Friday 23rd June

Swinside Fell, North of Millom, Cumbria
After being woken by scavenging ducks in the early hours, we got up and headed off in search of Swinside Stone circle. We decided to abandon the idea of going to Grizedale Forest as there was nowhere to leave the computer securely and I didn’t want it on my back on a bike ride. Never mind, Grizedale will have to be another time.
Arriving at Swinside, the sunshine was glorious and the walk up to the stones beautiful. The sheep were guarding the stones but allowed us in. The lambs were inquisitive and seemed to love the stones, huddling or cuddling up to them.

What can you say about Swinside….It’s a near perfect circle of about 50 stones which have a feeling of calm serenity and welcoming. We talked about how modern society is so unconnected with the Earth and that maybe that is why we feel drawn to searching for stones so we can feel reconnected ourselves. We drank in the beauty of Swinside and it’s surroundings and appreciated the Earth for all that she gives us.

Funny that after a few hours, we headed off up the coast and past Sellafield nuclear plant which contrasted so much with where we had just been. Reminding us again of how much damage and pollution the human race is capable off. We did, however, find our goal of Blakely Rise (3 1/2 miles north east of Egremont), a small and quite isolated circle that to me felt a bit sad. Maybe the close proximity of Sellafield, the way the stones were cemented into the ground or just my own feelings affected my experience. I did say hello to the stones but we didn’t stay long. Also, we needed to find our stopping point for the night.

We carried on to Castlerigg, where I had a strong feeling to go to a campsite nearby rather than stop to see the stones. We had planned to stay around Castlerigg for the weekend, so I saw no rush to go to them but favoured dinner instead.

Arriving at the campsite, the van broke down. We then waited for the wonder AA man to rescue us and all is well once again. A small part is needed which we can hopefully get tomorrow. The weather has been gorgeous today and we now have a near 360 degree view of spectacular hills and glorious countryside and we are within walking distance of Castlerigg stone circle. If there is a visible sunrise in the morning then we will be there. we are within walking distance of Castlerigg stone circle.

If there is a visible sunrise in the morning then we will be there!