© Copyright UK Mountains 2017 -

Taurus Design custom websites
home
Home Page
login
Log in
Edit Blog
Edit Blog
Edit Logbook
Edit Logbook
Upload Files
Upload Files
Logout
Log out
User Name
Password
HeadingDateTypePriorityBlogEdit
Toubkal Success06-02-2025Announce2On Wednesday 5th February our whole team reached the summit of Mount Toubkal, the highest mountain in the Atlas mountains of Morocco, standing 4,167m high. There's a full report on the Previous Expeditions page, or, at least there will be soon. Essentially we had a couple of acclimatization walks, then headed up to the refuge at 3,200m and an early start to climb the mountain. It was cold all the way up, temperatures as low as -15/-20 reported.
Mount Toubkal Summit06-02-2025AnnouncePhoto1toubkal.jpg
Quite a bagfull27-01-2025Text1Last weeks trip to Wales certainly bagged the peaks. I managed no less than ten Marilyns, completing all those in Shropshire and all but one in the Clywidians. On top of that, I also bagged seven 500m Peaks. Okay, to be fair, some of the Marilyns were 500m Peaks as well, but it's a good total either way and hopefully put me in a good position for Morocco next week. Time will tell!
Cheeky Peak25-01-2025Text2On the way home from Wales, I stopped off not far from Welshpool to bag the final Marilyn peak in Shropshire. Parking was interesting - it was up a very narrow farm track to a triangle of grass and pull off the track as best I could. From there, it was straight up, literally. There were no obvious paths leading up, but quite a few contouring around, so I arrived breathless at the summit, just 20 minutes after leaving the car.

A quick photo or two and I was on the way back, arriving less than 40 minutes after leaving. Job done!
Heath Mynydd25-01-2025Photo1heath.jpg
Final day in Wales23-01-2025Text4For my final days walking in Wales, I did a double. Parking in a convenient car park at the South of Moel Famau, my walk started with a very steep ascent of Foel Fenlli (511m) which is both a Dewey and a Marilyn. The weather was extremely unkind, so bad in fact that I had to get into my waterproofs in the car!

We set off up the steep hill to the summit, which was actually over quite quickly and we headed down the Southern side without stopping, picking up Offas Dyke path. The worst of the rain had finished but there was still damp in the air, although the cloud cleared enough to see the second objective some distance away. The path takes the long way around some of the fields to eventually emerge onto the A494 which we had to follow for a short section before heading off and onto the ascent of Moel Gyw (467m), this one being just a Marilyn.
Foel Fenlli23-01-2025Photo3fenlli.jpg
Moel Gyw23-01-2025Text2It is not straightforward and the path goes around to the Southern side on a rising traverse before turning North for the final ascent to the summit. The weather was not good and it was quite windy so we soon left and began to retrace our steps.

Back past the main road, we stopped for some lunch before tackling the final last long climb, this time on Offas Dyke which avoids the summit of Fenlli, wisely preferring to contour around and bought us back to the car.

A total of 12.5km walked in a shade over three hours.
Moel Gyw23-01-2025Photo1gyw.jpg
Mynydd Nodol22-01-2025Text4I was up at a reasonable angle on a decent track, but that soon deteriorated to thin sheep tracks through the heather and the angle steepened.

Slowly we made our way up, Rosie in the lead of course, right to the summit ridge where a few minutes bought us to the summit cairn. Another excellent view all around, making the climb well worth the effort.

The return was a case of trying to find the sheep tracks with mixed success down to the railway line where lunch was declared. After lunch we retraced our steps right the way back to the car.

Todays walk was 11 km in 3 hours.
Llyn Celin22-01-2025Photo3nodol1.jpg
Mynydd Nodol22-01-2025Text2Todays peak was mostly about the walk-in. I parked at the Western side of Llyn Celyn at a convenient car park/picnic area and headed off. The first ten minutes or so were along the main road but we soon left it to cross a boggy meadow and a wide river (Afon Tryweryn) that feeds the Llyn. Over another field and we joined the disused railway that at one time of day would have taken stone from the quarry to the shore of the Llyn. This should have been the easy part but flooding put paid to the easy walk and we had to scramble up the embankment to the top and follow that along until past the water.

Back down and we soon came to a halt - the railway line has been encroached by houses, or at least, their gardens so we had to leave, along the road and back onto the railway line again. A bit further along, some fields with gates slowed our progress as we negotiated those and finally came to the jump off point and the start of the climb proper.
Mynydd Nodol22-01-2025Photo1nodol2.jpg
Easy Peak21-01-2025Text2After yesterdays epic, today was an easy stroll to the summit of Hope Mountain (330m). I parked in the Waun y Llyn Country Park car park and headed over easy fields on good footpaths right to the base of the summit. Technically the summit is not on a footpath but there is one at the bottom of the field so it was only a minor diversion. Well worth the ascent as the views were excellent. Return was simply retracing my outward route.
Hope Mountain21-01-2025Photo1hope.jpg
Big Day in the Clwydians20-01-2025Text6Today was the longest and hardest day of the week (I hope!). No less than five peaks today, two of which I had to do twice!
I parked at a lay by on the main Horseshoe Pass road and headed over via paths to the Ponderosa Cafe and on to Cwrn-y-Brain (565m), which was both a 500m peak and a Marilyn. From there, a long walk down and through some woods to the main road again, then steeply up to Moel y Gamelin (577m), the highest point of the day and another Marilyn.
Cwrn y Brain20-01-2025Photo5cwrnbrain.jpg
Moel Gamelin20-01-2025Text4From there, I could see the next two and it was a long slog down and back up to Moel Gaer (504m) followed by another long down and up to the furthest point away: Moel Morfydd (549m). Turning, I could see back over the previous two peaks. There was no choice but to retrace my steps.
I decided to stop for lunch on the way down but it was cold so I was soon away.
Gaer and Morfydd20-01-2025Photo3gamelin.jpg
Moel y Fan20-01-2025Text2The second ascent of Gamelin was really tough but it was a relatively easy hop over to the final peak of Moel y Fan (548m), then more or less straight down to the car.
The weather was cool all day with a bit of light rain but nothing serious.
Moel y Fan20-01-2025Photo1moelfan.jpg
Mynydd Rhyd Ddu19-01-2025Text2I parked on the main A494 at a layby and we headed down a track to a farm. The path should have headed right but there was a barbed wire fence blocking the route. Left it was which then required some major steep slope scrambing to a path. Back right and into a quarry where steep tracks eventually bought us onto open land. We made our way through and over gates to eventually follow a good track which led to two fields from the summit. The first fence was easy, just a wire, then second required climbing a fence, then through a gate and onto the final climb. The views made it worthwhile but it was very cold so we soon headed back down, more or less retracing our steps apart from the last bit where we had to walk through a car off-road rally course. We watched the racing for a while before walking through (it had finished!) and back up to the car. Just over 6km in two hours,
Mynydd Rhydd Ddu19-01-2025Photo1mynyddrhyddddu.jpg
Caeliber Isaf18-01-2025Text4The village hall car park in Sarn was an ideal starting point for the walk. Up the lane opposite I missed the footpath to the right so continued to the farm track which led me up across a couple of fields and into woodland through a gate. Here the trouble started. No ongoing path. I fought my way through the woods and down to a fence with no gate so had to clamber over. There should have been another path across the field but nothing. Eventually I located a path that took me in the right direction and via a long way around came onto a forest track. Unfortunately there was a shooting party out so Rosie was on the lead. At the end of the woods, a left turn went very steeply up, eventually onto easier ground and we made our way to the rather disappointing summit.

Return was a reversal apart from the initial woodland where we elected to walk to the main road and follow that back to the car.

10km in 2hrs 20 mins.
Caeliber Isaf18-01-2025Photo3caeliber.jpg
Ascent of Burrow18-01-2025Text2Convenient parking in Hopesay on the roadside. Initially steeply up following a section of the Shropshire Way that I had done before until the top of the rise, then it was steeply down through some woodland and back steeply up again onto a forest track that led to the outskirts of the hill fort that is Burrow. The actual summit is fairly obvious and there is a line that avoids the ramparts right up to it. Not much in the way of views so I was soon on the way back down, an exact reversal of the ascent. One hour and fifteen minutes round trip almost half and half up and down. 5 1/2km walked.
Burrow18-01-2025Photo1burrow.jpg
Cefn Eglwysilan02-01-2025Photo6eglwysilan.jpg
South Wales day out02-01-2025Text5I started the day with an ascent of Cefn Eglwysilan (382m), a Marilyn. I'd identified a church in a tiny hamlet and generally where there is a church, there is parking. Well I was right, but only just! I managed to park by the graveyard entrance where there was enough space for one car! From there, I followed the road for a short while, then a farm track which led up in the general direction and finally, headed off directly towards the summit. I managed to find a marshy area and gingerly made my way across without getting too wet!

There is a trig point on the summit and generally excellent views across the Brecons and South Wales.

My return was a reverse of the way up. Back at the car after just one hour. First Marilyn of the year bagged.
Mynydd y Glyn02-01-2025Photo4glyn.jpg
Marilyn Number Two02-01-2025Text3For Mynydd y Glyn (377m), I had a short drive down a very icy looking road, and through Pontypridd I parked at the Country Park. The hillside is a forest with lots of mountain bike routes. I decided to make the walk as hard as I could in training for Morocco so picked some of the steeper tracks. This worked well and I gained height quickly, although the final track proved somewhat arduous being very overgrown and lots of branches to get in my way.

Once clear of the woodland, it was a fairly easy final section onto the hill and across. There is a trig point, but according to the map, it is not on the summit, so I aimed for the summit rather than the trig point.

On the descent I decided to follow some of the wider forest tracks as the ascent tracks would not work well on descent. This was fine until I encountered a number of big trees that had fallen across the track! Some careful clambering to get past and I continued down, soon arriving back at the car park. Second Marilyn done.
View from Domen Fawr02-01-2025Photo2domen.jpg
Going for a Dewey02-01-2025Text1My final climb of the day added to my Dewey collection. Domen Fawr stands at 504m so just squeezes in. I parked above Ebbw Vale on a cinder track and headed up the track. Electing to leave my rucsac behind as it was just a quick up and down with no objective dangers, I felt light.

It seems like a long slog on the cinder track, but the hill is the obvious one dead ahead. Soon I was off the track and making the final ascent to the summit, which is the only steep part of the entire walk. I didn't linger long and was soon on the way down, retracing my steps back to the car.

It had been a fine day out with three hills bagged, in excellent weather to boot.
My next expedition26-12-2024Text1Having not done an overseas expedition in 2024, I was keen to plan and book something for 2025. I spied a winter trip to Morocco to climb Mount Toubkal (4,167m). I have never been to that part of the world and being just a week long trip, combined with a notable peak and the bonus of lodge based accommodation, it pretty much ticked all the boxes.

It is booked! All I have to do now is to get fit. Weekly outings to mountainous areas and a week in the Welsh mountains in January should go some way to achieving enough fitness.
Axe Edge30-11-2024Text2I had hoped for equally good weather that I had enjoyed all week. Sadly, not to be! It was misty and rainy as I pulled into the car park. Determined to do something, I headed up for Axe Edge moor (551m). The visibility was about 20m at best as I made my way across the moorland towards the summit. Eventually it came into view and I soon bagged it.

Retracing my steps to the road, I crossed and headed up Axe Edge (549m). Equally poor visibility so as soon as I stood on that summit, I decided that would do for the day and headed back down.

A couple of bags for the Dewey collection so happy with that, shame about the views.
Axe Edge30-11-2024Photo1axeedge.jpg
Back Tor and Howden Edge28-11-2024Text4As there are no Nuttalls or Marilyns to go for in Derbyshire, the next group of mountains are the 500m peaks, these are mountains higher than 500m but lower than the magical Nuttall height of 610m (2,000'). Back Tor and Howden Edge are two such peaks.

I parked in the Severn Trent Car Park at the end of Ladybower Reservoir, rather reluctantly forked out £6 for parking and headed off up the side of the dam to join the lake side path for a short way before breaking off and heading steeply up the path which followed Hollin Clough, making my way up to open countryside and via good paths over Lost Lad to the rocky summit of Back Tor (538m). The trig point is right on the top of the rocks so requires a spot of scrambling to reach it.

It was pretty cold so I wore a mid-layer and jacket, the latter of which was on and off during the day, but mostly on.

I'd planned a long circuit around Howden Moor to avoid the various streams in the centre of the moorland. Clearly I'm not the first as there was a flag-stoned path for most of the outbound journey. This was a mixed blessing. It was a great idea to avoid the bogs, but due to the icy conditions, required extreme care to avoid slipping.
Back Tor Summit28-11-2024Photo3backtor.jpg
Howden Edge and return28-11-2024Text2Eventually the flagstones came to an end and I had to break off to the North West to reach the far Western side of the Moor and the summit area of Howden Edge (550m). The path became thin, then non-existent and I found myself forcing a route through the heather and undergrowth, occasionally picking up sheep tracks, but mostly making my own route until I came to the far side, feeling very tired, and reached a good path.

Turning South I followed the path right to the summit where I decided on lunch. Locating some shelter stones we (Rosie and I) tucked into our lunch. We didn't stay long as it was so cold, and were soon off descending slowly, then steeply, down to the Derwent reservoir and the good track that led us back to the car park.

We'd done around 17km with around 500m of actual climbing, although my watch claimed 1,871m which I don't believe for a second.

An excellent day out and a couple of good peaks bagged.
Howden Edge28-11-2024Photo1howdenedge.jpg
Burbage Common27-11-2024Text7Traveling up to Derbyshire in the face of Storm Bertie was perhaps not the best move, but I'd rented a cottage just outside Hathersage so wanted to get there.

Actually, it was not as bad as expected, in that part of the world anyway , and I had no real hold ups, arriving at the cottage around 1pm. Rosie and I took a walk onto Burbage Common for a couple of hours, and whilst it rained constantly, it wasn't stupid.
Near the NT Cafe27-11-2024Photo6burbage1.jpg
Burbage and Stanage27-11-2024Text5The next couple of days the weather brightened up considerably and we enjoyed exploring the Burbage area and over to Stanage Edge to relive my youth looking at the various rock-climbing routes. One highlight was the 'discovery' of the Longshaw NT Estate, in particular the cafe that did an excellent coffee and toasted teacake!
Stanage Edge27-11-2024Photo4stanage1.jpg
Great Views27-11-2024Text3There are some superb walks and in fact, there are so many tracks, it is easy to make up routes. It's not somewhere I was particularly familiar with so enjoyed nice easy walks in new countryside. Due to the good weather, the views were superb, being able to easily see over to Castleton, Mam Tor, the Great Ridge and beyond to Kinder Scout.
Looking to The Great Ridge27-11-2024Photo2burbage2.jpg
Superb Skies27-11-2024Photo1burbage3.jpg
Lake District Marilyns21-11-2024Text6I have a theory that combining two Marilyn Peaks requires a lot of effort. Today supported that theory!

I was dropped off not far from Ulpha and made my way on a good path in the direction of Whitfell (572m). Being the Lake District, it was uphill constantly for about an hour before I crested the rise and headed to the trig point. There was a small shelter there, but today was incredibly cold so I stopped briefly to put on my Jacket and swap beanie for my Russian hat before pressing on to the intermediate hill of Buck Barrow (550m).
Whitfell and Buck Barrow21-11-2024Photo5whitfell.jpg
Buck Barrow21-11-2024Text4Being slightly lower than Whitfell, it was initially downhill with a little rise up to the rocky summit. As I would retrace my steps, I dumped my sac and made the final climb unencumbered.
Buck Barrow21-11-2024Photo3buckbarrow.jpg
Black Combe21-11-2024Text2From there, I could see Black Combe (600m) some distance away, It was cold, but very clear. My route followed paths which took something of a meandering route, so once down at the road, I elected to take a more direct route to the ridge. This proved mixed. Being winter, the going was quite easy, very little undergrowth, but I did encounter a stream with associated long grass which proved tricky to cross, but once over I was soon up on the ridge and heading for my final summit of the day. A long but not too steep walk bought me onto the top and a very welcome and well constructed shelter gave me time for a drink and some food.

Eventually I had to leave and picked up the wide track that took me all the way down to my meeting point. It was very steep and quite slippery in places but I eventually got onto flatter ground. With about ten minutes to go, it started snowing! I had to stop to put on waterproofs but of course, it was short lived.

A great day out, two Marilyns and a 500m peak for the collection. A total of 17km and 830m of climbing.
Black Combe21-11-2024Photo1blackcombe.jpg
Freehold Top Marilyn20-11-2024Text2I parked just outside Shawforth on what looked like either a Gypsy encampment or a group of small-holdings.

From there a good track led North to pick up the West Pennine Bridleway which was followed on ever steepening ground right up to the ridge of the hillside. Onward onto the Rossendale Way until breaking off North East towards the summit of Freehold Top (454m). There was plenty of snow on the ground but the going was easy enough and after scaling a couple of walls and fences I came to the Trig point and the summit.

This was another out and back day and I retraced my steps to the Rossendale Way and followed that past the way up and onwards to another descent route. It was a little unclear which side of the fence the path went but I elected to keep the fence on my left - correct! Lower down, there were two gates which led out onto a track which I followed all the way back to the car.

Today finished all of the Marilyns in Lancashire, of which, there are six, and bought my total up to 212 completed.
Freehold Top20-11-2024Photo1freehold.jpg
Lad Law Marilyn19-11-2024Text4It was a gloriously snowy day, not cold and not actually snowing, but clearly it had been.

My route started at a car park around 5km away on the Eastern side of Burnley. A short road walk and we joined the Bronte Way followed by the Pendle Way which made going easy and quick. We encountered a rather unusual arch, which seemed to serve no actual purpose!
The Arch19-11-2024Photo3ladlaw1.jpg
Lad Law19-11-2024Text2Of course, this had to end as we turned off the path and headed directly up on a very thin track, just about visible with the snow covering. It was steady going until just below the Abbot Stone where it steepened dramatically until finally easing off for the last 300-400m to the trig point at the summit. I didn't stay long as there was a cold wind blowing, instead, descended to the Abbot Stone for lunch, then retraced my steps back to the bottom and all the way back to the car.

Great day out. Didn't see a single person all day and Rosie thoroughly enjoyed her snowy romp on the hills.
Lad Law Summit19-11-2024Photo1ladlaw2.jpg
Long Knoll31-10-2024Text2A steep start from the main road, but luckily there is space for a single car at the foot of the climb so no need to walk along the road. Once the knoll is reached, it's just a walk along the ridge and twenty minutes later I was stood at the trig point. Another twenty minutes back to the car and off to Maiden Bradley for lunch at the awesome cafe in the centre of the village on the left hand side - definitely recommended!
Long Knoll Hill31-10-2024Photo1longknoll.jpg
A Somerset morning30-10-2024Text2A quick raid into Somerset to claim Staple Hill (315m). I parked at the Castle Neroche car park and enjoyed a very pleasant hour or so on forest tracks walking over to Staple Hill. The trig point takes a bit of finding as there is no pointy bit on this hill, just part of the woodland, but eventually I located it hidden by ferns and undergrowth. The return was more or less a reverse of the outbound route with a slight diversion onto a lower track for part of it just for the fun.
Staple Hill30-10-2024Photo1staple.jpg
Dorsets finest Marilyns28-10-2024Text4Climbing more than one Marilyn in any single day is generally a huge challenge, not because of the altitude or difficulty but because of the distances involved. Today was such a day.

I got dropped off at Morcombelake very close to Hardown Hill (207m) and headed more or less straight up. The summit was nothing special, just a clump of trees with no marking. By now it was raining so I didn't pause, but headed off and so began a very long, muddy, tricky walk North. The going was very soft, there were overgrown stiles making progress slow, unbelievably muddy fields and tracks.
Hardown Hill28-10-2024Photo3hardown.jpg
Lewsdon Hill28-10-2024Text2I finally arrived at the foot of the steep climb to the summit of Lewesdon Hill (279m). It was a good pull up with no reward of a view, the mist had been low all day and the rain had not really stopped.

From there, an initial steep descent followed by more muddy tracks until I came to Beaminster. Electing to follow the footpath rather than the road, I made progress until right at the end where there was a mud fest to do battle with. Both the dog and I came out somewhat muckier than we had gone in! Luckily the finish point (Greyhound Inn) was a couple of minutes further on and they had a sign welcoming muddy paws and boots - just as well!

Actually, a rewarding day out of ten miles and the completion of the Dorset Marilyns.
Lewesdon Hill28-10-2024Photo1lewesdon.jpg
Dorset Marilyns27-10-2024Text4Into another county and another Marilyn. Actually the walk today was a lot more than I needed to do for the bag. I started in Corfe and walked to Swanage via Nine Barrows Down to bag that (10km). The walk was on excellent terrain although there was a bit of fence hopping at the end to stand on the actual summit. Getting down into Swanage afterwards was challenging with the path deteriorating into a mud-fest but eventually I arrived at the Steam railway station.
Nine Barrows Down27-10-2024Photo3ninebarrows.jpg
Corfe to Wareham27-10-2024Text2A fine steam powered return to Corfe on the Swanage Railway saw me head off North on the Purbeck Way to follow that on mostly good, if slightly muddy tracks all the way into Wareham (11km). As I approached the final mile or so I realised that I might be able to catch the 14:04 train, I just about had time if the sign posts were correct - they weren't! I followed the River Frome to the main road and discovered the station was a further 3/4 mile. I had just over 10 minutes! Hurrying along and at times running, I came into the station area to see my train just pulling in, thankfully, two minutes late! I hurried onto the platform and just made it on as the doors were closing! One minute later I would have missed it.

A thirty minute ride and I was in Dorchester, the day done.
Corfe Castle27-10-2024Photo1corfe.jpg
Somerset Marilyns26-10-2024Text2There aren't many, in fact just three. Today, I claimed one of them: Beacon Batch. I had planned a reasonable walk but unfortunately my chosen car park was full and the only one with any space was much closer to the summit so it was a quick up and down. It's a nice hill with good views on the top and actually a reasonable climb so happy with that.
Beacon Batch26-10-2024Photo1beaconbatch.jpg
Big day out in Wales05-10-2024Text8Today was a big day out, no less than four Marilyns were in my sights. I started with Moel y Golfa, parking at a convenient car park in Middletown, it was a short walk to the footpath that would lead me up. As soon as I could, Rosie was off the lead and running around exploring.
Golfa is steep, very steep and for a first hill of the day, quite a shock to the legs. The path was in general, quite good and I made my way up, eventually onto easier ground and the summit ridge.
Whilst the summit has no trig point, it is obvious and nearby there is a monument so difficult to miss!
It took me 40 minutes up. The descent was a reverse and I was back at the car after a further 25 minutes.
Onto the next one.
Moel y Golfa05-10-2024Photo7golfa.jpg
Allt y Main05-10-2024Text6A small layby functioned as a starting point for this peak. The path started well, but soon deteriorated into a very thin track that made its way steeply up through the forest and bracken. Finally I emerged into a good track which led me up again to the summit area. This time the summit did have a trig point so again, obvious. The views over this part of Wales are very pleasant but largely lower hills rather than big mountains.
The descent was a reverse although I think I took a slightly different track down, it emerged at the same point so no worries there.
Two down, two to go.
Allt y Main05-10-2024Photo5alltmain.jpg
Mynydd-y-briw05-10-2024Text4There is the tiniest of pull-ins, just capable of taking two cars. With luck, there was one space. The ascent of this hill is basically through the gate and straight up the tarmac track to the radio mast, through the next gate and onto the summit area. Even so, it was so steep I had to stop for a breather on the way! A quick photo and I was back at the car in just over 15 minutes.
Mynydd-y-briw05-10-2024Photo3briw.jpg
The final peak of the day.05-10-2024Text2The walk started slightly earlier than planned. There is a good car park at Moelfre Hall with an honesty box charging a very reasonable £5 for a day. I figured I would be there a couple of hours, so popped £3 in - actually it was all I had!
The walk is straightforward on good tracks, but like the others today, very very steep! It zig-zags its way up with a final grassy ascent that seems even steeper and I was glad to be on the summit. Again, the return was a reverse of the ascent and I was back at the car in just over one hour from leaving it.
In total, I walked just over 14km with around 1,000m of climbing, bagging four more Marilyns.
Gyrn Moelfre05-10-2024Photo1moelfre.jpg
Fly, Cycle, Walk04-10-2024Text2A new type of triathlon. I flew down to Shoreham, cycled to Brighton, caught the train to Lewes, cycled up a very steep hill to the golf course, then walked to the summit of Cliffe Hill. To get back, I reversed the route. Excellent day out with the sun shining all day. What better way to spend a day than doing all the things I love doing?
Cliffe Hill, Lewes04-10-2024Photo1cliffe.jpg
South Wales frustrations10-09-2024Text7I'd set out with three walks planned, none of them too long, but together made a fine day out. After some frustrating road works on the Heads of the Valleys, I finally turned off onto quieter roads. With less than two miles to go, the road I needed was closed! There was no alternative so I had to abandon my plans. Quickly checking, there were several other options not too far away so I headed off for about twenty minutes to another walk. Mynydd Drumau was the hill I chose.
Mynydd Drumau10-09-2024Photo6drumau.jpg
Mynydd Drumau10-09-2024Text5I parked near a church - there's always parking near churches, and headed off along some lanes before heading out into the woods that surround the hill. Previous experience has taught me that forest tracks on maps cannot be relied on but these were marked and pretty good. I zig zagged my way up before emerging onto open ground. A short walk across a field and one stone wall and I was on the summit. The views were pretty good and made it all worthwhile. My return was a reverse of the way up and just over an hour and 6km, my first hill was in the bag.
Hills two and three10-09-2024Text4A thirty minute drive and I was parking up for the second, and longer walk of the day. I'd only got a rudimentary route planned as I had not planned to be doing it just yet. No matter, I'd figure it out. The first section was along a road, but we soon left that for a steep lane which became a footpath. Higher up, the marked path vanished and I had to make my way around some new houses to gain the route.

On a good path we passed through a farm, then the path became very thin and steep - this was a one direction only path! Up we went to eventually emerge onto a forest track. This wound its way up nicely to within a couple of hundred metres of the summit of Mynydd Dinas, where we had a fight with the undergrowth to get to the Trig point. There was no view, no nothing, so a quick photo and we reversed our route back out and down the forest track to a seat I'd spied. That would be lunch.

From there, we could see our destination hill which had three radio masts on the summit so easy to spot.

While we ate our lunch, we could see over Port Talbot and the M4, pretty nasty! We could also see the rain cloud approaching!
Mynydd Dinas10-09-2024Photo3dinas.jpg
Foel Fynyddau10-09-2024Text2Lunch done, we set off with some urgency, hoping (in vain) to beat the rain. The route to the final hill was either fight through undergrowth or walk a longer but almost certainly quicker route along a lane. I chose the lane.

The rain soon caught us, and heavy it was too, my trousers soaked within minutes and as we arrived at the final path up to the summit of Foel Fynyddau, the wind being behind us, soaked my trousers right through. The final section to the summit was shrouded in mist so, on arrival, a quick photo and we headed down.

I'd spied what looked like a good track down the side of the wooded area and we followed it. Nicely downhill but not too steep, we would soon be back at the car. Disaster! The track ended with no onward path. I looked around and tried a couple of thin tracks, but they quickly became a fight. Nothing for it but to walk all the way back up again!

At the top we turned down and picked up another, almost parallel path, this time with more success and we soon came to the outskirts of the village I'd parked my car in. The final walk down the roads seemed to take forever but we finally got to the car, the hills done.

Soaked through, I dried Rosie as best I could, jumped in the car and put the heaters and seat on full to dry out.

In the end, a successful day, with three hills done, but not quite what I had planned.
Foel Fynyddau10-09-2024Photo1fynyddau.jpg
At Toddington26-08-2024Photo2isbourneway.jpg
The Isbourne Way26-08-2024Text1I have been thinking of doing this walk for some time now and finally got around to it. It is quite an undertaking, being 25km in a day, but with not much ascent, seemed doable and it was. I elected to walk uphill, so from where the river ends (at the Avon in Evesham) back to the source (on Cleeve Hill). There is a full report with pictures on the Previous Expeds page. Check it out.
Chilterns Finest06-08-2024Text4To ascend Wendover Woods is not a great challenge so I tacked on 12 additional miles of the Ridgeway to make it worthwhile.
Wendover Woods is a very pleasant walk from Wendover requiring just a short section of road. I always thought Snowdon would be the only mountain with a cafe on top, but Wendover Woods summit, it you can call it that, features a cafe very close, so close in fact that I had to stop for a coffee and bacon roll.
Wendover Woods06-08-2024Photo3wendover.jpg
Rejoining the Ridgeway06-08-2024Text2Suitably fed I was off to rejoin the Ridgeway. It had been raining more or less from the get go so I was pleased that a lot of the walk was in the woods, sheltering me from the rain. Eventually of course, I had to break out and soon came to Tring Station which signalled the final section up to Ivinghoe Beacon which is where the Ridgeway ends. My path took me beyond and after a slight detour due to lack of path I finished at the Travellers Rest Inn. 15 Miles of good walking and a fine day out.
Ivinghoe Beacon06-08-2024Photo1ivinghoe.jpg
Callow Hill trig and summit30-07-2024Photo3callow2.jpg
Flounders Folly30-07-2024Photo2callow1.jpg
Back to Shropshire30-07-2024Text1I parked at probably the biggest layby in the county on the B4368. It was a short road walk to the footpath. Being summer, of course it was overgrown so I dodged and whimpered my way past the various stinging nettles and thorn bushes to emerge onto a good track.

I followed this for a while steadily upwards until once again the path entered a stinging jungle, thankfully short lived and onto another good track which I followed up past Hill End Farm, through the woods and onto a zig zag path which gained the final height to emerge at Flounders Folly, a tower built on the summit.

I decided I would have to locate the trig point which I did, in a field, and realized it was not the high point, the tower is.

A short break and I was on my way down, reversing the uphill route and back at the car in just under two hours.
Hailstorm Hill Summit26-07-2024Photo3hailstorm2.jpg
View from the summit ridge26-07-2024Photo2hailstorm1.jpg
Back to Lancashire26-07-2024Text1Waterfoot made a good starting point for the climb of Hail Storm Hill. There’s a bit of road walking but it soon gives way to tracks and paths as it makes its way up and around Cowpe reservoir.

Onto the summit ridge, the path more or less disappears in the direction of the summit. As a summer walk it’s quite easy, as a winter walk it would be tough, muddy and slippery.

Finally the summit arrives, marked by a small pile of stones. The descent was through the Cowpe quarry which was quite interesting. From there I followed the Pennine Bridleway all the way back to Waterfoot on a good track making a really nice circular walk with excellent views on the summit.
Mynydd Machen19-07-2024Photo3machen.jpg
Mynydd y Lan19-07-2024Photo2ylan.jpg
Back in the Valleys19-07-2024Text1I parked in the Sirhowy Valley Country Park, then headed up Mynydd y Lan, although it took some finding to get onto the hill and I found myself climbing some steep dusty paths crossing forest tracks. Eventually I emerged onto open ground and headed for what seemed to be the summit. The grid reference was not even close so I picked what looked like the high point.

From there I retraced my steps down to the valley and followed tracks and narrow lanes to pick up the Cambrian Way to ascend Mynydd Machen, the summit of which was much more obvious and made a nice lunch stop with views over the Severn Estuary. It also showed me there is a more direct route up y Lan!

