Never done Striding Edge - would like to but now the van is here I have less time as Mrs Mabel does do the more "intrepid" walks. This country is beautiful the further north you go but there are places down here that you can go which are just as scenic. Aldeburgh in Suffolk is amazing and the south downs and new forest have a lot going for them.
I went up Kinder Scout on new years day - like you do to blow the cobwebs. Bright sunshine in the pub garden before we set off - Blizzard on top and it's not high, just a hill. Back down and more pints in the pub by the fire. Good day but we were prepared (if a bit pished) and knew where we were going at the time.
was when he first started getting serious and long before he qualified - there were loads going up on that day but these two went off track, the clouds came in and unseasonal snow fell and they froze to death. he can tell you exactly what they were wearing and what they looked like and he does feel some guilt. But even with all the warnings, people will ignore them and not apply common sense. We came down snowdon one sunday last September at 1500 in rain and wind and yet at the bottom, people were just starting out, asking how far it was to the top and not even wearing a rain jacket or carrying a bag or torch. Its people like that who put mountain rescuers lives at risk, not the genuine walkers who have accidents.
But they probably turned round and came back. I read a survey once that suggested 95% of us Brits who drive out into the country for the day never get more than 100m from our cars. Just as well I say - wouldn't want them spoiling the solitude.
when you say country - probably a tarmacced council car park charging 50p a car to sit in a field with 200 other people from where you can see your car. there is so much in this country to see which is exactly why i got the van, to drive to places like Edale with the mrs and spend quality time there rather than a rushed day trip. even my overnighter last weekend in the suffolk pub back garden was bliss
no, not harsh at all. no worries. He's been doing it a few years now - he carries extra gear just in case other need it (poundland silver foil blankets are ideal) but still can't get over the complete lack of care some people take on these walks, especially when they are taking their kids with them.
Its the ease of doing it nowadays that causes the problems mostly Drive from your home using sat nav to get you to the carpark Buy an icecream from the van in the carpark Read the nature information sighn on the entry to the walk The suns shining and off they head to the top of the hill It used to be an expense and a struggle to get a train near to where you wanted to walk
Noone should beat themselves up for this there are loads of idiots who go up on the mountains, hills and moors totally unprepared. Its natural selection tbh. You can go up there well equiped and come a cropper. I never go anywhere without a waterproof, even in the car. The number of times ive made the family take a coat or spare footwear. They think im a nutter!
yep. thats me, the one with the 25 litre back pack on, carrying everyone else's waterproofs, mars bars, bivvy bag etc and yet they are the ones moaning that their feet hurt........
Are we heading towards a LB Ramblers section. Noticed you guys got amongst it at spring camp. I lack fitness and self confidence. Never done Helvelyn and striding edge - would love to. Anyone for a weekend int lakes with a view to heading up there? Be a good excuse for a get together and give me some confidence back if someone wants to lead on this Id be up for it!
