A common man marvels at uncommon things. A wise man marvels at the commonplace. CONFUCIUS

Monday 3 November 2014

Longsleddale

I'd long wanted to hike the secretive Cumbrian valley of Longsleddale, and last weekend's visit to my mother-in-law, who lives in the Lake District, gave me the opportunity.

The curvaceous river Sprint . . .

. . .  seduced both eye and heart.

The walk began in the tiny settlement of Sadgill.

A clear and easy track led up the valley . . . 

. . . through an exquisite autumn landscape.

These old stone walls were a constant and sinuous delight. 

On my left rose the lower slopes of Kentmere Pike . . .

. . . while on my right towered the precipitous rocks of Buckbarrow Crag.

A meeting of two mountain streams.

I climbed effortlessly up a gently forgiving path . . .

. . . towards Gatesgarth Pass.

In this eastern area of Lakeland, peat meets rock to create a lonely but sublime desolation. 

Entrance to a sheepfold in Longsleddale.

15 comments:

Loren said...

Beautiful photos.

I would love to walk there.

Timecheck said...

Looks like you had a very nice day. I suspect not a lot of mother in law time, though?

The Solitary Walker said...

Thanks, Loren! This means a lot from such a talented photographer as yourself.

The Solitary Walker said...

Well, it was a 'long' weekend, Ralph — Thursday pm till Monday am — so plenty of time for everything :)

George said...

Great images, Robert! What a fabulous hike.

The Solitary Walker said...

It was such an enjoyable few hours, George, Not a great exertion to the pass (for a change), and I took my time — stopping often to take in the views, trying to imprint them on my memory...

Arija said...

These landscapes are sublimely beautiful, the epitome of 'England's green and pleasant land".
Unfortunately I have never chad the chance to visit the Lake District and at this point in time it is too late to do so, so thank you doubly for bringing i, at least virtually, to me.

johnthebarman said...

I was envious. It's a long time since I have had such a walk. I must do Britain. Thanks for your inspiration.

Ruth said...

I've never seen more lovely views. What a treat.

The Weaver of Grass said...

Lovely Robert. Somehow it couldn't be the Dales, but I am not sure why.
Hope R was well.

The Solitary Walker said...

Thanks for your comments — Arija, John, Ruth and Pat.

Amanda Summer said...

What a majestic landscape. Your images make it almost tactile.

Nick said...

In truth there are only a few things about England that I truly miss, but a place like this is one of them. I'm not sure whether I'm pleased or sorry you've shown it to me. But thank you.

The Solitary Walker said...

Thanks for your comments, Amanda and Nick.

catharus said...

Amazing landscape! Great photos!