The Lakes District

Wet, wet, wet! Lakes, rivers and rain, lots of rain! Only the second time we have been 'soaked to the bone', but we still rate the Lakes District as a beautiful spot!

We didnt' think it was possible to beat North West Scotland when it comes to scenery and were not sure that all those people 'raving' about the Lakes District were right (or that they had ever been to NW Scotland). But, we have to admit that it is certainly a beautiful part of the world.

Our first introduction to the Lakes was via some massive, massive hills. It was towards the end of the day and we were at the point where you are exhausted, and ready to just find a campsite, cook dinner and get to bed. Only a couple of miles to go and little did we know what was in store......
A 2 mile, 20% gradient hill!!! What was worse was that you could see the top of the hill from the bottom. It was a beautiful little road, winding it's way between 2 stone fences, all the way up the mountain. but was a tad daunting!

We eventually made it to the top. Mick got there a lot quicker than I but it was worth it. Stunning views over the lakes below and mountains in the background, and luckily we could see the village we were aiming for! Steep downhills all the way into Ableside, a lovely little town bursting with outdoor stores, hikers and the like.