Walking, Mountaineering and Climbing in the UK and Worldwide

UK Mountains Blog 2026

Aleck Low (393m) 10/09/2026
My final day rounded off a good week of hill bagging with a couple of Ethels in the Peak District. I parked at the Minninglow Car Park and headed off along the High Peak Trail North Westward. It was easy going and I got a good pace going until it was time to leave the trail to head across fields to the first summit of Aleck Low (393m). Like many Ethels, the actual summit is not on a path and so, technically, on private land. The trig point was the far side of a wall which had a convenient low point and removable barbed wire section - perhaps deliberately for walkers?

Aleck Low 10/09/2026

Minninglow Hill (372m) 10/09/2026
I needed to get to Cardlemere Lane from there which involved more 'off path' and wall climbing, again unfortunate, but once on the (green) lane, it was a straight walk, crossing a minor road to Minninglow Lane, initially tarmaced but then more green lane to cross the High Peak Trail. I'd wondered about the final section up to the top, but saw a couple of walkers descending a field. Once I got there, I could see the 'Permissive Path' signs which led right to the copse at the top. The true summit of Minninglow Hill (372m) is inside the copse which made a very nice wind break and an excellent place for lunch.

That done, I retraced my steps to the trail (although I discovered there is another permissive path leading down to the trail much further along), then followed that right the way back to the car.

I'd covered 11.5km in 2 hours 15 minutes with 200m of ascent. A very nice end to a very successful trip.

Minninglow Hill 10/09/2026

Muncaster Fell (232m) 09/09/2026
Staying at the Bower House Hotel in Eskdale was super convenient for my first hill of the day; Muncaster Fell. It was short walk along the road before turning off to walk past the Irton Rd railway station (part of the Ravenglass steam railway system). The road soon became a track and then a good path which led upwards at an easy angle. The walking was fine, if a little muddy in places and I was soon on the upper ridge. There are lots of false summits, but the high point is at the far end (of course), marked by a cairn. There are excellent views to the coast and also to the Lakeland Fells.

The return was the reverse, taking me around an hour each way to cover the 10km and 347m of ascent.

Muncaster Fell 09/09/2026

Caw (529m) 09/09/2026
A thirty minute drive bought me to Seathwaite where I parked in the small village car park. There is a voluntary donation box for £2 which I was happy to pay and set off back a short distance along the road before leaving it for an easy angled, but very rocky path that gained height slowly and easily. After a while, there was an obvious track doubling back but gaining height which led to the old quarry. This is where the path and the easy ascent ended! It was very steep from there to gain the final 200m to the summit of Caw (529m), up to 60 degrees near the top which, after a week of hill climbing, saw me breathless at the top.

More excellent views before I reversed the route, stopping at the quarry for lunch it was far too windy on the top.

Back at the car, it had taken me one hour up and 45 minutes down to cover the 6km with an impressive 420m of ascent.

Caw 09/09/2026
Caw

Hardnott (549m) 08/09/2026
I’d agonised over whether or not to stick to my original plan of Hardnott Fell followed by two others. I decided to wait until I’d got to the summit, then make up my mind.

A got an early start as the car park I’d planned to use was quite a small one with very limited alternatives. In the event, I was the first one in the car park so happy with that.

Setting off, it was a short road walk, followed by a forest trail to bring me to the Jubilee Bridge which signals the start of the Hardnott Pass. From there, it goes very steeply upwards and there is little choice but to follow the road. At the Roman Fort, I left the road to explore, then followed a track which eventually bought me back to the road but much higher up. Again, there is little choice but to follow it to the top.

My path to the summit left the road at the crest where there is a large cairn. It’s more or less straight up. By now, it was raining so the waterproofs came on, and stayed on all day! Nearing the summit, there are a lot of rocky crests which, of course, mean that no sooner are you on one of them than you see a higher one! So it went on, but eventually I reached the highest point Of Hardnot Fell (549m), marked by a large cairn.

There is a pretty spectacular view, which would have been much better had there been no low clouds.

Hardnot 08/09/2026
Hardnot

Green Crag (489m) 08/09/2026
I decided that I would not follow my pre-planned route, but instead, drop down and climb Green Crag on the opposite side of the valley as it seemed an easier option and my legs were pretty tired,

It was a long descent to the valley with some careful route choices required to avoid the crags, but finally I came on to the good path that led me more or less back to Jubilee Bridge.

From there, my path climbed steadily and around Harter Fell. It was a good patch but quite a distance until I came to the forest. Through that and off onto a thin track that took some finding.That took me roughly in the right direction. It was very wet under foot and the rain showers ensured that I never fully dried out!

Eventually I came to the crags and like Hardnot, there were several all looking like the high point. Finally, in driving rain and strong wind, I stood on the summit of Green Crag (489m). No waiting long, I headed down and found some shelter from the wind so that I could have lunch.

That done, I grabbed my rucsac and headed off, straight into a very strong wind and horizontal rain. It took a while to get off the craggy area and onto the path that would lead me down. That was the theory but like all good paths, it came and went so there were times I was making it up as I went along. Finally coming to the edge of the steep descent to Eskdale valley I’d lost yhe path so had to make my own way down - it was very steep and slippery but I finally got to the valley and onto the trail that would bring me back to the car.

Literally five minutes before I got to the car, the heavens opened again and gave me one final soaking!

The total distance today was 20km taking about 5 1/2 hours with 1250m of ascent.

Green Crag 08/09/2026

Illgill Head (609m) 07/09/2026
Today was going to be a big one but convenient, it started right from the hotel near Eskdale Green so no driving.

I’d got a route planned but whilst doing some final checks, noticed a path, that if available, would remove the need to walk along a road for a kilometre.

Heading out, the path indeed did exist, happy with that, I climbed the very thin stile and followed a stream. Unfortunately it was badly water logged so spent time navigating the mud and water before emerging onto a first track.

This was much better and I followed it along the valley on the South East of Illgill Head hill for some time before leaving it for a footpath which itself was pretty good. This lasted several kilometres until I came above Burnmoor Tarn where it headed up on a thinner but still useful path. To my right, but in cloud, was Scafell Pike and a couple of hills that I might do tomorrow.

My route had shown a path going left and steeply up which I located without too much trouble, but then had over 400m of ascent in about 1km! Surprisingly it went quickly and I was soon feeling the cold effects of the ridge, requiring me to stop and put on a mid-layer and then my shell. I even changed my hat for a beanie, the ind was that cold.

I’d hoped that Illgill Head (609m) would provide splendid views of Wastwater. Unfortunately it does not, but does give a good view of Wasdale Head and the standard route up Scafell Pike.

Illgill Head 07/09/2026

Whin Rigg (535m) 07/09/2026
At the top, I stopped for a few minutes in a rocky shelter to recover, then, as it was quite cold, set off for Whin Rigg (535m), a couple of kilometres distant. There is quite a drop between them, but nothing to worry about and I was soon on the way up for my second summit of the day. Again, I didn’t stop long and was soon on the way down the South Western side on a good, but at times, wet trail.

To get back to the hotel, I had to pass through the forest of earlier which I did without issue, although I did stop to remove my jacket as, being out of the wind, meant it was quite a bit warmer.

Through the forest I came to the path from first thing and was quickly back at the hotel. I’d missed the rain so was happy with that.

My total distance was 17.6km in 4 1/2 hours with 829m of ascent.

Whin Rigg 07/09/2026

Castle Knott (536m) 06/09/2026
Parking in Barbon, I was certain I’d been there before. Checking the map, I had! Not only that, but I’d almost been to the summit of the hill I was planning to climb. Checking back, March 2023 I’d climbed Calf Top, the path for which, goes within 50m of the summit of Castle Knott. I looked at the map trace from that walk. I’d missed the summit. Oh well, it’s a nice walk and I was at the start so might as well do it.

The walk goes through a farming Estate before breaking out on to the hillside via a very steep climb. Feeling fit, I.headed up at a good speed but was soon blowing a bit. Carry on! Eventually the angle eases and it’s a good, but still steep climb right the way to the cairn that (almost) marks the summit of Castle Knott (536m, a Dewey). My ‘pin’ was a little wary to the West so I headed over and indeed it was slightly higher. Of course there were several places that looked like the high point so I visited them all to be certain.

It was quite a cold and windy day so I didn’t hang about and was soon on the way back down, retracing my steps all the way back to the car.

It had taken me just under two hours to do 8km with 522m of ascent.

Castle Knott 06/09/2026

Loughrig Fell (334m) 06/09/2026
The second hill of the day was quite a drive. I parked near Rydal Water just outside Ambleside and headed off on a very touristy trail, well, it was a Sunday in the Lake District!

