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Mountain weather forecast was not good and revised for the worst first thing in the morning to indicate cloud below 600m and occasionally below 300m. As a result, decided to change my plans regarding ascent as the summits would be in cloud.

Set off into the rain, head bowed against the wind, making for the lakeside path. Despite the rain and low cloud, what could be seen of the mountains was nevertheless spectacular.

Arrived at end of Pike Rigg hoping to take the path around the end of Buttermere but, due to nesting Sand Pipers, the path was closed - until June! Not a good start to the walk, as the detour was three times longer than the planned route - though admittedly less wet!

Eventually reached the end of the diversion and crossed the footbridge joining the rather stony and, in places, muddy and waterlogged, path running along the base of Red Pike.

Upon reaching Holme Islands (the start of Crummock Water), took a break to watch the Canada Geese. Over the calling of the geese, a woodpecker was heard hammering away at a tree somewhere in the vicinity.

Continued along the relatively dry footpath, avoiding the worst of the water before finally having to bite the bullet and, on a compass bearing, head across the sodden earth, slowly climbing towards Scale Force. Water squelched beneath my feet whilst the wind and rain battered my face on my trek up the hill towards the waterfall where, on arrival, I was able to shelter out of the wind and enjoy some water - to drink!

Climbed up from Scale Beck and the waterfall and began the long trudge across open country, heading into the wind. More water squelched under my boots, care being needed to avoid the worst of the infant streams. Finally, having managed to cross Black Beck without getting too wet, it was time to begin the long downhill stretch through Mosedale aiming to rendezvous with, what according to the map, was a named Holly Tree. This is the only named tree in Lake District and is certainly very isolated sitting as it is, on the edge of the marsh in the middle of the valley.

Walking pretty much northwards, the wind and rain were now head-on and it seemed an eternity before I eventually exited Mosedale and was able to find warmth and (liquid) sustenance in the Kirkstile Inn in Loweswater.

Almost an hour later, the rain hadn't stopped and so there was little choice but to head out along a few country lanes before being able to get back onto grass and bog and walk on back along Crummock Water, pausing at Low Long Crag, before continuing on, avoiding the worst of the waterlogged ground.

Crossed the Buttermere Dubs at Scale Bridge in order to take a slightly shorter path back, knowing that the shoreline footpath was closed.

With but twenty minutes remaining, the rain decided to stop! The walk back through the farm, though sodden, was enlivened by the number of new lambs appearing! A great end to a very good but wet day.

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