations Steve.
Participants:
Andy, Steve, Ed, Heather, Ian, Marcus and Michele.
Report by Marcus Tierney |
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The South walk started in Selborne, with the rain coming in early. Waterproof trousers were donned at the start, which is never a good sign! An enjoyable 10 mile walk, despite the persistent rain. A lunch time respite in the Rose and Crown in U Farringdon was welcome. I'm assured by Paul that there are fine views to be had on this walk - we must do it again in good weather and see!  Wet group at the top of the Zig Zags
The Selborne Common track was very muddy but the Zig Zag path at the end led us quickly to afternoon tea at the cafe at Gilbert White's House and Garden. Participants: Margaret M, Margaret O'D, Judy, paul, Mitch, Steve and Mike Report by Mike Goodyer |
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The 2024 Annual Dinner Meet started for me in the time-honoured manner with a drive up to Calverley to collect young Edmund. The main difference is now we are retired that the driving takes place in daylight, and on Thursday, avoiding all the delights of driving the motorways of Britain on a Friday evening! After a lovely lunch with the Bramleys, including meeting the newly walking Isla and catching up with all the building works at Jen and Stews, Ed and I set off for the hills. With all the various reports of landslides and road works causing delays over Kirkstone we elected to drive straight to the Hut and go for a short walk from there. Finding Suzanne already in residence, your Editor out on the fells somewhere and Don and Judy arriving as Ed and I were donning our boots for a stroll up to Boredale Hause and back, the meet was well underway. Beautiful evening light greeted Ed and I as we walked back through Side Farm to the ever-welcoming Hut now with its lights on and a curl of smoke emanating from the chimney.  Evening sun
Ed set to with preparing dinner for four, whilst I drove to Penrith and collected Celine from the railway station. Julie Jones and Pip arrived in their hire car and together with Celine began their communal catering. Suzanne returned later having been invited by Mike Parsons to an Alpine Club evening lecture and together with Marian we all spent the rest of the evening catching up and making plans for the morning. Celine, Ed, Mike and I elected to take the first ferry from Glenridding to Pooley Bridge and walk back along one side of the Ullswater Way and the four M’s were going to join us.
 On the Ullswater Way
A quick revision of our plans and we set off along the Ullswater Way to Aira Force. Here a coffee stop in the National Trust café allowed everyone to catch up before we walked around Gowbarrow to the Ullswater viewpoint. Here it became abundantly apparent why the ferry had been cancelled and continuing on round to Airy Crag where no one tarried for a photo reinforced the decision, not to go any higher. The work on the path down towards Dockray had gone on apace since the President’s meet, making the descent much easier. The Royal was open, and the stove was on and well alight, so we dried off a bit externally and rehydrated in equal measure, before returning via the Aira Force grounds till we joined the way we had come in the morning.  Aira Force
Another communal meal on the Friday night prepared by your Editor was enjoyed by Ed and I as more people steadily arrived to take the number up to fifteen staying at the Hut. Several of us made our way down to the Inn on the Lake to join the twenty or so staying in the hotel for the weekend. As always, the conversation flowed regardless of how long it’s been since we last met. Saturday morning three separate walking groups formed at the Hut and what follows are accounts written by individuals from each group, starting with the first group ably cajoled out the door, by Elsbeth Robson. With a reasonable forecast (apart from seriously strong winds) a party of six ABMSAC members (Mary Eddowes & Jonny, Celine, Vice-President Daniel Albert, Andy Hayes and Elsbeth Robson, the author of this piece) set off from the GSH aiming for Birkhouse Moor. |
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Mike, Ed and I left the Hut shortly after Elsbeth and the gang and headed back up Boredale Hause with three of the 4M’s catching me up as I crossed the Goldrill Beck bridge. The fourth M, (Margaret O’Dwyer) having elected to walk to Brotherswater at her own pace. Very quickly after the Hause, Ed and the two Mike’s crossed Freeze Beck and made their way up to Beda Fell Knott and out of sight. Michele, Marcus and I stopped close to the Knott and looking round to Buck Crag at the top end of Bannerdale we saw several deer silhouetted against the skyline. As we watched they made their way out of sight towards that area marked Deer Forest on the map.
We then enjoyed a windswept but quite sunny walk along Beda Fell, stopping for a sandwich at the cast iron bench on Howstead Brow, enjoying clear views of the obelisk on Hallin Fell, Sandwick Bay, and through the Coombs above Martindale towards Howtown, and out towards the Pennines.
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Blowing up to Sheffield Pike by Heather Eddowes:
A couple happily arrived shortly after us and obliged by photographing us with Sheffield Pike behind. This was in exchange for an explanation of the club’s logo on Dave’s beanie hat . . . . Association of what? Where? When? Who? And of course why? They seemed impressed with my explanation!
