Middle Dodd & Red Screes from Ambleside

Roadside parking not far from the garden centre in Ambleside

Wet and cold morning as I set off from Ambleside

Stockgyhll Beck is lively today

And that's the way I'm heading.

A very quiet path, gradually gaining height as it ventures into Scandale.

Soon after passing Nook End Farm, Nab Scar and the likely start to the Fairfield Horseshoe can be seen. Considered that for today actually, but decided to wait for a slightly longer day to do that popular circuit. Always a good run out even if it's a little too popular these days.

The very picturesque 17th century High Sweden Bridge - the name Sweden bridge probably comes from the Norse Word Svithinn meaning 'land cleared by burning'. I didn't cross the bridge - just passed it on my left as I ventured into the valley. But it was certainly worth a photo.

Secretly tucked away behind Ambleside is the valley of Scandale. In times past it provided a direct link between Ambleside and Patterdale for foot and packhorse traffic but with the surfacing of the route over Kirkstone Pass it has fallen out of favour and become something of a backwater. For walkers however this change in fortune is a real bonus, as it provides an unexpectedly quiet and attractive route into the hills, direct from the hustle and bustle of Ambleside.

It certainly was quiet today - had the whole place to myself. The pass comes into sight up ahead.

Plenty of water around - a few long strides or jumps were required at times.

Looking back down towards Scandale Beck and the soggy terrain.

This lakeland ladder stile marks the top of the pass more or less. A place where in the past I've often had a coffee or lunch stop with the wall providing a good wind break on bad weather days. Little Hart Crag can be seen in the background. A short ascent (out and back) and this Wainwright could have been visited as well - but I decided against it today.

A view over to the snow capped Dove Crag

Looking Northwards towards Brothers Water

Such a fantastic view here - so I've added a close up as well

Heading towards Middle Dodd, as a shortcut from Scandale Pass traverses the side of the fell slightly.

A rainbow greets me at the summit of Middle Dodd.

After a few minutes at the summit of Middle Dodd, It was a 90 degree turn and then upwards towards Red Screes

Just slippery enough underfoot to merit putting the microspikes on.

Red Screes summit trig point

A different aspect, with the Kentmere Horseshoe in the background.

Looking down towards the Kirkstone Pass & Inn - My normal route of ascent to Red Screes is from there.

A fast and easy descent down via Snarker Pike

Rydal Water comes into view during the descent.

After a very heavy downpour the sun broke through as I headed towards the Kirkstone Pass road (The Struggle). Wansfell Pike can be seen straight ahead.

Where the fell path meets the road

A gentle descent walking down the 'river' (I mean road !!) as I dry out in the blustery wind.