~Longlands Fell & Neighbours~
18th September 2022
Molly Makes Progress
 |
 |
In my mind, I recall parking for about six cars at Longlands. When I arrived at 0915hrs, there were already nine cars in the vicinity and I made it 10, the 11th arriving as I was shouldering my rucksac. I wondered if there was a group event on, maybe a Wainwright Completion Event? It is clear that one car is blocking two others in and presumably they are in the anticipated large walking party. Three of the cars are up the road to the right of this view. Parking opportunities in this area are not abundant, a long trek awaits those who have to park elsewhere before starting the Uldale Fells from here.
To Longlands Fell Summit
This is my third visit to Longlands Fell and I've said all there is to be said in previous reports. Only come here if you or your dog has a missing tick on your list. It's not exciting. Today, cloud is low and there is light rain in the air. Suncream is redundant.
Molly on top of Longlands Fell 1,580ft asl
Molly is unimpressed with her 205th Wainwright Fell Summit, but she only needs to look over her shoulder to see where it all started in May 2014...
Molly ~ Binsey, 16th May 2014
 |
|
Lowthwaite Fell |
To Meal Fell |
Well, all our targets for the weekend are achieved. But we decide to carry on and next up in 12 minutes is Lowthwaite Fell and thereafter we head off to see where the farmers' tracks lead, it turns out we reached Meal Fell next, up to the right of the photo with Molly leading the way.
Molly on top of Meal Fell 1,804ft asl
Soon enough we spot a man erecting his tripod and then a large group assembles. It struck me as odd that the Wainwright Completer hadn't chosen to have his or her photo at the top of the fell.
Group of Walkers, Meal Fell
I felt a little uncomfortable and moved away from the summit in case they wanted to pop the corks up here. I had a light lunch on here as is customary for Meal Fell and for afters, we head up the steep incline for Great Sca Fell.
Molly on top of Great Sca Fell 2,131ft asl
We proceeded up the steep grassy slope to Great Sca Fell summit. I hung around and chatted to a chap who appeared through the mist, he was the lead member of the large party. I asked him if someone was celebrating something special and his reply was underwhelming "No, just a few of us out for a walk." Grrrr. well why didn't they go somewhere else and not bag nearly all the spaces in the small parking area!!?
To Brae Fell
We head for Brae Fell. Testimony to the limited appeal of these peripheral lakeland fells are the empty footpaths, these wide open spaces are always a favourite for Molly.
Molly on top of Brae Fell 1,920ft asl
You may notice the yellow ball is in play to try and liven things up a little. My OS mapping App was on the blink, but the odds are we'll find our way back safely.
Nearly Back
Even Nearlier Back
Walkers: Me n' Molly
Time taken: 3hr 10mins over distance of about 6 miles; 2165ft of ascent.
Route: Longlands, Wainwright recommended route to Longlands Fell, Lowthwaite Fell, Broad Moss, off-piste to Meal Fell, Great Sca Fell, Little Sca Fell, Brae Fell, Charleton Gill, farm track back to the car.
Weather and Conditions: Dull with occasional light rain.
Greetings: There were always other walkers in view, but the first and only other conversations were on Great Sca Fell. Passed a few other late starters later on. 17 vehicles at Longlands by the time we finished; one blocking access to the Water Works - Go Directly to Jail, Do Not Pass Go!
Numpty
And Tired at Tebay..
All photos copyright Richard Ratcliffe 2022 ©
Take me back to the start ....