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The Fellwalker by Peter John Farnworth
WALK 14 SATURDAY MAY 15th 1978This walk started at Glenridding near Ullswater, where we followed the path past the old disused lead mines. From here, we went over the footbridge under which Glenridding Beck runs. From here it is a steady climb to Red Tarn, which lies under the mighty summit of Helvellyn. We have also been to this summit from the Thirlmere side of the mountain at the small church that was a part of the Wythburn valley before it was flooded to make way for the present water supply to Manchester. But I would not recommend you go this way. We found this was very steep and tiresome on the legs, but the good thing is when you are taking five minutes rest - there are some wonderful views to take in. As I was saying, we could see our next objective, which was Striding Edge. There have been so many things written and spoken about this very fine ridge, there is not very much for me to say about it, except to warn you. It can be a very dangerous place to be if it’s windy, snowing, or if there is ice forming on the Ridge. But with care it can be traversed. At the end of the Ridge, there is a steep climb to the summit. But don’t let me put you off! Seeing that you will climb this fine ridge anyway, see if you can spot the Dixon Memorial Stone - this unfortunate soul slipped off in 1888 and the stone was erected in his memory. When at the summit of Helvellyn, we had lunch and also took in those spectacular views that can be seen from this high vantage point. We saw some that day, and only wish I could put it all into words like a certain J W Wordsworth. To describe the scenery which unfolded before our very eyes in a word – magnificent! From here, we followed the curve of the fell over the other summits. The last one, which is called Raise, is very popular in winter as a ski-slope, with a pull bar to bring you back to the starting point.
Up to this date (May 15th 1978) I had walked the fells alone (the one exception being Walk 6) but I have got myself a walking companion in my son, Mark. And I have retraced my early walks in between the present ones to keep him on a par with me. On many occasions from this date, I have been glad of his company in more ways then one when we have been in one or two tricky situations on the high ground, especially when the dreaded mist has been down. As they say "sometimes two heads are better than one." And another thing to remember is, you should not go onto the Fells alone if you can help it. Tell someone where you are going. In my case, I left notes on my car windscreen with my route and ETA when I would return. Try to think about your safety at all times. Mountains walked that day: Helvellyn 3 White Side 16 Raise 12 [] Diagram & Stats
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