As I headed out towards Loughrig Fell (334m), so the crowds thinned and soon found myself in considerably less company. The optimum trail heads around the base of the fell before a sharp left turn heads steeply up on man made steps. These continue to the final ramparts and it is just a few minutes further to the top. The views on the top a re superb and well worth the effort. I’d summited in just under 40 minutes so very happy with that. I found a spot just below the summit to stop for lunch admiring the view.

Descent is a reverse of the ascent and I was back at the car one hour and ten minutes after leaving, covering 5km with 300m of ascent.

Loughrigg Fell 06/09/2026

Lantern Pike (373m) 22/08/2026
I've passed Lantern Pike a few times on my way through the Peak District, so decided that today I would climb it. It qualifies as an Ethel only but is an interesting walk.

I parked in Hayfield, having scoped out the rather expensive car park, I elected to drive down the road a short section and park on the roadside.

It was convenient and I was soon down onto the Sett trail which I followed for a short section before leaving it by a small reservoir. This is where the climbing began. Initially it was past the water and up a short grassy field before emerging on a small lane. This then led to a farm lane which became a track. A signpost pointed up left where it became quite steep for a short section before emerging onto the final ridge and the summit a few minutes later.

The view from the summit is excellent. Directly over the valley was the Kinder Scout escarpment and to the right Mount Famine and South Head, both previously conquered Ethels. Behind me I could see Manchester City Centre.

It was a lovely day and had taken me just 40 minutes to ascend.

I continued along the ridge and followed the path as it descended then turned back in the direction of Hayfield. 20 minutes later I was back on the outbound route so decided it would be a good place for lunch.

That done, I was back at the car fifteen minutes later.

The total walk was 7km taking me one and a half hours with 250m of ascent.

Lantern Pike 22/08/2026

Hoove Summit 20/08/2026

Hoove (555m) 20/08/2026
Today was supposed to be. Ten mile hike in Yorkshire. Due to general fatigue and heavy rain, I decided I could only summon the energy to climb the final Marilyn of the trip.

Stand House near Langthwaite has a convenient car park just off the main road. From there, I followed a track trending upwards and then along ATV tracks past a few shooting butts before heading more directly up towards the summit.

It was quite a misty day so the trig point didn’t come into view until I was quite close. From reading reports of other ascents, the common wisdom is that this is not the actual summit, so I headed over to what looked like higher ground. I could see what seemed to be a post, but as I got closer, I realised it was a mannequin! Fully clothed in a blue jump suit!

On terrain like this, it is possible to wander around for ages trying to find the highest point, but I was satisfied that I’d done it, so headed roughly back towards the trig point again before aiming off to pick up the track I’d come up on.

Exactly one hour after leaving the car, I was back, job done.

I’d walked 4km in one hour with just 125m of ascent, but it’s swings and roundabouts with hill bagging. That was enough for me.

On Hoove Moor 20/08/2026

Sighty Fell 19/08/2026
The Marilyn I was least looking forward to. Sighty Fell is, by any standard, remote. The road to the parking area at the Flatt leaves civilization behind by some margin. Mine was the only car in the small parking area and I was soon away on a forest track, although the gate onto the track was locked so it required climbing.

For 4.5km it heads through the forest steadily gaining height until, at around 400m, it’s time to leave it and head out into Cumbrian hell!

Marked as a fire break on the map, it is nothing of the kind, but a passable break between older and younger trees. At the end is a barbed wire fence, but in the top corner, a very small wooden fence which is, with some difficulty, possible to climb.

Ahead of me was Two Lads Crag which I headed for, but firstly had to drop down and cross a stream - easier said than done, but I got over with no problems. Up the other side and through the crag, I turned right and headed up in the general direction of the summit. Being a wide moorland, the summit is far from obvious and the going is incredibly tough, being a combination of heather, tussocky grass and bog. Of course, there are no paths.

It had taken me one hour to get to the end of the forest track, it took me a similar time to do less than half that to the summit of Sighty Crag (520m) - an indication of the effort required. The summit is not terribly exciting, nor is the view and to be honest, if it wasn’t a Marilyn that needed doing I wouldn’t have bothered.

The return journey was equally tough but I managed to get on the right side of the stream and crag so didn’t have to cross it again, although my route down the final section would have been very unpleasant going up.

I was delighted to finally get to the forest track and be able to walk without stumbling back down to the car.

The total distance was 12.5km in 3 1/2 hours with 400m of ascent.

Sighty Crag (520m) 19/08/2026

Lake District Hills 18/08/2026
I parked in Pooley Bridge at a cheap car park - £4 for the whole day. It was a ten minute walk down to the ferry pier to catch the 09:45 ferry to Howtown, a 25 minute trip.

Off the ferry and I followed the path along the edge of the water and around the base of Hallin Fell. Looking up, all I could see were ferns. I was beginning to think I’d blundered but suddenly a path appeared which cut through the ferns and took me very steeply upwards, eventually emerging onto the final slopes to the obelisk and the summit Of Hallin Fell (388m) and my first Marilyn of the trip and also a Wainwright.

Hallin Fell (388m) 18/08/2026

High Dodd 18/08/2026
I stopped only briefly to take a couple of photos before continuing along the path that took me down the far side, losing all of the height I had gained. Crossing a stream,I picked up the Ullswater Way path which I followed for a while until arriving at a café where I took the path leading up the hill in the general direction of High Dodd. I stayed with this until I’d gained around 400m, then had no alternative but to take a direct route for the final 100m of ascent to the summit of High Dodd (501m), classed as both a Dewey (only just) and a Wainwight. I was two hours into the walk and happy with my progress.

High Dodd (501m) 18/08/2026

Beda Head 18/08/2026
A long descent followed which was painful on the knees and all the time I could see my next objective; Beda Head, seeming to grow in height.

Reaching the bottom of the valley, it was time for a drink and a biscuit and Rosie could enjoy a swim in the stream. Break over, it was an obvious path through the ferns, initially quite steep, then it eased off, but always relentlessly uphill onto Beda Head (509m). Again, I didn’t want to stay too long as I was conscious of the time - I had a ferry to catch.

Beda Head (509m) 18/08/2026

Steel Knots 18/08/2026
The descent retraced my steps for a while before heading off steeply down into the next valley. I took the opportunity to scope out the final ascent path, again, pretty obvious and not looking too bad - they never do!

Finally at the low point I started upwards on a good path at a good angle, I had 230m of ascent to cover. There were a couple of steep sections, one early on, and one right at the end which really tested the legs, before the final push onto the summit of Steel Knots (432m). The view was excellent across Ullswater and realizing I had plenty of time,, finally stopped for something to eat, although I wasn’t actually very hungry.

It is quite a long descent to Howtown but I had loads of time so took it easy, eventually arriving at a nice path which led me right into Howtown and onward to the ferry port itself. I had around 40 minutes to wait which was spent eating the rest of my lunch, trying not to get cold and relaxing ..

The ferry was on time and by 4:20pm I was walking back to the car, the day done.

I’ve climbed four peaks, three of which are Wainwrights, two are Deweys and one is. Marilyn, so lots of boxes ticked today. The total distance was 16km, taking almost five hours (so it shows how tough it was) and included 1,300m of ascent. The weather had been mixed, with a few showers and quite a breeze on the exposed sections, but all manageable.

Steel Knots (432m) 18/08/2026

The Howgills 17/08/2026
I started the day in Sedbergh. The plan was a quick nip up Arant Haw (605m), a Dewey.

The path was marked to Brant Fell which is the parent fell. It was an excellent path and made its way up nicely, although at times was quite steep. As I ascended, I realised the summit area would be in cloud so, unfortunately, no view.

Eventually I had to break off from the main path to head to the summit, but clearly I wasn’t the first as there was an equally good path right to the cairn marking the summit. It had taken me a shade under an hour. As it was so quick, I decided to continue on to the summit of ‘The Calf‘ (647m) which is the highest point of the Howgills. That took me a further 45 minutes. On arrival it was equally in the mist so it was a quick touch and go.

The return journey more or less retraced my steps but I could avoid Arant Haw again and head down.

There were a few minor showers on the way down, long enough to put on my waterproof jacket, but then stopped almost immediately.

The total journey was 12.5km. Taking me three hours and had 780m of ascent.

Arant Haw (605m) 17/08/2026

Ethel Bashing 15/08/2026
For today’s walk, I parked at Great Hucklow, a convenient village with plenty of road side parking.

Heading off, I picked in a path that took me up through a pleasant wood and onto the road that led to the gliding club. I had intended to cut through the club and follow the track around the outside, but several signs made it clear that walkers were not welcome and there was no access to the Ethel. This caused some replanning. I walked past the clubs field, climbed a fence and followed a path that had clearly been used by many people doing the same as me! It all went well until the top where my route was blocked by a very high stone wall. Not fancying scaling it, I noticed a gate slightly down the hill so made my way down. The gate was locked! Over we went and followed a thin track to the far side where an open gate gave me access to my first Ethel of the day; Durham Edge (416m). At the top I could see the gliding club and how much more convenient it would have been to walk straight across!

