In this episode of The Outdoors Station, I share the ups and downs of days four and five on our Wainwright Coast to Coast trek. The Lake District’s steep climbs, wild camping, and unpredictable weather left us physically and mentally drained.
After a tough stretch to Shap and with the pressure of ensuring we arrived at future destinations on time we decided to skip a boggy 20-mile section by taxi, finding much-needed rest at a welcoming guesthouse in Kirkby Stephen. Though we felt a bit guilty, the break revitalised us for the journey ahead. Sometimes, enjoying the adventure means knowing when to pause.
Introduction and Recap (00:00:03) Host introduces the episode, recaps previous days, and sets up the context for days four and five.
Morning at Grizedale Tarn (00:01:47) Rose and Alan wake up at Grizedale Tarn, describe the wild camp, and prepare to head to Patterdale.
Admiring Dry Stone Walls (00:04:42) Discussion about the impressive dry stone walls seen on the descent to Patterdale.
Breakfast Search in Patterdale and Glenridding (00:07:26) Struggles to find breakfast in Patterdale, eventually eating at Glenridding’s Lakeside Cafe.
Climbing Out of Patterdale (00:10:14) Preparing for the next climb, discussing wild camping options and the need for a shower.
Reaching the Col to Angle Tarn (00:11:05) Update from the col, enjoying the scenery and planning the route towards Shap.
Lunch and Progress Update (00:12:31) Lunch break after a good climb, reflecting on the day’s progress and route details.
Final Climb and Descent to Haweswater (00:13:44) Description of the final climb, descent to Haweswater, and considerations for wild camping.
Long Day Ends at Haweswater (00:14:57) Arriving at Haweswater after a long day, searching for a wild camp spot, and reflecting on the day.
Setting Up Camp in the Rain (00:17:35) Pitching the tent just before rain, discussing weather changes and the need for comfort.
Day Five: Exhaustion and Early Start (00:18:58) Morning of day five, both walkers exhausted after a rough night, preparing to head to Shap.
Leaving the Lake District (00:20:07) Leaving the Lake District, passing through Burnbanks, and observing local wildlife and signage.
Reflections on Fatigue and Logistics (00:21:55) Discussing tiredness, food shortages, and the benefits of B&Bs and Sherpa services.
Arrival and Rest in Shap (00:23:50) Arriving in Shap, finding food and rest, and considering the next stage to Kirkby Stephen.
Decision to Skip to Kirkby Stephen (00:27:11) Choosing to take a taxi to Kirkby Stephen due to exhaustion and lack of transport options.
Recovery at Kirkby Stephen (00:29:16) Staying at a B&B, recovering, resupplying, and reflecting on the decision to skip a section.
Episode Wrap-Up and Reflections (00:32:51) Reflecting on the rest day, feeling recharged, and closing out part three of the series.
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