Day 2/6 Cumbria Way 127km - Coniston to Skelwith Fold - 14 May 2010

15.6km, took 4.5 hours

A wet cool day, foggy as well. Unexpectedly, the day was perfect for walking. I trotted on slowly, enjoying the peaceful greenery around me with low hanging fog covering the surrounding hills. I left the village of Coniston after getting some groceries and browsing through some of the interesting gift shops.


A steady climb began out of the foggy village through patches of woodland. I was taking my own sweet time, strolling... This is something I hardly do when I hike usually. I was loving the fresh air, especially due to the constant drizzle. It felt fantastic! The terrain was soft under feet, making the walk a comfortable one. I began chanting on my exam revision after doing some memorising the night before. What an interesting way to spend my revision time!









I climbed up to Tarn Hows Cottage and had forgotten to take a left turn shortly after, causing a terrible mistake: I climbed down about 100+ m, and arrived at a road that was leading back to Coniston. I couldn't believe I could make such a blunder! I was heading the exact opposite direction! This mistake wasted nearly an hour extra, incurred an extra 100+ m climb and about 1.5 miles of detour. Gosh!






Fortunately I took an another route which led me back to Tarn Hows - Lakeland's man-made miracle. It appeared very peaceful and mysterious in the fog. Lovely, I lingered a while and rejoiced! The track proceeded on along the west side of the tarn, some road-walking going up and down, and finally a steep descent through woodland. It led me to Skelwith Force (waterfall).




























Here I left the Way and started finding my directions to Skelwith Fold where Holmeshead Farm B&B was situated. The route involved more climbs and was further than expected. Upon arrival, it was rest time, washing up, TV time, lunch/dinner time and....mm...study time. Had a pleasant night given an ensuite double room. Heaven!