Durham Edge (416m) 15/08/2026

Burton Bole 15/08/2026
From there I retraced to the locked gate, over we went and onward towards the second of the day. Another field and another locked gate, this time with barbed wire across the top! A slight detour to a stile and we were on a green lane which led to the foot of Burton Bole (407m). A few minutes later I was stood on what I considered to be the high point - there was no trig point. Back down and I found a nice place or lunch.

Burton Bole (407m) 15/08/2026

Sir William Hill 15/08/2026
Lunch done, I was now on marked footpaths and would stay on them for the rest of the day. It was a long steady downhill to the valley, through a woodland and then a long steady ascent to the final Ethel of the day; Sir William Hill (429m).

Onto a good path I came into the village of Eyam but barely skimmed the side of it, quickly heading out on field tracks to Foolow, a small village, then more field tracks back to Great Hucklow and the end of my days walking.

I’d covered 18km in four hours with 566m of ascent. The weather had been just right all day, not too hot and not too cold.

Sir William Hill (429m) 15/08/2026

Clifaesty Hill 08/08/2026
To complete the week, I managed to fit a couple of Deweys in.

Parking at the Cider House not far from Newtown in mid-Wales. It was an easy walk up a good farm track until the hills came in sight. It was a bit too easy so I continued past with the intention of skirting around and bagging them on the way back.

The walk went well, although once I'd left the Kerry Bridleway, the path more or less vanished and I was cross-country. It wasn't too bad and I was soon on the slopes of Clifaesty Hill (528m). A few minutes later I arrived at the high point. There was no cairn or other marking so I found what I considered to be the high point and declared it conquered.

Clifaesty Hill 08/08/2026

Bryn Coch 08/08/2026
The second hill; Bryn Coch (518m) was a further fifteen minutes walk on similar terrain. The summit was again, up to me, so I found the high point of that one too.

The day was glorious so on the way back, I took the opportunity of locating the source of the River Teme. I found where the source would have been, but given the last few months of no rain, the source had well and truly dried up, although I could see where it ran.

Out of there and back onto the main track, I was back at the car quite quickly and enjoyed my lunch on the thoughtfully provided picnic benches in the car park.

The total distance today was 7.5km, with 250m of ascent, taking one and a half hours to complete.

Bryn Coch 08/08/2026

River Teme Source 08/08/2026

Holyhead Mountain 06/08/2026

Holyhead Mountain 06/08/2026
Today was the final Welsh Marilyn. Located on the far side of Anglesey, Holyhead Mountain is 220m high, so a long way from being an actual mountain, but nevertheless had to be done and from a distance, looked impressive.

I parked near to the RSPB centre at South Stack, although I managed to find a small area to park the car to avoid the extortionate £7.50 parking charge.

Initially the path is a steady one, not gaining too much height, but eventually goes steeply up. It is a good track right the way to the summit with no objective difficulties and I was soon on top. The views all around were superb and I spent a while admiring it.

Descending is a reverse of the ascent and I was soon back at the car. There is a small Iron Age settlement nearby which is worth a visit, as is the RSPB coffee shop.

Being on Anglesey, I also stopped off briefly to watch the air traffic in and out of RAF Valley, then over to the East side to visit Din Llugwy, another ancient settlement and much more impressive than the earlier one. From there to Moelfre for coffee and scones.

The total ascent for the day was 160m in 4km taking around an hour to complete.

Holyhead Mountain 06/08/2026

Bryn Banog 04/08/2026
An early start was required today as I was planning to park in a popular, but small car park at Nantmor. As it turned out I was the first one there so happy days. It’s also a National Trust Car Park so free for me.

It was already raining heavily when I got there so full waterproofs on and off I went. Initially down the road, over the bridge and then into the forest. I made a slight navigational error, following the footpath signs, like you do, then realised my mistake and had some fun getting back onto the actual path which was the far side of a stream.

Confident, I headed upwards and onto open ground. The path was, to say the least, thin and in some cases, non-existent, but I headed up nevertheless. I was already in cloud so had to check frequently to ensure I was still going in the right direction. As I reached 400m altitude, I checked my route and discovered I was quite close to the Bryn Banog (519m) summit, my first Dewey of the day. Here it got very steep, saving the hardest part for the end. Finally I pulled onto the top, reaching the cairn, although in the mist, other parts looked higher! I was confident.

Bryn Banog 04/08/2026

Moel Ddu 04/08/2026
I didn’t wait long and was soon on my way to the main summit of this walk, Moel Ddu (553m), a Marilyn and also a Dewey. It would be the second Marilyn of the week and the second of the final four in Wales. There was a big drop before I started the final climb and in the mist, again I checked my route frequently. Finally confident I was on the upper slopes, I headed up, the gradient had become much steeper and my legs were complaining.

A few minutes later, I came to the obvious summit. Again, I didn’t stay long, the rain that had been a feature of the day was still going and I figured if I stayed long, I would get cold. Dropping down I found a shelter from the wind and rain and decided to stop for a quick drink and some food. I also took the opportunity of adding an extra layer to keep out the cold as my waterproofs were now soaked through, as were my clothes, not surprisingly as much due to condensation as rain.

Suitably attired and warmer, I set off in search of the path and quickly located it. I followed it down to the first edge again, and having remembered the exit point on the way up, soon located it and went in. I’d passed a good shelter on the way up so decided to use that for a break. The rain had eased off, and being in the forest meant I was protected so removed my waterproofs and windproof. A quick snack and drink and I made my way down to the road again, this time, on the correct path.

A few minutes later I was back at the car park. It had been 10km walked with 940m of ascent in three and a half hours. I reflected on how hard it must have been for it to take that long.

Moel Ddu 04/08/2026

Moel y Dyniewyd 04/08/2026
As I was parked in the best place, I had a word with myself and decided to head up and ascend the third Marilyn. I argued that it was only 380m high, so how hard could it be?

Initially, it was a fine walk, heading up on a good path to Cwm Buchan and enjoyed the relative ease of ascent. Of course, it wouldn’t last and the path steepened until I came to a gate which was my cue to turn right and tackle Moel y Dyniewyd (382m). The going got much harder on a much thinner path, at times, almost a scramble and as I got close to the summit, so the incline increased - it certainly saved the worst until last!

Finally, in mist again, I summited. My waterproofs came out again as it was raining once more and quite windy, so cold.

I didn’t linger and headed down, promising myself lunch once I reached the main path again. It seemed to take an age but eventually I arrived and found myself a nice boulder for lunch. The weather hadn’t finished with me! A shower whilst eating and a couple on the way down, ensured I kept my waterproofs on right the way back to the car.

This walk was 6 1/2 km with 420m of ascent in just over two hours.

Moel y Dyniewyd 04/08/2026

Bardsey Island 03/08/2026

Bardsey Island 03/08/2026
Today was an unusual day in that my target for the day was on an island so would require driving, and then a boat trip before the ascent could begin.

Bardsey Island is off the West coast of the Llyn Peninsula in Wales and seems to be a land that time forgot. Most of the peninsula roads are thin, twisty turning country lanes so progress is slow but eventually I arrived at the car park and the short walk down to Porth Meundwy.

From there, the boat took around 25 minutes to get to the island and we were soon back on dry land. One of the members of staff of the islands trust gave us all a brief on where to go and what there was on the island. My target was Mynydd Enlli (167m), the imposing hill directly ahead, but actually, the lowest Marilyn in Wales.

The walk up was straightforward on a good path, and the views became better and better as I gained height. On the summit, there is an excellent view of the mainland and over to Marilyns that I’d climbed some years ago, looking at Enlli - one day!

A nice easy descent bought me to the North of the island and the ruined Abbey of St Mary. There is nothing much left, but there is a church which is open for visitors. I went to have a look and noticed that it is the end of the North Wales Pilgrimage. Well, I’m not sure about that, but I couldn’t resist getting a stamp on the map that I’d picked up from the jetty.

That done, I followed the stony track past the habitation (around 5-6 houses) and onto another group of houses which featured the islands only public toilet! Slightly further down was a shop with an honesty box so I purchased a souvenir, then enjoyed my lunch on a bench outside. The weather had been and still was, glorious. Not too hot but warm enough to feel comfortable in shorts and T-shirt.

Lunch done, I headed down the track and back to the jetty. With plenty of time, I took a walk over to the lighthouse and back.

3pm and we loaded onto the boat for the journey back to the mainland. I reflected that Enlli had been probably the easiest Marilyn but definitely the nicest way to spend a day.

