Martindale

We went for a walk. We looked in a book for a fairly short walk, as I had running training later on, and I didn't want to be too tired.

1.5 miles it said, and is particularly good for inclement weather. Perfect!!

We started at St Martins Old Church, where I stood in awe at the 1700 year old Yew Tree - or at least it might be...apparently once a Yew tree reaches 1000 it is hard to date! Anyway, it was stunning to think of what this tree has lived through. But, I digress.

The pathway, the guidebook said, is somewhat forgotten, and not many people walk this route, so be careful to leave everything as you find it. It also mentioned that the path itself might be a little uneven in places, as the rain washed topsoil down the fellside. HA!!! A little uneven? In places it disappeared, and in others it was at a 45 degree slant...and was so narrow I couldn't put two feet together. The guidebook didn't mention the wind either. It was blowing a gale. But, getting to the Quarry Cave was achievable, and we got there OK.

BUT, then I realised we had to go back down the fell. Bugger! I have a slight problem with down - I am terrified of falling, and falling, and falling until I reach the valley floor. I have the same issue with ladders and other heights, climbing is good, but then...

However, we got down unscathed, and I await another adventure tomorrow!