Recently, for my brothers 40th, I had a trip with 9 other lads, to the Lake District, a beautiful part of the world. However, it had been planned in March to avoid any adverse weather. Mother nature decided otherwise and graced us with a freak spring weekend of heavy snow.

The disturbing snow-swept journey meant we could hardly see where the road actually was. Not the greatest idea to be on country roads that gritters dont ever visit. Our first activity of the weekend was bike riding. (No pics of that – it’s almost impossible to ride a bike whilst taking pictures).

The bike riding was cut short as there was zero grip on the wheels going uphill and so much snow that you couldn’t open your eyes going downhill (Not really all that safe). Also, we were concerned the roads may become unusable. Night out with plenty of beers (… and kareoke – eek!) made up for the disapointing bike effort.

Day 2 – Hike

Again the snow scuppered the planned journey, but fortunately we had someone in the group that, i quote, ‘knows the hills like the back of his hand’.

Despite the weather the trek was on!!

Even the local residents seemed rather puzzled that we’d be up in the hills in these conditions.

Although difficult going, the views were beautiful.

Love the above shot as all the lads descend and ascend down a mini valley. The ‘V’ shape of the row of men mirrors the peak of the hill in the background. Also love how everyone seemed to pull the same ‘arm out’ pose while crossing a small stream.

Some of the snowdrifts were over 4 foot deep. Not easy to get through with my little, unfit legs, ha!

Sometimes the blizzards were almost unbearable but when the weather calmed, the hills, lakes and streams were stunning.

We weren’t the only things brave enough to venture to the hills. The sheep gathered on a small mound of exposed grass seemed content. We also met an amazingly photogenic cow that happily posed for the above shot.

The journey led us to the discovery of an amazing cave. The only way in – and out was via a series of well placed stepping stones (amazingly no one slipped into the water.) The cave was amazing, so many colours in the rocks. The contrast between the dark stone and bright white snow blew me away.

It was shorlty after the cave that it the trek got more difficult – especially for me. We stopped for a breather and to contemplate our route. Someone pointed up the hill to the peaks and my heart dropped. As we ascended my legs cramped up and I almost turned back. I powered on with the help of a donated, well needed energy drink.

After what seemed like uphill after uphill we reached the peak.

Finally, to my relief, we had some downhill sections. Some of these did involve more snow drifts and the occasional hill-bum-slide.

All in all a great trip – hope to get back there soon.

Would recomend that everyone visits the lakes at some point. Lots to do, and amazing surroundings… Even when it snows.