The total ascent was around 170m covering about 5km in 2 hours of walking. There was a lot of relaxing and easy walking but I had all day so made the most of it.

Bardsey Island 03/08/2026

Dinas Mawddy 01/08/2026
I parked in Dina’s Mawddy at the free car park in the village. Towering above me was my first hill of the day; Foel Benddin (543m). It looked steep. It was! Out of the car park, through a small woodland and via a short section of road, I came to the track. Upwards to the junction and right. I followed it along for a while, looking up for a break in the heather. Eventually I spotted what looked like a route so headed up. It started well enough, avoiding the ferns but eventually it became overgrown. I persevered. There were steep sections up to about 60 degrees which tired the legs.

Finally I came onto a reasonable path that followed the contours gently climbing but that came to an abrupt halt with gorse and other undergrowth. I had to retrace, then go direct, following narrow tracks but making progress. Eventually after climbing around 400m of ascent I came to the summit ridge and headed for the high point. I’d done it!

Foel Benddin 01/08/2026

Y Gribin 01/08/2026
I could see my second objective; Y Gribin (602m) not too far away so set off. Unfortunately there was a big drop between the hills and I found myself with another 150m of climbing to the summit. 30 minutes after leaving Benddin I was on the top .

From there it was initially steep downhill, but then I joined a wide track that zig-zagged its way down the hill. All the while I looked out for a short cut, but none came so I had to follow it all the way. My lunch stop was on one of the bends where I spent the time scanning for a more direct path - nothing.

On the final flat section it was around 3-4km back to Dinas on a reasonable path, sometimes fields, sometimes lanes but eventually I got back to the path I’d come up. It was another 10 minutes back to the car.

13km walked with around 700m of ascent in 3 1/4 hours.

Y Gribin 01/08/2026

Cheriton Hill 25/07/2026

Cheriton Hill 25/07/2026
The final hill in Kent and the penultimate one in the South. It was something of an anti-climax, being a trig point inside an underground reservoir, fenced off, although I did climb the fence for a photo!

I flew to Pent Farm, then cycled the short distance to the hill. There is a track that leads up to it, so I cycled that too and only got off to walk the short distance to the trig point.

After that, I continued on to the Battle of Britain memorial which required some fairly steep downhill and uphill cycling (in both directions) so I felt my bag was worthwhile.

Ramshaw Rocks 08/07/2026
The Roaches are a superb rocky escarpment, featuring lots of rock climbing opportunities, many of which I enjoyed a long time ago. Today I was there to bag Ramshaw Rocks (460m).

The day was start of the second heat wave of the year and it was hot!

We parked near Hen Cloud and headed off contouring around past the Roaches House. I'd spotted a stream on the map so we made our way down so Rosie could have a dip. The path soon vanished and after cooling herself, we tried to get back onto the path we needed. It was tough tussocky grass but eventually we made it, crossed a small bridge (over a dried stream bed and followed the path almost to the busy A53 where we turned up onto the lower slopes of Ramshaw Rocks. Eventually we reached the highest point which has a superb view over the valley and the road. It was lunchtime.

After lunch, we continued up, dropping down to another valley where I'd spied a stream on the map. It took a while to get down to it and it was all but dried up. Rosie managed to find enough to lie down in to cool off.

From there, it was a short walk around the North of Hen Cloud and down to the road for the final couple of hundred metres to the car.

Seven kilometres in an hour and a half with 270m of ascent. Very hot day.

Ramshaw Rocks (460m) 08/07/2026

Sponds Hill 07/07/2026
It was a pretty easy day today which was no bad thing after yesterday. Lyme Park was my chosen car park which is a National Trust property with an excellent café and very nice gardens. Being a member meant entry and parking was free so happy with that.

After coffee and cake, I headed across the field to a gate and up through the small woodland to emerge onto open ground. There was a very good track that led up to the ridgeline with the summit to the right and on the skyline.

Soon at the top, and over the stile, I turned right and followed another good track through fields of sheep and onto the final summit area of Sponds Hill (410m). The trig point was on the far side of a barbed wire fence, but a handy gate obviated the need for climbing.

Summit done, I retraced my steps down to the woodland where a lunch stop was declared, then down to the car park.

I spent an hour or two exploring the gardens which were very nice. Unfortunately due to having Rosie with e, I couldn’t visit the house - maybe next time.

A total of 6km walked in just over an hour with 220m of ascent made for a pleasant day and another tick in the box.

Sponds Hill (410m) 07/07/2026

Wolfscote Hill 06/07/2026
Hulme End made a good parking spot, right next to a café and toilets.

Heading off, there was a short section of road before I picked up a path through a caravan park and out into the countryside.

Some pleasant walking eventually bought me out onto a lane where I could see my first destination; Wolfscote Hill (388m). Following the lane down, I crossed Wolfscote Dale. Convinced I had been there before, I checked the map, and sure enough, it’s the dale that leads out of Hartington towards Dovedale. The last time I was there, it was seriously flooded. Today, a pleasant stream that Rosie took great pleasure in diving into.

From there, a steady uphill, initially on a path, then a lane until a signpost indicated a ‘permissive’ path to the summit Trig point. It had taken me about an hour and a half. Obviously a popular hill, the land owner presumably got tired of people finding their own way.

Wolfscote Hill (388m) 06/07/2026

Wetton Hill 06/07/2026
Excellent views from the summit caused me to stop a while, but then off, retracing my steps down to the dale again, this time crossing by a different bridge and following the pleasant path through Narrowdale and skirting the hill. I would have been tempted to ascent, but with a long walk and three more hills to climb, I resisted.

Across a road and onto pleasant fields, my second goal was in sight; Wetton Hill (372m). The majority of the climbing is towards the end, with a stiff pull onto the final summit point, an hour after leaving the previous hill.. There is no trig point or anything really to mark the summit, but the high point is obvious.

Again, a short break and I retraced my steps initially, then turned off to a small stream where I decided it was lunchtime and Rosie could have a dip.

Wetton Hill (372m) 06/07/2026

Ecton Hill 06/07/2026
Our lunch Done, we were off again, uphill for most of the way to the third summit which was a bit unfortunate straight after lunch.

Ecton Hill (369m) is one of those hills that seems to go on forever but suddenly the trig point appeared and I’d done it. I didn’t stop long as it was a field full of sheep so Rosie was on the lead, but as we started our descend on the other side, it was sheep free so I could let her run free.

Ecton Hill (369m) 06/07/2026

Revidge 06/07/2026
Down to the Manifold Valley, across the road, we were soon in open fields again and via various fields and stiles came to Worslow.

Through the village and out, we picked up a path, initially going wrong and scaring a lady by walking into her garden! Apparently we weren’t the first. She walked me back and pointed to the non-existent path arrow! On my way, I made a slight navigational error and ended up walking three sides of a field, but got back on track to follow more obvious paths.

Revidge (401m) is again a long drawn out ascent, but not steep and we were pleased to summit.

The final hill done, it was about 3km back to Hulme End which we made quick work of and were soon walking into the car park.

Dumped the gear, changed out of my boots and it was off for a celebratory coffee and cake.

The total walking distance was 22km with 780m of climb, taking 4 1/2 hours. Four Ethels in the bag.

Revidge (401m) 06/07/2026

Mount Famine 18/06/2026
Hayfield was the starting point for todays hill bagging. There is lots of road side parking on the way to the (paid) car park so I decided, like many people, to take advantage of it. Luckily there was a space right next to the path that I needed to take so minimal road walking which is good.

Booted up, we set off and quickly got onto the Pennine Bridleway which we would follow right to the base of Mount Famine. The walking was good and we made progress. There was even a short cut directly to the summit rather than going around - it was steep but well worth it and we soon started the steep climb to the top. Mount Famine (473m) is an excellent hill and quite a test, although being just 473m, short lived and we soon found ourselves sat on the summit enjoying the view over to the Kinder Scout escarpment.

Mount Famine 18/06/2026

South Head 18/06/2026
South Head (494m) was in sight and we set off, losing a lot of the height we had gained down to the col, but then directly up again, the summit came quickly. It was a touch and go summit as we'd previously rested on Famine.

South Head 18/06/2026

Chinley Churn 18/06/2026
It was a long stage now to the third and final hill, a combination of farm fields, very thin paths and open access land, plus a couple of roads to cross, the first being the busy A624.

The final ascent on open land was quite steep and got progressively steeper as we approached the rocks that signified the summit. Rosie of course headed off and stood on the rocks watching her master puff and blow his way up. On the crest, it was a short distance to the unmarked high point of Chinley Churn (457m). The views were equally impressive and we stood a while to admire them - and recover from the efforts.

It was around lunchtime so we headed down the other side to get out of the wind and found a nice spot to stop. It was a glorious day. Shorts and T-shirt weather and a real contrast to the cold, damp day we'd had yesterday.

