Duke Of Edinburgh’s Award Expedition To The Lake District
Published by Bethany School on Thursday 6th of April 2023
A group of eight pupils, who are all in Year 12, set off to Cumbria’s Lake District on Thursday 30th March to take part in an expedition as part of their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Day One
After arriving safely in Windermere on Thursday evening, pupils managed to get their tents up and kit sorted, before attending a late evening mission brief from Mr Cooper that included checking the route for the following day.
Despite the overnight rain, there were smiles and thumbs up all round as the group made breakfast and packed up ready to tackle the challenging day ahead.
The group made their way to the first check point, at which time the rain and wind had become heavy and hard hitting. It was a relief for many when they finally arrived at the check point at the top of a hillside, the weather still not removing the smiles though. They then made their way down the other side, through the stunning countryside and, on getting to the bottom, past a flock of sheep.
After finally arriving at the campsite for the night, tents were then pitched and dinners were cooked – pasta all round! The group had made it, the first day was a bit of a shock to the system for some of the group, but they had all risen to the challenge well.
Day Two
The weather on the morning of day two started bright and clear, a good omen for another long and challenging day of walking. Next up for the group was navigating their way over Grisedale Pike, which, on a clear day, you can see across to Scotland and the Isle of Man from the top.
After a morning briefing, the group were positive and determined to take on this task. This was a day of stunning scenery and Lakeland weather, the only predictable thing is it’s unpredictability! Despite this, the mountain was conquered and everyone was still moving, but understandably a bit more slowly.
Tired and nursing various aches, pains and blisters, the group finally arrived at Higher Bridge End Farm Campsite to set up their tents and cook yet more pasta, before getting their heads down for the night.
Day Three
The morning of day three started with the stretching of tired limbs before packing up tents. The entire day was completed in the blazing Cumbrian sunshine, nothing short of a Lakeland miracle!
The group made their way to Watendlath, a small hamlet and tarn (a small lake), that sits high between the Borrowdale and Thirlmere valleys at 863 feet (263 m) above sea level.
After a welcome rest and water, the final stretch for the day took the group to their campsite in the small village of Stonethwaite. There is no prizes for guessing what the group cooked themselves for dinner!
Pupils and staff arrived safely back home on Tuesday 4th April after what has been another successful Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award expedition!
Day Four
The fourth and final day dawned with a chill in the air but the sun prominent in the sky. After packing up their gear and showering, the group then made their ascent and descent of Stake Pass, a high mountain pass where careful navigation is required.
They finally arrived at the last checkpoint, a pub and restaurant in Langdale, where they officially finished their walking. In a much welcomed change from eating pasta for the past few days, the group couldn’t help but be all smiles after their burgers and chips were ordered, which they would eat at an actual table!
