Day 2: Ennerdale Bridge to Stonethwaite

Stayed at: Langstrath Hotel

EDIT: 15/6 update to Day 2

After an incredibly warm welcome and hosting at Fox and Hounds we headed directly for the western edge of Ennerdale Water. You can choose to go around it on either side but we opted for the original Wainwright route which did not disappoint. We dipped our hands in the water at Anglers Crag and roughly halfway along the southern boundary we climbed Robin Hood’s chair before walking along a lovely, mossy forest where a tree had grown in such a way to form a natural bench with a view of the water.

After reaching the eastern end of Ennerdale water we began our ascent along a path through plantations. After a rather long but gentle uphill climb we headed up a rather steep zig zag trail to Hay Stacks – the place Alfred Wainwright suggested his ashes be scattered. While the climb winded us it was totally worth it. Such a peaceful spot with truly awe inspiring views. It also had a few walkers with dogs, one of whom looked a lot like our Bonnie and came sniffing around for any lunch items we may not have had a use for.

The clamber down and following steep haul up and over Loft Beck were trying but the ridge walk views were amazing.

Descending was a challenge but we made it and were so glad to see some of the walkers from the day before as we walked into town at Stonethwaite to our lodgings at Langstrath Country Inn.

A shower, a feed and a couple of ales had us gratefully in bed by 10.