The view westwards had a couple of walkers silhouetted on the path up to Sheffield Pike. So that was it. Off we went. The easy inclined path to descend the NW side of Sheffield Pike was hard work due to the ‘uphill’ wind and the wet boggy nature of the terrain. But the col was finally reached, and we turned right and followed the well-walked stony path descending Bleabank Side, beneath Black Crag into the Glencoyne valley and over the very uneven, stony path through the fallen trees from the storms a few years ago, to the Seldom Seen cottages. An easy steady track brought us to the right fork up and so over a very small col over to the main road at Mossdale Bay. The lake side footpath brought us back to Glenridding and the hotel in plenty of time to prepare for the evening’s AGM and Annual Dinner. A veritable posse of ABMSAC female members headed for the Annual Dinner at the Inn on the Lake in Glenridding, spurred on by the news that the President had, for the first time, invited a lady as Guest Speaker – the indomitable Kate Ross. What a treat!
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Pip and Julie Jones thoughts:
Not to be deterred by yet another rail strike, we came by trains and boats and ... no, seriously, we came by Avanti West Coast, by car, even hired a car to be there, deftly circumventing the cancellations of Friday by travelling up on the Thursday. The extra day gained dawned wet and very windy so my weekend guest, Pip, was persuaded to try the delights of Keswick rather than Kirkstone (closed) and a circuitous route back to George Starkey via Borrowdale.
And so it was to bed and the crushing disappointment of finding that the refurb of the ladies shower room had been postponed yet again by the need, this time, for roof repairs. We may enjoy the sobriquet ‘geezer gals’ but surely it is the turn of the female members in the year when we celebrated, nay embraced, the role of women in the hills. Even the BMC have a new initiative, OutdoorHer, to address such things although ‘Toileting in the Wild’ is, perhaps, a little too much information – sheep have been doing it for centuries. Saturday was a joy from start to finish. Heading up to the Hole in the Wall mid-morning, well behind the trail-blazing men, we met hardened lady walkers coming back down having been blown over on the upper traverse by gusts of 40mph. A brief detour to idyllic Lantys Tarn brought us down at nightfall, just in time to change for the evening’s proceedings. The well-chosen menu, with vegetarian options, courtesy of Julie Freemantle’s unstinting efforts, lively conversation and general reminiscing made for another excellent Annual Dinner. A wonderful, illustrated talk by Kate Ross, more a relaxed chat amongst friends than formal lecture, rounded off the evening, ably hosted by retiring President, Andy Burton. Pip said she would be back when the loos are upgraded – the bubble wrap around the cisterns is not bio-degradable. These things matter nowadays.
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Arriving back at the Hut in time to get ready for the AGM and Annual Dinner I drove Ed, Celine and Mike up to the Inn on the Lake in readiness for the AGM, meeting our Guest Speaker Kate Ross and her partner Keith Lambley on completion of the AGM process which included introducing Daniel Albert, the next Club President to the assembled throng.
What followed was an interesting evening with good food and drink and diverting conversation all in the company of ABMSAC memorabilia on display followed by a riveting talk from Kate with great accompanying photos of her life in the mountains that was enjoyed by us all, if the positive feedback I have had is anything to go by. With thanks to all those who worked in the background to make the evening a success, especially Julie Freemantle, and all who made the trip to join us at the Inn on the Lake. I hope to see you all next year when I am back sat at the naughty table and Daniel is in charge of proceedings. Report by Andy Burton with contributions from Elsbeth, Heather, Pip and Julie. Editors Note: At the Annual Dinner there was a pictorial review of the 2023. Thanks to Don Hodge for compiling this review from the website and for Ed Bramley posting it on youtube. Annual Dinner Walks -
Gowbarrow Round,
Bedafell Round
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Excellent Southern day walk on a clear winters day, organised by Margaret M, along the Ridgeway and countryside around West Ilsley. Stunning views, but a biting cold wind on the tops.
 Cold start at Bury Down
|  View from Bury Down on the Ridgeway looking towards Harwell Labs
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On the Ridgeway we came across an early Iron Age round barrow (Scutchamer Knob). Legend has it that it’s the burial site of Saxon King, Cwichelm.
 Lord Wantage Monument
| We had short coffee break at the Lord Wantage Monument to Brigadier General Robert Loyd Lindsay. He was a Crimean War hero and he formed the British National Society for Aid to the Sick and Wounded, which later became known as the Red Cross. His widow had it erected in 1903.
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Six of us walked along an enclosed trackway to Farnborough, which is the highest village in Berkshire (!).
 Badger Face Welsh mountain sheep
|  Woodland walk on the way to West Ilsley
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We found a spot in the sun and out of the wind for a quick lunch before reaching West Ilsley and returning to the car park up the hill.
Welcome sight!
| At the end of the walk we had a warm up and a drink in the recently reopened pub, The Harrow, in West Ilsley. This rounded off a great day. The walk was a little over 12 miles and 650' of ascent.
