It has been a few years (in fact 2010!) since I have last completed the full Kentmere Horseshoe, I did revisit the Kentmere Fells twice last year but not as a full expedition. So with probably the best forecast of the year so far, Kentmere was a temptation I couldn't refuse.
An early start meant I didn't meet anybody until between Froswick & Thornthwaite Beacon,
and he was asleep. Its not unusual to see a tent, but to see a small empty 'peapod' sized tent pitched right next to the path, with its occupant asleep on the grass is unusual!! I was tempted to give him a kick and check he was ok but thought it best to leave him. An RAF jet passed over shortly after and the over-sleeping camping sat up so at least he was still in the land of the living! His choice of a half empty litre bottle of water as a pillow I thought odd & uncomfortable!
My next encounter was a large party of students climbing from the the top of the Nan Bield Pass to Harter Fell, as with all large groups you get stragglers, one was getting encouragement from one of the group leaders. The fitter members under direction from another leader would wait for the few stragglers to catch up then march off. It became apparent that the fitter members where getting regular prolonged stops while the less fit members of the group weren't getting any - whats the chances of them venturing into the hills, they will most probably be put off for life!
A visit to Kentmere wont be complete without mentioning the lack of parking, the field that opens as a car park was gated (closed), with no evidence of a sign or bucket. Being early I was the first to arrive & park at the village hall (donation box), on my return the field was still closed and parking outside the village hall was full. Cars & vans had slotted themselves in various passing places and field openings!
Early morning, Kentmere & Badger Rock...
