Firstly if you want to know why it's called The Tin Hat walk - ask Paul

The first decision we usually make if we are coming off the M6 at junction 36 is whether to stop for a bacon butty at the mobile in the first layby. If we do, we are usually thirsty for the rest of the day. The decision today was easy - it wasn't there and consequently we arrived at Glenridding earlier than expected.

Within minutes of setting off the gradients increased and unfortunately for me at least, so did the heat. Our intention had been to visit Birkhouse Moor then carry on to Striding Edge and Helvellyn and return by Swirrel Edge and Catstycam. However, by the time we had reached Little Cove I knew I would not reach Helvellyn. Every step was difficult, but I was determined to at least reach Birkhouse Moor's summit. Once there, we settled down, and Paul and I dozed off to the sound of the ascending skylark and had a 30 minute kip. Try it - its brilliant, waking up surrounded by mountains. Susan said she didn't sleep - said she was just sunbathing!

Eventually, we left the summit and headed for Lanty's Tarn. The water level is low at the moment and what would be a lovely scene normally, was not.

By now the image of the pint in the film "Ice Cold in Alex" was foremost in all our thoughts. It wasn't too long before we arrived at The Travellers Rest where I had the best pint I've EVER had. (apart from the one at The Golden Rule a few years ago) (and one at the Black dog at Belmont) and a few others!!

From there we made our way to the cafe by the lake and hired a motor boat, had a pleasant sail, with Rear Admiral Paul ((RN Retired (after only a week or two)) in charge. Time was getting on and we decided to have fish and chips in Ambleside, and stop off in Ings for a pint and then home.

An enjoyable day spoiled somewhat by my lack of energy.