With a favourable forecast, sent messages out to friends to join us on a walk in the North western fells. Taking in Whiteside, Hopegill head, Grisedale Pike and Whiteless pike.

Temperatures had plummeted overnight which made for an interesting drive over Honister. But the fall in temperatures meant I could try out my new kit. A Montane Flux primaloft jacket and Marmot winter gloves 🙂 .

We arranged to meet on the hill in Buttermere, early enough to bag some free parking! From here, after our hellos, piled into cars to the start of the walk which was further along the valley on the shores of Crummock water.

Checking that everyone had their keys for when we got to the end of the walk, especially after our last 2 car walk when some left their keys hehe.

It was a steep ascent up to our first summit of Whiteside. It was cold but the wind was biting. It was nice that Ray had made this walk and of course the gorgeous Holly aka the beast!

New kit was performing well and the sun was coming out.

On the summit of Whiteside it was so windy, could barely stand up to take a picture. The views were spectacular.

The great thing about this walk is as soon as we got the first ascent out the way, it was a ridge walk to the next 2 summits. When we arrived at Hopegill head, Bruce, Ria and Dave decided they would veer off and not do Grisedale Pike.
So we headed off, the wind still gusting but soon we were on Grisedale Pike.

It’s a great summit and we joked about missing it when we did the Coledale flip flop walk. The wind had dropped so thought was a perfect time for lunch and brownies.

Refuelled off we descended to catch up with the others. Re grouped we headed up to Whiteless Pike.

The views were simply stunning.

A gentle descent and the cars were in sight. Everything in Buttermere was closed do headed up to the legendary Kirkstile Inn for our walkers reward.

Another great day in the hills with friends. Nothing like that pint at the end and craic.

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