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Sunday 13 November 2016

Sun 13th November - Seat Sandal and Grasmere Social

Description: On the southern tip of the Helvellyn range, Seat Sandal stands alone from its nearest neighbours, separated from them by a deep col. This hill, though, is a fine vantage point from which to admire Grasmere, Greenburn and the Wythburn Fells

Route: From the start point, our route follows the direct route up the long, broad ridge that take you directly to Seat Sandal summit. Although every step is upwards until the summit is reached, it does mean that the views become increasingly impressive as you turn around to enjoy the scenery of the central lakes.

From the summit, we’ll wander to the north, descending to the col with Dollywagon Pike. We then contour around to Grisedale Hause, enjoying the close-up view of Grisedale Tarn as we go.

As we begin our descent we pass a waterfall, before following the path next to Tongue Gill. Soon we will pass Tonguegill Force and arrive back at the start, ready to find a café or pub for a drink and slice of cake.

Grade: Moderate

High Point: Seat Sandal summit (736 m)
Height gain: Approx. 675 m (2,250 ft)
Distance: Approx. 5.3 miles (8.6 km)

Meet Time: 9.45 am
Start Time: 10.00 am
Time: Approx. 4.5 hours
Start / Finish: Outside the Travellers Rest Inn on the A591, just to the north of Grasmere village (postcode LA22 9RR, grid reference NY 336 089).

Car Parking: There is a long layby on the side of the A591 just south of the Travellers Rest Inn, before the turning to Grasmere village. If this is full there are various pay and display car parks in Grasmere village itself (approx. 10 minute walk away)

Buses: Public transport is available from Keswick to Ambleside and also from Lancaster & Kendal to Ambleside. Both directions use the Stagecoach 555.

Late Afternoon Social & Evening Meal: Following the walk we will hold a meetup for us all to chill out, relax and enjoy each others' company after a day in the fells. We'll meet around 4 pm at a pub (TBA) in Grasmere, and then find somewhere for a meal about 5 pm-ish. It's a very informal get-together, so feel free to bring friends, relatives, pets and other random people you might think that will enjoy it!

Please Note: By mid-November the number of hours of daylight will be reduced with sunset being around 4 pm. Although I plan for us to be back to start in daylight, please bring with you a good torch (and spare batteries), spare warm clothes and food. As we’ll be well into autumn, an “orange bivvy bag” (or similar) should be in your rucksack, just in case (they only cost a few quid and take up minimal space, but can provide essential shelter if necessary).

Leader: Tom

Please let Tom know in advance by 6.00 pm on Saturday if you are coming on this walk (text 07760 660113)

If the conditions are bad I reserve the right to modify the route or cancel the walk.

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