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First walk back (of any consequence) was a trip over to Rannerdale Valley

to see how the iconic bluebells have coped with the winter floods and the recent cold spring weather. 

Today it has been sunny and warm, a real contrast in valley weather in the last seven days.

Let's face it, it was snowing last weekend while we were away, so I'm not expecting miracles.

Parking at Cinderdale and waking along under Grasmoor.	A pink cherry in full flower in the grounds of Rannerdale Cottage

It has warmed nicely in recent days but with the southern breezes has come a drop in air quality so our wider views are being compromised by a strong haze.   - - - o o o - - -   I chose today's walk because a number of people have inquired about the state of the bluebells and have asked us about the best time to see them.   - - - o o o - - -   The answer is here in the pictures. The flowers have started but it will be a while before the flowers reach their peak.

The daffodils in the enclosure around the tree are still in good fettle, as is the gorse higher up on the slope.

The first of the iconic bluebells are just starting to show through.

The triangular peak is Whiteless Pike . . . it should be called purple-less Pike today.

The gorse is in full bloom here . . . as the dogs and I walk the track towards the Squat Beck footbridge.

Perhaps today's most intense patch of colour is just above the track.

On the other side of the valley the slopes of Rannerdale haven't even started growing their crop of flowers yet,

but Harry and Dylan approve of the warmer weather and enjoy a dip in the beck.

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Dogs walked . . . and duty done in a most delightful way

I returned from whence I came !

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STOP PRESS:    The hazy weather has resulted in a fine red sunset over Low Fell tonight as the light started to fade.

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