We had camped by the side of Ullswater the night before (see previous post) and we got up in the morning, had breakfast, packed, took the tents down and embarked on the next part of our journey.
Today's walk would take us to the other side of Ullswater - from which the disco last night had entertained us. We would then walk away from the lake for a bit to reach our campsite.
The first leg of our journey was up and down a lot of slopes overlooking the lake; it was a hard trek, but pleasant, as the lake made a nice view. We stopped for a while at a nice viewpoint and watched boats on the lake.
We then descended the hill and stopped to have our lunch right by the water's edge. It was lovely and relaxing and a nice break from the tough walk.
We set off again, still following the lake, through fields and woodland - we encountered some nice ducks - and there was the moment when we forgot to post our check-point card on a fence and had to run back and do it before the leaders wondered where we had got to!
We climbed some hills, and had to cross through a chicken farm which was a rather surreal and slightly creepy experience: all the chickens, on seeing us approach, came washing towards us a a huge wave.
We were surrounded by this crowd of chickens, each one making a lot of noise, which when combined had the effect of a slightly spooky moaning sound. It is arguably the most bizarre thing I have encountered on any D of E expedition.
Fortunately, we survived the chickens, and were nearing our destination. The rough ground became smooth campsite grass - blissful to walk on!
We found our spot in one of the best campsites I have been in with regards to facilities - the shower room was really nice, and although we didn't have a lake to go and visit this time, it was in quite a pleasant setting.
Ruth and I were very excited to see a rainbow! A good omen perhaps! And there was an amusing incident when some of the lads from the group from my college had their tent invaded by chickens!
So for us, three bird-related encounters - one with ducks and two with chickens - in one day!
This campsite also had a playground, and Andrew and Luke went off to play on the swings, leaving me and Ruth to do the washing up. However, when Richard found out, he made the lads come back and do the washing up! So Ruth and I could sit back and relax, which was really nice.
We had a really nice night there; it is certainly a campsite I will bear in mind for if I ever go walking in that part of the Lakes again.
So, that was Ullswater! Remember to check this blog to learn how the rest of our trip went!
Thanks for reading!
Liz x
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