Descending back down was frustrating as the path I took past a farm came to a dead end - no choice but to climb the fence, then the tracks that were meant to lead to the valley didn't exist so I had a long out and back following forest tracks.

It was a super hot day and the distance on OS maps was not even close to the actual distance. It claimed 8km whereas it was 15km, it claimed 600m of ascent, it was over 900m!
Lambrigg Fell05-07-2024Photo2lambrigg.jpg
Cheeky peak05-07-2024Text1I couldn't resist a final Marilyn on the way home, so stopped off to climb Lambrigg Fell. At only 340 metres it isn't much and the way I did it, the ascent was much less, but it is done and a fitting end to a great weeks climbing which saw me conquer no less than 13 peaks, roughly half Nuttalls and half Marilyns, although High Stile counted in both categories.
Pillar Rock04-07-2024Photo2pillarrock.jpg
Final mountain04-07-2024Text1Well, after many many years of climbing mountains, I finally conquered the final Nuttall! It was Pillar Rock in Ennerdale. We walked over from Borrowdale via Scarth Gap, descended into Ennerdale and then made the big climb up to the base of Pillar Rock. From there, it was a multi-pitch rock climb right to the summit. The weather was dreadful with driving rain, wind and cold temperatures. I think it was the first time I'd rock climbed in full waterproof gear!

Of course, that is only half the battle and we needed a two pitch abseil followed by some tricky walking across and back down to Ennerdale, followed by another ascent of Scarth Gap and finally back into Borrowdale. In total I ascended over 1,500 metres which is actually about double the height of Pillar Rock!
Watch Hill03-07-2024Photo3watchhill.jpg
Binsey03-07-2024Photo2binsey.jpg
Another two bite the dust03-07-2024Text1Another two Marilyns today. First off was the highest: Binsey at 447m. Good parking just off the main road then after crossing, a good path all the way to the summit. Quite steep towards the end but it was short lived. There is a shelter and trig point on the top, so a proper hill. Descent was the reverse. Then onto Watch Hill, which at 254m was much lower although there was 220m of ascent compared to Binsey at 287m of ascent so not much in it. A straightforward ascent following a good path right to the end. There are a few undulations on the last section but nothing to worry about. This summit is marked by a few small boulders. Again, return was retracing the way up.
Swinside01-07-2024Photo3swinside.jpg
Lords Seat01-07-2024Photo2lordsseat.jpg
Back to the Marilyns01-07-2024Text1Two Marilyns today and very different experiences they were too! Starting in Powter How I headed more or less directly uphill to ascent Lords Seat. The weather was particularly inclement with rain right from the get go. As I ascended I headed into cloud which of course meant high humidity which meant my waterproofs became nothing more than something to keep me warm rather than dry. The path is relentless and steep almost right to the summit. From there, it heads down into the woods and I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the paths on the map actually existed!

Into and out of Thornthwaite in a flash my route took me South to Braithwaite then onwards to the foot of Swinside. There is no obvious path from the road below so I headed across a field hoping to find a gate but instead a section of broken fence allowed me access onto Swinside. A brief battle with the undergrowth and I was onto a forest track. The hill is a mere 244m high but it is steep, and I was well pleased to be on the summit. Some views across to Cat Bells and Causty Pike made it worthwhile. Following a forest track I soon emerged onto the road where I saw a sign claiming private land! Ho Hum. A short distance later I was at the pub and the finish.
Rock Climbing30-06-2024Photo2rock1.jpg
Today was a rock climbing day30-06-2024Text1I've not rock climbed for many years but I fancied a day out on the crags so booked Mountain Journeys, a Lake District guiding company for a days climbing on a crag. ( www.mountain-journeys.co.uk )

We went to Shepherds Crag near Keswick and managed to ascent no less than four routes: Brown Crag Arete (Diff), Little Chamonix (HS) , Donkey Ears (VDiff) and Brown Crag (Diff). The grades were at the lower end but they made a superb day out, all bar Brown Crag being multi-pitch which made them even better.

The weather was kind to us with no rain all day, unlike yesterday and probably unlike tomorrow, so the day choice was inspired. Most enjoyable day out but my toes hurt (tight rock shoes), my arms hurt (pumped) and for some reason, my back also hurts!
Crummock Water29-06-2024Photo4crummock.jpg
Red Pike29-06-2024Photo3redpike.jpg
High Crag29-06-2024Photo2highcrag.jpg
Nuttall bagging29-06-2024Text1With seven Nuttalls to go, today was a big day, I ticked off another six! From Buttermere I climbed High Crag (744m), High Stile (807m), Dodd (641m), Red Pike (755m), Starling Dodd (633m), Great Borne (616m) in a big 23km day out. The weather was pretty awful with rain and low cloud all day, but the peaks were done. I might return in the summer and do them again as the view must be spectacular.

The final peak is booked for Thursday. What could possibly go wrong?
Hutton Roof Crags28-06-2024Photo2huttonroof.jpg
Here we go again28-06-2024Text1Heading off to the Lake District to hopefully mop up the remaining Nuttalls ( https://www.nuttalls.com ) and bag a few Marilyns along the way, today we stopped off at Hutton Roof to climb Hutton Roof Crags. A reasonable car park and the entrance to the woods led to a very pleasant walk up through the woods to the summit. It doesn't appear right until the end which is slightly disconcerting. Excellent views all around made it worthwhile.
Wapley Hill24-06-2024Photo3wapley.jpg
Shobdon Hill24-06-2024Photo2shobdon.jpg
Worcestershire complete24-06-2024Text1Bagged two more Marilyns in a combined walk/bike ride. I managed to cycle most of the way up Shobdon Hill, although there was a steep section that required walking up and down. The summit was in the midst of ferns, nettles and undergrowth which was not much fun. I then cycled over to Wapley Hill, parking the bike in the car park and walking up. This time, the summit was easier, being on a mound on the earthworks. Nothing marks it so it was bagged by eye.
Wentwood Forest21-06-2024Photo2wentwood.jpg
Wentwood Forest21-06-2024Text1I decided to combine a days motorbiking with an objective so rode down to Wentwood near Usk in South Wales, parked up in the forest and took a scenic route around to the highest point. At just 309 metres, it was a little contrived to find a suitable walk and the OS map is massively out of date as regards the footpaths, so quite a bit of lane walking was required. Also the trig point is well hidden down a tiny track. The weather was excellent all day.
St Boniface Down20-06-2024Photo2boniface.jpg
Highest peak on the IoW20-06-2024Text1Not too much of a challenge to be fair, but St Boniface Down at 242 metres wins. I cycled from the airport to the base of the hill, stashed my bike and headed up. To be fair, it's quite a climb onto the summit area but the true summit is behind fences that guard the radio station so we have to be satisfied with the path to one side which will be within a metre or so. Actually, the trig point is well down from the summit so doesn't count either. Pleasant walk and good views. Back at the bike I headed to the seaside for a well-earned lunch.
Bardon Hill14-06-2024Photo2bardon.jpg
Leicestershires highest14-06-2024Text1The competition is not all that high, but today I made an ascent of Bardon Hill via Birra Birra Hill. It is a nice walk, apart from crossing a very busy A road. The final ascent has been changed due to quarrying in the area and the alternative footpath soon deteriorates into a fight near the top. Good views but I didn't stay long due to the approaching rain storm. As it turned out, I just caught the edge of it.
Robin Hoods Bay11-06-2024Photo2rhbay.jpg
Yorkshire Coast bimble11-06-2024Text1I parked at the radio mast near Ravenscar and made my way down to the old railway line which is now a very pleasant track leading in a roundabout sort of way to Robin Hoods Bay where I had lunch. My return route followed the Cleveland Way along the coastline to Boggle Hole and beyond, although there was a footpath diversion for a short way. As I approched the radio mast, it was clear that the entire climbing of the day would be right at the end with over 200 metres in the final couple of kilometres but it was easy ground and soon done. Fifteen kilometres made a very pleasant day out.
Guisborough Moor06-06-2024Photo2guisborough.jpg
North Yorkshire Moors done06-06-2024Text1The highest point on the North Yorkshire Moors is Guisborough Moor. I parked in a convenient car park not far from Great Ayton and headed off. There are a lot of tracks going in lots of directions but I got the one I wanted and headed off. It was a good track which eventually bought me to a road. My original intention was to follow the road for a while then pick up another path. Rather than do that, I took a direct line across the moors. The going was mostly okay and I soon found myself at the Sleddale Farm. There is no choice at this point but to follow the path through the farmland, then up and around to the summit. Of course, being a moorland, there were two choices. The furthest one turned out to be the high point and it had a nice shelter for lunch. From there, back across and I followed the line of the woodland to join the Cleveland Way, then headed across more open land to pick up the path down to the car. 15km walked and 419m of height gained.
Bishop Wilton Wold05-06-2024Photo4bishopwilton.jpg
Possibly the easiest one05-06-2024Text3Bishop Wilton Wold (248m)

Barely worth it, but as I was passing. Parked the car and walked across the road to the trig point. Well, I would have but it was inside a locked water treatment site so not accessible. Some websites claim a tumulus as being the true summit but surely that is man-made so doesn't count? Either way I'm counting it and not planning to return anytime soon.
Pendle Hill05-06-2024Photo2pendlehill.jpg
Where the witches go05-06-2024Text1Pendle Hill (557m)

Downham is the perfect place to park for Pendle Hill. There is a free car park and the walk out to the base of the climb is a very pleasant meander through fields on dedicated paths. Once on the hill it is relentless upwards. I'd been walking in shorts and T-Shirts but about one third of the way up the waterproofs came out in defence of a hailstorm! It continued to rain for much of the way up and when that passed over, I had to keep the waterproofs in to combat the cold wind.

Pendle Hill summit is more of a plateau with the trig point being very slightly higher than the surroundings. Clearly popular, there are good stone tracks approaching it from all directions.

The return was the reverse of the way up. I finally took off the waterproofs as I reached the final walk into Downham. There is a small cafe in the village which does an excellent coffee and bisuit.
White Hill04-06-2024Photo4whitehill.jpg
And another one04-06-2024Text3White Hill (544m)

A few miles North of Slaidburn, there is a very small car park. It was from there, that my second walk of the day began. The weather was dreadful, with driving rain, but it had to be done. Initially it is a good track that leads up the hill, but that peters out to almost nothing, so it was a case of make your own route. It was made harder with plenty of peaty groughs and streams requiring dropping down and climbing up. The view was non-existent and I was continually taking bearings to take the best route to the summit. The driving rain into my face didn't help and a couple of times I questioned my sanity! Finally the trig point came in sight and we headed over to it, with a second summit marker a little way away, which of course I had to visit. I stayed long enough to take a couple of photos, then another bearing and I was off back down. My descent route was slightly different to the ascent and I was back forty minutes later. With an ascent time of around one hour and fifteen minutes it was a significantly faster, I guess because the rain and wind were behind me. Seven kilometres, it seemed further, and just over 600 metres of ascent made for a good, but tough walk.
Easington Hill04-06-2024Photo2easingtonhill.jpg
More in Bowland04-06-2024Text1Easington Hill (396m)

I parked in Slaidburn and headed off through a very wet field to avoid the walk up the road. As a result of following the obvious path, I missed the actual path and emerged onto the road much higher than intended so had to walk back down about as far as I would have walked up!

That little problem solved I headed out in the direction of Easington Hill crossing farming fields, some with sheep and some without. Rosie was very confused, on and off the lead. Eventually I emerged onto open land and headed up on a reasonable track. No sooner had I done that, than the rain started, which would continue for most of the day. I had to choose a jumping off point to get to the actual summit and I was lucky enough to find a thin track which took me very close to the summit. It was then a short distance to the summit, marked by a small pile of stones. From there, across to a path which I followed to the road, then aimed off across more open land, reasonable going but no actual path. After a steep downhill, it was more farmland until I got to the river Hodder which I could follow directly back to Slaidburn. Thirteen kilometres walked with just over 640m of ascent.
Fair Snape Hill03-06-2024Photo4fairsnape.jpg
Bowland Part 203-06-2024Text3After Longridge I drove the seven miles ish around to the foot of Fair Snape Hill (521m), parking in another very small and very popular car park. Initially I skirted around to the East, following a good farmland track. Eventually we started uphill and once on the ridge, followed it on a nice track pretty much right to the summit. Only a short distance on a thin peaty track bought me to the summit, which had a pile of stones and an information board. From there I followed the obvious track to the trig point and shelter, which actually are 10 metres lower but must do for many walkers. Returning, I ascended Parlick (432m) mostly because it was in the way, but I figured it might appear in one of my many lists! The weather was fine, a cool breeze but no rain.
Longridge Fell03-06-2024Photo2longridgefell.jpg
Forest of Bowland 03-06-2024Text1Another two hill day. First to be ticked off was Longridge Fell (350m), a quick jaunt up a forest track from a handy, though popular small car park on the South Side. Easy walking on a good track led me to the final slightly less good, but still fine track to the summit trig point. From there I could see Fair Snape in the distance. Return was a case of retracing my steps.
Off again30-05-2024Text1On my never ending quest to climb all the mountains I am off again, this time to Yorkshire via Lancashire. The North of Manchester is ripe for picking off peaks where I will spent a few days, then off to the Yorkshire Coast via, probably the easiest peak of all, Bishop Wilton Wold which, not only being a mere 248 metres, the only sensible start is the car park across the road! Reports to follow of course.
View Edge24-05-2024Photo2viewedge.jpg
Final Marilyn of the trip24-05-2024Text1I managed a final cheeky climb on the way home from a successful week in the Llyn Peninsula. Parking at Stokesay Castle I headed off on a gentle uphill slope into the woods above. A muddy but good path took me up through the woods towards the summit, but stopped short of the actual summit. A bit of fence crossing and dodgy field walking (no path) bought me to the top of the field and the top of the hill. It's nothing special, just a high point in a field, there seems to be no public access so something of a disappointment, but it's done. The get back to the car was a reverse of the way up.
Yr Eifl23-05-2024Photo2yreifl.jpg
Highest peak of the trip.23-05-2024Text1Yr Eifl on the Llyn Peninsula is 561m high so quite a giant by comparison to the others I've done on this trip. Due to some persistent bad weather, it was a very windy and wet walk up and down. The path on the North side is considerably better than the one on the South which made for a much more enjoyable ascent than descent.

On the summit there was zero visibility which was a shame as I am sure there are excellent views on a clear day.

I have to admit to underestimating the Marilyn hills. I'd assumed they would be push overs, completed whilst strolling along enjoying the countryside. Many are anything but, and this was a good example of that. Some serious weather, both rainy and cold made for a tough day out. As a habit I carry extra 'just in case' gear and today I needed it.
Garn Boduan22-05-2024Text3I parked in Nefyn almost opposite the start of the walk. It was raining heavily so waterproofs on. Through the gate and across several fields, including one with cattle which of course, freaked Rosie. After that we had about a mile of road work before we came around to the Forestry entrance. After that, it was steadily up on good tracks almost to the summit which is when the tracks vanished and we found ourselves climbing over wet rocks.The summit had a trig point but zero view, coupled with being very windy, we didn't stop, but picked up a good track that took is steadily downwards, eventually popping out onto a lane that led right back to the car park.
Garn Boduan22-05-2024Photo2garnboduan.jpg
Moel y Gest22-05-2024Photo2moelgest.jpg
Moel y Gest22-05-2024Text1We'd finished the previous walk a lot quicker than I'd expected, so decided to pop over to Porthmadog to add another to the bag. Parking at the foot of the hill, it seemed an easy prospect. The walk started a little way down the road on a good wooded path which headed upwards. I followed what seemed to be the most likely path but it started to deteriorate into something of a fight in places, then open up into a better path. I continued along, past an old quarry expecting the final ascent any minute. We then came to a rocky section with a big drop. This looked like the end, but I spied a way down and with some help, Rosie followed - we wouldn't be coming back this way! Eventually it started to climb and we popped out into a fern forest and shortly afterwards, came to the summit. Despite the rain, the views around were good but it was windy so we headed off, having to ascend the sister peak before locating the downward path. Near the bottom we came to the original path and realised our error. Oh well, it was a good experience.
Mynydd Bodafon20-05-2024Photo2mynyddbodafon.jpg
Mynydd Bodafan20-05-2024Text1An easy ascent up a good path. I parked a little way up the road, but there is a reasonable car park at the foot of the ascent which is only about 50 metres of height gain up an easy path. Up and down was less than thirty minutes including photos.
Llyn Peninsula19-05-2024Photo2llynpeninsula.jpg
Bardsey Island19-05-2024Photo2bardseyisland.jpg
Llyn Peninsula Far South West19-05-2024Text1Today I travelled just about as far down the peninsula as I could without falling off. I'd got a route planned which would culminate in an ascent of Mynydd Anelog. It's not a high peak, in fact less than 200 metres but an interesting one nevetheless. Parking in the NT Car park in Aberdaron, I headed out along the headland with the sea on my left. It's a lovely walk, following the Welsh Coastal Path, but as with most coastal paths, very undulating. Eventually I could travel South no longer and rounded the headland. It was then that Bardsey Island came into view. There is a Marilyn on that island and today it was standing clear of the clouds. Continuing around the headland I eventually turned North and headed to today's peak. As I approached it looked very imposing, but close up, straightforward. There is a path to the summit starting more or less on the North side, so I had to walk past it and turn back. A few minutes later I was on the top. From there, it was an easy descent through fields to the road and back to the village.
Carn Fadryn direct19-05-2024Text1An easy ascent from the car park in the small village to the South of the summit. There is a good path that can be followed right to the top, but it does meander around for a while but is infinitely better than trying a direct approach through the undergrowth. Just under 20 minutes after leaving the car, I was stood on the top of the second Marilyn of the day.
Mynydd Rhiw18-05-2024Photo2mynyddrhiw.jpg
Llyn Peninsula Day 118-05-2024Text1The day started badly when after leaving the cottage in glorious sunshine, I got to my destination in cloud and cold wind. There are a lot of choices in this area so I decided to change my plans and go back to the other side of the peninsula for the first walk. Unfortunately, the entire peninsula was in cloud so I had no choice. First peak to be bagged was Mynydd Rhiw at just 304m high, it was a pleasant walk up from a good car park, but the views were non-existent sadly.
Llyn Peninsula Day 1 part B18-05-2024Text1After a nice lunch in a small village I headed off for the second walk of the day. I managed a superb car park spot right by a gate that led onto the hill - Carneddol, this time just 235m high. After seven minutes of hard effort, I stood on the summit, completely enveloped in cloud! Couple of photos and five minutes later I was back at the car, job done.
High Vinnalls17-05-2024Photo2highvinnals.jpg
Cheeky Marilyn17-05-2024Text1En-route to Wales for some Marilyn hunting, I stopped off near Ludlow to bag High Vinnalls. There is a car park in the woodland and it is an enjoyable hours walk up decent forest tracks right to the summit. I wore walking boots, but could have easily got away with trainers. I saw no-one on the way up, but when I got to the summit, there must have been 30 people milling around!

A couple of quick photos and I was on the way back down, retracing my steps. There is a lot of potential here for a longer walk but I was on my way elsewhere.
Northumberland Tour summary11-05-2024Text1So, nine days of walking, 5,856 metres climbed, 134 km walked, seven Nuttalls conquered, seven Marilyns and a handful of 500 metre peaks.

Rosie, my faithful Collie probably walked double, spent most of the time off the lead, got mucky, smelt new smells, looked in fascination at the sheep and the lambs and loved every second of being with her Daddy.

Happy with that.
Final Day of the tour10-05-2024Text1For the final day, I chose an ascent of Wards Stone from Jubilee Tower in the Forest of Bowland near Lancaster. There is a good sized car park with excellent views. The route was straight up and down on a reasonable gradient and fairly firm underfoot. Finally we had a nice sunny day and even the views from the summit were good. One minor fly in the ointment was being told off by a ranger for having the dog with me. Apparently dogs are not allowed in this area, despite the notice at the car park implying dogs under control were allowed. Oh well, I do not plan to repeat the visit anyway.
Peel Fell09-05-2024Photo2peel02.jpg
Deadwater Fell09-05-2024Photo2peel06.jpg
Keilder yomp09-05-2024Text1I parked just out of Keilder, near Deadwater and followed the forest track up as high as I could before breaking off to make my way through the felled forest area and onto Peel Fell (602m), although not before having to scale a six foot fence! Luckily there was a hole under one section so Rosie could get through, I had to scale a support, then climb down the other side!

Up to Peel Fell was a struggle, no path and thick heather and undergrowth exhausted me and I was pleased to reach the summit. The route across the ridge to Mid Fell (561m), then Deadwater Fell (571m) was pretty straightforward on a good path, marked rather sadistically by low metal stakes - it would be paintful to walk into one! A handy shelter on Deadwater Fell was perfect out of the wind for lunch, then I followed the forest track all the way back down to the car. Two more peaks for the bag, Mid Fell doesn't count in any of the groups!
Shillhope Law08-05-2024Photo2shillhope01.jpg
Tosson Hill08-05-2024Photo2tosson01.jpg
Final day in the Cheviots08-05-2024Text1Two walks today, the first was Shillhope Law (501m) which was a straight up and down from Wedder Leap Car Park. Quite a climb but only 30 minutes up and about the same down. The second walk was Tosson Hill (441m) from the Lime Kiln Car Park. A short road section followed by fields, woodland and open moorland made for a nice varied route. Around 1 1/4 hours up, I arrived in time for an early lunch in the sunshine, followed by a similar time down. Nice views from the top and excellent weather made for a nice end to a few days in the Cheviots.
The Cheviot07-05-2024Photo2cheviot11.jpg
More Cheviots07-05-2024Text1Today saw me climb the final three peaks in the Cheviot area: The Cheviot (815m), Comb Fell (652m) and Hedgehope Hill (714m). The weather was dry, the going was, as expected, very wet and muddy and the views were non-existent due to the low cloud. No matter, it's all done now and so there are just seven peaks to climb to complete the Nuttalls which will allow me to join their club.

So far this trip, I've climbed 4,420 metres and there are still three days to go!
Bloodybush Edge06-05-2024Photo2bloodybush.jpg
Cushat Law06-05-2024Photo2cushat.jpg
Cheviots06-05-2024Text1Today I started on the Cheviot Peaks. Many years ago, I walked the Pennine Way which went over Windy Gyle and optionally the Cheviot. We declined the option at the time! Two peaks added, Bloodybush Edge (610m) which was the lowest of the remaining peaks, and Cushat Law (616m). As a result of the out and back route, I had to climb Bloodybush Edge twice, but hey ho.
Little Fell05-05-2024Photo2little03.jpg
Final Cross Fell peak05-05-2024Text1Little Fell at 745m was the final piece of the Cross Fell jigsaw and today it fell into place. The cloud base was low and visibility poor to say the least, plus a non-existent path most of the way up made for a disappointing ascent, but equally exciting that the area is now finished.

Tomorrow I start on the final peaks in the Cheviot area.
Mickle Fell04-05-2024Photo2mickle02.jpg
Mickle Fell04-05-2024Text1Back on the Nuttall bagging with a ascent of Mickle Fell. It was a long walk (13 mile round trip) for one mountain and it was a very overcast day with some light rain but nothing requiring waterproofs other than a thin one as a windstopper. It is an easy track up from the B6276 followed by a nice grassy track to the summit.
Aye Gill Pike03-05-2024Text1The small village of Dent was the starting point for the climb. The pike is the imposing hill to the North. Paying for the car park proved a challenge, cards could not be used, there was a Ringo code and a bar code, but unfortunately no internet, there was a phone number but no phone signal! I gave up and decided I would pay it once I got a signal (that was 50 minutes later!).

The path goes through farm fields with tiny gates on stone wall stiles, each one seemed to be more of a challenge than the last until finally we got onto open ground and Rosie could run free. Aye Gill is no pushover and took some real effort to gain the ridge, but then it eased dramatically over the last kilometre or so to the summit trig point.

It was a cool day, but no wind so I had lunch on the summit, before packing away and heading down. We took a slightly different and slightly longer way down but were soon back at Dent making use of the small cafe for coffee and carrot cake, an excellent end to a great day out.
Winter Hill02-05-2024Photo2winter03.jpg
Winter Hill, a bit misleading02-05-2024Text1To climb Winter Hill, I parked in Rivington Estate and made my way in the general direction of up, roughly aiming for the tower on Rivington Pike. It's a lovely walk in the woods before breaking out onto the summit steps. From the top, there are views all around, as far as the Bolton Wanderers football ground, the peaks behind and up ahead, the radio towers that marked the summit of Winter Hill seeming to be a short distance across the fell. They are misleading! It is a long way, but on a reasonable path and I was surprised at the time it took.

Once there, I stayed long enough for a few photos then headed off as it was incredibly windy and made my way back down more or less reversing the way I came up. Nice day out and a nice start to the weeks walking that lay ahead of me.
Coety Mountain23-04-2024Photo2coety.jpg
Mynydd Carn-y-cefn23-04-2024Photo2cefn.jpg
Brecons day out23-04-2024Text1I parked in Blenavon at a very convenient free car park then headed over in the direction of Coety Mountain. It is steep from the get-go but initially on good paths. Despite the weather forecast, it was raining - presumably I was enjoying the 5% predicted! It is steep climb that gets steeper until the final plateau. The summit is nothing special except a mound so I quickly left.
From there is was along a good track, then over the northern end of Mynydd James and it should have been an easy downhill to Blenau except the path vanished in the trees and despite some searching, I ended up having to climb back up and follow another track to the town which was exhausting.
Through the town heading roughly in the right direction I came to the big climb of Mynydd Carn-y-cefn. It started steep and got steeper, so much so that I could touch the ground in front of me! Eventually I got to the ridge and it was an easy walk from there to the summit and lunch. The return journey was via same route but I bypassed Coety. Tough day out with 21km walked and 1,200 metres of climbing, but apart from the damp start, the weather was good all day.
Stroll on Cleeve16-04-2024Text1One of my favourite walks is on Cleeve Hill starting from near the Rising Sun and walking over to Belas Knapp, following more or less the Cotswold Way, then return via the Radio masts and a fiendish drop down to the pond followed by an equally fiendish climb back to the main summit and a circuit around to make up 10 miles. Great weather, although windy with the odd shower, but sunny and warm when it was sheltered.
Myarth09-04-2024Photo2myarth.jpg
Bryn Arw09-04-2024Photo2brynarw.jpg
Even more Marilyns09-04-2024Text1This is becoming a weekly event it seems. Today I climbed another two Marilyns; Myarth (292m) which is actually located on private property belonging to the Glanusk Estate, but an email request was met with a super helpful Estate Manager who granted permission. Parking at the forest entrance, it was thirty minutes up a good track, followed by a few minutes hunting for the summit amongst the brambles, then twenty minutes back down again. As a climb, I probably would not recommend it in summer as it would be a fight once the track is left.

The second hill was Bryn Arw (384m). Llanvihangel was the starting point for this one. Reasonable tracks led to the foot of the mountain. It was then mixed fields, thin tracks and a steep climb onto the summit ridge. I followed the ridge to the end, then dropped down and circled back, picking up the upward path. Interestingly, the big cairn is not the highest point.
The Begwyns02-04-2024Photo2begwyns.jpg
The Carneddau02-04-2024Photo2carneddau.jpg
Aberedw Hill02-04-2024Photo2aberedw.jpg
Bradnor Hill02-04-2024Photo2bradnor.jpg
Grand day out02-04-2024Text1Four more Marilyns for the collection. An initial long drive over to the far side of Hay on Wye for a very pleasant walk on the Begwyns to the summit (415m). Parking was roadside on a narrow lane and the walking gently upwards with superb views on the summit. From there, it was a relatively quick hop over to Buith Wells for the big walk of the day combining the Carneddau (445m) and Aberedw Hill (451m), the latter being an initial tough climb on very steep ground followed by a couple of kilometres of relatively flat ground to the summit trig point. The final climb of the day was on Kington Golf course to Bradnor Hill (391m). Parking can be had just at the entrance to the golf club and the walk is mostly up the road that serves the golfers with a final off road section to the summit. The weather was fine all day apart from the return from Bradnor when the rain started but I missed the worst. Rather amazingly, my total ascent for the day was 1,120m.
More Marilyns01-04-2024Text1Hopefully this week the weather will be kind enough to get out for more Marilyn bashing. I have identified two that can be done on a single walk further into Wales near Buith Wells and the journey there and back will allow me to pick up an additional two.

I am slowly working through them all, identifying and constructing walks, but there are a lot and it is very time consuming so will be an ongoing project.
Seager Hill21-03-2024Photo2seager.jpg
Burton Hill21-03-2024Photo2burton.jpg
Hegdon Hill21-03-2024Photo2hegdon.jpg
Herefordshire Marilyns21-03-2024Text1Another day bagging Herefordshire Marilyns. After failing on Seager Hill (272m) near Tarrington last time, I returned to bag this one first and again failed! Walking up a path through Tarrington Common I came up to Private Land and had no choice but to abandon. It was the first peak of the day, so not deterred, I drove around the other side, found a thin parking space and attacked it from the South side. Not as far, but successful. From there I drove over for Burton Hill (294m), an altogether easier approach, following a good bridleway almost to the top. There was a small sting in the tail with a very muddy and steep last section but it was soon over. The final hill of the day was Hegdon Hill (255m) which is actually located on a road, but to make it a bit of a challenge I parked in Pencombe and followed the bridleway for about two miles to the summit and back.
Aconbury Hill14-03-2024Photo2aconbury.jpg
Garway Hill14-03-2024Photo2garway.jpg
Graig Syfyrddin14-03-2024Photo2graig.jpg
A Marilyns kind of a day14-03-2024Text1There are a lot of Marilyns, and stringing a few of them together into a single walk is not easy, so today I jumped in my car with a cunning plan. I identified four in the Herefordshire (ish) area and drove to each, parking close, or not so close to each, and bagged them as separate walks. I managed Aconbury Hill (276m), Garway Hill (366m) and Graig Syfyrddin (423m). The final ascent was meant to be Seager Hill. I parked in Tarrington and headed off. Unfortunately after about a mile along the road, there was no further path to the hill. Walking back down I spied another path heading in the right direction, but lethargy, oncoming rain and a general feeling of had enough took over and I decided it would be for next time, but at least I knew where the path was.

My total ascent was just over 900 metres according to my watch, with a distance of about 15km. A good day out but surprisingly tiring. The weather was not so kind but I managed to avoid the worst of the rain which came as I was driving home.
Moving to Marilyns11-03-2024Text1Now that I am down to my last 15 Nuttalls and they are all in the North of England, it is time to turn my attention to more accessible Marilyns to keep fit whilst planning the next adventure. Luckily there are quite a few within easy reach, the only problem is they are too far apart to bag more than one at a time, but I have a plan that will enable me to grab several in one day, but it does involve driving between each of them. More details to follow.
A good couple of weeks06-03-2024Text1The last two weeks have seen me climb two Marilyn Peaks, ten Nuttalls, and four Munros with a total distance walked of almost 120km and an ascent of over 8,000 metres. I feel I deserve a couple of days off!
Chapelfell Top04-03-2024Photo2chapelfelltop06.jpg
Completing Burnhope Seat04-03-2024Text1Day two of my stopover on the way back from Scotland saw me adding another two peaks and completing the Burnhope Seat group. The mountains added were Chapelfell Top and Frendrith Hill.

