Up Hartside Summit to Alston: C2C Day 4
Day 4 of our C2C ride took us from Penrith, up and into the Pennines and onto Alston, one of England’s highest market towns. After several overcast days it was a pleasure to see the sun. Oh and the snow on the climb up to Hartside Summit.
From grey stone of Keswick to sandstone of Pennines & Eden.
Before leaving town we stocked up with supplies for hills ahead
At Little Salkeld, a rest before the climb
After first few hills, we stopped off for tea and organic cake at the pink Little Salkeld Mill
Where even the evidently free range chickens looked interested in a Mill Tour
No time to visit the stone circles
On the road beyond towards the Pennines we passed a Druid’s navigation aid
With Hartop Summit to conquer we didn’t have time to visit
Incentives are what it’s all about
We knew the kids might need incentivising
for the big climb to Hartside Pass
And were left in no doubt that
conditions at the top could be harsh
Snowballs on the way up
But we took it in stages, rewarded ourselves for each 100m of climb
Put on extra layers to deal with the cold and focused on reaching the cafe at the summit
We thought there was time for fun and to reach the cafe before it closed
But disappointment at Hartside Summit
Unfortunately it was already closed when we arrived…
.. frozen pipes
Fortunately we had brought our own provisions
A frozen moment and then the descent
For a brief but cold celebration
Before a magnificent descent down to Alston
Into Alston for a warm up
And some cobble bashing to reach a cafe before closing time
Have you taken on a family challenge?
Do leave a comment and tell us about it.
See more of our Winter Coast to Coast (C2C) Photo Journals
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We did this C2C ride across England, from Workington to Sunderland, as part of our Family Adventure Capital Season. We’re exploring different ways families can adventure together in and around Cumbria, sharing ideas and inspiration to encourage families to get out, get active and adventure together. Stuart Wickes Stuart's the adventure addict half of the team, always trying to persuade the family to get out, do more, go further. As co-founder and co-director he handles the business, creative, design, technical and publishing aspects of the project. He is our chief photographer and videographer. With training as a professional learning and development consultant. an engineer and musician, his contribution is eclectic and unpredictable!
