Lodore: Ollie’s first boat trip

~ beetleypete

All photos are large files, and can be clicked on for detail.

Up early for day two, and I was discovering how to pack my rucksack for the day ahead. Flat things against my back, two one-litre water containers, Ollie’s bowl and food for the day, then my own lunch. A spare top in case it got cold, camera, spare battery, plus a secure bag for keys, money, and any valuables we didn’t want to leave in the holiday flat. By the time I had laced my boots and sorted the backpack it was so hot inside I was pleased to get out into the morning air, heading down to catch the 10 am ferry to nearby Lodore. Ollie had never been on a boat before, but he trotted happily enough along the jetty, and stood next to us as we took our seats in the open section. I got this shot of the wake of the boat breaking the stillness of the lake, and disturbing the reflections on the water.
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We got off at the small village of Lodore, after a ten-minute trip on the water. There was nothing there except the popular hotel, and our plan was to walk back to Keswick around the far side of Derwent Water. This does not sound very far, as it is well under five miles. However, much of it is on irregular stone paths, with differing gradients. At times, we had to leave the lakeside and head inland, avoiding farms or private land occasionally. The dry stone walls are a feature of the area.
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There were also frequent stops for photo opportunities of course, as well as for me to take a rest, after becoming quite hot and bothered with the unfamiliar weight of the rucksack. Ollie didn’t need all that extra water that day, as he could get to the lake easily enough, drinking the crystal-clear fresh water there. As usual, he mostly avoided being in any of my photos, but luckily Antony was able to get quite a few of him, which I will link to another time.
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Once again, we were enjoying lovely crisp and clear weather, with the surroundings looking at their best. Many other walkers were taking the same route around the western bank, so we mostly waited to let them pass, allowing for uninterrupted views.
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After a very good walk, we still had time to get back to the flat, drop some of the gear, and drive up to the nearby Neolithic Stone Circle at Castlerigg. That will feature in another post.

72 thoughts on “Lodore: Ollie’s first boat trip”

  13. Pingback: Lodore: Ollie’s first boat trip — beetleypete – Indian Travel + Life

    1. Thank you, Nandia. On that day, the weather was just perfect for lighting photos, and showing the area at its best. People travel here all year round for climbing and hiking and it is just as popular when covered in snow.
      Best wishes, Pete.

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    1. It is very accessible, David. When domestic tourism began to become popular in the 1700s, this was one of the first regions to benefit. As a result, many paths and trails have been laid out, and numerous books and guides have been written as well.
      Best wishes, Pete.

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  17. Stunning views and I like the hint of changing colours in the trees. I did say I’d like to return to Keswick in the autumn so I am enjoying seeing it with you and Ollie 🙂

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    1. The bracken was producing a lot of impressive brown colour, Jude. Luckily, there was still plenty of lush green around to provide some contrast.Some of the trees were changing too, but the next two weeks will see more of that. Sadly, I am not there!

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    1. Thanks for that. I was happy with these, it has to be said. The best of about 30 taken that day. The stone circle will follow, but it was hard to get any shots without tourists. As you will see, we had to ‘wait them out’!
      Cheers, Pete.

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  23. Ha, your potos are getting better and better, dear Pete, this very good indeed. Take a bow! 🙂
    I suppose one could visit the Lakes for years and years and still find new walks and areas to see. You bring back happy memories, as will your Castelrigg post do. We stayed in a lovely cottage not far from Penrith, it was good for exploring the north. We went hiking around Ullswater, almost alone. We left the Lakes on a Saturday and drove through the most scenic roads and lanes we could find. There were cars all over, people pouring over the hills, appearing from all over to spend a weekend there. I very much enjoyed watching his change. The hikers were 90% British guests, clearly lovers of nature and this magnificent landscape. Jubilant!
    Best wishes to you from the four of us,
    Dina x

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  26. Dear Pete
    Hi, here I am! Thanks for these pictures we really like. They bring back dear memories. Indeed your pictures are great! They very well document the atmosphere and we like the composition of your pictures.
    When we visited the Lakes three years ago we didn’t do a boat trip – unfortunately. We did a lot of walking and driving around as well.
    With lots of love xx
    The Fab Four of Cley

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    1. We only used the boats as ferries, KB. There was a fair bit of driving to other walks too, sometimes across some pretty scary passes! Thanks for the kind words about the photos. I recall just how superb Dina’s photos of the area were.
      Best wishes, Pete.

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    1. Cheers, Eddy. It can be hit and miss at times but Antony was carrying two full-frame cameras, a Nikon D3s and Sony RX1R, so I am expecting some stunners once he works them up. My little camera is ideal though; light weight, and good enough, if you use it carefully.
      Glad you are enjoying the posts.
      Love to all three of you. Pete.

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