Despite the short distance, being snow covered, the going was very tough, especially on the tops where boots sank at every step and care was needed to avoid sinking into hidden bogs. The weather was thankfully, excellent with the sun shining all day, although a cold wind on the summits kept the temperature down.
Murton Fell03-03-2024Photo2murtonfell03.jpg
More Nuttalls in Cumbria03-03-2024Text1A day off yesterday didn't really help with the legs today, but nevertheless I managed three peaks in two walks, firstly Murton Fell (675m) then the plan was to walk across to Little Fell, but the going was so tough with so much snow that I decided to retrace my steps back down instead. Back at the car, I had a reset, then had a word with myself, manned up and went and climbed Long Fell (623m) and Tinside Rigg (624m). Little Fell remained untouched so will be one for the future.
Aonach Mor01-03-2024Photo2aonachmor15.jpg
Winter Summits Day 501-03-2024Text1We ascended Aonach Mor from the upper Ski lift. It is initially very steep, but once the plateau is reached, it flattens off for a steady walk across to the summit cairn. It was a warm day with some breeze from time to time. I managed to walk all day without my over trousers on which was a first for this week. There were fabulous views all around, especially to Carn Mor Dearg and Ben Nevis but also Scotland as far as the eye could see was a white mountain playground. A special day for our last in the highlands for this time.
Meall a Bhuiridh29-02-2024Photo2meallabhuiridh09.jpg
Winter Summits Day 429-02-2024Text1Today we made an ascent of Meall a Bhuiridh (1,108m) from the Glen Coe Ski centre. The first section was up a tarmac road, then we loosely followed the ski lift and finally a steep ascent onto the summit. It was very windy most of the time with a lot of snow being blown around but it was relatively dry so we didn't actually get wet.

Superb day out with another good Munro bagged.
Stob Ban28-02-2024Photo2stobban02.jpg
Winter Summits Day 328-02-2024Text1I started the day feeling really bad, for the first time in a very long time, I have a cold! Our route was up to Stob Ban not far from Fort William. I decided to take my own car so that I could turn back if necessary. In the end, I managed to walk up to the col at the foot of the final climb, but already felt I had done enough so elected to walk back down with a couple of others who felt similarly.

A good day out nevertheless but the day was damp and raining pretty much the whole time.
Stob Coire Raineach27-02-2024Photo2stobcoireraineach04.jpg
Winter Summits Day 227-02-2024Text1Day 2 saw a very different day, more typically Scottish, with heavy rain first thing, although we delayed leaving to allow it to clear. As we ascended, the wind picked up to the point that several were getting knocked over. On the ascent of Stob Coire Raineach a few elected to abandon and return to the relative calm of the col. I was one of the summitteers and ironically, it was fine on the top!

When we got down to the col, we had fun digging a snow shelter to show just how much work is required for even a small one. It took ten of us forty five minutes to dig a shelter that would take three but it was a serious squeeze.

On the way down, or rather, all the way down, we were treated to a proper scottish shower.
Stob Coire Nan Lochan26-02-2024Photo2stobcoirenanlochan04.jpg
Winter Summits Day 126-02-2024Text1Day 1 of the Winter summits course saw us ascending Stob Coire nan Lochan from the Glen Coe road. Ice axes and crampons were used after the first hour and right onto the summit and most of the way back down. The weather was excellent all day long, in fact, it felt a bit too warm at times. I doubt that feeling will last!
Cold Fell25-02-2024Photo2coldfell01.jpg
Black Fell area done25-02-2024Text1An ascent of Cold Fell completed the Black Fell area. It was an excellent day with excellent weather and a good path until the final summit area where it deteriorated into a heathery bog fest, but it was short lived. The views across to the Lake District are stunning and made it well worth while.
Meldon Hill24-02-2024Photo2meldonhill07.jpg
Big day out on Meldon Hill24-02-2024Text1Meldon Hill is a tough undertaking, especially when I'd already climbed Dufton Hill, a Marilyn and Backstone Edge, a Nuttall. It involved about three miles of trudging across boggy, heathery ground, up and down peat groughs berfore I finally reached the summit area. From there, the pain is not over as it is a long slog down to High Cup Nick, followed by over four miles of downhill back to Dufton.
Bink Moss23-02-2024Photo2binkmoss03.jpg
Doing the double23-02-2024Text1The plan was an ascent of Bink Moss. Not a long day out, but an isolated peak so not much choice really. I finished early, so decided to drive around and pick off James Hill as well. Neither walk was particularly arduous, but the going was distinctly soft.
Allt yr Esgair16-02-2024Photo2esgair.jpg
Esgair Route16-02-2024Photo2esgair-route.jpg
Black Mountains Day out16-02-2024Text1A nice day out in the Black Mountains saw me ascend Mynydd Llangorse (515m), a mountain I had done several times and the first Marilyn of the year; Allt yr Esgair (393m). My starting point was Llangors which has a convenient, if small car park in the centre of the village. A little road work to get into the countryside, followed by a big pull onto Llangorse was enjoyable. There was then a long ridge walk down to the road and the turn point to head up to Esgair. It is straightforward and never steep but has great views on the summit.

From there, it should have been an easy descent and around the lake to Llangors. Unfortunately, the fields were underwater so I had a big detour around the roads to finish. A very nice 12 mile walk which ended in fine style when I discovered the small shop that did a fantastic coffee and even better pain au chocolat - well deserved in my opinion.
Scottish Winter Mountaineering23-01-2024Text1In a few weeks I'll be off to Scotland for some winter mountaineering. On the way up I have a plan to climb five of the remaining Nuttalls and on the way back, another six if I have any energy left!
Bredon Hill22-01-2024Text1For a change I thought I'd do Bredon Hill. Parked in Great Comberton and followed the Wychavon Way to the summit and then out to Elmley Castle via a very muddy track. I intended to stop at the Queens Head for coffee. The only day of the week that the pub was closed so no coffee for me! Back up to Bredon Hill summit via a different way and then retraced my steps back to Great Comberton. The weather was kind but incredibly windy which had a significant chill factor.
Cleeve Hill stroll15-01-2024Text1A tour of Cleeve Hill out to Belas Knapp via the Winchcombe Way and return via the Cotswold Way. Good weather but windy. Went for a coffee in the Rising Sun, but they had no coffee beans!
Forest of Dean16-12-2023Photo2fod1.jpg
Ruardean Hill16-12-2023Photo2fod2.jpg
Ruardean Hill conquered16-12-2023Text1All 290 metres of it! Today was an ascent of Ruardean Hill which is a Marilyn and also the highest peak in the Forest of Dean. I walked over from Speech House via the Gloucestershire Way and returned via a section of the Wysis way, both of which I have walked before but they are good trails. The weather was good, but the going was very muddy in places.
Shropshire Way, third section02-12-2023Text1Following the Shropshire Way from about five miles from Wellington to Ironbridge including an ascent of The Wrekin. The total mileage was around 18 miles or 30km in new money so a good section completed. A great day out, very cold at times, but clear and no rain. Walking was good, the paths fine and the signage excellent. Another section and a half finished.
Great Gable30-11-2023Photo2greatgable18.jpg
Great Gable completed30-11-2023Text1The final nine peaks fell in a single day. They were Allen Crags (785m), High House Tarn (684m), Red Beck Top (721m), Looking Steads (775m), Glaramara (783m), Combe Head (735m), Combe Door (676m), Dovenest Top (637m), Rosthwaite Cam (612m). The day was incredible, it was clear, sunny, but very cold making walking across boggy ground easy (it was frozen) but tricky over iced rocks. Superb day out.
Harter Fell29-11-2023Photo2harter.jpg
Coniston area completed29-11-2023Text1The final peak in the Coniston area was conquered today! An ascent of Harter Fell (653m) completed that section and bought my annual total to 115. The weather could not have been better, the sun shone on a crisp and cold day and the route up from Seathwaite was enjoyable.
Cheeky Lakes Trip22-11-2023Text1Due to a work meeting, my partner will be traveling to the Lake District for a couple of days, guess who gets to tag along? Two days of walking with a plan to climb ten peaks is a great end to a great years mountain climbing. Let's not count our chickens just yet though...
In the Cloud20-11-2023Photo2peakdistrict202315.jpg
In the Cloud20-11-2023Text1On the way back from the Peak District, I added a final climb to bag one final Marilyn, The Cloud. It is a pleasant walk, well signposted from the car park and a nice summit. I cannot comment on the views as, ironically, the summit was totally enveloped in cloud!
Monsal Trail19-11-2023Text1For my final day in the Peak District, I elected to walk a good section of the Monsal Trail from Millers Dale Railway Station to Bakewell. The walking was, of course, easy being flat all the way, but the weather was suitably unkind with frequent heavy showers. Enjoyable nonetheless.
Ilam and Thorpe17-11-2023Photo2peakdistrict202312.jpg
Dovedale17-11-2023Text1One of my most favourite areas of the UK is Dovedale so it was a joy to park up at Ilam village, walk up to the NT cafe for a coffee and then over a very muddy field to Dovedale. I walked along on the Thorpe Cloud side as I expected the stepping stones would be underwater, they were! It is a lovely walk along the Dale at any time and today the sun shone for most of the day. On the return I took the high path to try and avoid the muddy field back to Ilam, it was better but still muddy. I was given an arial demonstration of hang gliding flying by a group as I walked which added to the enjoyment of the day.
High Peak Trail16-11-2023Text1From Cromford car park, where on one side of the wall, it costs £7 per day to park and the other side is £4 per day I set off, following the canal to the High Peak Junction, cafe closed! The trail ascents the 1 in 8 climb up to Black Rocks where the second cafe was also closed. Continuing on the next incline, also 1 in 8 bought me to Middleton Top, third cafe closed! I decided to continue out to Harboro Rocks as I had never actually been to the top. It is pleasant little climb and I was surprised to be able to see Carsington Water less than two miles away.

It was an out and back walk with the bonus that the return trip was all either flat or downhill. Around 11 miles walked. The weather was dull but no wind and no rain so an improvement on the last few days.
Brown Knoll15-11-2023Photo2peakdistrict202309.jpg
Jacobs Ladder15-11-2023Text1I parked at Barber Booth lower car park and followed the lane up to join the Pennine Way as it made it way out to and up Jacobs Ladder. At the top, my path went left to Brown Knoll (569m) and then over to Lords Seat (540m). The weather was dreadful and my waterproofs let me down somewhat. My first stop was at the base of Mam Tor for a drink, but it was too cold to linger long. From there, a good path led me down to Edale where the call of the Ramblers Inn was too much to resist. A warming coffee and I was off for the last two miles following the Pennine Bar to Upper Booth, then retracing my steps down to the car. It rained all day and was seriously cold!
Goyt Valley14-11-2023Photo2peakdistrict202304.jpg
Goyt Valley14-11-2023Text1A day in the Goyt Valley today. I parked up in the Goyt Lane Car Park just out of Buxton and headed cross country to Shining Tor (559m), a Marilyn, then along the ridge to Cats Tor (519m), not a Marilyn. The original plan was a walk over to Black Edge but due to a combination of weather, general fatigue and apathy, I changed it to a route through the woods, via Erwood Reservoir and back to the car. It was still around ten miles so happy with that.
Peak District Week13-11-2023Text1Day one in the Peak District saw me climbing a 500 metre peak - Roaches (505m) and bagging another Marilyn - Gun (385m). The day was super windy with Storm Debi making its presence known. The walking was good on reasonable paths and for such relatively lowly hills, they tested the legs at times. I parked just below the Roaches ridge, bagged that, then it was a circular walk with a spur to reach Gun. The return was more or less straight back. 14km walked with a very reasonable 784m of ascent.
Hampshire completed10-11-2023Text1It was not too difficult to bag all the peaks in Hampshire, there is only one! Butser Hill at 270m fell easily, although it is a really nice climb and does test the legs a little. The view from the top is well worth the effort, being able to see over the Solent to the Isle of Wight. A convenient car park in the Queen Elizabeth Park makes a good starting point.
New Marilyn bags09-11-2023Text1I had a trip down to Sussex planned and checking on my Marilyn list, discovered three en-route, so made a plan to visit them all. In order of ascent, I bagged Walbury Hill (297m), Black Down (280m) and Chanctonbury Ring (240m). All of them were really nice walks of around 5km for each one.
Marilyns08-11-2023Text1Having discovered Marilyns as a new challenge, I have created a database of them all and set about recording the dates of ascent. Many of the Nuttalls are also Marilyns and vice versa so there is some overlap, but there are equally many Marilyns that fall short (far short in some cases) of the mountain definition of being over 2,000 feet. Have a look at the Logbooks section to see the various lists. It does mean of course, that I can bag summits without recourse to vast distances and it seems that there are Marilyns in most counties of the UK, so I do not have to always travel North.
Scotland Winter Summits23-10-2023Text1Super excited to have booked my next big adventure, a week of Winter Summits in Scotland. It is not until February 2024 but something to look forward to. I might even bag a few Nuttalls on the way up and back, now that would be an adventure to write home about.
Peak District22-10-2023Text1I have booked a weeks walking in the Peak District. It will be mostly my favourite routes, but I will also be including a few peaks that fall into the 500 metre range and a couple that are declared as Marilyns so more ticks in more boxes in my various books and lists!
Cleveland Way28-09-2023Photo2cleveland.jpg
Cleveland Way taster28-09-2023Text1A walk from Scarborough to Filey and beyond on what is both the Cleveland Way and the English Coastal path. The Cleveland Way ends at Filey and the path then becomes the Yorkshire Wolds Way! Nice walking on good paths, muddy at times and some steep descents to and ascents from beaches but all were short lived. A nice walk to end a weeks holiday in the area.
Simon Howe24-09-2023Photo2simonhowe.jpg
Yorkshire Moors24-09-2023Photo2moors.jpg
Moors meander24-09-2023Text1Goathland makes an excellent starting point for a walk on the moors. I headed off to Simon Howe via Two Howes. The weather was okay and it was clear enough to see the Howe from some distance but the path was a good one. Arriving at the Howe, it started raining so I put on my waterproofs, picked up the Lyke Wake walk which I followed past Wheeldale Lodge, a Youth Hostel back in the day and now a private residence. Continuing on I headed out to a road which I followed for a short distance before heading down a forest track. It was about lunchtime so I stopped for food and a rest. After lunch it was uphill along a forest fence to the top but there was no ongoing path so I quickly abandoned hope and headed over towards the same road. It became extremely hard going with waist high heather, deteriorating into head high ferns. Eventually I found my way out and onto the road. A little way up and I headed across the moor on a good path. Finally I felt warm and dry enough to remove my waterproofs, then followed the path which bought me to Beck Hole. From there, I followed the old railway line back to Goathland. Unfortunately it was uphill all the way back to the village, but I did pop out at the cafe so stopped for coffee and cake before walking the final mile back to the car.
Looking back to Flamborough23-09-2023Photo2flam.jpg
Yorkshire coastal walk23-09-2023Text1Flamborough Head to just South of Filey on the English Coastal Path. Very pleasant walk on a mostly good path following the cliffs until dropping steeply down onto the beach for the last 1 1/2 miles. Good weather with a little drizzle. It could be considered to be a pre-cursor to the Cleveland Way which starts a little further up in Filey.
Mount Ararat09-09-2023Photo2ararat34.jpg
Mount Ararat Descending09-09-2023Text1Camp 1 down to the trail head was an easy walk, taking around two hours to complete. It was dustier than I remember coming up. We had done it, the mountain was conquered!
Mount Ararat Summit Day08-09-2023Photo2ararat21.jpg
Mount Ararat Summit Day08-09-2023Photo2ararat24.jpg
Mount Ararat Summit Day08-09-2023Text1A very early start at 2:30am, we headed out in the dark upwards towards the summit. It was cold, but not very cold which was good. As we gained height, so the hypoxia set in which of course let to slight hypothermia requiring extra layers and extra gloves. As we approached the glacier I began to feel the effects of the altitude and began to struggle a little. We had a good rest whilst putting on our crampons which gave me time to recover, but the last 30 minutes was still hard work. We reached the 5,137m summit around 7:30am and stayed for around 20 minutes followed by a 2 1/2 hour descent to Camp 2.
Mount Ararat Summit Day08-09-2023Text1After a break at Camp 2 we continued the descent to Camp 1 which would be our overnight stop, taking just 1 1/2 hours. Going down was not as tough as I had expected but even so, tired legs were pleased to see the Camp site.
Mount Ararat Day 2-Camp 1 to 207-09-2023Photo2ararat17.jpg
Mount Ararat Day 2-Camp 1 to 207-09-2023Text1Camp 1 to Camp 2 is straight up on dusty slippery ground. The path zig-zags ever upwards with the high camp in sight for most of the climb, but never seeming to get closer. Camp 2 itself, at 4,200 metres is far more basic than Camp 1 and the tents pitched on tiny shelves using rocks instead of tent pegs. Movement around the camp is difficult due to most of it being on a slope with rocks forever giving way and slipping down towards other tents.
Mount Ararat Day 106-09-2023Photo2ararat01.jpg
Mount Ararat, Camp 106-09-2023Photo2ararat09.jpg
Mount Ararat Day 106-09-2023Text1Day 1. We were driven from the hotel to the trail head where we disembarked and began the walk into Camp 1, the base camp for the ascent. It is only 8km to the camp, starting on relatively easy open ground on a good path, but as soon as the climbing begins, the path becomes extremely dusty and slippery. There is an ascent of just over 1,100 metres, ending the day at 3,200 metres above sea level. No altitude related effects were noticed.
Mount Artos Turkey04-09-2023Photo2artos.jpg
Mount Artos, Turkey04-09-2023Photo2artos12.jpg
Mount Artos, Turkey04-09-2023Text1The expedition is on! Mount Ararat cannot simply be climbed, it is too high for that and so as an acclimatisation climb, we ascended Mount Artos near Van in Turkey. It is 3,550m high rising above Lake Van. It is a steady walk for the first section on a good track, then steepens on scrub up to the ridge before the final rocky ridge to the summit. Our day was perfect with excellent views all around. The effects of altitude were apparent but as we descended they soon cleared.
Mount Ararat31-08-2023Text1Super excited to be organising my final packing for the trip to Turkey to climb Mount Ararat. At just over 5,100 metres it is the highest in Turkey. For acclimatisation we also climb Artos which is a 3,550 metre peak. The itinerary is on the Previous Expeditions page and a full report will be there when I return.
Pen y Castell - Wales done17-08-2023Photo2carneds36.jpg
Wales completed17-08-2023Text1With today's bag of peaks I finished the entire Welsh Nuttalls. The last two were Tal y Fan (610m) and Pen y Castell (623m) but I also did Foel Lwyd (603m), Carnedd y Ddelw (688m) and Y Drum (770m) on the way. My good friend Ken came along as companion and guide which meant I barely had to look at the map all day.
Helgi Du and Llithrig wrach16-08-2023Photo2carneds13.jpg
Carneddau, the big day16-08-2023Text1Today was the big peak bagging of the week with no fewer than six peaks; Craig Eigiau (735m), Pen Yr Helgi Du (833m), Pen Llithrig-y-wrach (799m), Craiglwyn (623m), Craigiau Gleison (678m), Pen Cowlyd (634m). They did not yield easily, with very few paths and seriously tough going combined with some steep climbs made for an exhausting day, but there are just two peaks plus one downgraded peak to go until I complete every mountain in Wales and join the Nuttalls Club! Bring on tomorrow.
North Wales final15-08-2023Text1The final attack on the remaining mountains of Wales got off to a good start with Gyrn Wigau (643m) and Foel Meirch (800m) falling. The weather tried to stop me with heavy rain in the morning, that failed, then the terrain tried to stop me with an uncrossable river, but I beat that. My overall total reached 400 today and 106 for 2023. Very happy with that.
Shropshire Way stages 4 and 512-08-2023Text1Stages 5 (Ludlow to Craven Arms) and 4 (Craven Arms to Clun) of the Shropshire Way. The official guide numbers these but for practical purposes I did them in reverse. I doubt anyone cares! The route is fairly well signposted but I found having the OS Maps app invaluable in avoiding missing turns, especially as I did the walk in the summer when the undergrowth is such that signs can easily be missed.
Shropshire Way11-08-2023Text1Looking for the next great challenge, I came across the Shropshire Way. It runs for 200 miles or so around Shropshire (oddly enough) so I have decided to do a section to see what I think. It is ambitious being from Ludlow to Clun via Craven Arms. It covers two stages of the walk and is around 20 miles. To be on the safe side, I have pre-planned several pick up locations along the route.
North Wales beckons20-07-2023Text1And on to the next trip. I have not been to Wales all year which is somewhat unusual so will be setting that straight in August. I have a plan to complete all of the remaining unclimbed mountains in Wales which will be a great achievement and allow me to join the Nuttalls Welsh Completers Club, the first step on the ladder of completions.
A great weeks walking16-07-2023Text1Twenty two mountains climbed, 126km walked and just under 6,000 metres of ascent. Impressive by any standards. It brings my total mountains to just under 400 and the total for this year to 104 and it is only July!
Back to the Lakes15-07-2023Text1A final visit back to the Lakes to climb Birkhouse Moor (718m) and Sheffield Pike (675m) via Red Tarn. The weather was probably the worst of the week and I nearly did not bother but of course pig-headed determination won the day! Actually, I am glad I did it as it was enjoyable despite the weather and means I have completed all of the Helvellyn group of mountains now.
Final day in the Alston area14-07-2023Text1More ticks in the Cross Fell area box. Today I managed two walks with two peaks on each, they were; Bellbeaver Rigg (620m), Viewing Hill (649m), Melmerby Fell (709m) and Fiends Fell (634m). Nice end to a good week in the area. The forecast for tomorrow is dreadful, my plan is a couple in the Helvellyn area but we will see...
Walking in the Cross Fell area13-07-2023Photo2crossfell04.jpg
Across to Cross Fell13-07-2023Text1Across to the Cross Fell area for the first time since I walked the Pennine Way. Three mountains bagged; Bullman Hills (610m), Long Man Hill (658m) and Round Hill (686m), bringing the total for the week to 15 and exceeding last years total. I am now on 98 peaks for the year with just 51 remaining.
Renwick Fell12-07-2023Photo2blackfell07.jpg
Killhope Law Summit12-07-2023Photo2burnhope10.jpg
More in Burnhope Seat12-07-2023Text1The Burnhope Seat area is most definitely not for the feint hearted! There are few footpaths which is probably testament to the lack of popularity of the mountains. Today I climbed The Dodd (614m), Killhope Law (673m) and then drove over to Renwick to tackle Thack Moor (610m). A good day out but atrocious weather with heavy rain showers all day.
Burnhope Seat plus11-07-2023Text1Burnhope Seat is a difficult area, there are few paths, lots of soft ground and too many peat groughs, making going tough. Even so I managed five peaks on one walk; Dead Stones (710m), Burnhope Seat (747m), Redgleam (718m), High Field (708m), Three Pikes (651m) then went for a restorative coffee and teacake, then bagged Flinty Fell (614m) on the way back. A good day out, the weather was not kind and I was in waterproofs for most of the day, but it is done!
High Street done10-07-2023Text1The final peaks in the High Street Group went today; Place Fell (657m), Gray Crag (710m), Stony Cove Pike (763m), Hartsop Dodd (618m). 20km of walking, initially dry, then light showers and windy in the afternoon. Just managed to finish before the major rain of the day arrived.
and another trip25-06-2023Text1Just back from a successfull tour of Yorkshire and I am already planning the next one. All being well, another big bag of mountains, 19 in all will be attempted. Keep watching for news! With just 66 left, it will knock a big hole and bring this years total to over 100 peaks!
Cautley Spout23-06-2023Photo2howgills10.jpg
Cautley Spout Stroll23-06-2023Text1To round off another week of peak bagging, I decided to have an easy walk along the River Rawthey to Cautley Spout, claiming to be the highest waterfall in England it is an impressive sight, visible from some distance it towers above the path when close by. For a coffee afterwards I went to the Cross Keys. Unable to resist a scone as well, it made a fine reward to end a great week of walking in this part of Yorkshire.
Ascent of Rogans Seat22-06-2023Photo2highseat05.jpg
Final peaks of Great Shunner22-06-2023Text1The two remaining peaks of the Great Shunner Fell region were dispatched with ease on a glorious day. The paths were good and easy to follow, the sun shone with a gentle breeze to avoid overheating. What is not to love about mountaineering?
Final peaks of Ingleborough21-06-2023Text1The final two peaks in the Ingleborough Group were dispatched on a fine Yorkshire Day. They were Dodd Fell Hill (668m) and Drumaldrace (614m). This brings the years total to 81 and just 68 to go to finish them all. The end is in sight!
Summit of Tarn Crag19-06-2023Photo2highstreet17.jpg
Lake District - a wet start19-06-2023Text1Day 1 of the latest trip started off very wet so full waterproofs were needed. The day saw me ascend six peaks; Branstree (713m), Tarn Crag (664m), Grey Crag (638m), Harrop Pike (637m), Nowtli Hill (673m), Selside Pike (655m). Mostly on good paths but between Harrop Pike and Nowtli Hill it was cross country with no paths and tough going.
Northumberland06-06-2023Text1Heading back up to Northumberland in a few weeks time to continue the assault on the mountains in that region. There are plenty to go at and unfortunately well spaced out so the bag will not be as big as it has been on previous trips but that is the nature of the game.
Trip summary21-05-2023Text1Several days in Yorkshire, the Lakes and Northumberland added no less than 35 mountains to the bag. The weather could not have been better and the enjoyment could not have been higher.
Black Fell Area19-05-2023Photo2blackfell06.jpg
Northumberland19-05-2023Text1Over to Northumberland for an attack on the Black Fell area. Three mountains climbed in tough terrain with no paths, they were Black Fell (664m), Tom Smiths Stone Top (637m) and Grey Nag (656m). A real contrast to the Lakes. Did not see a single person all day.
Great End18-05-2023Photo2scafell21.jpg
Lakes Day 418-05-2023Text1Another good day out in the mountains. This was the big climb day with the two highest mountains I had not climbed; Great End and Esk Pike. I managed the five planned, plus I bagged the two Seathwaite Fell tops as they were too close to resist! Remaining mountains is now under 80. Peaks bagged were; Lingmell (800m), Middleboot Knots (703m), Round How (741m), Great End (910m), Esk Pike (885m), Seathwaite Fell South Top (631m), Seathwaite Fell (632m)
Lakes Day 317-05-2023Text1The biggest mileage day today included Seatallan (692m), Haycock (797m), Little Gowder Crag (733m), Caw Fell (690m) and finally Iron Crag (640m), followed by seven miles back to Wasdale Hall YHA. Another five peaks brings my remaining total down to just 86 peaks! The current plan is still working! One more day in the lakes, then off to Northumberland.
Stirrup Crag16-05-2023Photo2greatgable11.jpg
Lakes Day 216-05-2023Text1A good day out in the Wasdale are saw me conquer no less than eight peaks; Yewbarrow(628m), Stirrup Crag (616m), Red Pike (826m), Little Scoat Fell (841m), Steeple (819m), Black Crag (828m), Pillar (892m), Looking Stead (627m). Weather was mixed as was the terrain. Now down to just 91 peaks to go.
Langdale Valley15-05-2023Photo2scafell02.jpg
Lakes Day 115-05-2023Text1First of four days in the Lake District. Eight new peaks; Pike of Blisco (705m), Cold Pike (701m), Cold Pike West Top (683m), Cold Pike Far West Top (670m), Great Knott (696m), [Bow Fell (902m)], Bow Fell North Top (866m), Rossett Pike (651m), Loft Crag (680m) including one revisit (Bow Fell) made for a long and tiring day out, but it has bought my total 2000' peaks remaining to just under 100, actually, 99.
Yorkshire nearly done14-05-2023Text1Another assault on Yorkshire Peaks, this time, four peaks in the Great Shunner region. 17km of walking bagged Lunds Fell [Sails] (667m), Hugh Seat (689m), Archy Styrig [Gregorys Chapel] (695m) and High Seat (709m). The start/finish was the tiny village of Outhgill. Hopefully, the rest of the week will be as successful.
Jagged Globe meetup13-05-2023Text1Day 1 of the latest trip was a visit to the Peak District to meetup with guys from Jagged Globe and other clients booked on their trips. We had a walk and a talk near Burbage which went well, with excellent weather. We finished quite early and not wanting to go back to the hotel too early, I took another walk up to Stanage Edge to watch the climbers. Great day out.
Lake District assault07-05-2023Text1Big plans for my next trip with no less than 33 mountains pencilled in during a week long expedition to the Lake District. I will be mostly walking in the Wasdale area, but have a walk planned in Langdale and also one on the way up in the Great Shunner region and one on the way back near Alston. It is a big ask...reports to follow.
High Street mountain bagging06-05-2023Text1To the East of Patterdale lies the High Street group of mountains and an area I have not touched, apart from Kidsty Pike many years ago on the Coast to Coast walk. A couple of days with remarkably good weather, netted me no less than 13 peaks.
Cheeky Mountains29-04-2023Text1An opportunity of a free trip to the Lake District for a couple of days was irrestible so in the very near future I will be completing the Coniston group of mountains and bagging a few in the High Street area (North East of Ambleside roughly). Looking forward to it.
Lake District May 202325-04-2023Text1With Hadrians Wall out of the way, I can concentrate on my next trip which will be mid-May to the Lake District and Northumberland. On the way I will be stopping off in Sheffield for the Jagged Globe Welcome Weekend where we get to meet other members of our expedition teams, watch a presentation by JG staff and have a couple of outings to the Peak District for walks/talks.
Hadrians Wall Summary16-04-2023Text1Hadrians Wall is a walk of three sections. A boring day and a half along roads or very close to roads, then some interesting walking in hilly country with plenty of Roman interest, then a dull final two days with lots more road or paths adjacent to roads, culminating in a tedious walk into, through and out of Newcastle.

