28 Sept. Very warm and sunny.

Several parts to this post. A day with an outstanding walk, best of the trip to date, good food, a boat ride, and a fine lesson delivered to us on dry stone walls.

The walk was straight up, 250-300 meters, to a fantastic 360 degree view fro Brantfell. Signs indicated that trees were felled to improve the view. Not sensible but led to a great expanse. Path then connected to the 81 mile long Dalesway between Ilkley and Windermere; naturally we did just a bit of it.

After the loop some fine salted and vinegar English chips, and then a boat cruise on Lake Windermere. It stopped at Ambleside pier, about a mile walk. No food consumed there as we wanted to catch the return steam ferry so as not to be late for dinner.

Dinner is included in out bed, breakfast, and dinner accommodation. Our room is right across from the Beatrix Potter room. She owned this country home at some point.

Dinner is very formal, British formal. We sit in a lounge and order dinner. The first of three Amuse Bouches are served. Escorted tom dinner, drinks carried by staff, another A.Bouche. Starter, sorbet, Main, desert and then back to the lounge for tea and sweets.

A lesson in dry stone wall making.

During the walk we saw two men repairing a stone wall. Naturally I asked them the process. One of them was happy to expound at great length, we were mightily interested. His compatriot was happy for a break and a chance for a cigarette.

This break in the walls of Marsdon estate, a working farm with 80 miles, not a typo, of stone walls, is serviced by three local skilled workman firms.

Walls come down from ground shifting, trees falling, and cars, yes cars. He was quite emphatic that this did little good for the cars. In the lake district walls are 3 feet six inches to 12 feet, made of slate. They last about 200 years. In other ares where granite is available walls are good for 600 plus years with some 2000 years old, Roman.

Two walls are built side by side. A frame, slightly narrower at the top. Topped with tilted vertical stones placed to keep the rain from accumulating in the crevices. Two stones are placed, then topped with a slate that covers two stones. Ever 18 inches a stone is interleaved as support between the two closely built walls. Stability of course. Ry filler isnpushed between all the stones. Dry inside. Dry stone wall.

Sent from my iPad