Lake District Highest Moon

Our time in the Lake District

After over a month of glorious dry weather, it all changed when we reached the Lake District! Yesterday, we visited Castlerigg stone circle which is one of our favourites. It has a breathtaking panoramic view with so many valleys meeting at this central point. The circle sits on a plateau that provides a 360 degree view of the surrounding fells. We could feel the strong energy of many people visiting this site over thousands of years.

For us, it’s a time of reflection as the last time we were here, we were travelling up to witness the Major Lunar Standstill in 2006. So much has happened since then… Some friends are no longer with us and new friends have entered our lives. We’re aware that we probably won’t be young enough to make this pilgrimage again in 19 years time so this is a very special time for us.

Moon Rise & Set

We haven’t had the weather for Moon gazing but we do have our Peak Finder app which shows where the Moon will rise and set. Yesterday was the highest reaching Moon so the rise and set are at their most extreme north. Also, we’re more north here in the Lake District so the rise and set are even more extreme.

This image shows where the Moon rises and sets from Castlerigg yesterday (28th), on the high lunar standstill. She rises at her most north, travels high in the sky all the way round to set at her most north.

In two weeks time, when we experience the lowest Moon, the Moon’s rise and set will be very south and she will only be above the horizon for a short time. Up in Callanish, we will be even further north so the extremity will be even more.

Catbells Fell

After visiting Castlerigg, we hiked up Catbells Fell with the only good bit of weather we’ve had! What an amazing experience. Very exhilarating!!! Amazing to see all the fell tops, the valleys, the lakes. WOW!

Tomorrow, we’re on the road traveling up to Western Scotland where we’ll stay for a week before sailing over to Lewis…

Ceri, Tina & Undle x