Would I do it again? Definitely not. Did I enjoy it? The middle section yes, the rest, not really. I’m glad I did it, but there are a lot of much better walks of similar or greater distance that barely touch a road. Surely a walk like this could find a better way? I appreciate it follows the course of Hadrians Wall, but given that it is not seen for more than half the walk anyway, a better route could be devised?
Burtree Fell15-04-2023Text1A cheeky mountain on the way home from Hadrians Wall. It's not much of a peak and from the car park, is just 40m of ascent, but after a hard week walking Hadrians Wall, I felt I deserved an easy bag.
The finish14-04-2023Photo2hadrian26.jpg
Hadrians Wall Day 614-04-2023Text1Final day was a tedious walk along the riverside following cycling route 72 all the way to Segedunum. With hindsight I should have finished there, but I’d planned to walk to Arbeia which involved about four miles along the river on more tarmac, then the ferry to South Shields and a final mile to the seafront.
Hadrians Wall Day 513-04-2023Text1Day 5 saw me walking from Portgate into Newcastle following the edge of a road. The path is separated from the road but for the most part within 10-15 metres so there is constant road noise. This is a long way from my ideal walking country and if anything made me wish I’d done it East to West, at least I would have got this out of the way early. Oh well!
Hadrians Wall Day 412-04-2023Text1After a rest day, I felt much better and was looking forward to the day. Unfortunately snow and very cold wind in the morning, and an afternoon of constant rain was disappointing. The walk went from interesting to fairly dull walking and I was pleased to see the end. Hopefully the walk into Newcastle tomorrow will be better. Still, 18 miles or almost 30km with 900m of ascent made for a tough day.
A good section of wall10-04-2023Photo2hadrian12.jpg
The Escarpment10-04-2023Photo2hadrian16.jpg
Hadrians Wall Day 310-04-2023Text1Day 3 was Birdoswald to Steel Rigg. A claimed 15km which turned out to be 17.6km. It got distinctly undulating compared to the previous couple of days with over 600m of climbing but a maximum height of just 340m. The weather has taken a distinct turn for the worse with frequent showers and a noticeable drop in temperature compared to previous days. Tomorrow is a rest day so looking forward to that, then I’m back to it for the second half.
Hadrians Wall Day 209-04-2023Text1Another fine day, Carlisle to Birdoswald, which is a shade under 29km. It was chillier than yesterday but still pleasant and thankfully no rain. A more interesting day with some nice countryside, some actual wall to see and even a hill to climb. Birdoswald is a good place to finish with the Roman site to visit, although that will be tomorrow, but equally importantly, a cafe selling excellent coffee and cookies!
Starting the wall08-04-2023Photo2hadrian02.jpg
Hadrians Wall Day 108-04-2023Text1Finally I am on Hadrians Wall! It is great to be walking it and the weather is very kind at the moment. Today was Bowness to Carlisle, a walk of 24km. Unfortunately it will be tomorrow afternoon before I see any of the actual wall. The main feature of today was a lot of road walking. Never mind, it has to be done.
Fell Head07-04-2023Text1Just one hour and ten minutes for the final peak in the Howgills: Fell Head (640m). A glorious day with views over the Lake District and to the coast, plus the entire Howgills range made the steep ascent well worth it. The drive to the start was interesting, with not only narrow lanes but a bridge that literally was so narrow, there were just a couple of inches either side of the car, and took some serious nerve to cross.
Hadrians Wall06-04-2023Text1Looking forward to Hadrians Wall. It's been on my bucket list for years so cannot wait to get going. I also have a sneaky plan to take in a few 2,000 foot peaks, Fell Head in the Howgills on the way up, then one of several routes on the way back, depending on how I feel. The weather forecast is looking good for the week, but we know what that means!
Final day success16-03-2023Text1After several days with little to show for it, my final day of the trip yielded some success with ascents of Clough Head (726m) and Calf Top (610m). Both walks were in dreadful conditions which was a shame because I am sure the views would have made the climbs worthwhile.
Sprinklings Tarn15-03-2023Text1Gaining any summit was going to be hard so I decided I would walk up towards Sprinklings Tarn from Seathwaite following Grains Gill and Stockley Bridge and see how far I got. The answer was as far as the big wall on Great End, where it became a White Out. I continued for a short while but retreated as there was no view and no likelihood of one, plus there was some serious walls and edges and I didn’t want to lose my bearings. It will all still be there in the summer.
Attempted ascent of Glaramara14-03-2023Photo2glaramara01.jpg
Attempted ascent of Glaramara14-03-2023Photo2glaramara02.jpg
The art of Mountaineering14-03-2023Text1Part of being a good mountaineer is planning a route, checking conditions and making a safe ascent and descent. Part of being a good mountaineer is knowing when to back off. Today I’d planned Glaramara again and headed up towards Coombe Head in snowy but good conditions. As I approached the ascent at the end, the snow came down and the visibility and general conditions deteriorated. I decided to back off. As an alternative I walked up the Honister Pass to the cafe passing one abandoned car after another. Today was not a mountain day.
Coldbarrow13-03-2023Text1The plan for today was Glaramara but after having been literally blown off my feet a couple of times on the ascent, I retreated and went for the safer Coldbarrow and Ullscarf ascents. The weather was truly awful, probably the worst wind and weather I have ever known, combined with no footpath for part of it and flooded footpaths on the way down made for a tough day out.
Howgills Horror12-03-2023Text1Seemed so simple on paper. Pop up to the Howgills, bag a few peaks and off. Maybe I’m still suffering the effects of my man flu but I found it really hard going. The rubbish weather didn’t help and I ended up missing out on one of the peaks and was really glad to be off.
Man Flu27-02-2023Text1Well, it had to happen I suppose. My trip to North Wales has had to be put on hold due to a severe case of man-flu. I suppose I cannot complain really, it is the first cold in about five years.
Hadrians Wall25-02-2023Text1Hadrians Wall is something I have wanted to walk for many years and finally 2023 is when I will get to do it. Easter time is the chosen week. I will have my trusty companion Rosie for the entire walk, no doubt she will do double! Look out for a full report.
May in the Lakes25-02-2023Text1I have three trips already planned, but that is not enough for me so I am working on a trip to the Lakes in May to bag yet more mountains. There are still plenty to go at, but by the middle of the year, all being well, I will definitely be getting the better of them.
Sneaky Wales18-02-2023Text1Well, just when I thought the next trip would be mid-March, an opportunity presented itself for a sneaky cheeky day out to North Wales. I've got ten peaks to climb in the Carneddau with one of the walks accounting for six of those ten. All being well, I'll be able to do that at the end of the month. That will be awesome - stay tuned!
Yorkshire success16-02-2023Text1Fourteen mountains climbed plus one repeat of Pen y Gent was an excellent start to the 2023 campaign. All reports written, all photos filed and now to look forward to the next trip which will be to the Lake District in March where I have identified routes that will bag me over 25 mountains. Of course, it is easy to armchair plan, we will see how it works out.
Birks Fell09-02-2023Text1Yockenthwaite Moor (642m) and Birks Fell (610m) were today's conquests. Another cold and windy, but dry day. The walk was definitely of two halves with a huge drop down to the valley between them. The distance was similar to previous days, as was the overall height gain which is interesting, given that there were only two mountains today, whereas yesterday there were four.
Looking to Fountains Fell08-02-2023Photo2yorkshirefeb2303.jpg
Pen y Gent08-02-2023Text1A walk of two halves today. First half was Pen y Gent and Plover Hill, followed by a monster descent and ascent of Darnbrook Fell. Fountains Fell was relatively easy by comparison. The day started misty but cleared to sunshine but was very cold and very windy. Four new peaks and one revisit from about 40 years ago! Brings my total for the year to ten and total overall to 303.
Great Whernside07-02-2023Photo2yorkshirefeb2302.jpg
Great Whernside07-02-2023Text1Great Whernside and Buckden Pike today. 12 miles overall with almost 800m of ascent. Total for 2023 is now 6 and overall 299. Can’t wait for tomorrow to get 300!
Wild Boar Fell06-02-2023Text1A tough day out of 16 miles with barely a single path. Four peaks bagged, the first of 2023, bringing my total to 297 overall.

Felt really tired at the end but satisfied with the day.
Mount Ararat25-01-2023Text1Well, I have decided on my 2023 adventure! I have signed up to go to Turkey to climb Mount Ararat with Jagged Globe. It is not until September so plenty of time for training which will work well as I have big plans for mountain climbing this year so hopefully will be fit for it.
On Cleeve Hill17-01-2023Photo2mickrosie.jpg
Cleeve Hill sunshine17-01-2023Text1It was a cold morning but it was clear and in the sunshine not too bad. Me and the pupster walked from the Rising Sun over to Belas Knapp and back via the Cotswold Way on the way out and Cleeve Common on the way back. About 8 miles and a lovely day out.
More Waterproofs10-01-2023Text1Well, another year, another go! After my Paramo jacket let me down so badly in the Lake District a couple of months ago, I've been looking for something new and was impressed by Helly Hansens latest offering, the wonderfully named: Odin 9 worlds infinity jacket. Apparently it is 100% waterproof forever and never needs treating - watch this space!
Lake District Trip09-01-2023Text1Due to some great YHA bargains, I have booked a few days at Borrowdale YH which is ideally placed for some great walks in the Lake District. No plans in place but I am hoping to come back with double figures of mountains climbed.
Yorkshire Trip08-01-2023Text1Counting down to the first mountain bagging trip of the year. Yorkshire will be hosting with four or five days of walking. There are 17 peaks in my sights for conquest which will be an excellent start to the year.
Hadrians Wall23-12-2022Text1It has been on my bucket list for a very long time, I had intended to walk it during 2022 but too many other holidays and trips got in the way, so it was postponed until 2023. I have now booked all the hotels and got a preliminary plan sorted out so I will finally get to do it.
Cleeve Hill walk03-12-2022Text1It's getting to the stage now where big walks are not realistic due to the short days. My local big hill is Cleeve Hill, although the summit is only 330m high or just over 1,000 feet in old money, it makes a nice walk. Starting from the Golf Club I made my way Eastwards to take advantage of some of the steeper paths around the old quarries. My destination was Belas Knapp, a Long Barrow about a mile and a half off Cleeve Common in the direction of Winchcombe and on both the Cotswold Way and Winchcombe Way footpaths. This was my turn around point and I came back following the Cotswold Way which skirts the lower side of the common before climbing back up. Crossing to the West and despite the low cloud, I had the excellent views across the Severn Valley, not quite to the Malverns as they were in cloud. Back to the car with just under ten miles covered.
Rohan update14-11-2022Text1I was contacted by the Customer Services who offered to reproof my Dry Frontier Trousers, I declined, they then offered another identical pair, I declined. Finally they offered me a Gift Card refund. I discussed it. They claimed they could not offer me a full cash refund as I had worn them! How else can I determine their usefulness? I decided to take the Gift Card and maybe try another pair of overtrousers, this time from a shop so that I can take them back and demand a cash refund if (when) they don't function properly. I notice they no longer advertise Dry Frontier Trousers!
Rohans go back again12-11-2022Text1Once again I am returning waterproofs! This time it is the Rohan Dry Frontier trousers. I returned them some time ago and Rohan reproofed them for me. On the recent Lake District trip they let me down quite badly so now they are going back for good. Nothing short of a refund will satisfy me and once again I am on the look out for new waterproofs.
Coniston once more07-11-2022Text1Picked up the final peak in the Coniston loop. There is another (Harter Fell) but that is quite a way out so a separate walk. Today I did White Maiden (610m) in really bad conditions. Full reports on all three days will be in the Previous Expeds pages.
Paramo lets me down07-11-2022Text1After 2 1/2 days of more or less constant rain, my Paramo jacket let me down badly, getting soaked through on each of the days. It used to be a great garment and I have washed it in accordance with the recommendations without success, I guess they just do not last.
Coniston assault06-11-2022Text1The plan was to do all of the peaks in the Coniston area, but due to fatigue and a mild sense of humour failure with the dreadful weather all day, one got missed, but I will get that tomorrow. Today was Wetherlam (762m), Black Sails (745m), Swirl How (802m), Great Carrs (785m), Grey Friar (770m), Brim Fell (796m), The Old Man (803m), Dow Crag (778m), Walna Scar (621m)
Helvellyn area05-11-2022Text1Today's walk was from Rydal to Kirkstone. The weather was pretty dreadful all morning but improved in the afternoon. Seven plus two repeats (with Fairfield being done twice) because they were in the way and an after dark finish. Heron Pike (612m), Erne Crag (621m), Great Rigg (766m), Seat Sandal(736m), Fairfield(873m), Hart Crag(822m), Dove Crag(792m), Little Hart Crag(637m), Red Screes(776m)
Lakes again24-10-2022Text1A cheeky trip to the Lake District in a couple of weeks time will see 2 1/2 days of walking bagging all of the Coniston Group (11 peaks) and 7 peaks in the Helvellyn range bringing my years total to 94! Let's not count our chickens before they hatch though!
Final Arans Peak done!22-10-2022Text1Foel Hafod-fynydd was the final peak in the Arans and the whole of mid-Wales so I was keen to climb it. My route was to park above Lake Vyrnwy on the ridge, then walk out via Llechwedd Du which was tough going with heavy rain for the first hour, no real path and lots of boggy ground. The peak is quite isolated, requiring a huge drop down to a valley and then another huge climb to the summit which was so steep I could touch the ground in front of me! Return was the reverse so equally tough. A total of 10km in just under 3 hours.
Higher Shelf Stones19-10-2022Photo2highershelfstones.jpg
Bleak day on Bleaklow19-10-2022Text1Two peaks I ticked off many years ago, Bleaklow Head (633m) and Higher Shelf Stones(621m) warranted a repeat visit as I had no memory of doing them. A business trip by my partner to the area was too good a chance to miss as it would mean free transport, free hotel and free food!

It was a nice day out, although very windy, we did 11 miles from Manor Park in Glossop, over the peaks and back via Doctors Gate. I wasn’t sure whether to count them in this years total or not and standing on the summits, I couldn’t remember them, but given that the Pennine Way passes over the summit of Bleaklow Head, I must have done that at least, so decided to compromise and include Higher Shelf Stones only.
Watersmeet to Lynmouth06-10-2022Text1This was a combination of walking along the river from Watersmeet and a section of the Coast Path into Lynmouth. Watersmeet is the confluence of the East Lyn River and Hoar Oak Water. Easy walking through Brandon on a good path and eventually up to the A39 then down to join the Coast Path, through woodland on a good, but thin track to finally emerge onto a hillside about 2-3 miles from Lynmouth which by now is just in sight. One final climb and it is mostly steadily downhill to the town, emerging on the far end of the beach. My meeting point was at the other end and with two minutes to spare on the 4pm meeting time, we reached the end. 20km walked.
Dartmoor03-10-2022Photo2dartmoor05.jpg
Dartmoor in a day03-10-2022Text1On a suberb day I conquered both two thousand foot peaks on Dartmoor. They are quite close together so I did a very roundabout route, firstly climbing from Meldon Reservoir to the higher High Willhays (621m), then headed out via Dinger Tor (550m), Okemont Hill (564m) to Hangingstone Hill (603m) for lunch, then returned passing close to Wild Tor, Steeperton Tor and East Mill Tor to ascent Yes Tor (619m) from the South and back down to the car park. 25km and 908m of ascent in five and a half hours.
South West Coast Path02-10-2022Text1The entire path runs for over 600 miles, starting in Minehead, North Devon. As a pre-cursor and warm up for my Dartmoor walk I thought I'd do a section to see what it is like. Tough is an understatement! I walked 22km but managed over 1,100m of climbing with a high point of just 316m. The ascent is not easy either, with descents into valleys and ascents to headlands being relatively short and very steep. I was blessed with excellent weather, being able to easily see South Wales across the water and even Lundy Island. My walk was from Lynmouth to Combe Martin. Dartmoor is tomorrow but I may be back later in the week for another section.
Dartmoor beckons22-09-2022Text1In just a couple of weeks time, I'll be on Dartmoor, completing the two Tors that reach the magic 2,000 feet. That will complete that section and bring me a bit closer to completing the English mountains, although there is a very long way to go!
Glyders completed01-09-2022Text1On my way home from a motorbiking trip, I couldn't resist taking advantage of some very fine weather in the Ogwen Valley and bagging the two remaining peaks in the Glyders region, Y Foel-goch(805m) and Gallt yr Ogof(763m). Only 11 remaining in the whole of Wales!
Whats next?13-08-2022Text1I'd aimed and planned for 50 peaks for 2022 and have succeeded in climbing 71 so far which I'm pleased with. I could relax and let the rest of the year go by, but with a holiday on Exmoor later in the year which is very close to Dartmoor where there are two 2,000' peaks and the opportunity of a cheeky day out in mid-Wales to complete the Arans and thereby the entire mid-Wales region it is unlikely that I'll be taking it easy any time soon!
Yorkshire Day 204-08-2022Text1Whernside(736m), the highest in the Ingleborough group, plus three peaks on the opposite side of the valley (Gragareth(627m), Green Hill(628m) and Great Coum(687m)) made four peaks for the day plus we explored Yordas cave which was fun.

Six peaks over the last two days increases the 2022 total to 71.
Ingleborough03-08-2022Photo2yorkshireaug2206.jpg
Yorkshire Day 103-08-2022Text1Today's walk was an ascent of Ingleborough which at 724m is one of the highest in the area. Great start to the day, but on the summit, the weather deteriorated so we had no view. Once off the summit of course, everything improved! Great day out and two peaks for the bag, the second being Simons Fell at 650m!
The New Forest23-07-2022Text1For the first time ever, I had the opportunity of a walk in the New Forest. It is a very pleasant place, but it is flat! Navigation is tricky because there are no features to aim at, no mountains to head towards and everywhere is very similar; a few trees, some wide dusty tracks, gorse and heather. Having said that, I enjoyed the walk and might be tempted again in the future.
Yorkshire Peaks29-06-2022Text1I don't sit still for long and am now in the process of planning a few days walking in Yorkshire to pick off some of the peaks there. I'll be staying with my walking buddy Chris who knows the area well, so hopefully I'll come back with a big bag of new peaks!
Trip Reports28-06-2022Text1I've been rearranging my trip reports to be slightly more logical. In the Welsh section, particularly Mid Wales, I've sorted the reports into regions as it makes more sense if someone wants to read about a particular mountain. Also the North Wales reports have been rearranged where possible. In some cases I've walked mountains in more than one region so it has not been possible. If you want to climb a particular mountain but are not sure which region it's in, take a look at the Mountain Log page which lists all the mountains and their regions, it can be sorted in many ways to make it easy.
Trip Statistics24-06-2022Text1A very successful trip to mid Wales with glorious, if not a little too hot at times, weather saw me walking for four days, ascending 14 out of a possible 15 peaks - the Moelwyns big day proved to be too much and had to be split into two. I walked a total of 88.5km with 4,172m of ascent and a staggering (pun intended) 129,538 steps!

This brings my total to this year to 65 peaks which is impressive by any standards I think.
Mid Wales Day 423-06-2022Text1Final day of the trip saw me conquer Foel Penolau (2,014') and Moel Ysgyfarnogod (2,043') in the Rhinogs, then drive over to Bala and climb Foel Goch (2,004') in the Arenigs to complete all peaks in both of those areas. I now have just one peak in the whole of mid-Wales to climb!
Mid Wales Day 322-06-2022Text1Today I completed the Moelwyns group with ascents of Moel Penanmen (2,014’), Manod Mawr North Top (2,158’) and Manod Mawr (2,168’). I then went on to climb Y Garn (2,063’) in the Rhinogs.
Moelwyns21-06-2022Photo2moelwyns09.jpg
Mid Wales Day 221-06-2022Text1A super hot day saw me climb four peaks in the Moelwyns region which were Craigysgafn (2,260’) Ysgafell Main (2,204’) North (2,194’) and Far North Tops (2,132’). Total for the year is now 58. I’d originally planned seven but a combination of the heat, route finding and distance meant I cut it short, but even so, did 12 miles so not a bad day out.
Mid Wales Day 120-06-2022Text1Post Gwyn (2,181’) in the Berwyn completed which also completes the entire group. Then drove over to the Arenigs to climb Rhobell Fawr (2,408’) and Dduallt (2,165’) bringing my year total to 54.
Mid Wales assault13-06-2022Text1Next week I'm off for a few days to mid-Wales again with the remaining 15 mountains firmly in my sights. It's ambitious (of course), but achievable I think. Good weather will help, bad weather might make all the difference between success and failure.
Berwyns almost complete!11-06-2022Text1Two of the final three Berwyn Peaks completed! Cyrniau Nod (2,188') and Cefn Gwyntog (2,017') on a reasonable day. The visibility was excellent, but it was windy and there were showers of rain all day so the ground was wet, but it's done and there's only one more peak in the area and I'll have bagged the lot!
Change of Plan02-06-2022Text1It was going to be the final Arans peak, but due to time constraints, I've changed it to bagging two more in the Berwyns instead. The walk is further but it's more convenient. The Arans will have to wait a couple of weeks to my next trip which will hopefully complete all of the mountains in mid-Wales!
Arans final peak27-05-2022Text1In a couple of weeks, I have the chance to complete the Arans group with a cheeky day trip to climb Foel Hafod-fynydd (689m). There are a few other peaks in that area of Wales, will I be tempted to go for another one, or stick to the plan and take the final Arans peak?
Lake District23-05-2022Text1After a very successful Lake District Trip bagging no less than 20 new peaks, my attention is now drawn back to completing the Welsh peaks. Looking through my Mountain Tables book, I spotted a mountain I'd climbed but not logged (Crib-y-rhiw in the Rhinogs). Checking with my Garmin, sure enough I'd topped it, so now I have just 29 to go!
Great Gable18-05-2022Photo2greatgable04.jpg
Lake District18-05-2022Text1Day four was the big one with no less than nine peaks conquered including one of the highest in the Lake District; Great Gable at a towering 899m. The full list is; Grey Knotts (697m), Brandreth (715m), Base Brown (646m), Green Gable (801m), Great Gable (899m), Kirk Fell East Top (787m), Kirk Fell (802m), Fleetwith Pike (648m), Honister Crag (630m). The weather held out, but was incredibly windy in the morning.
Lake District16-05-2022Text1Day three saw five new peaks bagged in the Buttermere region which completes that section. They were; Robinson (737m), Hindscarth (727m), Dale Head (753m), High Spy (653m) and Blea Crag (634m). Cloud on Robinson cleared to give a great day for the remainder.
Lake District15-05-2022Text1Day 2 saw an ascent of Bannerdale Crags (684m) via Sharp Edge onto Atkinson Pike which completes the Skiddaw Range of mountains in the Lake District. Excellent weather again.
Lake District14-05-2022Text1The week has got off to a great start with five peaks conquered in the Buttermere region plus two that I'd previously climbed but had to do because they were in the way! The peaks were: Whiteside (707m), Whiteside East (719m), Hopegill Head (770m), Ladyside Pike (703m), Hobcarton Crag (739m), Grisedale Pike (791m), Hobcarton End (634m)
Lake District08-05-2022Text1Already thinking about my trip to the Lake District for more peak bagging. I get to tick some off from the 'England' list!
Great mid-Wales trip07-05-2022Text1Ten new peaks plus Cadair Idris, the highest in mid-Wales for good measure was a great way to spend four days. The weather was very mixed from dull and overcast, to low cloud and rain, to fabulous and back to raining! I've now got just 30 peaks in Wales to conquer to complete them all!
Mid Wales Peak Bagging01-05-2022Text1Looking forward to a few days in mid-Wales mopping up some peaks to add to the collection. Another ambitious plan of 10 peaks in four days. It's starting to get a little harder in Wales now as I only have 40 left and they're spread out, although the Carneddau has quite a few as does the Moelwyns so they will be future targets.
Wysis Way Day 420-04-2022Photo2wysisway410.jpg
Wysis Way Day 420-04-2022Text1Final day of 13 miles. Much less hilly that the previous days but still the odd climb to test the already tired legs. The Thames source is a bit of an anti-climax and the official finish at the railway station equally so, but it's done so that's that.
Wysis Way Day 319-04-2022Text1Only 14 miles today but some serious climbs made it harder than expected. Bisley was the end of the day and I arrived in good time to get the bus to Stroud which saved an off-route 4 mile walk. Final day tomorrow.
Wysis Way Day 218-04-2022Text114 miles from Mitcheldean to Gloucester. Another tough start with an ascent of May Hill followed by some excellent walking through Gloucestershire. Another fine day, sun shining all day. Perfect.
Wysis Way Day 117-04-2022Photo2wysisway301.jpg
Wysis Way Day 117-04-2022Text117 miles from Monmouth to Mitcheldean. Tough start with a climb to the Kymin, then undulating through the Forest of Dean to a steep descent to Mitcheldean and some easy fields with horrid stiles. Fantastic weather all day.
St Kenelms Way done (again)31-03-2022Text1Finally finished St Kenelms Way with my daughter. Rosie came along as well and didn't seem to mind repeating the walk. This time it was very cold and we had snow at one point. Had a look inside St Kenelms Well just above Winchcombe. Very interesting and worth a visit on its own. What next I wonder...?
Wysis Way gets closer31-03-2022Text1Just over two weeks to go to the next challenge. Looking forward to it. First multi-day long distance path for a while.
Gloucestershire gallop10-03-2022Text1One of my favourite local walks is from Tewkesbury to Winchcombe. Initially following the Gloucestershire Way until it crosses the Winchcombe Way, then following that up over Nottingham Hill and onto Cleeve Hill, then across to the Masts and on to Belas Knapp then steadily down to Winchcombe itself now on the Cotswold Way. Around 15 miles with Rosie my trusty companion for company who loves the walk mostly because she can spend almost all day off the lead and go exploring.
Snowdonia Raid04-03-2022Text1Mixed weather made for some challenging walks on a four day break to Snowdonia, staying and Idwal Cottage Youth Hostel. Monday I added a couple of peaks from the Berwyn group on a wet and miserable 10 mile walk, then drove up to Rhydd Ddu to bag Mynydd Mawr in fairly good weather. Tuesday was by far the best day of the week weather wise which meant that my plan to do the Nantlle Ridge would work. It was a superb day out with seven peaks bagged, excellent weather without a cloud in the sky and amazing views. Wednesday was pretty much the opposite. From the moment I left the Youth Hostel to my return, it rained heavily and was incredibly windy. It didn’t stop me adding four new peaks and a repeat of Y Garn to my list. Thursday the weather was just horrible, so I decided to go shopping instead!

A total of fourteen new peaks bagged which brings my yearly total to 19 and overall to 217. The report is on the 'North Wales' Page
North Wales16-02-2022Text1Plans are now complete for a raid on the North Wales 2000' peaks during the first week of March. It's an ambitious plan, aiming for about 18 peaks in total over four days. It does require reasonably good weather but doesn't it always when climbing new mountains?
Wysis Way16-02-2022Text1Finally completed the planning and booking for the Wysis Way in April. Four days covering 55 miles from Monmouth to Kemble, or more correctly, the Wye to the Thames. Looking forward to it.
The River Dove in full flow06-02-2022Photo2dovedale.jpg
Dovedale and Manifold Valley06-02-2022Text1I'd planned a nice walk down Dovedale from Hartington so parked at the Youth Hostel where I was staying for the next few days and was soon away down the hill. Spying a path to the left, I took it, which cut the corner off the village and quickly bought me into a very muddy field. Oh well, no point trying to be too careful I thought, I doubt it will be the only muddy field of the day. I’d started in my new Alpkit waterproof as it was very cold and I needed all of my layers. I soon stopped to put on my leggings as there was rain in the air.

Onto the main track, it looked dry and easy going. I’d spotted a walker ahead so was confident I was headed in the right direction - not that a single walker proves anything, but I figured that the only sensible place to go in this direction was Dovedale.

As I rounded the corner, she suddenly appeared, walking in the opposite direction, or at least I assumed it was the same person. Maybe we were both wrong! Stopping for a quick chat, it turned out that the path and bridge were completely flooded! Not to be deterred, I suggested we go and take a look. It was true! What to do? We decided we were made of the right stuff and a little bit of water wasn’t going to stop us. Actually, it was a lot of water, but by climbing gates, fences and the top of the bridge we managed to get into a muddy field - the easier option as it turned out as the other parts of the path were completely submerged.

Finally we got past it, followed by another walker. Onwards, we took the higher path, the other walker taking the lower path and we met at the next bridge - he was up to his knees in water and we had avoided it.

Chatting, it turned out that my fellow walker was out for a walk along Dovedale to Ilam and back. My plan was to cross to the Manifold Valley and return that way. Asking if she could accompany me as my route sounded significantly drier, of course I agreed so we teamed up. Her name was Julie and she had driven up from Leicestershire for the day.

Continuing downstream we frequently encountered flooded sections, negotiating them as best we could, trying our best to avoid getting too wet, which worked well until I slipped off a rock and my left leg went in up to my knee! Surprisingly my foot didn’t feel too wet but I’m sure it was.

Our route took us down to Milldale with numerous flooded sections. We had gotten quite good at negotiating the water and managed to find reasonable routes through.

The coffee shop in Milldale was closed sadly, but we stopped briefly for a drink a goodie bar before heading off in the direction of Stanshope.

Leaving the shelter of the valley we found ourselves being blown about by really strong wind and walking through really muddy fields. We’d swapped floods for muds.

Stanshope came and went. Next stop Wetton where I knew there was a pub. Julie had recounted an event earlier where she and fellow walkers had been refused service at a village pub. As we approached the pub in Wetton, she recognized it as the same one. Our patronage would not be given today!

Onward and down to Thors Cave. Along the way, we saw two walkers coming in the opposite direction absolutely filthy from head to foot. What was ahead of us? Observing their state, they replied that they had had a very bad day! The final section to the cave was indeed filthy and we carefully picked our way across the field and through the mud. Declining to go inside the cave, we descended the steps to the river which started out very muddy but became cleaner as we got near the bottom.

Thankful to be down without incident we headed North to Wetton Mill where the lure of the coffee shop proved too much to resist.

Brief break over we were off again, following the right hand side of the river on the Manifold Trail and good dry walking, although we had the worst rain of the day for a while along this section. We followed this right the way up to Hulme End at the Manifold Valley visitor centre.

A quick check of the map gave our direction as to the right for 50m or so, then up a lane to a footpath and more muddy fields. Once again, the wind picked up and without the shelter of the valley was quite strong, combined with yet more rain made it hard going.

With a combination of lanes and paths we eventually came to Sheen, although I did take an early path off one of the lanes which bought us a little way from Sheen, requiring a ‘phone map’ check to correct. It was only a minor detour, or rather scenic route as I preferred to call it. By now it was approaching 5pm and dusk. There was still enough light to see by and we were only a mile or so from Hartington so nothing to worry unduly about.

Through Sheen and out on the path which led directly to Hartington, the weather had one final go at us with strong wind and hailstones. We could see the lights of Hartington and still had enough light to see the path but even so were quite relieved to arrive in the village.

Julies car was on the lane so we said our goodbyes and parted. She had been very good company for the day and it was nice to have someone to walk with who was every bit as capable. We’d chatted for most of the day about this and that, generally walking and mountaineering stuff and as I walked up to the Hostel I realized what a nice change it was to have a walking partner and how quickly the day had gone compared to a solo walk.

Total distance: 27.6km
Max altitude: 302m
Severn stroll01-02-2022Text1Nice walk with the dog today down the river to the Haw Bridge via Deerhurst and back again on the Western side to the Mythe Bridge and Home. Good weather, sunny but very windy. 13 miles total so a healthy outing.
River meander23-01-2022Text1Nice ten mile walk through the Wildlife Sanctuary at Coombe Hill and then along the River Severn to Deerhurst and cross country to Tewkesbury.
Plynlimon Completed15-01-2022Text1An early start and a long drive bought me to the Car Park at Eisteddfa Gurig on the A44. Parking up and paying the £5 fee into the honesty box, Rosie and I headed off into the mountains. All Five 2,000' Peaks were conquered in just 3 1/2 hours and were (in order); Y Garn(684m), Pen Pumlumon Fawr(752m), Pumlumon Fach(664m), Pen Pumlumon Llygad-bychan(727m) and Pen Pumlumon Arwystli(741m). The weather was kind, although the higher peaks were in mist most of the day.
2022 Plans!31-12-2021Text1Plans are already starting to take shape for 2022. I've got a cheeky day planned mid-January to bag all five of the 2000 foot peaks in Plynlimon on a single day, then at the end of February a four day raid into North Wales to attend to a straggler in the Arans and then take on the mighty Nantlle Ridge and a few in the Ogwen Valley.
St Kenelms Finished!28-11-2021Text1On a cold November morning I completed St Kenelms Way with the final 10 miles from Dumbleton to Winchcombe taking just 3 1/2 hours. This time I had Rosie the dog for company.
Snowdonia success27-11-2021Text1Three days in Snowdonia bagging peaks saw me claim three peaks on each of three days plus a notably peak of 605m (Foel Goch). I decided against the Nantlle Ridge as the weather was pretty poor. Thursday was the best day with only the occasional snow/rain shower. Wednesday was miserable all day with no views due to low cloud and Friday was the beginning of Storm Arwen which caused 90mph winds according to the weather reports and I can believe it!

