After almost two-years, I was finally making my return to the Peak District. I’d even be staying at the same camp site and so, I knew much of what to expect.
On this Saturday morning, I’d decided to get a walk in first before continuing on to pitch my tent. I was destined for Gradbach in Staffordshire and confident I could complete the journey without using my SatNav…
I will rarely go more than a couple of months without heading south for a walk on the Quantock Hills. In several ways, I prefer walking there to the thought of exploring the Mendip Hills on my doorstep. Depending on where I start the walk from, the drive can take less than one hour.
This walk was led by another member of Brunel 20s and 30s and, nearing three months later, I am surprised that I’ve not been back since. But then, I’ve also been quite busy with walking and camping in other places.
Walking the final one-hundred metres of ascent towards the summit of Cadair Idris now, there was only one question on our minds:
Embracing the Summer Solstice, on the 21st of June this year. Outdoors, of course! What did you get up to?
Each year, the longest day comes and goes. It’s rare that I ever do anything to celebrate or embrace the occasion. In fact, I think I’ve put more effort in to experiencing the shortest day, every twelve months.
But this year, I wanted it to be different. I wanted to do something. Naturally, walking came to mind; being outdoors. With work to continue the next morning, I didn’t driving far and so travelled up Burrington Combe to begin a brief expedition on to my local Mendip Hills.
Walks With Olly 