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Attendees: Steve Butterfield, Mike Goodyer, Margaret Moore, Paul Stock, Judy Renshaw and Mitch Snedden.
Report and photos: Mike and Margaret
Tuesday 9th Januarys walk was a revisit to Cromford. With the advance party enjoying a cooked breakfast at the Tor Café nestling under the limestone outcrop of Willersley Castle Rocks, a trad climbing crag great for hot weather and summer evening climbing as it is north facing and overlooks the river Derwent and the castle house of the same name. The contrast between the cool climbing area and its tree covered slopes to the river and the busy ‘T’ junction on the main road to Matlock that appears only as you top out, is quite marked.
Free parking was secured on the road alongside the entrance to the Mill for us and Heather and shortly after that Ed too. Martin and Pat parked in the Wharf car park close to the toilet block.
A wise move as the café didn’t open till ten and then the glass doors were found to be jammed! This did allow me to spot the various fish shoaling in the canal right by the Wharf café outside seating area. With Marcus coming across to verify my sightings of perch and pike and adding roach to the list, it was an auspicious start to this beautifully clear but cold morning.
As we started walking along the Cromford Canal we were treated to regular sightings of a dabchick (Little Grebe) feeding in the dark canal waters. By the time we reached Aqueduct Cottage I had counted five of these lovely little diving birds.
Aqueduct Cottage
| Aqueduct Cottage, now almost fully renovated and landscaped, is occupied by the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, who had volunteers onsite to inform passersby on the progress of this site. Made no doubt a bit easier by the warmth provided by well-lit wood-burning stove.
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Returning back along the other side of the canal over the aqueduct above the Derwent River back to High Peak Junction with its bright red railway carriage which serves as an information centre on this major piece of local industrial archaeology. | 
Information Centre
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On the incline
| It also marks the start of the ramp that forms the incline of the High Peak Trail that leads from here all the way up to just beyond the Royal Oak pub and campsite at Hurdlow, a place many attendees on my Peak Meet have enjoyed visiting over the years. A great walking and cycling route for all to enjoy. Everyone enjoyed this stretch in their own way, reaching the old Engine House built to house the winding wheels for raising and lowering the goods wagons on the incline, whilst enjoying the views that open out towards High Tor and Matlock.
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Ed and Marcus resisted the temptation to have a go at Railway Slab, and we all made our way up onto the main part of Black Rocks and reminisced about routes climbed on this substantial gritstone outcrop over all the years. | 
Black Rocks
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Heather braves the wind
| With Heather braving the nithering breeze to stand on top, Ed reenacting his first climb that he made with his Dad, Eric and Marcus showing us that he has still got it in his own inimitable way, we quickly hunkered down in the sun and out of the breeze to eat our butties and share various leftover from Christmas cakes and biscuits.
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With a downhill return to Cromford Wharf and its café for an early coffee and cake finish, to allow for Ed to get home in good time for his Zoom lecture on our adventures in the Karwendel in 2012, and for us all to be back home and tuned in to watch said lecture, ensured this was also the shortest day walk to date.
Attendees: Martin Whitaker and Pat Cocks, Ed Bramley, Heather Eddowes, Michele and Marcus Tierney and Andy Burton
Report by Andy Burton
The Twixmas meet this year was quieter than recent years but still good fun. Maybe people had been put off by the weather, which was significantly wet and windy, but had its dry and bright moments. Don and I arrived on the 29th, to find only Pamela and another AC member feeling cold as they had been unable to light the fire. Don sorted that out, then we had the first of 3 sociable evenings with Marian and Mike, first in the hut, next at their house, then in the hut with Pamela and Alan joining us for a very enjoyable shared meal, with contributions from all.
The next day had steady rain which turned to snow higher up. I did an ‘interesting’ route up the Hare Shaw approach to Place fell. The new snow fell deeply enough to cover all the paths, so I took a slightly wrong route near the top, corrected it to find the main top and decided that, in poor visibility, snow covered paths and no one around, it was better to descend almost to Boredale House and take the path around to Swanwick and back along the lake path. The mountain rescue team were out, helping someone who had broken an arm falling on the lake path. Don did various essential jobs around the hut and Pamela went up above Hartsop, finding it very windy.
On the Saturday Daniel came over so we went up to Keldas, across the Glenridding YH and up to the col, descending down to Seldom Seen where we saw a red squirrel. On New Year’s Day several of us watched the crazy local swimmers at Glenridding pier while Marian was in charge of the cake stall at the village pop-up café. Don gave them some custom at lunch time while I had a quick jaunt up Glenridding Dodd and Sheffield Pike before setting off on the journey home.
Present: Marian Parsons, Mike Parsons, Don Hodge, Judy Renshaw, Daniel Albert, Pamela Holt (AC), plus Alan Hinckes and four AC members.
Report by Judy Renshaw