Highest new peak was Lliwedd Bach at 818m but I also did the main peak of Y Lliwedd which is 893m. Brings my total number of 2000'+ mountains for the year to 52 and overall total to 190.
Snowdon from Lliwedd25-11-2021Photo2snowdon.jpg
North Wales21-11-2021Text1Booked in at Pen y Pass YHA for a few days this coming week to do a spot of peak bagging. Moel Hebog and the Nantlle Ridge are top of the list, plus a nice three-peak bag from Llanberis. I'm hoping for good weather but expecting rain!
Severn stroll17-11-2021Text1A nice walk down the River Severn from Tewkesbury on the Western side to the Haw Bridge, then back along the Eastern side. 22km of walking in just under 5 hours. Sun shone and no rain, perfect.
Rhayader Raid15-11-2021Text1On a long day out in the Elan Valley area I bagged all three 2000' peaks. I did two walks, both in very poor conditions, with low mist all day, giving little in the way of views. The first to climb Gorllwyn (613m) and Drygarn Fawr (645m) and the second walk to climb Pen y Garn (610m). The two starting points were about half an hour apart by fast motorbike. It was a very long day, leaving home at 6:30am and not returning until 7:30pm.
Belas Knapp06-11-2021Text1Unfortunately the final leg of St Kenelms Way got postponed so I decided on a walk from the Golf Club on Cleeve Hill to Belas Knapp and back, following the Cotswold Way on the way out and the Winchcombe Way on the return leg. Reasonable but windy weather made for a good leg stretch.
Lathkill stroll22-10-2021Text1Final day of the mini break saw me walking down Lathkill Dale from Monyash and back again. It is a beautiful valley and quiet. Parking is easy at the head of the valley although it fills quickly.
High Peak and Limestone Trail21-10-2021Text1Matlock to the High Peak Trail via High Tor, then up to Black Rocks and further up to Middleton Top. Return via Bonsall and the Limestone Way. A total of 25km with superb weather all day. Great day out again.
Dovedale and more20-10-2021Text1Ashbourne to my favourite dale; Dovedale, then back over Bunster Hill and Thorpe Cloud back to Ashbourne. 22km of great Derbyshire walking.
Mountain Tables04-10-2021Text1As a labour of love, I have added the Mountain Tables for England and Wales for all of the mountains over 2,000 feet. It will be possible to show them by Area, Mountain Name or Height and also the ones I have not yet climbed - challenges for the future! Check out the page and let me know what you think. (Mountain Log Book)
New gear review02-10-2021Text1See my latest reviews on a couple of new items from Alpkit; a Griffon casual wear Top and a Gravitas super lightweight waterproof jacket. Also a review on Rohans Dry Frontier waterproof trousers.
Crummock to Derwent Water01-10-2021Text1A proper peak bagging day with no less than 10 peaks in the Buttermere group, the highest being Grassmoor at 853m, the others were Whiteless Pike, Wandope, Sand Hill, Hopegill Head, Hobcarton Crag, Crag Hill, Sail, Scar Crags and finally Causey Pike. Very windy day with some serious showers but excellent views with no cloud.
Ullswater to Thirlmere29-09-2021Text1A great day out in the Lake District with ascents of Catstycam, Helvellyn, Raise, Greenside, Hart Crag and the Dodds. 22.5km and over 1,000m of ascent. The weather was good but cold and windy all day. View was excellent.
Long Mynd28-08-2021Text1A good day out on the Long Mynd. Some of the marked peaks were either not worth bothering with or so overgrown with undergrowth it wasn't worth it! There are some serious descents and climbs in and out of the valleys. Very few water opportunities on the top but plenty of streams down the valleys. Hot day. 18 miles walked in total!
St Kenelms Way Part 3 - Done30-07-2021Text1Part three and actually we finished at Dumbleton which was further than expected. Just under 10 miles (despite the guide book claiming 10.5). The day was miserable, with rain all day, we were properly soaked at the end but it went well and we completed the walk in under 3 hours.
Leatherman Knives review30-07-2021Text1Reviews of two knives I own, both excellent and both for very different purposes. Read my thoughts on the Review Page under 'Stuff'.
Berwyns Bagged19-07-2021Text1An assault on the Berwyns netted a total of 16 peaks over 2000 feet. The weather was hot (too hot) and the visibility was excellent. Coupled with no rain, few other walkers and some excellent company; Chris for two days, Paul and Nicola for one day and dinner with Jodie, Adam and Abigail, what's not to love about that?
Cadair Berwyn Summit17-07-2021Photo2berwyns05.jpg
St Kenelms Part 313-07-2021Text1Great Comberton to Ashton Under Hill via Bredon Hill summit is a mere 10 miles but does have the summit of Bredon Hill in the way. End of July is the date for that.
Berwyns Assault10-07-2021Text1Three days of walking planned for the Berwyns next weekend. Four walks are needed to bag all of the peaks so for sure they won't all be done, but we'll have a good crack and get a good number ticked off. Look out for the report to follow.
The next challenge14-06-2021Text1Looking for more unclimbed peaks, I'm moving my attention to the Berwyns, also in mid-Wales but East (ish) of the Arans I did a few weeks ago. Plenty to go at and with 20 over 2,000' and a few over 2,500' there are lots to bag.
Arans - Post Trip 01-06-2021Text1The trip was a great success and, apart from one solitary peak, everything on the list was done. Of course, that gives me a good excuse to go back and get the final tick in the box.

Thanks to Chris for great company and good humour throughout. I'll let you know when I've planned the next challenge!
Views to the Ogwen Valley30-05-2021Photo2arans22.jpg
Day 2 : Another Seven Peaks30-05-2021Text1The big day out with the main prize of the highest peak in the region; Aran Fawddwy standing at an impressive 905m. Fabulous weather, the sun shone all day and coupled with a breeze meant that we didn't overheat. Our bag for the day comprised 7 peaks in total; Glasgwm 779m, Gawain Llwyn 685m, Aran Fawddwy 905m, Erw y Ddafad ddu 872m, Aran Benllyn 885m, Gawain Lydan 632m, Pen yr Allt Uchaf 620m.

So, the plan was to climb every peak in the group, we managed all bar one! Oh well, something to go back for.
Ascent of Glasgwm29-05-2021Photo2arans15.jpg
Day 1 : Seven Peaks29-05-2021Text1With a solitary outlier yesterday and seven peaks today, the trip is going well. The weather was considerably better, only raining for the first half hour and a little at the end of the day. Another big day tomorrow to look forward to and better weather forecast, I can’t wait! The bag had Moel y Cerrig Duon 625m, Foel y Geifr, 626m, Trum y Gwrgedd 612m, Foel Goch 613m, Foel Rudd 659m, Esgeiriau Gwynion 671m and Llechwedd Du 614m in it.
Day 0 : Arans Assault28-05-2021Text1A quick stop on the way to the campsite saw me bag Pen y Bryn-fforchog (685m) in miserable weather to start my weekends peak bagging collection.
Arans Assault27-05-2021Text1Bank Holiday weekend will see me bagging peaks in Mid Wales just East of Dolgellau. I've only ever climbed one peak in that area so lots of new ticks for the boxes!

The weather looks pretty good as well, so hoping for a good weekend.
St Kenelms Way Part 207-05-2021Photo2stkenelmsway201.jpg
St Kenelms Way Part 207-05-2021Photo2stkenelmsway208.jpg
St Kenelms Way Part 207-05-2021Text1At just under 15 miles (14 to be precise), stage 2 fell to us with ease. A glorious day out in the countryside with an excellent route through Pinvin, Wyre Piddle, Pershore and finally Great Comberton. No climbs of any note and mostly off road. Stage three will be different with a direct ascent of Bredon Hill, but that is to come.
Upton to Tewkesbury01-05-2021Photo2upton-tewkesbury02.jpg
Upton to Tewkesbury - M5001-05-2021Photo2upton-tewkesbury06.jpg
Upton to Deerhurst01-05-2021Text1A quick local walk from Upton to Deerhurst just South of Tewkesbury came in at 13 miles so not too bad. Easy walking of course along the River Severn, but a nice way to spend a Saturday morning. The dog of course, probably did double.
More gear going back!29-04-2021Text1Well, the Salomon Ultra GTX shoes lasted about six months before they started leaking! Once again I find myself returning gear that fails to make it to even the manufacturers warranty period. Is there a Manufacturer out there that can deliver? I don't think there is.
St Kenelms Way Part 102-04-2021Text1Part 1 of the latest Long Distance walk now completed! From the start at Romsley to Himbleton. A good stretch at just under 20 miles. See the full report on the Previous Expeditions page.
Gloucestershire Way27-03-2021Text1Walking from Tewkesbury to Winchcombe along the Gloucestershire Way is a fine day out and neatly avoids the crowds on Cleeve Hill. In fact I only saw about three or four other people during the entire walk which meant the dog could mostly run free and I could enjoy a peaceful quiet walk. 17.5km made for a good outing and the furthest I've walked for some time.
Rosie at Gotherington Station13-03-2021Photo2nottinghamhill1.jpg
On Oxenton Hill13-03-2021Photo2nottinghamhill2.jpg
Looking to the Malverns13-03-2021Photo2nottinghamhill3.jpg
Nottingham to Tewkesbury13-03-2021Text1Well, Nottingham Hill to Tewkesbury anyway. Nottingham Hill is far less popular than its near neighbour; Cleeve Hill, but the views from it are every bit as good stretching over the Severn Valley to the Malverns. For this walk I was deposited at the top of the hill so it was flat and downhill for the first section although very slippery as there is a stream that carves its way down. The walk follows the Winchcombe Way initially, passing right next to Gotherington Station, a very pretty station on the Toddington Steam Railway Line and well worth the slight detour. From here, we crossed the road and followed the Winchcombe Way to the foot of Oxenton Hill, broke off to the left to the summit and then descend to Oxenton to pick up the Gloucestershire Way to Tewkesbury. It is pretty flat for the rest of the walk, but still has interest with many fields, passing small farms and crossing both the railway line and the M5 to finally pass through the very pleasant village of Walton Cardiff, expanded greatly by the nearby housing development and finally into Tewkesbury itself. I did 14km, Rosie, the dog did probably double that!
Bredon Hill14-02-2021Text1An actual proper outing. Being quite close to home it was deemed 'okay'. Quieter than Cleeve Hill, it promised to be a good test of the legs, especially my knee which has been making steady progress over the last few months. I elected to walk up from Beckford which a steady climb on good tracks. Starting on a small lane, it soon becomes a farm track and then a track across a field to eventually join the route from Elmley Castle along a flat, but muddy path directly past the fire tower and up onto the Hill fort and the summit tower. It was bitterly cold and windy but so far dry. Pausing for a hot brew - I bought a flask of water and some tea bags - I soon started back, not wishing to chill. About now the heavens opened with driving rain coming at me from the right. This would be a good test of my Paramo jacket!

All the way along the path and onto the downhill section it rained, and whilst my legs got a good soaking, my upper half remained warm and dry. I was well impressed with the jacket.

Finally as I came down towards the farm, the rain stopped, but it was still cold and I was pleased to be back at the car.

My knee had held up well, giving me no pain or discomfort and with a total journey of just over 13km and 300m of ascent, I was pleased.

Can't wait to get out to bigger mountains and more mileage.
New kit review!08-02-2021Text1Newly purchased Black Diamond Carbon Fibre walking poles have had their first review. Only on Cleeve Hill so not a proper test, but happy so far. Can't wait to get out on real mountains and put them (and me) through their paces.
Cleeve Hill canter06-02-2021Text1Still in lockdown! The only hill of any note is Cleeve Hill. Of course every man and his dog was on there - including me and my dog so I can't complain. Actually it was her first time on a hill of any kind - we live in a very flat area. She loved it, but was desperate for more freedom - sadly she had to stay on the lead otherwise we would still be there! Great to be out though.
Another Cleeve Hill Day11-12-2020Text1A fine day amongst many miserable days saw me out on Cleeve Hill again. This time I managed a reasonably respectable 10km over to the radio masts and back via an undulating route. On the way I found a set of car keys, which I eventually reunited with the owner, who was well pleased to receive them. Still using a stick for aid but going uphill presented no problems and downhill was no worse than it ever has been.
Easy Walking04-12-2020Text1The knee surgery I had in August is taking longer to get right that I'd hoped, so walking has been curtailed. I did manage to get out last Friday for a couple of hours along the River Severn which was nice, then today I managed an hour or so on Cleeve Hill, not wanting to overdo it. Looking to the West I convinced myself I could see snow on the Black Mountains of Wales. If the weather forecast is right, it could be heading this way!
Completing the Skiddaw Area01-10-2020Text1Today saw me complete (bar one) all of the Peaks in the Skiddaw region; Carrock Fell, High Peak, Hare Stones, Great Lingy Hill and an excellent finale of Knott, which at 710m was also the highest of the day. A 14km route in excellent conditions made for a great final day.
Skiddaw29-09-2020Text1Skiddaw has been on my 'must do' list for a long time now. I had a plan a few years ago which included the Calvas but time and weather prevented me. A couple of days ago the initial plan included Skiddaw but again time was against me, so today it was the focus and I did it! Also climbed Longside, Carl Side, Little Man, Sale How and Lonscale Fell so an excellent day out.
Mountain Air27-09-2020Text1Finally, I’ve managed to climb some mountains! A late Autumn trip to the Lake District saw some cheeky days out. Check out the blog for a quick summary and the Previous Expeditions Pages for full reports in due course.
Blencathra and Sharp Edge26-09-2020Text1Day 1 saw four peaks and a Grade 1 scramble, with Blencathra at 868m being the highest. Also managed to climb Atkinson Pike via the fun Sharp Edge scramble. The full tally was Gategill Fell (851m), Blencathra (868m), Atkinson Pike (845m) and Bowscale Fell (702m).

Weather was superb, if a little cold and windy but no rain all day.
Severn Wanderings20-09-2020Text1Another decent walk, this time along the River Severn. All is good with the knee so it's off to the mountains next!
Cleeve Hill stroll06-09-2020Text1Finally got out for a walk after a frustrating summer of lockdowns and social distancing, then a knee injury required surgery meant that it was early September before I got out on the hills (albeit small ones) again. It was great to be out though!
Gloucestershire morning out21-03-2020Text1A quick morning walk over Cleeve Hill, Nottingham Hill and Overton Hill, then back to Tewkesbury, combining the Winchcombe Way and Gloucestershire Way nicely. Total distance of 17km with a paltry 310m maximum altitude (Cleeve Hill)
St Kenelms Way reccee06-03-2020Text1With a plan in place to walk the entire 60 miles of the St Kenelms Way, I took the opportunity of a fine day to have a look at the route. Getting to the start is the first challenge. I took the train to Hagley and then walked the few miles up to Hagley Park and onto Clent Hills, spying an excellent site for a first nights camp on the way. It took about 1 1/2 hours to get to Romsley and St Kenelms Church through very pleasant woodland and over Clent Hills, which, today, had excellent views. As it was an out-and-back walk, I made it over to Belbroughton about 15k in total, before turning back and retracing my route. The ground is still very wet but hopefully will have dried out by the time I do the full walk.
Dovedale dash09-02-2020Text1With Storm Ciara in full force it was a wet and windy day in the Peak District - actually, ideal for a proper test of my new waterproofs. The results were, on the whole, very good. The Paramo jacket kept me dry all day, despite some very heavy downpours and the trousers did a good job with only a small amount of dampness where the water runs off the jacket so pleased with that. Dovedale was, of course, perfect, although it was too windy to ascend Thorpe Cloud and the Stepping Stones completely submerged. I pretty much had the whole place to myself, only seeing one small group of three lads all day!
Tissington and High Peak trail07-02-2020Text1It’s not often I write about a cycling day out on this blog, but today I rode from Hartington to Ashbourne on the Tissington trail, then roads to Carsington Water, more trails around the lake then roads again down to the Cromford Canal to pick up the High Peak Trail past Black Rocks and Middleton Top to Parsley Hay and back on the Tissington again to Hartington and finish. All told 80km and a superb day out. An off-road bike is essential, with nobbly tyres but it’s easy riding with only a few serious climbs - mostly on the Black Rocks section.
Countdown to the Peak District22-01-2020Text1Just over two weeks to go until my first Training Weekend of the year. Off to the Peak District for three days of cycling and walking. Friday is an epic ride around the disused railway lines of the High Peak and Tissington Trails, then Saturday a couple of new peaks around Buxton and Sunday a walk around my favourite part; Dovedale.
Malvern Hills Yomp27-12-2019Text1A day out on the Malvern Hills is always welcome even if, like today, the views are almost non-existent due to the low cloud. From North Hill, I climbed up over the Malvern Beacon, dropping down to the Wyche Cutting followed by a circuit around to the British Camp, avoiding the tops for a change. From there down into Eastnor Park and a muddy walk to the park itself. Returning via the obelisk and the British Camp, I kept to the ridge line, finishing my climbing with a second ascent of the Malvern Beacon. 16.5 miles made a fine day out.
Paramo Waterproof Jacket24-12-2019Text1Well, Santa has bought me a new waterproof jacket - the Paramo Alta III. I can't wait to try it out and if the hype is anything to go by, I won't be disappointed! Now, where have I heard that before? Initial reaction is a quality, well thought out jacket, a good fit, stowable hood and plenty of useful pockets. Of course, it needs to be waterproof, so the very next time it rains, I'll be out.
2020 Adventure booked!24-12-2019Text1Well, the indecision is over - I've booked my trip for 2020. In a complete change to initial thoughts, I've decided to go back to Nepal next year. This time it will be the Dhaulagiri Trek with Dhamphus Peak (6,060m) as a climax to the three week trip. It's not until October so a long time to wait, but plenty of time for training.
Kraku Cooker and Buffalo Mitts07-12-2019Text1My new lightweight cooker had its first trial - see how it got on. Plus, a pair of Buffalo mittens had an outing in the Brecons, read the full review on the reviews page.
Brecons Day Out - for real06-12-2019Text1After the change of plan last time, I decided I would definitely go down to the Brecons this time and so it was. Well, it rained non-stop all day and proved to me that I definitely need a new waterproof jacket, and that possibly my new Rohan waterproof trousers are not up to the job! My usual route over Fan Fawr and Fan Llia then down to the Roman Road and back via Sarn Helen and Fan Frynych for the long walk above the A470. Around about 11 miles walked, all in the rain wasn't the best day out for weather but enjoyable nontheless. I got to try out my new cooker, an Alpkit Kraku which proved to be an excellent purchase - see my review.
Malverns Walk22-11-2019Text1Slight change of plan to a day out on the Malvern Hills instead of the Brecons as the forecast was pretty poor and after damaging a leg muscle a few weeks ago I wanted a walk with some easy bale out options. I didn't need them which was good to know so can now start the fitness campaign for the 2020 expedition.
Rohan Waterproofs review22-11-2019Text1Check out my review of the Rohan Vapour Trail waterproof trousers.
Stellar Equipment Base Layer22-11-2019Text1Check out my review of the Stellar Equipment Base Layer.
Brecons Day Out20-11-2019Text1Planning a day out in the Brecon Beacons on Friday. It seems like an age since I've been out in the hills so am really looking forward to getting out there. Who knows, I might even get to try out my new waterproof trousers!
New waterproofs09-11-2019Text1Rohan are the latest company to join my ever growing list of waterproof leggings suppliers. Bought a pair of their Vapour Trail Overtrousers so we'll see how they perform. Of course, an honest review will follow in due course.
Waterproof clothing07-11-2019Text1If you've read my Equipment Review page you'll know that I have had a lot of bad luck with waterproofs! Given the boasts of all these companies, why is it that I am having such difficulty purchasing a pair of waterproof trousers? Three pairs from different manufacturers all returned as unfit for purpose, two of them well over £100. I'll challenge any company to provide a pair of waterproof trousers that actually work!
Plans for 202007-11-2019Text1I'm considering my options for 2020, but the current favourite is an eight day climbing trip to Zermatt which would include Switzerlands' highest peak (Dufourspitze, Monte Rosa) at 4,634m. Nothing definite yet and it might all change!
Brecons Waterfalls05-10-2019Text1Finding waterfalls in the Brecons is not exactly a challenge but there is a lovely walk near Ystradfellte through the woods passing four very impressive waterfalls one of which is possible to walk behind but gets very wet! Total distance is around five miles with the only climbing being down to and back from the waterfall view points. If you want an easy day or something different, it’s worth checking out. The shop in the car park even sells maps for a pound.
Ridgeway Day Six28-09-2019Text1Early start as I had a train to catch. Today was divided into three sections; Wendover to Wiggington (6 miles), Wiggington to Ivinghoe Beacon (5.5 miles) and the return to the station (3.5 miles). Left just after 8am, Wiggington by 10:00am, Ivinghoe by mid-day and back to the station around 1:30pm. All done!
Ridgeway Day Five27-09-2019Text1Watlington to Wendover through mixed walking with a few good climbs thrown in. Notables are Kop Hill with the excellent views and Coombe Hill with the Africa Campaign monument. Both are great but over too quickly. Final night in Wendover at the Red Lion.
Ridgeway Day Four26-09-2019Text1Streatley to Watlington. Mixed terrain with lots of woodland and some long drags. Changing scenery so maintained interest. Half way point reached and passed. Now done about 65 miles.
Ridgeway Day Three25-09-2019Text1Half way reached at Streatley. Easy walking with not much interest. Long day at 18 miles taking just under 6 hours. Nice pub next door to the YH!
Ridgeway Day Two24-09-2019Text1Back up to the ridge and followed a steady path all day. The weather was not kind to me, hammering with rain for an hour then showers all day. Highlight of the day was Waylands Smithy an ancient Long Barrow. Good views across Oxfordshire and Wiltshire.
Ridgeway Day One23-09-2019Text1Train and bus to Avebury went without a hitch. Walked to the start via the Stone Avenue and about 400m of the busy A4. Nice easy walking along a well signposted route - impossible to get lost! Arrived at Ogbourne early so decided to follow the route around the village and finish on the other side reducing the distance tomorrow. Rain started about 10 minutes before I finished!
Ridgeway approaches17-09-2019Text1Not long now until I'm off to walk the Ridgeway. Hoping for some nice weather for the walk, but who knows? As usual, the spare room is covered in gear. I'll start the 'do I, don't I' take it process in the next day or so, then sort out trains and buses.
Malvern Hills day out06-09-2019Text1A quick trip over to the Malvern Hills for a days walking. Caught the train to Malvern Link, then followed a familiar route up North Hill, then the Beacon, Wyche Cutting, onto Perseverance and Jubilee Hills, British Camp and over to the Eastnor Obelisk, then return via Castlemorton Common and up onto the Eastern Balcony back to the Wyche Cutting and drop down to Great Malvern Station via the Wells Common. 15 miles done, excellent weather, great views and a great day out.
Ridgeway Booked01-09-2019Text1The Ridgeway Long Distance Path has been on my Bucket list for years. Finally, I've booked six days in late September to walk it. Looking forward to getting on it. Watch out for the trip report!
Walk Out21-08-2019Text1Base Camp walk out to be met by our driver and returned to Piatigorsk for a final meal and thanks to the Russian Guides. Trying to make the best of it, but everyone is suitably disappointed and spent a lot of time talking about the 'what if'.
Return to Base Camp20-08-2019Text1Bags repacked and we headed back down to Base Camp, tired and disappointed.
Second Summit Attempt19-08-2019Text1We came so close to going. Waking at 10:30pm and readying ourselves. By midnight it was clear nothing was going to happen so back to bed. So disappointed, it was our final chance.
First Summit attempt18-08-2019Text1Tonight would have been our first attempt on the summit. Sadly the weather was against us so cancelled.
West Ridge acclimatization17-08-2019Text1Walk up to West Ridge. Good walk up, but got caught in a thunder and lightning storm on the way down which freaked a few people out!
Rest Day16-08-2019Text1Our first rest day.
Lenz Rocks15-08-2019Text1Another acclimatization walk, this time to Lenz Rocks at 4,600m on the glacier. Good practise walking roped up. Some ice-axe arrest practise before descending.
Top Camp14-08-2019Text1Bags weighed in for porterage. 10kg goes free, 200 Roubles per kilo after that. Mine weighed in at 17kg. Happy with that. Walked up to Top Camp at 3,700m in time for lunch. Dorm style accommodation again, although slightly more basic with no proper shower or washing facilities and the toilets some distance away.
Stone Mushrooms13-08-2019Text1Acclimatisation walk up to Stone Mushrooms at 3,200m in 2.5 hours. Good views up to Elbrus itself. Easy day.
Off to Base Camp12-08-2019Text1Bags repacked so I can leave gear at the hotel. Drive out to the mountains took around 4 hours, then the walk in to Base Camp, a further 3 hours or so. Dorm style beds, toilets and showers!
Flying Out10-08-2019Text1Flew to Piatigorsk via Moscow. Long overnight journey. Arrived at the hotel just before lunch.
Two days to go08-08-2019Text1With just two days to go, I am frantically checking and rechecking my gear. Rather than being packed and ready as is my normal operation, gear is all over the spare bed. The weight of gear is scary and I have ditched my Jagged Globe holdall in favour of my (bigger) Mountain Equipment bag...and I still need a suitcase!
Arans Outing28-07-2019Text1After a tough couple of days I headed South to the Arans to check out the ridge. From the North I decided to just climb Aran Benllyn which was a good outing but hampered by not such good weather. Worth a return visit for sure with plenty to go at.
Moelwyns Magic27-07-2019Text1The Moelwyns are a new area to me, and whilst not being as high as those around Snowdon, are every bit as tough! Six new Peaks bagged including Moelwyn Bach and Mawr, Allt-Fawr and my favourite of the day; Cnicht which features a lovely Grade 1 scramble near the summit.
Snowdon twice26-07-2019Text1First ascent from Snowdon Ranger YHA via the Ranger Path and descent to Pen-y-Pass via the Miners Track, then after coffee and cake back over Snowdon via the Watkin Path and Lliwedd.
Final Training Weekend21-07-2019Text1Looking forward to another trip to Snowdonia for some final mountain training. Staying at the Snowdon Ranger YHA I'm planning an ascent of Snowdon on the Friday, then follow the Watkin Path down to the lakes and return via either Crib Goch or the Miners Track. Saturday will see me in the Moelwyns for the first time and Sunday to the Arans, again for the first time. Plenty of new Peaks to bag and a tough weekend ahead!
Brecons Day out28-06-2019Text1Finally some decent weather and I was off to the Brecons for a day out walking. The first part of the day saw me climbing Pen y Fan from the Storey Arms to try out my new double boots. Needless to say, they were totally unsuitable, my feet were too hot and I felt quite silly! After returning to the car, having lunch and changing into more sensible footwear I climbed Fan Llia and meandered around the far side before returning over the top and back to the car.
Jagged Globe Training Weekend16-06-2019Text1I always leave JG knowing a bit more than when I arrive. This weekend was no different. Saturday we covered gear, safety and altitude related issues, then Sunday we split into two groups - I elected to join the rope skills group as I felt a little rusty on that. We covered general roping up, taking coils, crevasse rescue and walking as a roped team. Some of it I already knew, some of it I had forgotten, all of it was a useful refresher. Bring on the trip!
Kinder Reservoir14-06-2019Photo2kinder.jpg
Kinder Downfall14-06-2019Photo2downfall.jpg
Kinder Scout new route14-06-2019Text1Just when I thought I had walked everywhere around Kinder Scout I realise that I had never actually walked down to the reservoir! It is a lovely walk and a really nice approach directly up to Kinder Downfall with many final route choices onto the plateau. The waterfall was in force with so much rain and was very impressive from below. 22km walked which is not too shabby.
Elbrus Team Meeting13-06-2019Text1Off to Sheffield this weekend to meet the Team for Elbrus. Going up a day early for a walk around Kinder Scout. After all the rain we've had, I expect it to be boggy so in a change of gear policy I'll be wearing gaiters (my most hated item of clothing).
Back home27-05-2019Text1Back home drying the tent and stowing the gear after an exhausting but fantastic weekend in Snowdonia. Eleven Mountains climbed, but amazingly only one new one. Only a couple of weeks until I go to Sheffield for the Elbrus Team meeting weekend and only ten weeks until the trip itself!
Snowdonia Day Three26-05-2019Text1Circled around from Capel Curig to the South side of Moel Siabod followed by a hard scramble on rock and heather to the summit. Easier descent back to Plas y Brenin for 18km distance and 800m of ascent.
Carneddau caper25-05-2019Text1Ascent of Pen-y-ole Wen from Ogwen valley then onto Daffydd and Llewelyn and descent via Llugwy reservoir. 16km and almost 1,000m of ascent. Walked with Ken, Adam, Jodie and Nicola who I met in Nepal.
Welsh 3000s Epic24-05-2019Text1Started at 6am, ascent of Tryfan followed by the Glyders; Fach and Fawr, then a descent to Pen-y-Pass for coffee and cake at the YHA. Suitably refreshed I tackled Crib Goch, Crib-y-Dysgyll and topping out on Snowdon for lunch. Descent following the railway line and a very steep descent to Nant Peris. A final hard climb of Elidr Fawr then circling round and dropping down to Ogwen just before Foel Goch. 24 miles and about 3,000m ascent and descent I finally finished just after 7pm.
Snowdonia approaches23-05-2019Text1Driving up to Snowdonia this afternoon to camp at Swallow Falls near Betws-y-Coed. Tough weekend planned; long walk Friday over 8 peaks, Carnedds on Saturday and Sunday and maybe a scramble on Monday at the top end of Snowdonia.
Sneaky Friday17-05-2019Text1A cheeky sneaky Friday afternoon walk on Cleeve Hill out to Belas Knapp in reasonably good conditions - some light rain for a quick 10 miles and 470m of ascent did me the world of good.
Snowdonia13-05-2019Text1Plans are taking shape for a long weekend in Snowdonia over the Bank Holiday weekend. Friday will see a big day over the Glyders, Snowdon and back via Elidr Fawr and Y Garn, then Saturday meeting up with old friends from the Nepal Trip for a day on the Carnedds. Sunday and Monday still being planned...watch this space!
Malverns from the South06-05-2019Photo2southmalverns.jpg
Three Choirs Way - Done!06-05-2019Text1Originally I'd pencilled in the end of June to finish this walk, but a cheeky Bank Holiday outing saw me finish the walk into Gloucester and I was home for lunch! Check out the Previous Expeditions page for a full report.
Boots failure05-05-2019Text1After recently returning my Lowa boots due to leakage, I was very disappointed to have a failure with my Scarpa boots! This time one of the lace eyelets broke. I did consider repairs but having purchased them from Cotswold with a two year guarantee, decided to return them to see what they could do. Good as gold, they refunded me my money without question and I purchased another pair (Keen Karraig). we'll see how they get on!
Three Choirs Way03-05-2019Text1From Worcester to the South end of the Malvern Hills was on very familiar terrain. Headed out of Worcester along the River Severn and along the Teme to join the alternative route at Powick. From there across the Old Hills and up to Malvern. The route allows a free route choice along the Malvern Hills and down to the South end. I encountered some rain at British Camp but thanks to some fast walking/slow jogging I got to the cafe before the heavens opened! 21 miles in total leaving a reasonably short final section into Gloucester.
Three Choirs Part 302-05-2019Text1The final section is from Worcester back down to Gloucester. Tomorrow I'm planning on doing about 2/3 of that on a cheeky day out. No camping this time, so travelling light. That leaves just one final section to squeeze in somewhere. The weather is not promising but hey ho.
Rhinogs Ramble21-04-2019Text1Well the weather held for a fantastic day out in the Rhinog mountains of mid-Wales. There are some seriously steep ascents here with equally steep descents coupled with a lack of footpaths over some of the peaks made for a tough day out. Three new peaks bagged and one revisited with over 1,700m of climbing in 25km.
Rhinogs20-04-2019Text1Looking forward to a day out on the Rhinog mountains tomorrow. If the weather holds it will be a great day out! Report to follow.
Cadair Idris19-04-2019Text1Fabulous Easter weather saw me climbing several peaks in the Cadair Idris area including an exciting ascent of Cadair itself via a narrow gulley at the far end of Llyn Cau. A quick trek out to Mynydd Moel for a new 'bag' then back via Cadair again and I followed the ridge line with amazing views of the Barmouth Estuary bagging two more peaks right down to Barmouth itself. Four peaks bagged, three of them new ones, 23km walked and 1,305m of ascent.
Mid-Wales17-04-2019Text1No sooner home than packing to go away again. This time to mid-Wales for a day out on Cader Idris, mid-Wales highest summit, then a day on the Arans which are a lovely group of mountains South West of Bala. Weather looks promising. Can't wait!
Helvellyn15-04-2019Photo2helvellyn.jpg
Lake District Weekend15-04-2019Text1Well, what an amazing weekend! The weather was incredible, the views from the tops just awesome and I managed to bag a few new peaks including Catstycam which is my new favourite mountain - why?, well, read the trip report and you'll find out! A few old friends also revisited. Over the weekend, 20 identified tops, 11 new peaks, 67km walked with a total ascent of 3,292m.
Lake District03-04-2019Text1Starting to think about my trip to the Lake District in a week or so. Got lots planned to do over the weekend and am staying an extra day as it is so far to drive (over 200 miles each way). Some new Peaks to add to my list and some old friends. Currently compiling the huge list of 'stuff' to take. Let's hope for good weather.
Three Choirs Part 230-03-2019Photo2threechoirs2.jpg
Three Choirs Part 230-03-2019Text1That's the second section of the Three Choirs Way completed. This time from Hereford to Worcester with an overnight camping in the garden at the very pleasant Pink Pub near Bromyard. Gammon and Chips to die for! Excellent weather both days. See the report in the Previous Expeds section.
Three Choirs26-03-2019Text1I'm getting very accomplished at packing my rucsac for a weekend trip now and can mostly dispense with my endless lists although I must confess to having a quick peek to make sure there's nothing I've forgotten. Normally I have one of those 'oh yeah' moments when I realise I've forgotten the tent!
Three Choirs Part 220-03-2019Text1Hot on the heels of Part 1, I'm now preparing for part 2 - Hereford to Worcester. A similar distance and similar terrain with a slightly revised kit list to try and make the pack a little lighter - difficult when it was already almost as light as it could be, but some creature comforts are being dispensed with (i.e. my favourite camping seat!).
Three Choirs Part 116-03-2019Photo2threechoirs1.jpg
Three Choirs Part 116-03-2019Text1Over Friday and Saturday I completed the first of the three sections of the Three Choirs Way. Electing to start at Gloucester, I walked to Hereford with an overnight stop around 18 miles in Much Marcle. Pleasant walking in nice countryside with good path markings. See the full report for all the details and photos.
Three Choirs12-03-2019Text1Plans are in place for the first leg of the Walk this coming weekend. Gloucester to Hereford is 30 miles over two days with a wild camp around the 15-18 mile mark. Hoping for reasonable weather, but at the moment it is looking unlikely!
Three Choirs Part 105-03-2019Text1No sooner am I back from one trip than I'm planning the next. This time it's Stage One of the Three Choirs Way from Gloucester to Hereford which promises to be a very pleasant walk. I'm intending to do it over two days with a wild camp half way. No big mountains but good training with a heavier sac.
Dovedale Update03-03-2019Text1I've updated the Dovedale Walk in the Previous Expeds section to reflect the changes and my experiences from the weekend. Take a look, it may inspire you to get out there and see it first hand.
Peak District Circular01-03-2019Text1An excellent day out in the Peak District. My walk started from Ilam Hall Youth Hostel - which is in National Trust grounds and well worth a visit in its own right. I crossed over to Dovedale and found the steepest ascent of Thorp Cloud possible - direct from the middle by the River. Not content with that, I descended and climbed again from the stepping stones. From there, along Dovedale to Milldale where, disappointingly the Coffee shop was closed. As a change to previous walks, I followed the path back along the Dove but on the opposite side until Raven Tor, then ascended the side and crossed over to Stanshope - a really nice climb up, excellent views of the Dale and quiet. From there to Wetton where I finally got my coffee in the pub. A short walk down to Thors Cave and an explore then I dropped down to the Manifold Valley and followed that until the bridge where there is another good pull up to meet a footpath which runs parallel with the river but several hundred feet higher. Finally dropping down again to enter the Ilam Country park and back to the YHA. Sixteen miles covered and 2,200 feet of ascent. An excellent day out by any standards. Coffee and Gingerbread at the NT cafe finished it nicely.
Peak District Weekend26-02-2019Text1Looking forward to another outing to the Peak District this weekend. Planning on staying at Ilam Hall Youth Hostel and walking Dovedale and back via the Manifold Valley. Probably my most favourite place in the world and somewhere I've been visiting almost all of my life.
Camera Clip and Cover Review19-02-2019Text1Keen on outdoor photography? Why not take a look at my Review page where I've just added a review of the Peak Design Camera Clip and Rain Cover.
Black Mountains Roundabout15-02-2019Text1I've always liked the Black Mountains and today was no exception. Clear blue sky and reasonable temperatures made for an excellent day out. The route took me from Crickhowell, over Table Mountain and Pen Allt Mawr to steeply drop down into the valley and a direct ascent of Waun Fach (the highest in the area) which gave me just over 1200' of direct ascent and several false summits, followed by a return route along the ridge and down to Llanbedr. A final couple of road miles back into Crickhowell were a little disappointing but other than that, a fine day out.
Black Mountains Report15-02-2019Text1A full report of my Black Mountains walk from Crickhowell to Waun Fach and back is on the Previous Expeditions page - check it out under the 'UK Wales' tab.
Planning, planning, planning10-02-2019Text1So, what to do on a weekend of no walking - answer, planning the next ones! Over this weekend I sorted out my routes for the Lake District weekend in April - Helvellyn area twice and Grasmere once, plus mid-Wales over Easter - Cadair Idris to Barmouth and a walk along the Arans Ridge. Plenty of new peaks to tick off in my Mountains Book - can't wait!
Return of the Three Peaks03-02-2019Text1This time I walked from Winchcombe over Cleeve Hill, Nottingham Hill and Overton Hill in reverse of Fridays outing. Much of the wonderful snow had gone with Cleeve Hill now showing patchy grass and Overton Hill all but clear of it. 16 miles this time.
Oxenton Hill01-02-2019Photo2oxentonhill.jpg
Cleeve Hill Summit01-02-2019Photo2cleevehill.jpg
Gloucestershire Three Peaks01-02-2019Text1A nice circuit from Tewkesbury following the Gloucestershire Way for a while until detouring to the summit of Oxenton Hill, then dropping down to pick up the Winchcombe Way over Nottingham Hill and Cleeve Hill. After locating the summit of Cleeve Hill in very wintery conditions which required my Black Diamond Gloves and new Fjallraven hat, I sought refuge in the Rising Sun for a welcome coffee before dropping down to Bishops Cleeve and returning via Stoke Orchard and Fiddington, retracing my steps on the Gloucestershire Way. 21 miles total distance with plenty of snow on the ground.
Full Calendar31-01-2019Text1Well, the 2019 calendar is filling up with lots of training weekends in preparation for my Elbrus trip in August. So far, I've pencilled in the 3-Choirs Way, a long weekend in the Lake District, another Peak District weekend, North Wales for the Welsh 3000s and Easter in mid-Wales, not to mention a few cycling events to help with the Cardio Vascular fitness.
Kinder Scout20-01-2019Photo2peaks2.jpg
Kinder Surprise20-01-2019Text1One of my favourite areas of the Peak District is Kinder Scout. It is bleak at times, beautiful at others and this weekend a combination of both with a good snowfall and low lying cloud made for an interesting day out. My start point was Castleton, climbing out through Cave Dale then across to Mam Tor and the great ridge down to Hollins Cross. From there I made my way to Edale and up Grindsbrook onto the plateau then across to Jacobs Ladder and back over the great ridge to Castleton again. Around 15-16 miles in total.