Lunch done, it was another easy walk along a bridleway pretty much all the way down to Hayfield. Once there, we had a couple of roads to cross and a very overgrown path to negotiate, but then a pleasant walk along the river valley where Rosie took full advantage of the opportunity for a swim. Before we knew it, we were crossing the bridge and up the final slope to the car. Both the day, and the week done.

We'd covered 11km in two hours and forty minutes with 615m of climbing. A great day out!

Chinley Churn 18/06/2026

Holme Moss area 17/06/2026
I parked near the Holme Moss mast and headed off in a Westerly direction on a good, but quite wet track. I did question my choice of footwear (trekking shoes) but carried on regardless.

I’d identified a path a kilometre or so away. The plan was to walk over to that, then follow it to the first summit of White Low (530m).

On the way was a steep descent, followed by a big climb out. By now, the track that I had been following had all but disappeared so I made my way through Heather and marshy ground. The descent and subsequent climb out were though going but eventually I reached a kind of path which I followed more or less to the summit, the last section being on a thinner track.

There was nothing of note at the summit, it was just the highest point, having taken me around 50 minutes to achieve. A quick photo and I continued on my way.

White Low 17/06/2026

Britland Edge 17/06/2026
It was a tough walk through heather and at times, waist deep ferns, with no path, I had to invent my own route, aiming towards a car park on the road, which I couldn’t see, but I knew I could cross the road at any convenient point. At around the 2/3 point, there was a steep downhill section which saw me slipping and sliding down to the stream. Crossing it was something of a challenge and it took me some time to find a good crossing place, and when I did, disaster nearly struck as I slipped on a rock, fortunately catching myself and avoiding a nasty encounter with the water.

Eventually, quite tired, I arrived at the road. As it happened, there was a stile to cross the fence and another on the other side of the road.

I took the opportunity of stopping for a rest, taking my shoes and socks off to wring them out! They were soaked.

That done, and a brief rest and I headed off over more pathless ground and up in the general direction of my second summit, Britland Edge Moor (524m), the high point of the day. Again, nothing to show the summit so I was soon away.

Britland Edge 17/06/2026

Dead Edge End 17/06/2026
My mapped route took a direct line, but looking at the terrain, it was clearly easier to follow the pasty that skirted the valley - quite a bit further, but considerably easier on reasonable ground. The path lasted quite well, but eventually petered out, but by then I was close enough and soon reached summit number three, Dead Edge End. By now it was lunchtime so I sat on the trig point to enjoy a lunch and try to plan the route to the fourth hill.

Lunch done and a plan in place, which was basically to follow the route I’d planned and see if there were any viable shortcuts.

Dead Edge End 17/06/2026

Snailsden Pike 17/06/2026
Due to the number of grouse shooting butts, it was reasonably easy going and I spied a route that would cut a big corner off the route. I took it and headed down to cross the River Don, which went easily, then up the other side following a wall. As I crested the rise, the trig point of Snailsden Pike End (477m) came into view and I was soon there.

Now all I had to do was to aim for the radio mast and the end. This was seriously tough going, no path, lots of up and down, lots of marsh land to get through and all the time, heather. The mast didn’t seem to get any closer and I began to lose morale, but kept plugging away at it and eventually arrived, extremely tired, at the road. Crossing that, it was just a few minutes to the car. The final section had taken me an hour of leg sapping effort to complete, but I’d done it and bagged another four never to be repeated hills.

The total journey was fifteen kilometres in four hours with 635m of ascent.

Snailsden Pike 17/06/2026

Ethel invasion 15/06/2026
Having gained a renewed interest in the Peak District with the discovery of Ethels, I decided a trip was necessary to bag a few more.

I parked up at the Mam Nick car park just below Mam Tor and headed off in the opposite direction. Via a couple of paths I came close to my first hill, Slitherstone Hill (477m). The last little bit required climbing a locked gate and heading over the field. It did occur to me that these hills were categorized by choice rather than by any height definition and the fact that many of them are not on public paths does bring into question the justification, but no matter, I’d soon bagged it and was off towards the second summit of Eldon Hill (470m).

Slitherstone Hill 15/06/2026

Eldon Hill 15/06/2026
Initially straightforward, I soon realized that Eldon Quarry was in the way and there was no easy way around. I headed down the track alongside the quarry and took a path that was declared as going to the pond only. I decided to follow it.

This bought me, after ignoring the path to the pond, into the quarry itself and I set about trying to find a way out of it and in the general direction of the summit.

One false start in the corner, I backtracked and headed up a steep stony vague path. Clearly it was nothing of the kind and I soon felt in a somewhat precarious position. A move to the left on very slippery stones bought me to bigger rocks which I used to make progress. The final moves were worthy of a rock scramble and I crested the rise, blowing a little but happy to be out of the quarry.

It was grassy slopes from here onwards, crossing a fence, we soon came to the summit, marked only by a few rocks.

Eldon Hill 15/06/2026

Gautries Hill 15/06/2026
Photo taken, we headed down, initially retracing our steps, but then picking up a path that took us across fields and down to a farm, where the path disappeared. We found a gate and headed through and eventually down to the road. By now, it was raining a little, so we took shelter under a tree to put on warmer clothes and have lunch.

That done, we were off along a road, cut left and steeply up to the third hill of the day; Gautries Hill (410m). The rain had stopped and the forthcoming effort of the steep climb made me stop to remove the extra clothes and off we went.

The hill yielded quickly and we soon stood on the summit. Another quick photo and we were on our way back to the road again, which we followed for a kilometre, then branched off left though several fields, all of which had stone step type stiles, Rosie enjoying herself climbing them.

Gautries Hill 15/06/2026

Bradwell Moor 15/06/2026
A final field full of cows and a bull, none of which had the slightest interest in us and we popped out onto the Limestone Way, a walk I did way back in 2012. I have to confess to recognising that part of the route which would have been the final day.

We headed up, branched off and came to the final hill of the day; Bradwell Moor (471m), the only peak to have a trig point, and better still, had a seat.

I took full advantage and rested a while for a drink and biscuit, and admired the view ahead over to Mam Tor and the woodland that was my car park.

Eventually of course, I had to get going and followed the Limestone Way for a while until my route turned off and headed more or less directly over to the car park.

Four Ethels done in three hours and twenty minutes, covering just over 16km with 480m of ascent.

Bradwell Moor 15/06/2026

Kisdon Hill 06/06/2026
I managed to persuade the chauffeur that we really needed to detour our homeward route to allow me to bag one of my remaining Yorkshire Marilyns. So it was with much fuss and complaint that we pulled into the car park in Keld and I set off for the nearby summit of Kisdon (499m). Apart from the initial few minutes out of Keld on the Coast to Coast path, it was fairly steeply uphill all the way. Despite reports elsewhere concerning paths, there were none once we left the main path. It got increasingly difficult underfoot with soft heather and hidden holes. There were a couple of stone walls to negotiate as well, but the builder was obviously thoughtful and placed some good stones to be used as steps. Rosie of course, leapt onto the top, then leapt off again.

The summit itself is quite an impressive cairn but apart from a photo I was soon on my way as it was quite windy and raining.

More tricky going, followed by a very steep downhill bought me onto the Pennine Way which I followed for a while until the Muker path left it. Just 1000m down a good track and I came into the village. A couple of minutes and I reached the car park and car.

My prediction for the walk was one hour and fifteen minutes. My watch told me one hour and sixteen minutes so happy with that. Five kilometres and 250m of ascent. Just one Marilyn remaining in Yorkshire!

Kisdon Hill 06/06/2026

Dunmore Hill 05/06/2026
It was a Dewey day again today. I parked at Hartside in a small car park, kitted up, then walked a short distance back along the road to a stile and out onto a path. It headed roughly upwards in the direction of Cunyan Crags although the route I found was somewhat shorter than the one I’d planned - no bad thing. I was now on no path at all but spied a gate in the fence so aimed for that. It was pretty steep, but got even steeper once through the gate.

I made my own route up to the crags, then onto a path which took me right to the summit of Dunmore Hill (569m). There was a tiny cairn marking the summit. I paused long enough for a couple of photos, then off I went as the wind was very cold. I decided I would need a second layer.

Dunmore Hill 05/06/2026

Shill Moor 05/06/2026
From there I descended to pick up a good track which I followed down to Linhope Burn. It was an easy crossing using the ford then up a little way before turning right to follow another track which would bring me to a bridge crossing the River Beamish. Along the way, we entered a field with cows and their calves who followed and pestered us for some distance. Of course Rosie took umbridge at this and it was a fight to keep her under control and dissuade the cows. Of course, they were just being curious and playful but Rosie didn’t know, or appreciate that, so it was with some relief that we reached a gate.

