Rough Stuff Fellowship Ride from Keswick...to Buttermere

I don't get out quite as much with the RSF quite as much as I used to. But yesterday (Saturday) I made the effort to attend the first day of the weekend meet organised by my mate @ianwood2011 . Also there were Nick and Eileen, we had a great day, inspite of my attempt to alter the Lake District terrain with my Arm and Knee! (There was only going to be one winner there!)

Having met and taken Coffee at "The Saddleback Cafe" in Keswick we rode round to the West side of Derwentwater and followed the bridleway which contours Catbells.
Then from Grange the bridleway to the Honister road tested our skill over the rocky terrain. Here Nick and Eileen are on one of the short rideable sections on the track in this direction.

Once past Castle Crag the going improved somewhat...although there were lots of folk, not unexpected.
For those contemplating a trip on here by bike...go the other way, its easier!

Having stopped for lunch just before we reached tarmac, we stopped for a brew at Honister Pass. A council of war was held...and it was decided we'd stick to the original plan...and cross over the bridleway to Warnscale Bottom. The route climbs the flank of Honister Crag by the rather steep track seen in the distance.

Of course its never as bad as you think it'll be...(is it?) and we duly arrived at the high point.
Here we look over towards the Grey Knotts-Brandreth Ridge.

And this is the scene of devastation behind! The old tips have been ground up/crushed.and left it would seem.

Once the descent was underway we soon arrived at Dubs Hut. Well you can't pass a bothy without having a peek inside. It was in remarkably good order considering the hordes of folk who must pass this way.

Theres quite a gap between this and the last photo. The going is mostly unridable...believe me I tried and spilt the blood to prove the point.
Anyway here the worst is over and the view down to Buttermere and Crummock Water is rather good.

Looking back to Warnscale Bottom and the track we'd just descended...always a pleasing view.

The bridleway along the shore of Buttermere is one of many which has been "improved" over the years. Due to the late afternoon there weren't to many people.
Fleetwith Pike very prominent behind.

More Tea and cake was taken at "Croft House Tearoom", before the climb of Newlands Pass. The Inbred felt like it weighed a ton! The top came eventually tho!
Robinson behind in this picture .

Basically road work back to Keswick and the car, Skiddaw looking superb in the evening light.
Chips then the drive home, a great day even with the injuries!!