I was amazed how many people I came across who asked for directions, especially on Kinder and how many were clearly unprepared, wearing thin clothes, jeans and trainers. Kinder is serious, getting lost is easy and in those conditions, the consequences could be dire. Take a map and compass and know how to use them!
Peak Cycling19-01-2019Text1I’d intended to ride the High Peak Trail, cross over to the Monsal Trail and follow that back to Bakewell and a few road miles to Matlock. Climbing up to Black Rocks I encountered snow but pressed on in the hope it would clear. The next big climb up to Middleton Top was in even more snow and by the time I got to the top it was almost impassable so i abandoned, rode down to Matlock, then to Bakewell and rode the Monsal Trail out and back in muddy slushy snow then back to Matlock. Lots of rain, some light snow but 50 miles covered so happy with that.
Thorp Cloud18-01-2019Photo2peaks1.jpg
Dovedale dash18-01-2019Text1A rain free but cold day out in Dovedale hit the spot just nicely. I walked from Ashbourne picking up the River Dove at Mapleton and followed it to the Stepping Stones, then an ascent of Thorpe Cloud followed by a descent and a second ascent. Well I am training for a big mountain in August. From there through Thorpe and back along the Tissington trail.
Peak District10-01-2019Text1Looking forward to my first trip of 2019. Off to the Peak District in a week or so for a long weekend. Planning on some walking and some off-road cycling.
Malvern Extension27-12-2018Photo2gloucestershireway908.jpg
Gloucestershire Way - Malvern 27-12-2018Text1A warm December day out linking the Gloucestershire Way, Severn Way, Three Choirs Way and Worcestershire Way. 15 miles of Gloucestershire and Worcestershire walking with the Malvern Hills as a finale. Nice day out.
Brecon Beacons14-12-2018Photo2brecons20181214-1.jpg
Brecons14-12-2018Photo2brecons20181214-2.jpg
Cold Day on the Brecons14-12-2018Text1A very cold day out in the Brecon Beacons I climbed Fan Frynych (629m) before dropping down to cross the road and ascend Corn Du (873m) and onto Pen-y-Fan (886m). The forecast said -4 deg C, with the wind chill I reckon at least -10 deg C. So cold in fact, even taking a glove off for a few seconds made the hands really cold. I wore a thermal base layer, Stellar Mid-Layer, Stellar Down Jacket and yes, you guessed, a Stellar Windproof along with Rab winter gloves and my favourite Russian Hat, which, after many years service is going to be replaced as it is beginning to show its age.
2019 Expedition Booked07-12-2018Text1After weeks of agonising over trip choices, I signed up to climb Elbrus in August 2019. The highest Peak in Europe at 5,642m, located in Russia it will be a challenge but one I am looking forward to.
Brecons Beacons17-11-2018Photo2brecons.jpg
Brecons Day out17-11-2018Text1A day out in the Brecons is always a good day out, today the sun shone all day and the cloud cleared quickly. As usual I parked up at the Storey Arms and headed West up Fan Fawr, followed by Dringarth and Fan Nedd, returning via the Roman Road to Sarn Helen and an ascent of Fan Frynych before walking following parallel to the A470. 12 1/2 miles with 1100m of ascent.
Finally...04-11-2018Text1Finally flew out of Lukla this morning but not to Kathmandu, but a remote country airfield. Followed by a 5 hour bus journey which actually wasn't all that bad and we got to see rural Nepal.
Disaster!03-11-2018Text1We were supposed to fly back to Kathmandu today but the weather took a turn for the worse and all flights were cancelled so we had to have an extra night in the Lodge.
Phakding to Lukla02-11-2018Text1More easy walking bought us back to Lukla where we fly back to Kathmandu.
Khyamgjuma to Phakding01-11-2018Text1Via Namche Bazaar for some final souvenirs and a coffee and cake it was pretty much all downhill to Phakding and very easy walking.
Dingboche to Khyamgjuma31-10-2018Text1The trek passes through the Tengboche Monastery which is just beautiful and well worth the rather stiff climb to get to it. The cafe sold us cheese and tomato sandwiches which were a real treat. Just before we descended to the river again we could see Namche Bazaar and the Everest View Hotel in the distance.
Chukkung Ri and Dingboche Trek30-10-2018Text1The final peak at 5,546m was another tough one with only a few members of the group attempting it. About two hours up and an hour down saw some great celebrations on the top of our third Peak. The trek to Dingboche was easy, being mostly downhill.
Chukkung via the Kongma La29-10-2018Text1The Kongma La is hard! No question. I managed it but the legs were complaining most of the way. The start is over a glacier which is not too bad, but the path soon deteriorates into a bouldery scramble and ascents via some very small paths, often slippery. The summit is 5,528m.
Ascent of Kala Pattar28-10-2018Text1Almost outside the door is the start to Kala Patthar rising as it does to 5,643m. It takes a couple of hours to reach the summit and a further hour or so to return. From there we trekked back to Lobuche for a second night in the same accommodation.
Lobuche to Gorakshep27-10-2018Text1On the main Everest Base Camp trail the number of people increased dramatically. Gorakshep for lunch, which is a pretty small place, smaller than I thought but from here we visited the Everest Base Camp itself which is quite an undertaking to get to - I was pretty wasted and cold on the way back. EBC is quiet at this time of year for climbers but heaving with visitors.
Dzongla to Lobuche26-10-2018Text1After yesterday, it was a pretty tiring day so took it reasonably easy. No major objectives to overcome.
Cho La Pass25-10-2018Text1Dragnag to Dzongla is over the Cho La pass which is a real tough and long climb with a maximum altitude of 5,420m. An early start saw us walking in the dark for an hour or so. The sun never really shone on us, being masked by the surrounding mountains so it never really warmed up.
Gokyo Ri and Dragnag24-10-2018Text1Gokyo Ri stands at 5,357m and is quite a climb so we had an early start and saw the dawn come up over the mountains behind us. The trek to Dragnag across the Ngozumba Glacier was tough going but once across it eased to a nice walk down to the lodge.
Renjo La and to Gokyo Lake22-10-2018Text1Over the pass at 5,360m we descended to the beautiful Gokyo Lakes area. Beautiful views of Everest, Nuptse and Puomori from the top of the pass made the effort worthwhile.
Lungren to Renjo Lake21-10-2018Text1Short trek in the direction of the Renjo La put us in a good position to tackle the pass tomorrow. Our one and only camping night.
Thame to Lungren20-10-2018Text1Off the Everest route we trekked to the quiet hamlet of Lungren at 4,380m. Nice hamlet but only a few lodges and even fewer facilities, but great views!
Thame and our first Monastery18-10-2018Text1Trekking out to Thame, we had the opportunity to visit a Monastery - in my case, three times! Also gained an altitude of 4,300m
Namche Bazaar16-10-2018Text1Namche Bazaar is the stuff of legends! Featuring in many early mountaineering accounts, being there was awesome! We had a trek out to the Everest View Hotel which, as the name suggests, gave us excellent views of Sagmartha (Everest).
Trek to Phakding15-10-2018Text1After flying to Kathmandu and taking an internal flight to Lukla, we trekked out to Phakding which sits at an altitude of just over 2,800m. The adventure has begun.
Nepal T-409-10-2018Text1Only four days to go before I fly out to Kathmandu for the trip of a lifetime! Everything is packed and ready to go and well within the weight limit!
Malvern Hills day out30-09-2018Text1A change to the plan saw me walking from the Old Hills at Callow End to the Malvern Hills and the full length of the hills from North Hill to Chase End Hill. 14.5 miles total walking in five hours. All good with the boots, feet and legs so happy with the final training session before the big trip.
Final Training Day26-09-2018Text1Planning a day out in the Brecons this weekend as a final training day before going to Nepal. Thinking about the Western side on Fawr, Llia and maybe Dringarth or perhaps head back and take in Pen-y-Fan. Hoping the weather will be kind.
Kinder Scout new route09-09-2018Text1As part of the Jagged Globe training weekend, we had a walk up onto Kinder Scout from the Snake Pass. Interesting route along an old Drovers trail, then up pretty direct to the plateau. A new route for me, so most enjoyable. That's it now - countdown to Nepal! Only 33 days to go.
Dovedale dash07-09-2018Text1Nice day out from Ashbourne over to the river Dove then follow that to the head of Dovedale. Ascent of Thorpe Cloud, return via Thorpe and out to Swinscoe Hill and back to Ashbourne. About 11 miles.
Nepal Training Weekend30-08-2018Text1Looking forward to a training weekend in the Peak District with my future companions to Nepal. Planning to go up a day early for a cheeky day walking around Ashbourne or maybe Matlock.
Severn Way27-08-2018Photo2sourcellandiloes03.jpg
Severn Way - Done!27-08-2018Text1On a wet and windy day in Wales I made my way up to the source of the River Severn from the car park in Hafron Forest some 3 1/2 miles away, then began the 12 mile walk back down again and onto Llanidloes to the bridge that would be the end of the day and also the end of the 210 miles that is the entire way. It has been an epic walk and a labour of love over the last few years but it is done now and I'm looking for my next challenge.
Severn Way 25-08-2018Text1Today’s section from Llanidloes to Caersws was a lovely section of Welsh countryside with some awesome views but not of the Severn! That is seen at the start then not again until almost the end of the day. At just under 10 miles it’s not far and leaves me just 15 miles to finish the entire way which I’ll either do tomorrow or Monday.
New Reviews19-08-2018Text1See my review of the Telemark 2 lightweight tent on the Reviews page. Very pleased with it after a couple of days wild camping.
Gloucestershire Way18-08-2018Text1Chepstow to Gloucester over 2 1/2 days completes the entire way. See the full report on the Previous Expeds page. Next weekend I'm completing the Severn Way all being well, so looking forward to that.
Final Gloucestershire Way13-08-2018Text1Looking forward to a three day wild camping weekend to complete the Gloucestershire Way. I have 40 miles left from Chepstow to Gloucester to do. I've packed and repacked the gear several times but it still feels too heavy! Oh well, man up! The following weekend I'll be finishing the Severn Way but that's just 25 miles and I'll be staying in a hotel so quite a contrast.
Malvern Hills10-08-2018Photo2malverns.jpg
Upton to Callow End10-08-2018Text1Fully loaded, almost! The 10 mile walk from Upton to Callow End went as well as it could. There are a few uphill sections which made me notice the extra weight but nothing I couldn't deal with. My old 90 litre Lowe Alpine 'sac is still as comfortable as ever and swallowed the gear with room to spare. We'll see how I get on with three days of wild camping next weekend.
Full Pack test09-08-2018Text1Well, the rucsac is packed with most of the stuff I'm going to need for my camping trip next weekend so that tomorrow I can do a quick (or slow) 10 mile walk to see how it feels. I've put most of the things I'll be taking in apart from the food for three days so it should give me a good idea!
Malvern Hills20-07-2018Text1Great day out walking on the Malvern Hills. Welland to Upton is still a bit iffy - there must be a really good way of doing it! 16 miles done. The icing on the cake was chilling out at the Upton Blues Festival for the afternoon before being chauffered home. Why can't all walks be like that?
Malvern Hills19-07-2018Text1Looking forward to a cheeky walk on the Malvern Hills tomorrow. Get some steep stuff done as part of the Nepal build up which is now less than 100 days away!
Donnington Brewery06-07-2018Photo2stowtewkesbury04.jpg
Gloucestershire Way06-07-2018Text1It was a super hot day and a very long walk, but I completed the section from Stow to Tewkesbury so was well pleased with that. My legs were far from happy and the rest of the evening was spent feeling very sorry for myself. Total distance was 26 miles over nine hours.
Gloucestershire Way05-07-2018Text1Looking forward to another section of the excellent Gloucestershire way tomorrow. Something of an ambitious section from Stow on the Wold (my last finishing point) all the way to Tewkesbury which is 24.5 miles! I do have a bale out at Winchcombe which is 13 miles. Weather looks good so we'll see. Full report to follow.
Sneaky Snowdonia23-06-2018Text1Managed a sneaky afternoon climb of Crib Goch in glorious sunshine. A direct route out of Pen-y-Pass avoided the crowds to the foot of the climb but then I joined them. Luckily most were on the Miners or Pyg track so not too bad. Time limits meant I had to drop down before Crib-y-Dysgll which was a shame.
Gloucestershire Way22-06-2018Text1Another section of the Gloucestershire Way completed today. This time from Coberley to Stow on the Wold which was 18.5 miles and means I have now completed the Way from Gloucester to Stow. Full report on the Previous Expeditions page.
Lake District Trip07-05-2018Text1Three days of excellent walking in the Lake District with seven new peaks bagged and fantastic weather made for an awesome long weekends walking. See the full report on the 'Previous Expedition' page. Also see my review of the Stellar Equipment trousers recently purchased.
Lake District Weekend29-04-2018Text1Looking forward to a few days in the Lake District next weekend. Hopeful 'bags' include Helvellyn via Striding Edge, Scafell and Symonds Knot via Lords Rake and Crinkle Crags via Bowfell. Can't wait!
Black Mountains quickie14-04-2018Text1An ascent of Waun Fach from Cwmcadarn via an interesting scramble up a stream let to the summit ridge. Very steep in places and quite wet but a very rewarding route up. Along the ridge, then across to the Rhos Dirion ridge and back down. Short by my standards but a nice way to spend a sunny Saturday morning.
Cheeky morning04-04-2018Text1Cheeky morning walk planned in the Black Mountains in a couple of weeks whilst the other half has her Christmas present - a Pony Trek. Early May is the next big one with a trip to the Lake District Planned; Helvellyn, Scafell and hopefully Lords Rake are on the list as will be some others as I will be there for four days.
Carneddau Day Out01-04-2018Text1Starting out at the Northern end of the Carnedds initially following the North Wales path it was a steady climb to Drum, a new peak for me and a snowy one too. In fact snow would be a constant feature of the day. Luckily I wasn’t the first up here so could take advantage of a broken trail. From Drum onto the familiar peaks of Foel Fras, Garnedd Uchaf and Foel Grach and finally the big one; Llewellyn at 1064m. Four of the Welsh 3000s in about 13 miles of walking. Great day out!
Severn Way25-03-2018Text1Two excellent days in the Welsh Countryside walking the Severn Way. Day 1 was from Caersws to Welshpool covering about 22 miles and Day 2 from Welshpool to near Shrawardine at about 18 miles which now only leaves the first 25 miles or thereabouts to complete the entire way. Check out the full report on the Previous Expeds pages.
Severn Way18-03-2018Text1Looking forward to another section of the Severn Way next weekend. The plan is to camp at Caersws then walk to Welshpool on Day 1, then from there to Shrawardine on Day 2. That only leaves the first 25 miles or so to do to complete the entire route!
Gloucestershire Way17-03-2018Text1A cancelled bike event gave me the chance of a sneaky section of the Gloucestershire Way. All in the Forest of Dean, I walked from Parkend for about four and a quarter hours and back, covering just over 12 miles. Excellent section, very well waymarked so happy with that. Much better than the section I did last time.
Severn Way13-03-2018Text1Looking forward to another section of the Severn Way in a week or so. This time it's from Caersws to (near) Shrewsbury over two days. It's just under 40 miles which will then only leave the first 22-23 miles to the source and I will have completed the entire 210 miles.
Coberley to Gloucester09-03-2018Text1First stage of the Gloucestershire Way ticked off. It wasn't the start stage, but the first stage that I've done! It is an enjoyable walk, but suffers quite badly from poor signage and indistinct paths. I did it the 'wrong way' compared to the guide and I think it might be easier to navigate if done the correct way, but I lost the path several times and had to rely on my Ordnance Survey maps to relocate -
warning - take a full set! One useful tip - it follows the Severn Way, then the Glevum Way for a while, and also the Cotswold Way and even the Gustav Holst Way in places!
Gloucestershire Way08-03-2018Text1With the Severn Way almost finished, I've turned my attention to the next challenge; the Gloucestershire Way. Tomorrow I'll be walking the section from Crickley Hill to Gloucester which is around 14-15 miles.
Severn Way Walk09-02-2018Text1Oldbury on Severn to Severn Beach to finish the official way, then from there another 14 miles or so into Bristol City centre giving a total day of 22 miles! So now I've completed the route from about 10 miles West of Shrewsbury to the end. About 65 miles of the first section left to do with about 40 miles of that planned for the end of March - the entire route should be in the bag this year!
Severn Way04-02-2018Text1Next Friday I'll be chipping away at the Severn Way with another section from Oldbury on Severn to Bristol - a short 5 miles but an additional link of 10 miles into the City Centre.
Peak District Weekend28-01-2018Text1Three great days in the Mountains and trails of the Peak District. Day 1 was a 20 mile walk over the Great Ridge from Castleton to the far side of Kinder Scout and back. Day 2 the twin peaks of Win Hill and Lose Hill and Day 3 a Bike Ride along the Monsal Trail and High Peak Trail. See the full report in the Previous Expeds page - Peak District winter 2018.
Top Tip18-01-2018Text1Preparing my gear for the next trip, I realised I didn't have a map case. Now I really don't like carrying a map so usually wear trousers with a map pocket, but what if it rains? I started to look around for a suitable map case. What struck me was that they seem to be inflexible so won't fit in my pocket and can be quite pricey for a good one. Most of them come with a lanyard which can be hung around the neck. Back in the day I had one of those - they are the worst thing ever in the wind, you constantly fight with them and get battered in the face! Solution; I purchased a box of medium sized freezer bags. Folding the map right I can fit it in the bag, it has a good waterproof zip lock and for £2.50 for 10 only needs to last a few trips and I am well ahead. My box of 10 should easily last me a year!
Peak District Weekend08-01-2018Text1Another weekend planned in the Peak District. This time an ascent of Kinder Scout via the Edale Youth Hostel route and an ambitious trek across the plateau to Kinder Downfall and return. Then next day a route across the Great Ridge and around to Win Hill and back, then the final day a cycle ride along the Monsal Trail to check it out for a future group trip. Can't wait!
Peak District Weekend03-01-2018Text1So, this weekend I am off to the Peak District again to check out some routes onto Kinder Scout in preparation for leading a group there in November.
Black Mountains Loop31-12-2017Text1Llanthony Priory is an excellent starting point for a walk on the Black Mountains. There are toilets, free parking and a cafe - what more could you want? My New Years Eve route took me onto Hatterall Ridge which is actually Offas Dyke and the Welsh/English border. From here a good walk of about 2 1/2 hours to Hay Bluff, then across to Herefords Knob and return on the Darren Lwyd Ridge, dropping down into Capel-Y-Ffin for a short walk along the road before heading up again and following the line of Bal Mawr and back to Llanthony. About 16 miles and just over 5,000 feet of ascent. Weather was pretty awful but I got to test my waterproofs!
Malvern to Tewkesbury15-12-2017Text1A cheeky day off saw me catching a train to Malvern and walking to Tewkesbury via the Malvern Hills, which still had a good amount of snow, then over to Welland and a sneaky route to Upton via some doubtful paths and a disused railway line. From Upton, down to the River and along that to Tewkesbury. Eight hours, 24 miles!
Snowing!10-12-2017Text1Well, we had a big dump of snow today. Gear on and out for a walk! I dug out my old Rohan padded trousers and tried out the new Mountain Equipment waterproofs. All was good and I was toasty. I'm not ready to review the waterproofs just yet, I need some good rain to try them properly, but so far, so good.
Worcestershire Way05-12-2017Text1Just came across a report I wrote way back of my successful Worcestershire Way run. 36 miles in 8 hours - I was fit in those days! It's on the Expeditions Page under 'Long Distance Walks' - go take a look, it might inspire you!
Brecons Walk01-12-2017Text1Parked up at the Storey Arms. Beautiful clear day but with a bitingly cold wind. Four peaks bagged on the Western side and 16 miles walked. Didn't see a single person all day. Great day out and the bacon roll and coffee at the car park cafe finished the day off nicely!
Brecons Day out23-11-2017Text1Currently planning a cheeky day out to the Brecons in a week or so. Hoping for some rain so I can check out my new Mountain Equipment waterproofs - I doubt I will be disappointed!
Equipment Reviews20-11-2017Text1Slowly adding reviews of my favourite outdoor gear. Check it out and let me know what you think! I'm always looking for new stuff so if you have something you think is the business, contact me and let me know.
Peak District11-11-2017Text1A group of seven of us, led by me made an ascent of Kinder Scout using the Jacobs Ladder route to walk via the summit cairn and Red Brook to Kinder Downfall where we scattered my Uncle's ashes. It was an emotional trip, but in his memory, we all had a Mars Bar and shared a hip flask of JD. The weather was reasonably kind to us - no rain, but a strong very cold wind meant that layers stayed on.
Severn Way03-11-2017Text1A small section North of Worcester that I missed out on previously has now been walked (in both directions). I had a day to kill in Worcester waiting for a car service so took a cheeky walk out to Grimley and back. It is a lovely section and would make a great day out if arrival time at Grimley was around 12:30, lunch could be had at the Wagon Wheel. I got there at 10:00am!
Peak District28-10-2017Text1Only a couple of weeks to go until we are off to the Peak District again. Mixed emotions as it is a family trip to scatter my Uncles ashes. Be great to go walking with everyone again though.
Severn Way20-10-2017Text1You may have read that I am walking the Severn Way one stage at a time. There is a small section North of Worcester that remains unwalked but soon that will be rectified. I have a day in Worcester waiting for a car service so will be sneaking off to complete the section. Slight snag is that I need to walk it in both directions but as it is only 4 miles should not be a problem. Report to follow.
Website development12-10-2017Text1Well, the website is coming on. I've converted it to a 'responsive' site and updated all of the reports with photos and layout changes. I hope you like it! Feel free to read the pages and let me know if you spot any spelling mistakes, inaccuracies or anything else.
Peak District Trip - Sunday08-10-2017Text1An ascent of Mam Tor from the Edale valley and along the ridge to Hollins Cross and return. A good couple of hours in excellent weather.
Peak District Trip - Saturday07-10-2017Text1Up onto Kinder Scout again, this time via Jacobs Ladder to see how it compares to the Grindsbrook approach. This will be the ascent route in November! Another good day with just a little rain for the final hour.
Peak District Trip - Friday.06-10-2017Text1My trip to the Peak District was a great success. I walked up Grindsbrook from Edale to the top of Kinder Scout, then directly across to join the path that would lead me to the summit and onwards to Kinder Downfall. The weather was amazing and some great photos taken.
Success on Kilimanjaro25-09-2017Text1On Monday 25th September 17, along with eight others and our four guides, we successfully ascended to the summit of Kilimanjaro via the Western Breach.
AreaDateDistance(km)Max Alt(m)DetailsEdit
Atlas Mountains05-02-20259.04170Ascent of Mount Toubkal. Good packed snow. Steady but steep. Very cold on summit.
Atlas Mountains04-02-202510.53170Walk from Imlil up to the Refuge on Toubkal. Good path, good weather.
Atlas Mountains03-02-20256.52640Ascent of Tassrimoute Mountain from Imlil. Good steady walk up from Imlil village
Atlas Mountains02-02-20256.31938Easy walk around Imlil to the waterfalls.
Shropshire25-01-20252.5453Ascent of Heath Mynydd. Straight up and down. Nice day. Didn't bother with a rucsac!
Clwydian Hills23-01-202512.5511Foel Fenlli and Moel Gwy. Stormy start then intermittent showers and very cold.
Arenigs22-01-202511.0539Ascent of Mynydd Nodol, both a Marilyn and a Dewey. Weather was good, the paths were okay, but very thin on the major ascent.
Clwydian Mountains21-01-20254.5330Easy up and down of Hope Mountain. Weather was cool but dry. No problems
Clywidian Hills20-01-202518.0577Five peaks today, including two of them twice! Cwrn-y-Brain (565m), Moel y Fan (548m), Moel Morfydd (549m), Moel Gaer (504m) and Moel y Gamelin (577m). Weather was cool with a bit of light rain.
Mid Wales19-01-20256.5389Ascent of Mynydd Rhyd Ddu. Bit of a flight early on, then some very steep walking through the quarry, Still steep on open land but eases off towards summit. Good weather, no rain.
Mid Wales18-01-202510.5354Ascent of Caeliber Isaf (Marilyn). Many non-existent paths so longer than planned. Very steep on final ascent. Good Weather.
Shropshire18-01-20255.2358Good path up from Hopesay to Burrow, bit of a fight ion the woods but otherwise fine. Quite a demanding climb. Good weather, cold but dry.
South Wales02-01-20255.0382Ascent of Cefn Eglwsilan. Easy walk up, some road, then track and finally direct cross country to the summit. One hour there and back. Excellent day but cold.
South Wales02-01-20255.0504Ascent of Dolmen Fawr, a Dewey. Basically a long walk on a tinder track, then the final section directly up the hill. Excellent day but very cold.
South Wales02-01-20258.5377Ascent of Mynydd y Glyn from the Country park. Tough going up through the woods but eases off across the final fields to the summit. Excellent day but very cold.
Peak District30-11-20244.0551Quick ascent of Axe Edge Moor and Axe Edge. Rubbish visibility and wet. Path to Axe Edge Moor summit non-existent.
Peak District28-11-202417.0550Ascent of Back Tor (538m) and Howden Edge (550m) from the Ladybower Reservoir Car Park. Excellent weather but very cold. Reasonable paths apart from North side of the moor.
Lake District21-11-202417.0600Ascent of Whitfell (572m), Buck Barrow (550m) and Black Combe (600m). Very cold day but solid underfoot. Snowed for last 10 minutes!
Lancashire20-11-20246.0454Very steeply up onto ridge, then easy going to the summit. Very cold and lots of snow but excellent weather.
Lancashire19-11-20249.0518Ascent of Lad Law/Bouldsworth Hill. Very cold and lots of snow, but good weather and walking
Somerset30-10-202410.0315Ascent of Staple Hill from Castle Neroche car park. Good walking on forest trails. Dull and overcast but no rain.
Dorset28-10-202417.0279Hardown and Lewesdon Hills. Very muddy, wet and low cloud day! Glad I don't have to do it again
Dorset27-10-202411.050Corfe to Swanage following the Purbeck Way. Very good tracks, a bit muddy in places but overall very good.
Dorset27-10-202410.0200Corfe to Swanage via Nine Barrows Down. Excellent terrain and tracks as far as Nine Barrows Down. Muddy tracks from there to Swanage
South Wales10-09-202415.0370Some road walking, some good path, some fight. Dreadful weather on the second half.
South Wales10-09-20246.0272A combination of lanes, tracks and forest. Good weather overall, but quite windy.
Gloucestershire26-08-202426.0310The Isbourne Way from Evesham to Cleeve Hill. Nice dry sunny day. Easy going, but parts overgrown.
Chilterns06-08-202425.0267Ascent of Wendowver Woods and a section of the Ridgeway to Ivinghoe Beacon. Rained all day but reasnably firm underfoot.
Shropshire30-07-202410.0336Ascent of Callow Hill. Excellent weather and a good track right to the summit.
Lancashire26-07-20248.5477Ascent of Hail Storm Hill from Waterfoot. All good paths until the summit ridge. Dry today but would be nasty if wet. No rain and clear skies.
South Wales19-07-202415.0385From Rhymney Valley up Mynydd y Lan and back, then up Mynydd Machen and back. Super hot day, tough first hill through the woods, easier second.
Lambrigg Fell05-07-20243.0340Ascent of Lambrigg Fell from the quarry. Easy walking across fields on a path. Final direct ascent to summit was easy going. No rain!
Great Gable04-07-202416.0780Ascent of Pillar Rock via Scarth Gap. Rained most of the day, especially on the rock climb to the summit. Good tracks and paths.
Lake District03-07-20246.0254Ascent of Watch Hill. Parking at the bottom, good easy path to the summit. Some undulations at the end. Windy but no rain.
Lake District03-07-20244.5447Ascent of Binsey (447m), a Marilyn. Good easy path right to the summit. Damp in the air but no rain.
Lords Seat01-07-202413.5552Lords Seat (552m) and Swinside (244m) Marilyn Peaks. Rain all day.
Great Gable29-06-202423.0807From Buttermere, six peaks climbed: High Crag (744m), High Stile (807m), Dodd (641m), Red Pike (755m), Starling Dodd (633m), Great Borne (616m). The weather was rain and cold all day.
Cumbria28-06-20243.3274Ascent of Hutton Roof Crags. Easy walking on a good path through the woods right up to the top. A few spots of rain but nothing to worry about.
South Wales21-06-20248.5309Ascent of Wentwood near Usk. Easy walking in the forest although many of the marked paths did not exist. Excellent weather.
Leicestershire14-06-20247.5278Ascent of Bardon Hill via Birra Birra Hill. Nice walking but some path changes due to quarrying. Rained on the way down.
North Yorkshire11-06-202415.0260Ravenscar to Robin Hoods Bay out via the railway line and back via the Cleveland Way. Good weather but a little windy. Excellent paths
North Yorkshire Moors06-06-202415.0328Ascent of Guisborough Moor. Good weather, no rain but quite windy all day. Tracks were very good and the direct routes not difficult.
Lancashire05-06-20248.5557Good walk on good paths. Easy start but steep climb onto the plateau. Hailstorm and very cold wind.
Forest of Bowland04-06-20247.5544A good initial track soon disappeared into the ferns and undergrowth. Heavy rain all day and low cloud. Sense of humour failure!
Forest of Bowland04-06-202413.0396Good walking on farm fields then open land on a good track to the final summit. Weather was pretty shocking all day.
Forest of Bowland03-06-20249.6521Ascent of Fair Snape Hill. Good walking on farm tracks initially, then a good track up to the ridge and the summit. Easy walking down. Weather was cool but no rain.
Forest of Bowland03-06-20245.0350Easy ascent of Longridge Fell from the South. Followed a forest track for most, then an easy path up to the summit. Weather was cool but no rain.
Shropshire24-05-20246.2321Ascent of View Edge from Stokesay Castle. Reasonable paths until the final 400m which required a fence crossing and dubious track. Weather was fine.
Llyn Peninsula23-05-20245.5561Ascent of Yr Eifl. Rained the whole time. Visibility very poor. Reasonably good path up from the North side but very thin for the majority of the return journey on the South Side.
Llyn Peninsula22-05-20247.0279Ascent of Garn Boduan from Nefyn. Initially around the foot of the peak, then quite steeply up using forest tracks. Rained for the whole walk, zero visibility and very windy.
Llyn Peninsula22-05-20244.2263Ascent of Moel y Gest from Porthmadog. Very sketchy path up and very slippery down. Rained the whole time but a reasonable view on the summit.
Anglesey20-05-20242.0178Easy ascent of Mynydd Bodafan. Excellent weather, good view from the summit and a nice easy path.
Llyn Peninsula19-05-20242.5371Straight up ascent of Carn Fadryn. Took just 20 minutes to the summit. Excellent track and excellent weather.
Llyn Peninsula19-05-202414.5192Ascent of Mynydd Anelog on the far South West of the peninsula. The weather was superb and the walking easy enough for trainers.
Carneddol18-05-20242.0235Ascent of Carneddol. A steep, but short lived climb. Good terrain but zero view in the mist.
Llyn Peninsula18-05-20242.5304Good terrain, but zero view in the mist. Ascent of Mynydd Rhiw.
Shropshire17-05-20245.0375Easy walk up High Vinnalls on good forest tracks. Good weather and good views.
Forest of Bowland10-05-202411.0563Ascent of Wards Stone from Jubilee Tower. Straight up and down on a reasonable gradient and fairly firm underfoot. Nice sunny day.
Northumberland09-05-202413.0603Ascent of Peel Fell (602m), Mid Fell (561m), then Deadwater Fell (571m). Initially tough ontp Peel, then pretty straightforward on good paths and tracks.
Northumberland08-05-202410.0441Ascent of Tosson Hill (441m) from the Tosson Lime Kiln Car Park. Good walking on mostly good terrain. The final summit plateau was a little boggy but better than previous days.
Cheviots08-05-20243.5501Ascent of Shillhope Law (501m) from Wedder Leap Car Park. Straight up and down. Good weather.
Cheviots07-05-202416.5814Final three peaks: The Cheviot, Comb Fell and Hedgehope Hill. Weather was dry, going was very wet and muddy and views were non-existent!
Cheviots06-05-202421.0616Bloodybush Edge (610m) and Cushat Law (616m). Rain early on, but that cleared to a mixed day of some sunshine and some overcast. Mixed terrain, some decent footpath, some wet, thin tracks.
Cross Fell05-05-202414.0745Ascent of Little Fell. No rain, but the cloud base was down to 1,000 feet or less so poor visibility and damp conditions all day.
Cross Fell04-05-202421.3788Ascent of Mickle Fell. Very overcast day with some light rain but nothing requiring waterproofs other than a thin one as a windstopper. Easy track up and a nice grassy track to the summit.
Yorkshire Dales03-05-202413.0556Ascent of Aye Gill Pike from Dent. Good steady ascent but gets steeper just before the top ridge.
Lancashire02-05-202410.0456Ascent of Winter Hill (Marilyn) via Rivington Pike. Excellent weather but very windy on the summit.
Brecon Beacons23-04-202421.0578Parked in Blenavon. Ascent of Coety Mountain, then down to Blenau and ascent of Mynydd Carn-y-cefn. Returned via same route but bypassed Coety.
Black Mountains09-04-202410.0384Mixture of fields, road, track and steep climb. All good. Weather was very mixed.
Black Mountains09-04-20244.0292Easy forest track to within 50m of summit, then a fight through the brambles. Fifty minute round trip.
Herefordshire02-04-20243.0391Easy walk up from the Golf Course car park. Nicer and easy but rained on the way down.
Rhayader02-04-202414.0451Parked on the A481 mid way between the Carneddau and Aberedw Hill. Both climbs are steep, especially Aberedw. Good walking on open ground. Good weather.
Herefordshire02-04-20242.5415Parked on crossroads in the middle of the Begwyns. Easy walk up to the tree circle and trig point. Good weather but wet underfoot.
Herefordshire21-03-20244.5244Attempt at Seager hill. 2/3 of the way up, encountered private land so had to abandon.
Herefordshire21-03-20242.0272Ascent of Seager Hill from the North side. Steady ascent on good tracks.
Herefordshire21-03-20244.0294Ascent of Burton Hill. Initially on a good track, but then a muddy scramble followed by woodland to the summit.
Herefordshire21-03-20246.3255Ascent of Hegdon Hill from Pencombe. Good bridleway all the way to the summit. Easy going.
Black Mountains14-03-20248.2423Ascent of Graig Syfyrddin from Grosmont. A long climb, initially on very muddy and wet ground, then a pleasant walk through the woods, but a final open field walk up to the summit was very cold and very wet.
Herefordshire14-03-20243.2366Ascent of Garway Hill from Garway Church. Good walking through the woods. Exposed on to but there is a good shelter from the wind on top.
Herefordshire14-03-20243.2276Ascent of Aconbury Hill from Kings Thorn. Damp and cold day but easy walking. Muddy in places.
Burnhope Seat04-03-20247.0703Despite the short distance, being snow covered, the going was tough. Weather was excellent if a little cold on the summits.
Cross Fell03-03-202413.0624Ascent of Long Fell and Tinside Rigg from Murton. Good walk up but lots of snow on the summit areas. Good weather, but cold
Cross Fell03-03-20249.5675Ascent of Murton Fell from Murton. Almost white out on the summit area. Lots of snow on the ground made progress difficult.
Scotland01-03-20248.51221Ascent of Aonach Mor from the upper Ski lift. Warm day with some breeze from time to time. Fabulous views all around, especially to Ben Nevis.
Scotland29-02-20249.01108Ascent of Meall a Bhuiridh from the Glen Coe Ski centre. First section was up a tarmac road, then we loosely followed the ski lift and finally a steep ascent onto the summit. Very windy with a lot of snow being blown around but not actually wet.
Scotland28-02-20249.2825Walk up from Glen Nevis to Stob Ban. Long steadfy ascent with few really steep parts. Rained on and off all day but not cold.
Scotland27-02-20245.5925Ascent of Stob Coire Raineach from Glen Coe. Very windy and cold. Some rain later on during the day but the summit was clear and the views amazing.
Scotland26-02-20248.61115Ascent of Stob Coire nan Lochan from the Glen Coe road. Ice axes and crampons were used. Weather was excellent.
Black Fell25-02-20249.0621Ascent of Cold Fell from the RSPB car park. Excellent day, excellent weather and a good path until the final summit area.
Burnhope Seat23-02-20247.4659Good weather. Initial road section, then off road on boggy ground to the summit. an out and back route
Cross Fell23-02-20247.2619Easy first section from the road up a track, then across open heathery moorland. Reasonable weather, rained for the last 10 minutes
Black Mountains16-02-202420.0515Ascent of Mynydd Llangorse and Atty yr Esgair, a Marilyn. Good weather but extremely wet and muddy underfoot.
Worcestershire22-01-202415.5303From Great Comberton following the Wychavon Way to the summit of Bredon Hill. Down to Emley Castle and then back up to the summit and back to Comberton.
Gloucestershire15-01-202414.0337A tour of Cleeve Hill out to Belas Knapp via the Winchcombe Way and return via the Cotswold Way. Good weather but windy.
Forest of Dean16-12-202313.0290Ascent of Ruardean Hill (Marilyn), the highest peak in the Forest of Dean from Speech House. Good weather, but very muddy in places.
Shropshire02-12-202330.0407Following the Shropshire Way from about five miles from Wellington to Ironbridge including an ascent of The Wrekin. A great day out, very cold at times, but clear and no rain. Walking was good, the paths fine and the signage excellent. Another section and a half completed.
Lake District30-11-202315.0785The final nine peaks of Great Gable. Allen Crags (785m), High House Tarn (684m), Red Beck Top (721m), Looking Steads (775m), Glaramara (783m), Combe Head (735m), Combe Door (676m), Dovenest Top (637m), Rosthwaite Cam (612m). Excellent day, vold, but clear and dry.
Lake District29-11-202312.5653Ascent of Harter Fell from Seathwaite. Weather was superb, very cold, but dry. Going was okay, mostly solid but a few melted wet areas.
Staffordshire20-11-20236.0343Ascent of The Cloud, a Marilyn Peak. Fairly easy walking but cloud base too low for any views.
Peak District19-11-202312.0224From Millers Dale along the Monsal Trail to Bakewell. Pleasant easy walking but the weather was somewhat inclement.
Peak District17-11-202310.5209Out and back along Dovedale from Ilam. Weather was good but the fields were very muddy. Dale itself was fine.
Peak District16-11-202318.5395Out and back from Cromford to Harboro Rocks along the High Peak Trail. Weather was dull but no rain or wind so an improvement.
Peak District15-11-202317.0569Parked at Barber Booth lower car park and followed the route up to Jacobs Ladder. At the top, left to Brown Knoll (569m) then across to Lords Seat (540m). From there down to the base of Mam Tor, down to Edale and Pennine Way back to car. Weather was dreadful!
Peak District14-11-202315.5559A walk in the Goyt Valley, ascending Shining Tor (559m), a Marilyn and Cats Tor (519m).n good paths. Weather was mixed with low cloud on the summits and some rain.
Peak District13-11-202314.5505A circular walk, starting with the Roaches (505m), then out to Gun (385m) which is a Marilyn peak. Weather was very windy (Storm Debi) but dry, although it was very wet and muddy underfoot.
Hampshire10-11-20234.5270From the Queen Elizabeth Country park pretty much straight up to the summit trig point and return. Nice day, but a very cold wind.
South Downs09-11-20234.5240A pleasant walk to Chanctonbury Ring following the South Downs Way out and back. Very cold and windy but pleasant walking.
Sussex09-11-20236.0280A lovely walk through the woods to the summit of Black Down Hill, then onto the Temple of the Winds, which was in fact just a viewpoint at the end of the ridge. Nice walk, weather was fine but cold.
Berkshire09-11-20234.0297Scenic route around Walbury Hill. The hill is actually on private land. Weather was okay, but a cold wind.
Yorkshire28-09-202318.0108Final leg of the Cleveland Way from Scarborough to Filey and then a mile and a half south. Good days walking, mostly flat with a few climbs down to and up from beaches. Good weather, stayed dry all day.
Yorkshire24-09-202318.0266Goathland circular walk out to Simon Howe, then follwed Lyke Wake walk past Wheeldale Lodge and onto Pike Hill Moss then back to Goathland via Beck Hole.
Yorkshire23-09-202318.5126Flamborough Head to just South of Filey. Very pleasant walk on a mostly good path following the cliffs until dropping steeply down onto the beach for the last 1 1/2 miles. Good weather with a little drizzle.
Turkey (Mount Ararat)09-09-20235.23200Camp 1 to the trail head. Steady descent on the same slippery dusty scree. Excellent weather with about 30 seconds of rain!
Turkey (Mount Ararat)08-09-20232.85137Descent from Summit to Camp 1. Good weather but a little chilly.
Turkey (Mount Ararat)08-09-202310.55137Summit Day. Steep unrelenting climbing terminating in a glacier requiring crampons. Started cold and got colder. Weather was good but cold all day. Returned to Camp 2.
Turkey (Mount Ararat)07-09-20237.34200Camp 1 to Camp 2. Steep very slippery dusty tracks. Excellent weather.
Turkey (Mount Ararat)06-09-20238.03200Trail head to Camp 1. Good walking initially then steeply up on dusty slippery zig-zag scree tracks. Excellent weather.
Turkey (Mount Artos)04-09-202311.63550Ascent of Mount Artos. Super hot day. Good walking on trails then over steep rough scrub onto the final ridge.
Carneddau18-08-202311.0546Ascent of Moel Eilio from Dolgarrog. Steep ascent through the forest and pathless ascent to the summit. Good weather but very windy at the top.
Carneddau17-08-202312.0770Ascent of Tal y Fan (610m), Foel Lwyd (603m), Carnedd y Ddelw (688m), Y Drum (770m), Pen y Castell (623m) to complete the Welsh Nuttalls. Good weather but very windy. Mostly on good paths.
Carneddau16-08-202323.0833Ascent of Craig Eigiau (735m), Pen Yr Helgi Du (833m), Pen Llithrig-y-wrach (799m), Craiglwyn (623m), Craigiau Gleison (678m), Pen Cowlyd (634m). Excellent weather. Very heavy going underfoot due to few paths.
Carneddau15-08-202315.0800Ascent of Gyrn Wigau(643m) then Foel Meirch(800m). Rained all morning then okay but dull in the afternoon.
Shropshire12-08-202336.0405Stages 5 (Ludlow to Craven Arms) and 4 (Craven Arms to Clun) of the Shropshire Way. Weather was okay but showery, good paths and good signposting.
Gloucestershire22-07-202322.069Twigworth on Gloucestershire Way to the River Severn, then Severn Way to Deerhurst and Cross Country to Tewkesbury. Heavy rain all day.
Helvellyn15-07-202315.5718Ascent of Birkhouse Moor (718) via Mires Beck, then to Red Tarn and over to Sheffield Pike (675m). Weather was dreadful but the paths good.
Cross Fell14-07-202314.5709Melmerby Fell (709m) and Fiends Fell (634m). Mixed weather, mixed terrain, but good views.
Cross Fell14-07-20239.0649Bellbeaver Rigg (620m) and Viewing Hill (649m). Dull day but not much rain. Pathless and boggy all day.
Cross Fell13-07-202321.5686Bullman Hills (610m), Long Man Hill (658m) and Round Hill (686m). Excellent weather and good visibility. Paths were very good, but there was some cross country.
Black Fell12-07-20237.0610Thack Moor (Renwick Fell) from Renwick. Good path steepens towards the end. Dreadful weather.
Burnhope Seat12-07-202312.5673The Dodd (614m) and Killhope Law (673m). Dreadful weather and no real footpaths made for a tough day out.
Burnhope Seat11-07-202324.0747Dead Stones (710m), Burnhope Seat (747m), Redgleam (718m), High Field (708m), Three Pikes (651m). Showery day but good visibility. Tough going with few paths.
Burnhope Seat11-07-20232.0614A quick ascent of Flinty Fell (614m). 30 minutes round trip from the car.
High Street10-07-202320.0763Place Fell (657m), Gray Crag (710m), Stony Cove Pike (763m), Hartsop Dodd (618m) from Hartsop. Dry in the morning, increasingly wet in the afternoon but I just got away without getting soaked! Good paths for most of the walk.
Howgills23-06-202311.0260An easy walk along the River Rawthey to Cautley Spout and back. Weather was good, a little windy but no rain.
Great Shunner Fell22-06-202318.0672Rogans Seat (672m) and Water Crag (668m) on a fine day walking out and back from Keld. Perfect conditions and great paths.
Ingleborough21-06-202312.5668Ascent of Dodd Fell Hill (668m) and Drumaldrace (614m). Good weather all day but a little windy.
High Street19-06-202316.0713Ascent of Branstree (713m), Tarn Crag (664m), Grey Crag (638m), Harrop Pike (637m), Nowtli Hill (673m), Selside Pike (655m) from Haweswater. Rainy start but brightened up later. Some good paths, others were cross country.
Black Fell19-05-202317.0664Black Fell (664m), Tom Smiths Stone Top (637m), Grey Nag (656m) from Gilderdale Bridge. Superb weather but tough going with no paths and difficult terrain.
Scafell18-05-202319.0910Nine peaks from Wasdale; Lingmell (800m), Middleboot Knots (703m), Round How (741m), Great End (910m), Esk Pike (885m), Seathwaite Fell South Top (631m), Seathwaite Fell (632m).

