It was a bright and sunny evening as we left Leeds to drive to Pen-y-ghent. We were filled with the anticipation of the glorious sunsets so tantalisingly described by Gordon. However, this is Yorkshire and as we travelled north an ever thickening band of cloud engulfed the hills. It was therefore an intrepid band, tightly wrapped in waterproofs that embarked on the ascent of the now mist obscured peak.

Nonetheless, spirits were high as we wended our way on a narrow path through fields of sheep and over rocky outcrops. With visibility dropping to around ten metres, it is fair to say that the views were somewhat less impressive than were generally expected.

However, it was with great pride that the merry (if rather soggy) band reached the cairn that marked the summit. Despite the deteriorating weather, picnic boxes and flasks were opened and the contents eagerly consumed.

Based solely on the falling temperatures and the advice of the previous days weather forecasters we decided that the sun had probably set and started our descent. We were joined on our descent by a couple of frogs who were much better suited to the conditions and seemed to be having a particularly good time.

As we reached the car park we all felt glad to have completed the walk but perhaps even more glad to be returning to warm living rooms and hot drinks.

(Click on the photos to enlarge.)