The mile of walking between the two Wainwrights we were attempting was once awarded the grand accolade of “Finest mile in Lakeland” by Lakeland walker magazine. That sounded good enough for me to celebrate our mini landmark.
We arrived somewhat later than hoped at Lainthwaite Green and were relived to find plenty of parking spaces. The reason for this was undoubtedly that it was too hot to be climbing hills but since we were here….
Following a few hundred yards of easy levelish walking the ascent starts in earnest. Glad I picked a nice steep one for such a hot day.
Whiteside and Whin Ben by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Grasmoor by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Lakeland Loveliness by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr (click on pic for bigger version
or follow link for full size http://www.flickr.com/photos/johnkaysleftleg/9293107235/sizes/k/in/photostream/)
First target is the small grassy summit of Whin Ben. Strangely Mr Birkett saw fit to ignore this little peak for his Complete Lakeland Fells despite including so many other less prominent tops as fells in his book; looks like the definitive complete list is still to be compiled.
Heather by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
The Only Way is Up! by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Gasgale Gill Panorama by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr (click on pic for bigger version
or follow link for full size http://www.flickr.com/photos/johnkaysleftleg/9307908653/sizes/k/in/photostream/)
The reward for reaching this minor top is a respite from the steepness for a few hundred yards before normal service resumes for the remainder for the ascent. Finally after much huffing, puffing and perspiring we were granted a magnificent view from Whiteside’s pleasant grassy (Wainwright) summit.
Grace on number 99 by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Looking back to Whiteside by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Following a well-earned rest, rations and soaking up of views (to go with soaking up the sun) we set off along the stretch that was voted Lakelands finest mile. It certainly is a wonderful section of ridge, however I fear the lack of drama would prevent it from receiving recognition from all. All too soon the ridge narrows and climbs up to Hopegill Head, our 100th Wainwright.
Grace on the true top of Whiteside by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Looking back by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Gasgale Gill by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Eel Crags by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Another rest in the blistering heat and a few shots thanks to a tripod made of stones and we headed across Sand Hill and down to Coledale Hause. On another day the route up between the mighty Eel Crag and Grasmoor would have been inviting but today the route down Gasgale Gill looks a lot better bet.
100 UP! by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Grisdale Pike from Hopegill Head by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Grace and Hughie on Hopegill Head by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
This descent is indeed very nice with some stunning cascades along the way as you stare up at the imposing Grasmoor to your left and the impressive Gasgale Crags to the right. The path alongside Liza Beck is largely good but some sections have suffered a from erosion and need a little care.
Cascades at the top of Gasgale Gill by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Cascade on Liza Beck by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Small girl, big landscape by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Waterfall on Liza Beck by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Looking back up Gasgale Gill by johnkaysleftleg, on Flickr
Soon enough we were back at the car following a smashing day in the hills. I don’t know if the Whiteside to Hopegill Head mile is Lakelands best (I’m in no position to judge to be honest) but this was certainly a great short outing, certainly one of the best five mile Lakeland walks we’ve done, that’s for sure.
A great summit photo 
