An early start for the 9 enthusiasts gathered in Litton on a bright sunny morning - so early that one walker staying overnight in the village had to forgo the cooked breakfast.
Any thought this would be a gentle days stroll were quickly dispelled by a very sharp climb up to Firth Fell.Once height had been achieved a fairly level stroll over some softish ground ensued as we passed Birks Tarn and continued to the trig point at Horse Head.Panoramic views of distant fells in all directions.
High ground followed as far as Cosh Knott Well where lunch was taken and we could take in the views of the afternoons work to follow,
Descent through wet ground to Swarth Gill Gate followed and then a very sharp ascent up to Plover Hill (and a 10 foot wall to climb at the top).Ridge followed to the top of Pen y Ghent.Prior to reaching top of Plover Hill we had seen only 2 people all day.On Pen y Ghent there seemed like 200!An excellent top but there is more to this area than just the 3 Peaks.Descent to Dale Head and a gentle stroll along a byway back to Litton.
Gasping for some refreshment,we were successful in persuading the Queens Arms to remain open long enough for a couple of drinks to be put away.
A good high level excursion on mainly 'right to roam' land with most of route new to many.