Downhill to the river and the two bridges. Unfortunately, on the far side, neither of them seemed to lead anywhere so we crossed and made our way up the steep bank to a track.

We on the second hill at this point and I spotted the beginnings of a small track which we followed.

It was steep from the get-go, very steep, up to 45 degrees in places and we had 250m of climbing to the summit of Shill Moor (528m). I was pretty tired when we got to the top, but the reward, other than the superb view, was a trig point and a very nice wind-break enclosure where I sat to have my lunch.

After lunch, we took a direct, pathless route down to meet, what was shown on the map as an indistinct track, but was, in fact, a good tarmac road. We followed this to Alnhammoor farm, past the farm and up the road and back to the car.

Two Dewey’s climbed, 16km in three hours and fifty minutes with an impressive 910m of climbing.

Shill Moor 05/06/2026

Northumberlands final Marilyn 03/06/2026
Today was an ascent of the final Marilyn in Northumberland. It also happened to be the most Northerly in England. Housedon Hill (268m) stands on its own so couldn’t be combined with anything else worthwhile. There is a very small car park at Reedsford. I’m not sure it’s even an actual car park, but it is possible to fit two or three cars in the space without inconveniencing anyone. Today, mine was the only one.

Booted up and rucsac on, we headed almost directly up via a gate and followed a good track until we arrived at a second gate. Through it and directly up. I aimed for the radio masts above me, there is no obvious path. It is quite a steep climb and I have to confess to stopping a couple of times to catch my breath.

The radio masts are not on the highest point, that is to the left, but it does make a good aiming point and there is a good track onto the actual summit which is marked with a very small cairn.

I did read about someone claiming the Northern summit so, of course, had to go there as well. It’s turns out it’s not so high so isn’t required for the bag.

Descent was a random one, heading down in the general direction of the gate, then retrace my steps right the way back to the car.

Two and a half kilometres, 221m of ascent in 45 minutes was a good start to the day.

Housedon Hill 03/06/2026

Dewey Round 03/06/2026
A thirty minute drive and I was at my second parking spot of the day at Langleeford which is at the end of a very narrow road. There is a reasonable parking area with space for probably a dozen cars. As I pulled in, there were already five cars parked which made me wonder why it was so popular, then I remembered the last time I had been here, I’d climbed ‘The Cheviot’ along with Comb Fell and Hedgehope Hill. The former being the highest mountain around obviously attracts attention.

Rucsac on and off I went, heading roughly North on a good track. My plan was to walk to the furthest hill (Newton Tors) then make my way back over the two others I’d got planned.

The route out was pleasant, mostly on good tracks, although there was a bit of pathless terrain to negotiate.

The two main waypoints were Broadstruther and Commonburn House which would set me up nicely for an ascent of Newton Tors (537m) the highest of the day.

Finding myself on the final ascent, I noticed the wind had picked up quite dramatically and with it, rain, which would stay with me for the entire day. I’d put on my waterproof jacket and trousers earlier so was ready for it.

Arriving at a small wall, I debated whether to stop for lunch, but decided to bag the peak first which was wise, as climbing on a full stomach is never a good idea. The trig point seemed to take an age to come into view but it finally arrived. A quick photo and I was on my way down to the wall and shelter.

The wall proved to be an excellent shelter from the wind and I settled down to eat my lunch, sharing some of the chicken with Rosie who wolfed it down hungrily.

Newton Tors 03/06/2026

Preston Hill 03/06/2026
Even with the shelter I began to feel cold so as soon as I had finished I packed away, checked I’d left nothing and headed off to the next hill by way of Hare Law.

It was a long descent, followed by a long flat walk in the general direction, the hill being in view the whole time. The wind had picked up even more and I found myself walking into a rainy headwind on a more or less non existent path. It was tough going to say the least.

Eventually it came to an end and I turned left and headed up. Preston Hill (526m) did not yield as easily as I’d hoped with several false summit before the final high point. It is unmarked, so a quick photo and I was off. If anything, the descent was even tougher, being really steep, very thin and on slippery ground. All the while, the final hill, dead ahead of me, began to look steeper. There was no sensible way around it, so, on reaching the valley, I had a word with myself and headed up, arguing that at least the ascent would warm me up. Unfortunately, my legs were very tired by now and keeping up a warming pace was proving difficult.

Preston Hill 03/06/2026

Broadhope Hill 03/06/2026
Finally I arrived at the top of Broadhope Hill (517m). No false summit here, but equally, nothing to see so again, a quick photo and I was away. I’d planned to head down to the track I’d used first thing on the walk, then follow that back to the car. That proved inspired and the going was very easy, although the final downhill did test the knees and thighs somewhat.

Finally back at the car, seventeen kilometres in four hours with 870m of climbing and three Deweys for the bag. A good, if very wet and tiring day.

Broadhope Hill 03/06/2026

Ros Castle 31/05/2026

Ros Castle 31/05/2026
First on the list was Ros Castle (315m). I parked in the small car park at Hepburn Woods, not the closest but I wanted to make a walk of it.

Heading out, we followed the forest track for a short way, then onto a small path that went very steeply up to the Rocky area of Hepburn crags and the ancient fort. I have to admit to being somewhat breathless at the top, having ascended about 70metres in around five minutes. From there, the gradient eased dramatically and Ros Castle was clearly in view.

A narrow road crossing and we were on the final ascent of the hill. It was a good path but again quite steeply up. The trig point came into view with a luxurious seat right next to it! There was also a metal map showing hills, mountains and cities around. To the North, The Cheviot was quite clear and obvious, basking in the sunshine.

I stayed a short while, looking at the map and enjoying the view before heading back down. The return route was a case of retracing my steps as there was no real alternatives and I was soon back at the car and heading off for my second hill.

A total of just over 3km in 45 minutes with 170m of climbing.

Comfy Seat 31/05/2026

Long Crag 31/05/2026
Twenty minutes later I was parking in a small car park in a lane off the main A697 at Thrunton Wood for Long Crag (319m).

A couple of hundred metres along the lane and we turned off onto a very nice Forest Track which was followed for just over two kilometres, gradually gaining altitude as we went.

Not long after we started, I was bought to an abrupt halt by the sight of a juvenile adder! Making sure Rosie went nowhere near it, we passed cautiously by and headed off.

Of course, every twig, stick and tree route looked like a snake so my senses were on full alert, but of course, they are a rare sight so seeing two in one day was highly unlikely. For anyone reading this and worried, we didn’t see another one, and the one we did see was gone when we got back!

At the end of the track, a much thinner path continues up through the woods to emerge onto the final climb. Another good track and ten minutes later I arrived at the trig point. Another excellent view of the hills and mountains around but also quite windy.

As with the morning walk, we retraced our steps right back to the car.

This time, 7.5km in one hour and twenty three minutes with 165m of ascent.

Long Crag 31/05/2026

Lincolnshires Finest 30/05/2026
It wasn’t the easiest bag ever but pretty close. I parked at Acres Farm and after asking permission from the very nice lady there headed off, initially following the Viking Way, then, after some difficulty crossing the fence, headed up the field to the summit trig point of Normandy Top (168m) which is not only a Marilyn but also a County Top.

Coming down was even easier, as I reached the fence, I turned left, following the tractor lane which I correctly figured must lead to the farm and be much easier. It was.

All done in under 30 minutes and just two kilometres with 36m of ascent.

Normanby Top (168m) 30/05/2026

Shropshire Way Stage 3 08/05/2026
As I am doing the walk in no particular order, even though this is the seventh section of the Way, it is labelled as Stage 3 to coincide with the official route.

I walked from Clun to Bishops Castle, around 12 miles of nice Shropshire countryside. The weather was superb and the walking excellent. a full report appears on the Shropshire Way pages elsewhere.

Carnedd Wen 07/05/2026

Carnedd Wen 07/05/2026
By yesterdays standards, today was a doddle. I parked at the entrance to the forest track to the West of the summit and headed off.

The great majority of the ascent is done in the first two kilometres so by the time the trail flattened out, I was already at 470m.

It was a circuitous route around the lake, Llyn Coch hwyad - not even a clue how to pronounce that one! Anyway, an hour and a half after leaving the car and just over 6km walked, I came to where the trig point should have been. No sign! I was certain there was one as it had featured in a FB report a couple of weeks ago. I had to go hunting so climbed the obvious mound that formed a small quarry and lo and behold, hidden behind it was the trig point and summit of Carnedd Wen (525m). I think the Ordnance Survey were having a laugh here.

The usual photo and I headed back to the main track, although this time around on some flatter ground as my ascent route up the side of the quarry wall would not have been pleasant going down. Some soft ground and obvious marsh (of course) but I was quickly back on the track. A quick goodie bar and drink and I set off back down, retracing my steps.

