I have to admit that when I looked out of my window on Friday morning I nearly decided to close the curtains and go back to bed. It was lashing it down outside and the thought of driving to the Peak District and pitching a tent was decidedly unappealing. However I am glad that I made the effort as it was a cracking weekend.
The weekend had been arranged by Terry who had booked a campsite for our sole use, just down the road from Monsal Head. The rain had stopped when I arrived and after pitching spent the rest of the afternoon socialising and having a few beers. It was great to put faces to blogs that I follow and meet other like-minded outdoor folk. The cool, damp August air was escaped when everyone decamped to the pub for a convivial evening. Terry who had consumed one or two shandys provided some entertaining monologues which would make most excellent podcasts. Did anyone have a microphone handy?
The relaxed informal nature of the weekend meant that I could escape and be unsociable for a few hours whilst exploring Monsal Dale with Reuben. I managed to find a lovely shelf high above the valley and have a nap with the dog in the sunshine. A most pleasurable way to spend my time.
Reuben the ‘Trig point dog’ managed to receive the affection of just about everybody who turned up over the course of the weekend. He proved to be a big hit and relished all the attention that came his way. I am lucky to have such a good natured, well behaved and friendly hound!
Returning from a few hours on the hill there was another convivial afternoon on the campsite, this time in warm sunshine. A guy from Rab popped along with a boot full of shiny technical fabrics for people to fondle and drool over, whilst Gareth from Webtogs pitched some new tents from Nemo. The pub soon beckoned for some more beers and happy campers returned late to the campsite for more socialising around the party tent.
Sadly I did not take many photos, apart from when I went for my bimble. Here are a few that I did take.
By Saturday afternoon the excitement had got too much for Terry.
Gareth from Webtogs demonstrating how not to pitch a tent.
Acres of space at the weekends campsite near Monsal Head.
The classic view of Monsal Head.
A view across the dale.
Reuben spotting something of interest.
Reuben getting excited about the view on the summit of Fin Cop.
The hidden Hobs House in Monsal Dale.
Early Autumn colours looking down the dale.
Looking back across to Fin Cop, it was exceptionally steep descending from there.
Taking time out on the hill for a snooze in the sun.
Reuben being a little disappointed by the lack of a trig on the summit of Longstone Moor.
So cheers Terry for arranging everything, a quick video of Reuben showing his appreciation……………..
Backpackingbongos 