Plan B
Plan B (when plans change last minute)
Our idea all started last year with one big pack rafting trip, going from west to east of Scotland using public transport, with our intention of doing a source-to-sea journey of the river Spey. We picked this river for its reputation of being suitable for beginners. With work commitments, we could only manage to set a date in April, which we knew was a bit risky with the weather. Rachel set about planning the transport and kit. Due to funds, we were only able to afford second-hand equipment, which consisted of a cag and waterproof trousers. We sourced the rafts from Tri Wetsuit Hire. Managing to get a few days on the river Dee prior to our trip, with temperatures around 6 degrees, we were feeling the cold and praying for warmer weather in Scotland.
During the week leading up to the trip, we checked the forecast every day, hoping it would change. However, alas, it wasn't meant to be. Consistent rain and a strong northern low meant temperatures were sub 4 degrees on the day we were meant to leave. We decided to pull the plug, as hypothermia was a massive concern with the equipment we had. So, Plan B came into effect.
Although we didn't have a Plan B initially, we soon came up with one. Looking at a map of rivers and lakes, we tried to pick out a route in the Lake District that looked promising, as they seemed to have the best weather. The plan was set, so it was time to work out logistics and accommodation. Although camping was an option, we opted for YHA stops as they were conveniently placed at the end of each day. This decision aimed to reduce the weight of our bags, which would make it easier for Andy, who wasn't at full strength due to having a virus the week prior.
Due to the time of year, we required more gear than we would in summer. Cooler weather necessitated wet suits with over-proofs, making the experience more comfortable. Having drying rooms in the YHA made putting the kit back on the next day more bearable and a comfy bed at night is always welcomed.
The route started at Newby Bridge, the southern most point of Windermere Lake, and finished at Pooley Bridge, the northern point of Ullswater. This meant that on the first day, we would paddle roughly 18km of Lake Windermere to reach YHA Ambleside, which you can pretty much paddle to the front door of.
The second day is a hiking day, with two hostel options: YHA Patterdale or YHA Helvellyn. Since YHA Patterdale was fully booked, we opted for YHA Helvellyn.
On the third and final day, we would paddle the length of Ullswater, which is roughly 14km. It's worth noting that this route can be done in either direction, and both the starting and finishing points are accessible via public transport. However, we chose to leave the van at the start.
Day 1:
With an early start from North Wales, we arrived at Newby Bridge and hiked a short distance to the bottom of Lake Windermere, where we began sorting out our rafts, preparing for our paddle. Along the way, we checked the weather forecast. It looked to be a variable day with rain showers predicted and winds coming from the southwest. We anticipated that these winds would aid us in paddling up the lake.
Once on the water, we quickly realized that while the wind was providing some assistance, it also posed a challenge by constantly pushing us to the side. Rachel, being the stronger paddler, seemed less affected by the wind, whereas Andy struggled, his technique needing improvement with each stroke.
About halfway through, Rachel began feeling extremely cold, prompting us to stop at a cafe for lunch. Rachel opted for copious amounts of tea with extra sugar, a decision she would later regret. She also piled on some extra layers to keep warm. As we resumed our journey on the lake, the wind shifted to a more westerly direction, intensifying our struggle to reach the end.
As the winds eased, we decided to launch the drone for some aerial shots of me on the water. Initially, things went smoothly, but the drone ended up getting stuck in a tree. Operation Save Derek II was initiated, with Rachel jumping into her boat and paddling over to assist. With some careful manoeuvring, we managed to dislodge the drone from the tree and safely retrieve it.
With the final stretch of paddling remaining to reach the YHA and the promise of warmth and dryness, Rachel's earlier sugar intake caught up with her, resulting in a sugar crash. Meanwhile, Andy, exhausted from the prolonged paddling, struggled to keep up. Relief washed over us as we finally spotted the familiar green sign of the YHA, signalling the end of our challenging day on the water.
Day 2:
Our original plan for a hike, which included hitting a few peaks, was discarded the night before when we checked the weather forecast. Gale force winds and hailstorms were predicted, leading us to opt for a lower route option over Scandal Pass. Setting off from the hostel in the rain, we made a stop in the village of Ambleside for a quick snack and to pick up some anti-inflammatories for Andy's swollen arm. It seemed the paddling yesterday had aggravated it somehow.
The weather proved relentless, throwing all seasons at us in a single day. However, the most bothersome aspect was the hailstone showers. Days like this make you question why you're even out there; it's definitely what they call type 2 fun. The paths had turned into streams, and our thoughts drifted to the challenges of the journey.
After crossing the Pass, we sought refuge in a pub for a quick drink and respite from the weather. Summoning the courage to brave the elements once more, we tackled the final few kilometres. Passing by YHA Patterdale, we couldn't help but lament the lack of available rooms.
Pushing onward through worsening weather, with heavy rain and wind battering us, the final 2 kilometers up to the hostel felt like an eternity. Eventually we made it, and after hot showers, we made full use of the hostel bar and restaurant.
Day 3:
Waking up to sunshine, seeing the sun shining down on us was a delightful change. As we walked down to Glenridding, we weighed up our options for the day. With Andy's arm now twice its normal size, we realized he wouldn't be able to paddle. After sitting down for coffee, we devised Plan C (Race to Pooley Bridge)!
Our plan was straightforward: Rachel would paddle Ullswater while Andy went to retrieve the van. Rachel faced a 14km paddle, while Andy had to navigate two buses and a train. The race was on. Andy boarded the first bus to Penrith, while Rachel headed down to the lake. We kept in communication throughout the journey.
As Rachel battled the strong northerly winds on the lake, Andy made his way to Penrith by bus. By the time Rachel had covered about 7km, Andy was on the train to Oxenholme. Upon reaching Oxenholme, Andy walked a mile and a half to catch his last bus back to the van. It took him about 3 hours to complete the journey, a useful note for anyone relying solely on public transport for this route.
Meanwhile, Rachel realized that with Andy having an hour's drive to Pooley Bridge once he reached the van, she might lose the race. We met up at Pooley Bridge, with Andy arriving first to enjoy a drink and review our mini expedition.
Summary:
Upon reflecting on this trip, we both reached the same conclusion: it would be an excellent adventure in the summer months but not so enjoyable in the turbulent weather that spring brought us, with its persistent rain.
Our packrafts were the MRS Ponto Solo- sourced from Tri Wetsuit Hire. Tri Wetsuit Hire offer a variety of packrafts, available to hire for 3, 7, 10 or 20 days, making a variety of trips possible. Check them out here: Packraft Hire – Tri Wetsuit Hire
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