Day 6 – Elterwater to Grasmere
7.5 miles (via Rydal Water)
Woken by sheep eating and de-camped in drizzle.
A Collie rounding up strays runs through my guy ropes and sends pegs flying. The dog, transfixed on the sheep, is oblivious of me. The bracken finally gives up the spikes and I pop back to the pub for coffee.
Peak District
On the Cumbria Way I pass the popular Elter Water. A Japanese chap takes a photo of me posing. Making small talk, I ask him where he is from. The Peak District he replies.
At Skelwith Bridge the Talbot beckons me in. Two ales and Thai fish cakes slip down nicely and the sun breaks through.
A very quiet lane takes me round Loughrigg Tarn, then a bridleway along Loughrigg Terrace to Rydal Water.
Smelly socks
There are people everywhere. But I feel separated from it all, just passing through. The path around Grasmere is even busier and the village busier still.
Wendy, a smashing lady, gives me a room for two nights. I'm the only guest with the run of the bathroom. Wendy kindly dries my tent and washes my clothes. I'm feeling guilty as my socks STINK!
Over looking Grasmere.