At the top of the big climb, which of course, was now the big descent, with a magnificent view, I decided to stop for lunch.

That done, it was a further fifteen minutes back to the car. I’d walked just over 13km in just under 3 hours with 440m of ascent. A very nice day out.

That’s it for hill bagging on this trip, tomorrow I am walking a section of the Shropshire Way which has no hills of interest, but no doubt, has hills! My total for this trip is two Marilyns and seven Deweys so happy with that.

View from the main track 07/05/2026

Llan Ddu Fawr 06/05/2026

The biggest day 06/05/2026
Today would be the big one! I expected it to be tough and I wasn’t disappointed.

I parked the car near to a cattle grid South of Llan Ddu Fawr. It was immediately uphill. There was a vague path that I followed for a while but it soon petered out to nothing and I found myself picking my way through and around the tufty grass. This would be a feature of the entire day!

I found a fence to follow - I often find that the going is easier near to fences and today was no different. Crossing the fence with some difficulty, especially having to throw Rosie over, I headed towards the obvious summit. On top there is a trig point, slightly hidden in the middle of a shelter but easy to find. This hill has two names and indeed has two apparent summits. Llan Ddu Fawr is 593m and a Marilyn, and was the one I was stood on. A short distance away was Waun Claerddu (594m) a Dewey, to which I headed neither gaining nor losing any height between them, well, apart from the one metre difference!

Waun Claerddu 06/05/2026

Through the fires 06/05/2026
The going was now significantly harder, although it was easier than it might have been as a result of some ground fires, the extent of which led me to believe it was not deliberate ‘slash and burn’ but wild fire. Either way, underfoot was not easy, but easier than it might have been.

My original route had a dog leg, but having looked at the terrain, there seemed to be nothing saved so I made a direct line towards my next destination of Geifas (572m), another Dewey.

To give me something to aim at, I fixed on Domen Milwyn (555m), a hill not affiliated to any group, but had escaped the fires so was a quite obvious summit of green against the blackened hillsides.

As I got close, I decided it would have to be climbed and so up I went. It was well worth the effort but I decided I would need a rest!

Domen Milwen 06/05/2026

Lunch time 06/05/2026
The going was now significantly harder, although it was easier than it might have been as a result of some ground fires, the extent of which led me to believe it was not deliberate ‘slash and burn’ but wild fire. Either way, underfoot was not easy, but easier than it might have been.

My original route had a dog leg, but having looked at the terrain, there seemed to be nothing saved so I made a direct line towards my next destination of Geifas (572m), another Dewey and would be the high point of the day.

To give me something to aim at, I fixed on Domen Milwyn (555m), a hill not affiliated to any group, but had escaped the fires so was a quite obvious summit of green against the blackened hillsides.

As I got close, I decided it would have to be climbed and so up I went. It was well worth the effort but I decided I would need a rest!

I’d covered just over half the distance from the last summit so moved off and back into the charred ground, being forced to make my own route over. There is a final pull onto the summit of Geifas and I was relieved to be there. No trig point, no markers of any kind, but my altimeter showed me I was at the required height and there was nothing higher around. I bagged it.

It was lunch time so I found a bit of greenery and made myself comfortable. As we tucked into our lunch I looked around for the next hill but it was a long way off and there wasn’t much height change near the summit.

Geifas 06/05/2026
Geifas

The final push 06/05/2026
Lunch done, off we went, again through featureless ground with no footpaths. This section was made even tougher by the regular boggy marshes requiring detours and careful footing. Pant-Llwyd (549m) finally appeared with the usual final climb to the actual summit, again unmarked.

Blaen Rhestr (547m) was the last summit and the one that stood out, being both green and rocky it was an obvious destination and soon arrived at.

In my head, it was now an easy walk down to a track and just follow that all the way back. Nothing could have been further from the truth.

Initially the track was good, but it soon deteriorated into a thin path, then became torture by bog! No sooner around or through one and the next one was upon me. This carried on for far longer than I’d hoped. I was having a minor sense of humour failure. I guess it might not have been as bad as I thought, but I’d looked forward to an easy finish.

Eventually I came to a wider track that would lead down to a drivable track, but even that had a few surprises in the form of huge puddles that required skirting around.

At last I came to the better track and followed that to the tarmac road. Even that had a few stings with some steep inclines along its way, but just as I reached for my phone to check my location, the car appeared!

19.8km walked, just over 5 hours of walking, 617m of ascent and four Deweys, One Marilyn and one additional hill was a good bag for the day, but I was totally exhausted.

Pant Llwyd 06/05/2026

Blaen Rhestr 06/05/2026

Radnor Forest 05/05/2026
An hour and a half after leaving home I parked up in New Radnor and got my boots on ready to ascent Whimble (599m)

There was a short section of minor road before the path headed off and upwards. I followed it, gaining height until my route headed into the forest, skirting the edge until it came to a wider track. I turned off and onto the sting in the tail. The last section was extremely steep and whilst I cannot claim a total surprise, it was somewhat harder than I thought it was going to be, so the summit came as a great relief.

I sat for a while, enjoying the countryside and reflecting how, the last time I was here, I was bagging the Radnor Forest Nuttalls just over 10 years ago, two of which were just over to my right.

There was a cold wind so I didn’t stay long and soon found myself on a steep descent - much steeper than my ascent, I’d clearly picked the best route (anti-clockwise). At the bottom of the steep descent was a warning sign about the danger area ahead. My path skirted it, but I seem to recall 10 years ago I ignored it! Ah, the youthful rebel in me.

The rest of the walk was on a good track which became a tarmac road and bought me all the way back to New Radnor and the short walk back to the car.

I’d walked a total of 6km in one hour and twenty three minutes with 362m of ascent.

Whimble 05/05/2026
Whimble

More of Radnor 05/05/2026
It was a short drive of 10 minutes or so West to arrive at my second starting point, a car park maintained by the forestry commission at the end of a rough track. Clearly popular, there were several cars already parked up.

I was soon away, walking down the forest track to pass the ‘Water Breaks its neck’ waterfall, then up on a steep path through the forest. To simply go to the summit was too short, so I’d contrived a longer walk to get to the top, then a shorter way back.

Following various tracks and paths through the woodland, I eventually emerged onto open ground. The plan was to walk out to a ford, then almost a hairpin turn and back along a track, then summit. It all worked well but rather than continue on the track, I broke away from it and headed over pathless ground but less steep towards the obvious summit. Not too long later, I crested the rise, crossed a fence via a broken gate and arrived at the summit of Nyth-grug (538m) where I touched the trig point (it was just the other side of a barbed wire fence and I couldn’t be bothered to climb it!)

Admiring the view for a few minutes, I took the obligatory photo, then headed more or less straight down to meet the track I had been following. Along that for a while and I was presented with choices of route. Choice made, I followed the path that would bring me parallel to the waterfall path. I’d no plan to visit it, my diary from my last visit recorded that I was distinctly unimpressed!

A short walk along the forest track and I was back at the car, job done.

A total of 6.5km in one hour and thirty minutes with 290m of ascent made for a very pleasant walk.

Nyth-grug 05/05/2026

Kents Finest 24/04/2026
Taking advantage of the excellent weather, I flew down to Rochester airfield, unloaded my trusty bike and headed off for the 12km ride to Detling Hill. The initial stage was on quite busy roads but I soon turned off onto quieter lanes and enjoyed the Kent countryside. The final section close to the hill was, not surprisingly, steep uphill but I managed to cycle all the way to the car park at the top. It was then a short walk along woodland tracks to, first of all, the trig point, and then the highest point - a random point along a track.
Returning was the reverse and I was soon back, loading the plane for the flight home.
What a superb day out!

Detling Hill 24/04/2026

Another great bag 12/04/2026
A very successful trip around the country bagged me eleven Marilyns, three Ethels, two Deweys and two County Tops which was even more than I had planned so very happy with that. It also keeps me on schedule to finish the Marilyns this year.

Upper Park at last! 11/04/2026
It had been a long time coming but I’d finally got the chance to climb Upper Park (352m). It’s on private land and the landowners don’t often give permission so I was delighted to find that an Amateur Radio group had secured access and that I could join them.

We assembled in a small car park, received a briefing from the group leader who basically told us to make our own way up, stay as long as we liked and make our own way down!

Upper Park 11/04/2026

Upper Park 11/04/2026
It’s a consistent slope all the way up, never steep but noticeable. 2 1/2 km on a good track mostly through woodland and I emerged onto open space that was the summit plateau. I’d worked out the high point which was just to the far right of the small woodland but of course standing there, the woodland itself seemed higher so after a couple of photos I walked around to the woods and found the high point there. My watch claimed a metre lower and it did look as if my original summit was higher - don’t they always on plateaus!

More ascenders arrived, some radio amateurs, some Marilyn baggers like myself.

