It was great to finally be setting off for our Scotland (NC500) adventure that we had been talking about for ages. We originally planned for this part of our year of adventuring to be in March 2019, however, Storm Gareth soon put a hold on our plans. The storm force winds, snow and rain certainly validated the decision to move our plans and slot it back in later in the year.

So on 18th September we finally set off from home heading north. We had planned for 2 stops on our way to visit family and friends in order to break up the 300 mile trek to get to Scotland.

First of all we stopped in with the in-laws and were treated to a day out at a historic boat lift. Although it didn’t sound like the most exhilarating outing, all my preconceptions were completely wrong. We loved it. The history of the boat lift, the trim on the river and going in the boat lift itself was a great way to spend a few hours in the sunshine. I would definitely recommend it as it was reasonably prices and the staff were fantastic. All of the attraction is also wheelchair friendly too. www.canalrivertrust.org.uk

Anderton Boat Lift

Our second stop was to visit friends in Lancaster. From our views of the coastline and our first impressions of the city, it was a really nice place. We were treated to a fantastic home cooked meal on our arrival and thoroughly enjoyed catching up with Tom and Ffion. We finally decided to head to bed as we had planned a great (both meanings) walk the following day in the Lake District.

Hellvelyn. We were up fed and out the door at a reasonable time and were pleased to be greeted by reasonably clear skies and a cool breeze coming in off the sea. By the time we arrived at our carpark, the sun was fully out and the temperature was perfect for a climb to the summit of England’s second highest peak. The walk and sense of achievement when we summited was incredible, and we were lucky enough to have some epic views across the surrounding countryside.

Half way up the climb to Hellvelyn, Lake District

Tom & Ffion on the summit of Hellvelyn, Lake District

After we returned to the car, we treated ourselves to a massive ice cream - well, I felt that we had all thoroughly deserved a treat. A really great day, and what  way to start the outdoor part of our impending adventures.