Lakeland Climbs

Howard, Elton and my self left York just gone 7.30 am on a wet and miserable Saturday morning, expecting nothing more than a short day walk in the Lakes.

Or so we thought!

In the time it took us to get to the Peddlers Cafe in Keswick and meet Rich "dirty boy" Butler, our plans had changed.

We found a couple of lengths of string and some old nuts in the boot of my car and inspired by clear blue skies we set out looking for adventure!

Our destination was Gray Crag on High Stile, an imposing quartet of buttresses over looking Buttermere.

Splitting in to two teams, Elton seconded for Rich and Howard for me.

We completed 'Harrow Buttress' (D-) in two pitches the chimney provided most entertainment since we all had big boot on.

Then after a short scramble we moved up to 'Chockstone Buttress' and climbed 'Slabs Ordinary' (VD-) again two pitches, the easy angled rock providing few foot hold.

Rich made good speed on both buttresses keeping his head in the sun all the way, Howard and I, as fast as we went could not climb faster than the sun was going down. We spent the whole afternoon in the shade... doh!

The best was last, 'Oxford and Cambridge Direct route' a 42m Mild Sever.

I didn't think I had enough daylight left to finish the route so considered taking the chicken run... Glad I didn't!

Had to dump the big boots though, with slipper on we made the summit just before 5pm. The summit team was treated to the most beautiful sun set and a stunning cloud inversion rolling in off the Irish sea.

Head torches back to the car, dinner at the Fox Hall, York 10pm.

A stunning summers day at the end of January, thanks to all, looking forward to the next one.

Simon

PS. Ang, hope you enjoyed your lie in!

The Sun Set Summit Team, From Left, Elton, Rich, me and Howard

Rich in action