Wainwright's Coast to Coast Walk — Stage 10

This leg of the walk offers 3 alternative routes. There are high routes over Helvellyn via Striding Edge to the north or St Sunday Crag to the south, or the lower alternative dissecting the two down the centre of the valley following Grisedale Beck to the tarn. We agreed with Steve's choice—the low-level route (it was an overcast morning)—and set off from Patterdale in high spirits, looking forward to the final three days of the walk. The walk, whichever path you choose, is a treat through the heart of Lakeland.

We set out today without our reliable ally, the sun. It did not dull our spirits though, as we set off walking steadily with a climb up and over Grisedale Forest (don't expect trees!). This low-level route still involved constant climbing though, as it took us to Grisedale Tarn and beyond over Great Tongue to the fringe of Grasmere in no time at all. No huffing and puffing now; nine days walking had certainly opened our lungs to cope with the trials of the walk. We all felt fit as we bypassed Grasmere and walked on through Lancrigg before starting our final ascent of the day to Greenup Edge via Helm Crag. This section can be boggy at the best of times, so take care in avoiding the deep bits before reaching Greenup Edge and dropping down towards Borrowdale via a waterfall scramble near the spectacular Eagle Crag. After negotiating the waterfall, the paths become more distinct and easier to negotiate alongside Stonethwaite Beck which is followed into Rosthwaite. A good walk was had by all three of us today which we all enjoyed. It was just a pity it was overcast.

Rosthwaite in the heart of Borrowdale is quaint but limited to one pub that can become crowded in high season. On finishing today's leg, we arranged to travel with friends from Leeds to nearby Keswick for a night out. I even stayed in the town. I recommend the town to anyone who fancies a celebration night before completing the walk. It has a good variety of pubs and restaurants, most with fair prices for eating and accommodation.