Good weather but a very cold wind all day.
Great Gable17-05-202323.0797Five peaks from Wasdale YHA; Seatallan(692m), Haycock(797), Little Gowder Crag(733m), Caw Fell(690m), Iron Crag(640m). Glorious weather and excellent visibility.
Great Gable16-05-202318.0892Eight peaks out and back from Wasdale Head; Yewbarrow(628m), Stirrup Crag (616m), Red Pike (826m), Little Scoat Fell (841m), Steeple (819m), Black Crag (828m), Pillar (892m), Looking Stead (627m). Mixed weather but on the whole good.
Scafell15-05-202322.0902From Langdale, ascent of Pike of Blisco (705m), Cold Pike (701m), Cold Pike West Top (683m), Cold Pike Far West Top (670m), Great Knott (696m), [Bow Fell (902m)], Bow Fell North Top (866m), Rossett Pike (651m), Loft Crag (680m). Excellent weather all day apart from about five minutes of rain.
Great Shunner14-05-202317.0709Four Peaks; Sails(667m), Hugh Seat (689m), Gregory Chapel (695m), High Seat(709m). Fairly good going, some wet and boggy sections. Weather was dull and overcast most of the day, but not cold.
Peak District13-05-202311.0422Walk from the Fox House near Hathersage around the moors near Burbage. Easy walk, weather was superb.
Peak District13-05-20237.0458Walk up to Stanage Edge and along to High Neb and back. Glorious weather.
High Street06-05-202314.0802From Hartsop to Howtown via five peaks; Rest Dodd (696m), Rampsgill Head (792m), High Raise (802m), Wether Hill (670m), Loadpot Hill (671m). Even better weather with good views all day.
High Street05-05-202325.0828From Troutbeck to Kentmere via 8 peaks; Yoke (706m), Ill Bell (757m), Froswick (720m), Thornythwaite Crag (784m), High Street (828m), Rough Crag (628m), Harter Fell (778m), Kentmere Pike (730m). Good weather, cloudy in the morning but brighter in the afternoon.
Burnhope Seat15-04-20232.5612A quick walk up from the car park only gains around 40m of altitude but it was a boggy, pathless ascent so actually not so straightforward.
Hadrians Wall14-04-202324.039A long tarmac walk into and out of Newcastle and on to the finish at Segedunum, then the extension to Arbeia in South Shields. Dull walking with no views.
Hadrians Wall13-04-202326.0214Followed the road more or less from Portgate to Heldon, then down to the river for the final section into Newcastle. Pretty dull walking with nothing of interest.
Hadrians Wall12-04-202330.0331Steel Rigg to Portgate. The day started with snow and the afternoon rained, the rest of the day was just cold. Interesting first half but pretty dull second half.
Hadrians Wall10-04-202318.0339Birdoswald to Steel Rigg. Starting to get a little harder walking now with lots of undulations. The weather has deteriorated as well with rain showers all day making it a much harder day all round. Lots of wall to see which was good.
Hadrians Wall09-04-202329.0168Carlisle to Birdoswald. Easy walking, good weather but breezy. Not so much tarmac today and also the first glimpse of the wall.
Hadrians Wall08-04-202324.031Bowness to Carlisle. Easy walking, good weather but breezy. Lots of tarmac which is disappointing.
Great Shunner Group07-04-20235.0640Just one hour and ten minutes for the final peak in the Howgills (Fell Head). A glorious day with views over the Lake District and to the coast, plus the entire Howgills range made the steep ascent well worth it
Calf Top16-03-202312.0610Ascent of Calf Top from Barbon. More or less straight up to Castle Knott then across a boggy moor to the final ascent. Weather was dreadful.
Clough Head16-03-20238.5726Ascent of Clough Head from just South of Threlkeld via White Pike. Weather was dreadful, no view.
Scafell15-03-202315.0669Walk up Grains Gill from Borrowdale to Sprinkings Tarn and back. Weather was okay, but it was a white-out at the top so I retreated.
Glaramara14-03-202315.0519Another attempt on Glaramara, this time via Coombe Head. The walk in was fine, but a snowstorm put paid to any ascent. Returned and walked up Honister Pass.
Scafell13-03-202319.8726Coldbarrow Fell (656m) also Low Saddle, Ullscarf (726m). Dreadful weather with driving rain and wind. Very wet underfoot. No visibility.
Great Shunner Group12-03-202316.7676Howgill fells Yarlside (639m), RandyGill Top (624m), Bush Howe (623m), The Calf (676m), Bram Rigg Top (672m), Calders (674m). Tough day out, weather was rubbish with no views all day.
Ingleborough11-02-20234.0672Parking is along a lane within 2km of the summit of Great Knoutberry Hill(672m). Along the lane, turn left and straight up. Cloudy day and wet underfoot but not raining.
Great Shunner Fell11-02-20233.0675An easy ascent of Lovely Seat (675m) from the Buttertubs Pass. Straight up and down, although the summit is out of sight until the first ridge is gained. Cloudy on the top.
Ingleborough09-02-202321.0642Birks Fell(610m), Yockenthwaite Moor(643m).

Very windy and cold, but dry. Tough going on the tops of both, no path on the first and a thin track on the second.
Ingleborough 08-02-202322.0694Pen y Gent(694m), Plover Hill(680m), Darnbrook Fell(624m), Fountains Fell South Top(662m), Fountains Fell South Top(662m).

Great weather, initially a bit misty but that blew away and we had a clear but windy and cold day.
Ingleborough07-02-202321.0704Great Whernside (704m), Buckden Pike (702m).