I stayed for a few more minutes, then retraced my steps back down, arriving at the car park a shade over an hour after leaving it.

5 1/2 km, just over an hour and 214m of ascent, my 319th Marilyn and the last for this trip.

Upper Park 11/04/2026

Clwydian Hills Completed. 10/04/2026
Off to Wales for the penultimate Hill of my trip: Eglwyseg (511m) This time a Dewey not far from Llangollen.

I parked in a very small car park just above Worlds End, a rock climbing venue I used many years ago. The car park was a lot smaller than I remember it, but it was probably 30 years ago!

We headed off on an initially steep track which soon eased off to a pleasant path. I could immediately see my destination on the horizon and walked along on the track, but soon realised it was veering away from the woodland which I needed to be closer to. I soon located a path that bought me to the corner and confidently followed it up in the general direction. It soon petered out to nothing and I was let bashing my way across the heather in the general direction of the summit. It went quite easily, but later in the year when the undergrowth was higher, or in inclement weather and it would be a lot tougher.

Egwylseg Mountain 10/04/2026

Egwylseg Mountain 10/04/2026
I soon summited and looking back, I could quite easily see Worlds End, and even the car.

The usual routine of looking around, taking a couple of photos and I was on my way back. I decided to follow the more obvious path as the weather was pleasant, and I was in no hurry.

I came across a couple of walkers and we exchanged pleasantries and also discussed at some length, Marilyns, Deweys and Nuttalls. I think they were reasonably impressed with my hill climbing achievements. One of them being Welsh, took the time to pronounce the name of the hill for me…Egg Gul Wee Seg (Eglwyseg). They also told me of a memorial to RAF pilots not too far away. Armed with the location, I thanked them and headed off. About 20 minutes later I found the cross that was the memorial and promised myself I would research it for more information.

Worlds End 10/04/2026

Airmens Monument 10/04/2026
It is an Airmans Monument commemorating WWII RAF air crew who died in crashes on the hillside.

It is in the shape of a cross, probably 3m x 2m made up of local stones.

After paying my respects, I left to find a suitable place for lunch.

That done, it was around 10-15 minutes back to the car.

The total distance was 6km, taking one hour and fifteen minutes with 200m of ascent.

Airmens Monument 10/04/2026

Easy Day 08/04/2026
In a sea change, I decided on a relatively flat walk today. Yesterday had been quite a tough day and my legs were feeling it, so I headed out to Dove Stones Reservoir on Saddleworth Moor.

I was not alone! It is incredibly popular with the car park almost full when I got there. Luckily I managed to find a space and once the ticket was purchased I headed off on a clockwise tour of the reservoir. Hills above and all around enticed me upwards but I managed to resist, even those classified as Ethels - next time!

Dovestones 08/04/2026

Dovestones Reservoir 08/04/2026
Heading out from the car park, there is a good track leading over the wall of the reservoir and then along the Western Banks. Rosie enjoyed her walk, at times exploring the woodlands, at others, heading into the water for a cooling dip - it was a superb day, nice and warm, no wind and no cloud.

At the end of Dove Stones reservoir, the path continues along past Yeoman Hay reservoir which we followed until the huge wall of Greenfield Reservoir where we cut across and started our way back. This time the path was not quite so good with a final very muddy crossing - somebody would most likely fall into that! Not me, I safely negotiated my way past and came onto more solid ground.

It was time for a break and then off along another good path, soon cutting down and through some woods which provided some shade and allowed me to get Rosie into the water again for a drink and to cool off.

A little while later we came around to the final section past the Yacht Club and along to the car park. We’d taken a very leisurely hour and a half to cover around 6km. There was more or less zero ascent involved.

Dovestones 08/04/2026

Claiffe Viewing Station 07/04/2026

Claiffe Heights 07/04/2026
Claiffe Heights (270m) was the first target. Unfortunately, the ferry across the water decided to take its mid-morning break just as I got there so I had a 40 minute wait for the 10 minute crossing!

Once over, I headed up, past the rather nice viewing station which is a small turreted house with windows surrounded by stained glass which makes for a very nice viewing platform for Windermere.

The route heads up very steeply for the first kilometre or more, then flattens off for a while before heading up again on the final section. The path is a good one with only a few muddy sections. The summit view makes the walk well worthwhile and I paused for a while to take it in.

Returning is the reverse. It was 50 minutes up and 50 minutes down so happy with that.

Just over 7.5km round trip with 353m of ascent.

Claiffe Heights 07/04/2026

Grayrigg Forest 07/04/2026
Walk two took me right to the Eastern Edge of the Lake District to climb Grayrigg Forest (494m). I parked overlooking the M6, in fact, the car park was marked as the M6 viewpoint. Rucsac on, I headed over the road and through a gate. It was relentlessly steep all the way, at times, hitting at least 45% and no actual path! Finally I climbed a wall and crested onto the final plateau with the trig point 50 metres or so away.

The wind had picked up and I needed to sit on the lee side of the trig point for a drink and biscuit.

Eventually it was time to leave again and I more or less retraced my steps back down, although I walked a bit further along the top ridge before descending, hoping for an easier time. It wasn’t to be and I had to bite the bullet and descend on the steep slope back to the road and the car.

The total distance was 4km, taking me one hour and a quarter with 350m of ascent. My tenth Marilyn of the trip and a bonus as it was not part of the original plan so happy with that.

Grayrigg Forest 07/04/2026

Walking

From single day to several weeks, I have walked many of Britains long distance footpaths. Below are some of the more well-known routes.

Route	Distance	Description
Isbourne Way (August 2024)	15 miles	From Cleeve Hill to Evesham.
Shropshire Way (August 2023 onwards)	200 miles	Figure of eight centred on Shrewsbury.
Hadrians Wall (April 2023)	90 miles	From Bowness to Newcastle.
Wysis Way (April 2022)	55 miles	From the Wye to the source of the Thames.
St Kenelms Way (March 2022)	52 miles	Clent Hills to Winchcombe.
The Ridgeway (September 2019)	87 miles	Avebury to Ivinghoe Beacon.
Three Choirs Way (March 2019)	100 miles	Gloucester to Hereford to Worcester to Gloucester.
Gloucestershire Way (December 2018)	100 miles	From Chepstow to Tewkesbury.
Severn Way (August 2018)	210 miles	Following the River Severn.
Winchcombe Way (May 2013)	42 miles	Around the Cotswolds.
Limestone Way (December 2012)	60 miles	Rocester to Castleton in Derbyshire.
Welsh 3000s (July 2000)	28 miles	All 3,000' mountains in Wales.
Worcestershire Way (July 1992, Aug 1992, Aug 2004)	38 miles	Wyre Forest to Malverns.
Pennine Way (August 1977)	270 miles	Edale to Kirk Yetholm (Scotland).
Cotswold Way (August 1991)	96 miles	Bath to Chipping Campden.
Coast to Coast Way (August 1990)	192 miles	Robin Hoods Bay, Yorkshire to St Bees in Cumbria.
6 Shropshire Peaks (July 1990, April 1992)	40 miles	East to West Shropshire.
Lyke Wake Walk (July 1983)	40 miles	Yorkshire Moors.
Offas Dyke (July 1980)	180 miles	Length of the Welsh Border.

Rock Climbing

Some years ago, I qualified as an SPA Instructor, and whilst it has probably lapsed due to inactivity, I have fond memories of rock climbing in many areas of the UK & abroad, particularly at Symonds Yat, North Wales, the Peak District, Mid-Wales, Cornwall & Scotland. I have many hundreds of logged climbs in my log book and during my time, have climbed many more than I have recorded.

Mountaineering

There are many beautiful mountain ranges in the world, many within easy reach of the UK. I am fortunate to have been to a large number of them. Below are the best.

Mountain (Range)	Description
Italian Haute Route (August 2025)	Tour of the Monte Rosa from Zermatt
Mount Toubkal (February 2025)	The Highest Mountain in North Africa 4,167m.
Mount Ararat (September 2023)	The Highest Mountain in Turkey 5,137m.
Elbrus (August 2019)	The Highest Mountain in Europe 5,642m.
Nepal (October 2018)	Trekking in the Himalaya to a maximum of 5,643m.
Kilimanjaro (September 2017)	The highest mountain in Africa 5,895m.
Teide, Tenerife (April 2015)	Highest Mountain in Spain (Tenerife) at 3,718m.
Alesch Glacier (August 2001)	Including the Hexenstein in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland.
Aconcagua (January 2001)	Highest Mountain in South America at 6,960m.
Dolomites (August 2000)	Northern Italys' most famous range.
Matterhorn (August 1997)	Most famous Mountain in Switzerland at 4,405m.
Mont Blanc (September 1995)	Highest Mountain in Western Europe at 4,807m.