11th July, Nether Wasdale circular

A gentle wander for us today and straight from the cottage door, the swallows nesting in the porch have been a real delight with their swooping flight and chirpy voices. A juvenile and an adult were taking a break on a fence and wall by our cottage in Greendale.

Our route was through Roan Wood.

Out into the fields for a while we had a lovely view of Buckbarrow which sits at the western side of the cottage.

And a splendid longer view of Wasdale behind us...

The fields led us to a splendid walled lane which guided us towards Nether Wasdale, we spotted a juvenile redstart along the way, the red patch at the base of the feathers was the best clue as to the identity.

A short distance on the road and then we were back on a track, this time towards Buckbarrow Farm crossing this lovely old bridge along the way.

This was country walking of the highest order, the view down the track was superb and lines of the walls drew the eyes onwards.

We wandered back down the road and across the lower slopes of Buckbarrow, catching this little chaffinch having a paddle along the way.

Another view of the Scafells appeared as we neared the cottage.

A short detour slighty higher up paid dividends as a lovely yellowhammer appeared nearby.

Taking the opportunity to leave the rucksacks at the cottage, we then drove the short distance to Wasdale Head to take in the views, always alert for a wildlife shot though I got this one of a quizzical looking grey wagtail.

The light was not great for the mountain photographs I was seeking I did get these two though, Great Gable on its own and with Kirk Fell.

Another great day for us, the forecast for Thursday was excellent and we had a special day planned...