Roaches Walk Report Saturday 14 December

Eleven members plus 2 dogs turned up at various points under the Roaches at 9,30am. The drive over seemed promising with blue skies and sunshine. However, the western Peak seemed to be shrouded in low cloud! An atmospheric romp up Hen Cloud revealed sculpted rocks and numerous mini scrambling areas. Some even spotted climbs completed eons ago. A contour of the hill led us back to the ridge where we continued through the murk, passing a fenced off Doxey’s Pool. Soon after, we sheltered behind a huge boulder for drinks and a snack before the trig point (tick) and second Ethel of the day.
A descent and woodland path led to Lud’s Church, a deep rocky chasm that you can walk through, now dripping with lush green ferns. It boasts some history of early Christian worship and a legend of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.
Lunch and a brief bit of drizzle gave us the impetus to continue the circumnavigation of the ridge crossing fields and following tracks and a minor road back to cars.Nine miles completed and we enjoyed some clearer westerly views in the afternoon. We were back at the cars by 2.30pm. A few then went on to Whitehouse Cafe chez Bill and Elen – many thanks for your hospitality. And, thank you to everyone who came out. An enjoyable day.
Ali