Catch-up ball

The approach to Cat Bells from Hawes End

I took the train to Manchester on the Wednesday. I was planning to go for a run by the Rochdale Canal in the afternoon, but I ran out of time for that, so it was straight on to the Etihad where I witnessed something of a rarity these days – a comfortable City win over our visitors, Forest. However, our season has rather fallen apart and we are now playing catch-up ball with Liverpool and Chelsea.

Back in the centre, I walked along Canal Street and ended up at Oscar’s Bar as usual for a solitary gin and tonic. I prefer it here to other bars, although the truth is that the Village is a lonely place to be if you’re on your own.

Thursday morning saw me on an early train to Penrith where I met my trans Christian friend Pauline. We journeyed on to Keswick which was our base for the next couple of days. Our walking plans had to accommodate the December weather with the low cloud and intermittent rain, so we abandoned thoughts of an ascent of Blencathra.

I was determined to spend the whole time as Ariane but had to settle for female running gear instead of the skirt I had worn earlier in the year.

We walked south, out of Keswick, by the eastern side of Derwent Water for a while, then inland and through the countryside before returning to the town. Looking for a late lunch, we found Café Bar 26 with its plant-based menu. Pauline is vegan so her eyes lit up. I told the staff I was merely vegan-curious but I went in with an open mind and was surprised at how tasty the food was.

Back at base, we talked, and played chess (that was only going to end one way), and drank red wine. I took the opportunity to cook a vegan dinner and that tasted good too.

On Friday we knew the best of the weather would be in the morning, so we set off early for Hawes End and an ascent of Cat Bells. At only 1500 feet the summit was clear. This is a very popular walk, second only to Helvellyn in terms of visitors, although it was a weekday in term time and we didn’t see many walkers. The ascent was steep towards the top but we made it, with great views all round, then continued south on an easier descending path before returning on a lovely lakeside path west of Derwent Water.

The rest of the day was very similar to the day before: the vegan café again, then more chess and red wine, and another vegan meal.

On Saturday morning we parted company in Keswick, then I spent several hours on the train battling my way home. I enjoyed the break very much. It was nice to have some company and Pauline was very sporting in agreeing to play chess.