Cloudy from about 1500 feet so no views. Very windy and quite cold. Good paths all the way.
Great Shunner Fell06-02-202327.0708Wild Boar Fell (708m, Swarth Fell (681m), Baugh Fell [Tarn Rigg Hill] (678m), Knoutberry Haw (676m).
Very tough day out with no paths. Weather was okay but it was very cloudy in the afternoon.
Lake District07-11-202214.0621From Ulpha side up to Walna Scar again and the final peak of White Maiden. Awful weather, heavy rain all day and no views!
Lake District06-11-202223.0803Coniston Loop, all bar White Maiden. Weather was awful all day with no let up in the rain. No views and 10-20m visibility all day.
Lake District05-11-202218.0873From Rydal near Ambleside to the Kirkston Pass. Seven peaks conquered. Weather was awful in the morning but cleared up in the afternoon. Finished after dark. Just under six hours of walking
Arans22-10-202210.0689Foel Hafod-fynydd via Llechwedd Du. Tough going over Llechwedd and a huge drop down to a valley and then another huge climb to the summit. Return was the reverse. Rained for the first hour, then overcast.
Derbyshire19-10-202217.6633From Glossop up to Bleaklow head via Cock Hill, then across to Higher Shelf Stones and return to Glossop via the Doctors Gate. Excellent route on good paths with not too much in the way of bog. Good weather but very windy.
Devon06-10-202220.0330Watersmeet to the coast and a section of the Coast Path into Lynmouth. Tough going with over 1,000m of ascent. Excellent day and excellent weather.
Devon03-10-202225.0621Ascent of High Willhays followed by a roundabout including Digger Tor, Okemont Hill, Hanginstone Hill and back to Yes Tor. Excellent day out with ideal walking conditions.
Devon02-10-202222.0316Part of the South West Coast Path from Lynmouth to Combe Martin. A tough but pleasant and easy to follow walk with over 1,100m of climbing despite the highest point (Great Hangman Hill) being just 316m high!
Gloucestershire20-09-202224.0327One of my favourite local walks from Winchcombe to Tewkesbury over Cleeve Hill, Nottingham Hill and Overton Hill. Just under five hours of walking, accompanied by my faithful Collie Rosie who probably did double and still wanted to play at the end!
Glyders01-09-20229.0805From the A5 ascent of Y Foel-goch (805m) and Gallt y Ogof (763) via the East side of Tryfan, returning directly. Excellent weather.
Whernside (Yorkshire)04-08-202218.7736Parked near Yordas Cave. Ascent of Gragareth, Green Hill and Great Coum, then crossed the valley for an ascent of Whernside. Great weather all day.
Ingleborough (Yorkshire)03-08-202217.6723An ascent of Ingleborough from Clapham. Nice walk in past Gaping Ghyll and onto the summit which was in mist. Descent and over to Simon Fell, then back to Clapham via Long Lane.
New Forest23-07-202214.097Walk from Frogham to Bransgore. Mostly flat easy path walking. Tricky navigation as there are dozens of paths and very few obvious features. Very sunny and dry.
Arenigs23-06-20227.5611Ascent of Foel Goch (2,004'). Easy walking on good paths. Excellent weather.
Rhinogs23-06-20229.6612Ascent of Foel Penolau (2,014') and Moel Ysgyfarnogod (2,043') starting at the end of a very narrow track, the ascent was straightforward on mostly good tracks apart from the final ascent to the summit. Penolau seems impossible to complete as it is a wall of rock but there are breaks at the far side. Ysgyfarnogod is an easy walk over. Very hot day with no cloud so route finding was simple.
Rhinogs22-06-20229.5618Ascent of Y Garn (2,063’) from the A470 through the National Trust land past the Falls and the Goldmines. Pleasant walking on paths all but the final summit section.
Moelwyns22-06-202216.0657Completing the Moelwyns with ascents of Moel Penanmen (2,014’), Manod Mawr North Top (2,158’) and Manod Mawr (2,168’). Not such a hot day as yesterday but still quite warm. Good walking but tricky between the Manods as there is a huge quarry in the way!
Moelwyns21-06-202219.5723A super hot day saw ascents of Craigysgafn (2,260) then Ysgafell Wen (2,204’), Ysgafell Wen North Top (2,194’) and Ysgafell Far North Top (2,132’). I had other planned but it was too hot and this group had already been 19km. Tricky route finding with few real paths.
Berwyns20-06-20228.0660Ascent of Post Gwyn (2,181’) to complete the Berwyns. Nice climb but very limited paths after about half way. Superb weather.
Arenigs20-06-202219.0727Ascent of Rhobell Fawr (2,408’) and Dduallt (2,165’). Great weather and good paths. Rhobell Fawr was the best ascent of the day.
Berwyns11-06-202216.5667Cyrniau Nod (2,188') and Cefn Gwyntog (2,017') climbed. Mixed weather with some strong wind and rain, but good visibility. The going is tough in this area with few paths once the main track is left.
Gloucestershire27-05-202223.030Tewkesbury to Mythe Bridge, then to Haw Bridge and return via Deerhurst. Excellent weather but the path is getting overgrown now.
Lake District18-05-202219.0899Nine peaks conquered including one of the highest in the Lake District; Great Gable at a towering 899m. The full list is; Grey Knotts (697m), Brandreth (715m), Base Brown (646m), Green Gable (801m), Great Gable (899m), Kirk Fell East Top (787m), Kirk Fell (802m), Fleetwith Pike (648m), Honister Crag (630m). The weather held out, but was incredibly windy in the morning.
Lake District16-05-202217.0753Five new peaks bagged in the Buttermere region which completes that section. They were; Robinson (737m), Hindscarth (727m), Dale Head (753m), High Spy (653m) and Blea Crag (634m). Cloud on Robinson cleared to give a great day for the remainder.
Lake District15-05-20228.6845Ascent of Atkinson Pike via Sharp Edge followed by the new peak of the day; Bannerdale Crags (683m). Excellent weather and a great morning out.
Lake District14-05-202211.0791Five new peaks in the Buttermere group; Whiteside (707m), Whiteside East (719m), Ladyside Pike (703m), Grisedale Pike (791m) and Hobcarton End (634m) plus repeats of Hopegill Head (770m) and Hobcarton Crag (739m). Great weather and great views. Just over 3 1/2 hours of walking.
Cadair Idris06-05-202212.4678Maesglase(675m) from Dinas Mawddwy. Low cloud and rain all day
Cadair Idris05-05-202225.0893Craig y Llyn (622m), Tyrrau Mawr (661m), Cadair Idris (893m) from Abergynolwyn. Excellent day with no cloud and fantastic views. Ascent via Pony Path to Cadair, descent direct to Llyn Cau.
Cadair Idris04-05-202222.6667Tarrenhendre (634m), Tarren y Gesail (667m) from Abergynolwyn. Very poor day. Cloud and rain all day. Cloud base down to less than 2,000'
Arenigs03-05-20222.5619Foel Boeth (616m), Gallt y Daren (619m) easy ascent from the road below. Forty minute round trip. Good weather, sun shining.
Arenigs03-05-202221.5685Waun Garnedd y Filiast (650m), Carnedd y Filiast (669m), Carnedd Llechwedd-llyfn (643m), Arenig Fach (689m). Weather was okay, dull and overcast but no rain.
Gloucestershire20-04-202221.0243Final day from Bisley to Kemble. Easy walking with no real hills or views. Pleasant walking along the old canals. The finish is a bit of an antil-climax to be honest.
Gloucestershire19-04-202221.0273Wysis Way Day 3. Gloucester to Bisley via Robinswood Hill. Very pleasant walking through the undulating Gloucestershire countryside. Weather was okay but overcast.
Gloucestershire18-04-202223.0299Wysis Way Day 2. Mitcheldean to Gloucester via May Hill. More good ascents, not high but steep. Great walking and good weather.
Gloucestershire17-04-202228.0273Wysis Way Day 1: Monmouth to Mitcheldean. Good climbs and great walking in the Forest of Dean. Weather was superb.
Gloucestershire31-03-202216.0268Final section of St Kenelms Way from Dumbleton to Winchcombe. Only one real hill on the whole walk which is the Salt Way above Winchcombe. Nice day but very cold and had a snow flurry at one point.
Gloucestershire10-03-202224.0329Teskesbury to Winchcombe along the Gloucestershire Way, the Winchcombe Way and finally the Cotswold Way over Nottingham Hill, Cleeve Hill and Belas Knapp.
Glyders02-03-202221.0947Four peaks in the Glyders plus Y Garn repeat. Walked from Idwal Cottage via Llyn Idwal. Very steep long ascent of Y Garn. Ridge not too bad but weather was awful. Strong wind and rain all day with no view. Final descent is long and thin firstly North, then back along the valley high up before a tricky slippery descent to the old slate road and back to the YHA.
Moel Hebog01-03-202223.0727Nantlle Ridge from Rhydd Ddu and back. Seven peaks with the final peak being some distance on from the ridge. Return is tricky requiring a descent into the valley and then out again through the old slate quarry and forest. Excellent weather with fantastic views.
Berwyn28-02-202220.5627Two more 2000' peaks for the collection plus a 500m peak; Moel Fferna (630m), Pen Bwlch Llandrillo Top (621m), Moel yr Henfaes (584m). Weather was not good with rain most of the day. Visibility was pretty good.
Moel Hebog28-02-20229.0693Ascent of Mynydd Mawr from Rhydd Ddu. Late afternoon walk. Straightforward ascent but relentless. Weather was okay, some drizzle.
Peak District08-02-202213.8220Monsal Trail from Bakewell to the viaduct and back. Nice easy walking on a good trail.
Peak District07-02-20225.2443Exploring the Goyt Valley. Lots more to visit and will be worth a return visit. Excellent views and good paths.
Peak District07-02-20226.2424Exploring Buxton Park. Nice walking but quite limited.
Peak District06-02-202227.7302Hartington to Milldale, then across to the Manifold Valley via Wetton. Return to Hartington via Sheen. Dove was flooded in many places and out of the valley it was very windy.
Gloucestershire01-02-202222.830Tewkesbury down to Haw Bridge on Eastern side then return to Mythe Bridge and back. Good weather but very windy.
Gloucestershire23-01-202215.230Coombe Hill to Tewkesbury via Wildlife Sanctuary and River Severn.
Plynlimon15-01-202216.0752All Five 2,000' Peaks conquered in just 3 1/2 hours and were (in order); Y Garn(684m), Pen Pumlumon Fawr(752m), Pumlumon Fach(664m), Pen Pumlumon Llygad-bychan(727m) and Pen Pumlumon Arwystli(741m). The weather was kind, although the higher peaks were in mist most of the day.
Gloucestershire21-12-202124.7313From Tewkesbury to Winchcombe via the Gloucestershire Way and then the Winchcombe Way. Good weather all day but quite cold.
Gloucestershire28-11-202117.0268St Kenelms Way Part 4 from Dumbleton to Winchcombe. Nice easy walking with only one climb up the Salt Way near Winchcombe. Good weather, but very cold with ice and snow on the ground.
Snowdon26-11-202116.5723From Llanberis along the main ascent of Snowdon to the Halfway House, then contoured around to the saddle near Dur Arddu and directly up Moel Cynghorion (674m), then to Foel Goch (605m), up to Foel Gron (629m) and finally Moel Eilio (726m). Good visibility for most of the day (except on Eilio) but very strong winds all day.
Snowdon25-11-202120.5898From Pen y Pass YHA initially followed Miners Track, then direct across to ascend Gallt y Wenallt (619m) then onto the Horseshoe for Lliwedd Bach (818m), Y Lliwedd main summit (898m) and then over to Yr Aran (747m) and back via Nantgwnant and Llyn Gwynant along the valley footpath.
Moel Hebog24-11-202115.5783From Beddgelert to Moel Hebog (783m), Moel yr Ogof (655m) and Moel Lefn (638m). Poor conditions and low cloud.
Gloucestershire17-11-202122.029Circular walk from Tewkesbury to Mythe Bridge, down River Severn to Haw Bridge on Western side then return on Eastern side.
Rhayader15-11-20219.5610Ascent of Pen y Garn from The Arch near Cwmystwyth. Straightforward ascent via a forest track followed by a tough final half mile through deep heather and no path. Visibility non existent with low mist all day.
Rhayader15-11-202118.0645Ascent of Gorllwyn (613m) and Drygarn Fawr (645m) from the South end of Caban Coch reservoir. Poor conditions with low mist all day.
Cleeve Hill06-11-202113.0316Cleeve Hill Golf Club to Belas Knapp following the Cotswold Way and return along the Winchcombe Way via the summit of Cleeve Hill.
Peak District22-10-202111.0248Lathkill Dale and return from Monyash.
Peak District21-10-202125.0348Matlock via High Tor to the High Peak Trail. Up to Middleton Top then return via the Limestone Way and Bonsall.
Peak District20-10-202122.0317Ashbourne to Dovedale, along Dovedale and up to Ilam Tops, then return to Dovedale via Bunster Hill, Dovedale and back along the Tissington Trail to Ashbourne.
Lake District01-10-202120.0845Ten peaks bagged in the Buttermere area; Whiteless Pike (660m), Wandope (772m), Grassmoor (852m), Sand Hill (756m), Hopegill Head (770m), Hobcarton Crag (739m), Crag Hill (839m), Sail (773m), Scar Crags (672m), Causey Pike (637m). 1300m of ascent. Very cold and windy all day with some serious showers.
Lake District29-09-202122.5943Ascent of Catstycam (890m), Helvellyn (950m), Raise (883m), Greenside (795m), Hart Crag (756m), Stybarrow Dodd (843m), Watson Dodd (789m), Great Dodd (857m).
Long Mynd28-08-202129.5514Church Stretton tour of Long Mynd taking several of the hills that comprise the top. Hot day. For future reference, direct routes are largely impossible in the summer due to the undergrowth.
Glen Isla10-08-202115.5439From Cairnhill Lodge out to Loch Shandra and Auchintaple Loch and return. Mostly good forest tracks but some cross country.
Gloucestershire30-07-202113.5295St Kenelms Way Part 3. From Great Comberton to Dumbleton via Bredon Hill. Miserable weather all day but completed in under 3 hours.
Berwyns18-07-20215.0646One final peak to round off a weekend of climbing; Foel Cwn-Sian Llwd (648m)
Berwyns17-07-202120.0662Three peaks climbed in glorious sunshine again; Pen y Boncyn Trefeilw (646m), Stac Rhos (630m), Y Groes Fagl (659m)
Berwyns16-07-202125.0823Twelve Peaks in glorious sunshine; Moel Sych (827m), Cadair Berwyn (South Top) (830m), Cadair Berwyn 827m), Cadair Bronwen (784m),
Pen-y-bryn (700m), Tomle (741m), Foel Wen (690m), Foel Wen (South Top) (687m), Mynydd Tarw (681m), Godor (679m), Godor North Top (675m), Moel yr Ewig (695m)
Gloucestershire10-07-202116.031Gloucestershire Nature Reserve to the River Severn and along the Severn to Tewkesbury.
Arans30-05-202123.0896Seven Peaks bagged; Glasgwm 779m, Gawain Llwyn 685m, Aran Fawddwy 905m, Erw y Ddafad ddu 872m, Aran Benllyn 885m, Gawain Lydan 632m, Pen yr Allt Uchaf 620m
Arans29-05-202123.0671Seven peaks bagged; Moel y Cerrig Duon.      625m, Foel y Geifr. 626m Trum y Gwrgedd. 612m, Foel Goch. 613m, Foel Rudd. 659m, Esgeiriau Gwynion. 671m, Llechwedd Du. 614m
Arans28-05-20214.5685Ascent of Pen y Bryn-fforchog from the A470. Hard start from the road, but eases once on the first ridge.
Worcestershire07-05-202122.068Part 2 of St Kenelms Way from Himbleton to Great Comberton.
Worcestershire01-05-202121.030Following the Severn Way from Upton to Deerhurst south of Tewkesbury. Easy walking on a nice warm Spring morning.
Worcestershire02-04-202131.5311Part 1 of St Kenelms Way from Romsley to Himbleton.
Gloucestershire27-03-202117.5262Tewkesbury to Winchcombe following the Gloucestershire Way
Oxenton Hill13-03-202114.0258Starting at Nottingham Hill, followed the Winchcombe Way to the foot of Oxenton Hill, summited and then descend to Oxenton and followed the Gloucestershire Way to Tewkesbury.
Bredon Hill14-02-202113.0293Beckford to Bredon Hill summit and return
Lake District01-10-202014.0710Carrock Fell (660m), High Pike (658m), Hare Stones (627m), Great Lingy Hill (616m) and Knott (710m).
Lake District29-09-202018.0931Ascent of Longside (734m), Carl Side (746m), Skiddaw (931m), Little Man (865m), Sale How (666m) and Lonscale Fell (715m) and return to Keswick.
Lake District26-09-202026.0868From Threlked over Gategill Fell (851m) and onto Blencathra (868m), then a descent to Scales Tarn for the Sharp Edge scramble onto Atkinson Pike (845m) and over to Bowscale Fell (702m). Return to Keswick via the Cumbria Way passing Skiddaw House.
Gloucestershire06-09-202016.0323Bishops Cleeve over Cleeve Hill to Belas Knapp and return following Cotswold Way.
Gloucestershire21-03-202017.6311Bishops Cleeve via Cleeve Hill, Nottingham Hill and Oxtenton Hill, then follow Glouestershire Way to Tewkesbury. Very wet and muddy. Windy on the tops.
Clent Hills06-03-202020.0306Over Clent Hills to Romsley, then a couple of hours on the St Kenelms Way before retracing my steps back again. Good walking, good paths.
Peak District09-02-202014.9217Ashbourne to Thorpe via Tissington Trail, then to Dovedale and steps. Return following River Dove and back over to Tissington Trail and return. Storm Ciara was in full force!
Malvern Hills27-12-201926.5403Clock tower over North Hill and Malvern Beacon. Low level to British Camp, then Eastnor Park and the Obelisk, returning via Hangmans, the Camp, Jubilee Hill and a second ascent of the Malvern Beacon.
Brecon Beacons06-12-201918.5728From the Storey Arms over Fan Fawr, the reservoir, Fan Llia, Roman Road into Sarn Helen and Fan Frynych via the Waterfall climb.
Malvern Hills22-11-201923.4405From the clock tower over End Hill, North Hill, Malvern Beacon to British Camp and through Eastnor then return via British Camp again, ridge and a second ascent of Malvern Beacon. Poor weather and poor visibility.
Brecon Beacons05-10-20198.0267Four waterfalls walk. Very pleasant walk with the only up/down being to the waterfalls themselves. Easy walking, no need for a map, just follow the signposts.
Ridgeway28-09-201924.0258Final leg from Wendover to Ivinghoe Beacon. Undulating with no real climbs. Ivinghoe Beacon is a long 3 1/2 mile slog from Tring Station in mixed terrain, starting in woodland, then out onto open ground.
Ridgeway27-09-201929.0258Watlington to Wendover. Interesting section with plenty of variety and a few good hills to climb including Kop Hill and Coombe Hill.
Ridgeway 26-09-201928.0217Streatley to Watlington. Mixed terrain with lots of woodland and some long drags. Changing scenery so maintained interest.
Ridgeway 25-09-201929.0243Sparsholt to Streatley. Fairy flat and uninteresting walking.
Ridgeway24-09-201925.0277Ogbourne to Sparsholt via Waylands Smithy. Good views, inclement weather. Fairly dull straight line track walking.
Ridgeway23-09-201922.1271Avebury to start of Ridgeway then to Ogbourne St George. Easy walking, no real climbs except final loop around Ogbourne but even that wasn’t hard.
Malvern Hills06-09-201925.0403North Hill to Eastnor Obelisk and back to Great Malvern. Along the ridge outbound and on the Easter balcony to return.
Caucasus10-08-201940.04650Attempt on Elbrus in the Caucasus Mountains of Russia. No summit. Two week expedition.
Arans28-07-201913.0885Ascent of Aran Benllyn from Llanuwchllyn. Followed the ridge line from the village. Very windy and cold at times. Simple navigation - get onto the ridge line and follow it!
Moelwyns27-07-201919.5750Circuit of the Moelwyns taking in Moelwyn Bach (710m), Moelwyn Mawr (770m), Moel yr Hydd (648m), All Fawr (698m), Moel Druman (676m) and Cnicht (689m).
Snowdonia26-07-201927.31085Ascent of Snowdon via Snowdon Ranger path, descent to Pen-y-Pass via the Miners and second ascent of Snowdon via the Watkin Path and Y Lliwedd.
Brecon Beacons28-06-20198.2729Ascent of Fan Llia from the Storey Arms. Far side and down to the stream then return via devious route.
Brecon Beacons28-06-20197.5866Ascent of Pen y Fan via Corn Ddu from the Storey Arms. Excellent weather but very windy.
Peak District14-06-201922.0606Snake Pass over Mill Hill and down to Kinder Reservoir. Circuit of the reservoir then up onto Kinder Scout via a direct route to Kinder Downfall and scramble to the right. Return following Pennine Way to Mill Hill and retrace path to Snake Pass.
Gloucestershire31-05-201921.0308Bishops Cleeve to Tewkesbury via Cleeve Hill, Nottingham Hill and follow Gloucestershire Way to Tewkesbury.
Snowdonia26-05-201918.0872Plas y Brenin around to the South side of Moel Siabod. Steep walk/scramble to summit. Return down track to Plas y Brenin. Awful weather, very poor visibility.
Snowdonia25-05-201916.01064Ogwen Valley, Pen-y-Ole Wen, Carnedd Dafydd, Carned Llewellyn and return. 972m of ascent in five and a half hours. No rain but no visibility on the summits.
Snowdonia24-05-201939.01085Ogwen Valley, Tryfan, Glyders, Pen-y-Pass, Crib Goch, Crib-y-Ddysgl, Elidr Fawr. Total of 2,700m of ascent and 13 hours walking. Reasonable weather, no rain, but low cloud on most summits.
Cleeve Hill17-05-201916.5320Bishops Cleeve to Rising Sun then undulating route to Belas Knapp. Return close to TV masts and summit. Back down to Bishops Cleeve
Gloucestershire06-05-201924.169Final leg of the Three Choirs Way from Chase End Hill to Gloucester. Mostly flat easy country walking.
Worcestershire03-05-201933.5405Three Choirs Way from Worcester to the South end of the Malvern Hills. Mixed walking including the Old Hills and the full length of the Malvern Hills.
Mid-Wales21-04-201924.1758Nantcon direct ascent of Rhinog Fawr (720m). Steep descent on random rock/scrub and ascent of Rhinog Fach (712m). Steep descent to lake and ascent of Y Llethr (756m) followed by Diffwys (750m) and finally Craig y Gruf (588m) and descent to Barmouth.
Mid-Wales19-04-201924.1872Cadair Idris (872m) via Minfford Path and direct from Llyn Cau. Out to Mynydd Moel (863m) and return. Down to Cyfrwy (811m) and Carnedd Lwyd ans Tyrrau Mawr (661m). Via two minor peaks and down to Barmouth.
Lake District14-04-201924.1762Grasmere to Helm Crag then Gibson Knott up onto Greenup Edge. High Raise, Thunacar Knott then over to Pike of Stickle and Harrison Stickle then return via Sergeant Man, Codale Head and drop down to Easdale Tarn and onwards down to Grasmere. Weather excellent again but high wind and very cold.
Lake District13-04-201922.5950Glenridding via Helvellyn YH to Catstycam via North East ridge. Then Swirral Edge onto Helvellyn and walk out to Great Dodd via Lower Man, Whiteside, Raise, Stybarrow Dodd, Watson's Dodd and return to Sticks Pass then down to Helvellyn YH again and return to Glenridding.
Lake District12-04-201920.9873Glenridding to St Sundays Crag, Fairfield and Hart Crag and return via Patterdale. Excellent weather but cold and windy.
Worcestershire30-03-201925.7142Three Choirs Way from Stanford Bishop to Worcester. Nice first section including a nice ascent of Ankerdine Hill. Good views over the Malverns. Tedious final section into Worcester and to the Cathedral. Excellent weather.
Herefordshire29-03-201932.2188Three Choirs Way from Hereford to Stanton Bishop. Initially very tedious section out of Hereford to Lugwardine, then improved to Stanford Bishop. No big climbs and easy country walking.
Herefordshire16-03-201924.1223Much Marcle to Hereford on the Three Choirs Way.
Gloucestershire15-03-201932.2132Gloucester to Much Marcle on the Three Choirs Way.
Peak District01-03-201925.7304Ilam to Dovedale, 2 x Ascent of Thorp Cloud, the Dovedale to Milldale, cross to Manifold Valley via Stanshope, Wetton and Thors Cave and return.
Black Mountains15-02-201927.4809Crickhowell to Table Mountain, Pen Cerrig, Pen Allt Mawr, down to valley then ascent of Waun Fach (1200' of direct ascent). Return via Pen y Gadair, Pen Twyn and Llanbedr.
Gloucestershire03-02-201925.7330Winchcombe, over Cleeve Hill. Nottingham Hill and Overton Hill to Tewkesbury
Gloucestershire01-02-201933.8330Tewkesbury to Oxenton Hill (225m), Nottingham Hill (278m) and Cleeve Hill (330m), return via Stoke Orchard and Fiddington.
Peak District20-01-201925.7606Castleton to Mam Tor via Cave Dale. Hollins Cross and Kinder Plateau via Grindsbrook. Across to Jacobs Ladder and return via Hollins Cross.
Peak District18-01-201916.1287Ashbourne along Tissington Trail to Mapleton. Pick up the River Dove to the Stepping Stones. Double ascent of Thorp Cloud and return via Thorp Village and the Tissington Trail.
Gloucestershire Way27-12-201819.3270Tewkesbury to Malvern Hills following the Malvern Link extension to the Gloucestershire Way. Mostly flat with a final ascent of the Malvern Hills to meet the Three Choirs Way at Hangmans Hill
Brecon Beacons14-12-201819.3886Storey Arms to Fan Frynych then steep route up onto Corn Du, Pen-y-Fan and direct descent to Storey Arms. Estimated temperature around -10 on the summit of Pen-y-Fan.
Brecon Beacons17-11-201820.9734The sun shone all day and the cloud cleared quickly. I parked up at the Storey Arms and headed West up Fan Fawr, followed by Dringarth and Fan Nedd, returning via the Roman Road to Sarn Helen and an ascent of Fan Frynych before walking following parallel to the A470.
Himalaya (Chukhung Ri)30-10-201812.95546Again a short walk to the start of the climb of Chukhung Ri. The summit can be seen from some distance but there is a flat section that seems to add a lot to the climb. The final section is over boulders and past cairns to the summit. Around two hours up and an hour down. Fantastic views from the summit of the Lhotse wall beyond.
Himalaya (Longma La)29-10-201811.35528Lobuche to Chukhung via the Kongma La. Probably the hardest of all three passes, coming as it does on consecutive hard days. The route initially crosses the Khumbu Glacier over uneven ground, then heads very steeply and relentlessly uphill. On the downward side it is also quite steep in places and tough going.
Himalaya (Kala Patthar)28-10-20189.75643Ascent of Kala Patthar which starts at Gorak Shep. Around two hours to the summit and a further hour down. It is a steep climb but well worth it. Afterwards trekked to Lobuche along easy tracks.
Himalaya (EBC)27-10-201816.15364Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep then out to Everest Base Camp and return to Gorakshep. The going is steady to Gorakshep, then really hard out to EBC and seems even harder coming back.
Himalaya (Cho La)25-10-201816.15420Crossing of the Cho La from Dragnag to Dzongla. Five Hours up and four hours down. Serious climb and one of the toughest on the tour.
Himalaya (Gokyo Ri)24-10-201812.95357Ascent of Gokyo Ri starts almost outside the Lodge. Tough climb took approx 2 hours up and one hour down, followed by a trek to Dragnag across the Ngozumba Glacier.
Himalaya (Renjo La)22-10-201812.95360Renjo La pass as part of walk from Renjo Lake to Gokyo. Total walk time, 6.5 hours
Himalaya19-10-20189.74300Part ascent of Kapsale. Summit is 5,583m. Climb done as acclimatisation walk.
Malvern Hills30-09-201824.1425Old Hills to Malvern. North Hill, Malvern Beacon and all hills down to Chase End Hill. Five Hours walking time.
Peak District09-09-201812.9632Ascent of North Kinder Scout from Snake Inn, along ridge and return. Good route and quiet with a stiff climb onto the ridge.
Peak District07-09-201819.3270Ashbourne to River Dove very a Tissington Trail then up to Dovedale. Ascent of Thorp Cloud. Return via Thorpe and long swing around to Swinscoe Hill then retrace route.
Severn Way27-08-201824.1600Hafron Forest to the Source of the River Severn then back and onto Llanidloes to complete the Severn Way walk.
Severn Way25-08-201816.1212Llanidloes to Caersws. Lovely section of the Way with a few ups and downs but nothing serious mostly easy farmland tracks and trails.
Gloucestershire Way18-08-201864.4296Chepstow to Gloucester section of the Way. Wild camped at 5 miles and on May Hill at 27 miles. Good weather, dry and reasonably sunny.
Upton to Callow End10-08-201816.1115From Upton to Callow End using public footpaths. Mostly easy flat walking but one or two uphill sections to test the legs. Fully loaded rucsac weighing in at 17kg
Malvern to Upton20-07-201825.7413Malvern Link via North Hill, Beacon, Wyche Cutting, British Camp and Hangmans Hill. Cross Welland Common and footpaths to Upton.
Gloucestershire Way06-07-201841.8173Walk from Stow on the Wold to Tewkesbury via Winchcombe which covered the final two sections of the Way. Seriously hot and very tired at the end!
Snowdonia23-06-20188.0812Pen-y-Pass ascent of Crib Goch direct. Left of Pyg Track up direct arete then across to the foot of the Crib Goch traverse. Descent from Col before Crib-y-Dysgyll to further up Pyg Track and return.
Gloucestershire Way22-06-201830.6134Walk from Coberley to Stow on the Wold. Total time; 6 hours.
Lake District06-05-201825.7959Day 3 - Little Stand (740m), Crinkle Crags (859m) and Bowfell (866m) via Hardknot Pass from Eskdale.
Lake District05-05-201820.9964Day 2 - Scafell (964m) and Symonds Knot (959m) via Lords Rake from Eskdale.
Lake District04-05-201820.9950Day 1 - Helvellyn (950m) via Striding Edge, Dollywagon (858m) and Nethermost Pike (891m).
Black Mountains14-04-201812.9575Waun Fach from Northern side
North Wales02-04-201820.91064Carnedds: Drum (770m), Foel Fras (942m), Garnedd Uchaf (926m), Foel Grach (976m), Llewellyn (1064m) to Ogwen Valley
Severn Way23-03-201864.40Caersws to Welshpool then Welshpool to Shrawardine. 2 Days total duration
Gloucestershire Way17-03-201819.3100From Parkend to Drybrook Railway Station and return.
Gloucestershire Way09-03-201830.6285Coberley to Gloucester via Crickley Hill
Severn Way09-02-201838.60Oldbury on Severn to Severn Beach then into Bristol
Peak District27-01-201819.3437Hope to Win Hill, then Hope to Lose Hill and return
Peak District26-01-201837.0610Kinder Scout, Great Ridge, Kinder Scout Eastern across to Downfall and return via Rushup Edge
Black Mountains31-12-201729.0861Black Mountains Loop. Llanthony Priory to Hay Bluff and return via Hereford Knob and Cape-y-Ffin
Malvern15-12-201738.6425Malvern to Tewkesbury via Malvern Hills, Welland, Upton and River Severn, North Hill, Beacon and British Camp then to Upton via Welland and River Severn.
Brecon Beacons01-12-201722.5734Western side to Fan Nedd and return. Fan Fawr, Fan Llia, Fan Dringarth, Fan Nedd and Fan Frynych
Kinder Scout11-11-201716.1610Ascent of Kinder Scout from Upper Booth via Jacobs Ladder to Kinder Downfall and return.
Severn Way03-11-201714.50Worcester to Grimley along to the river and return.
Kinder Scout06-10-201716.1610Ascent of Kinder Scout from Edale via Grindsbrook. Walk to Kinder downfall then return via path to Edale Rocks and descent via Jacobs Ladder
Tanzania21-09-201748.35895Ascent of Kilimanjaro via Western Breach. 7 Days total duration
Tanzania16-09-201741.84566Ascent of Little Meru and Meru Peak. 5 Days total duration
Lathkill Dale13-08-20179.70Monyash along Lathkill Dale and return. Descent of the Dale from the Monyash side and return via same route. Easy path
Kinder Scout12-08-201712.9550Kinder Scout from Snake Pass
Snowdon30-07-201716.11085Ascent of Snowdon (1085m) and return via the Snowdon Ranger Path
Glyders29-07-201719.31001Glyders Loop; Ascent of Tryfan (915m) North Ridge then Gylder Fawr (999m) and Glyder Fach (994m) return via Devils Kitchen
Kinder Scout16-07-201711.3550Kinder Scout from Snake Pass; Kilimanjaro Training Weekend
Cleeve Hill01-07-201719.3330Cleeve Hill loop via Nottingham Hill to Belas Knapp and Winchcombe to Hailes Abbey
Brecon Beacons29-05-201719.3886Fan Llia (632m) loop around to Pen-y-Fan (886m) and Corn Ddu (873m)
Severn Way18-03-201729.00Shrewsbury area. From the A5 East of Shrewsbury to Wilcott West of Shrewsbury.
Mam Tor12-02-201712.9517Edale to Hollins Cross and Mam Tor along Rushup Edge and return
Kinder Scout11-02-201724.1636Edale via Jacobs Ladder to Kinder Downfall and return
Severn Way24-09-201629.00Highley to Grimley. Mostly off road and mostly follows the river. Dull in places but nice villages on the way.
Winchcombe Way29-08-201635.4870Eastern Loop. Start and finish in Winchcombe. Sudeley Hill, Guiting, Ford, Snowshill, Stanton, Hailes.
Severn Way09-04-201627.40Ironbridge to Highley. Better section than the Northern part to Shrewsbury. Mostly off road which is nice.
Winchcombe Way25-03-201633.8730Loop around Cleeve Hill, Winchcombe and Dumbleton. Start and finish at Hobnails Inn.
Black Mountains29-12-201524.1680Twmpa:Start and finish at Llanthony Priory via Bal Mawr (607m), Twmpa(680m), Hay Bluff (677m)
Dolomites22-09-201511.32000Ascent of Col Alt from Corvara. Easy going on a decent path but steep in places. Cafe at the summit which was closed!
Dolomites21-09-20156.42500Via Ferrata. Ascent of Brigata Tridentina. Excellent Via Ferrata but harder than I recall. Fantastic finish across the bridge. Total vertical ascent is 550m. Descent is via the Pisciadu Climbing path which is a graded Via Ferrata in its own right.
Dolomites20-09-201516.13152Ascent of Piz Boe
Severn Way15-08-201532.20Ironbridge to Shrewsbury. Not a nice section with a lot of road work. Shame really.
Lake District08-06-20159.7700Pavey Ark, Jacks Rake Scramble Grade 1. Excellent scramble but quite exposed in places.
Lake District07-06-201