With the forecast suggesting rain, 50-60mph winds and >70mph gusts, we abandoned plans to walk in the Lakes today instead visiting RSPB Leighton Moss. After several hours at Leighton Moss, we drove to Middleton to see a Glossy Ibis before heading for Longridge for an ascent of Longridge Fell.

I have included a few photos of the Glossy Ibis as the photos from Longridge Fell are fairly awful .

Glossy Ibis:


Glossy Ibis:


Glossy Ibis:


Glossy Ibis:



Hill: Longridge Fell
Date: Sunday 4th February 2024
Company: Just myself
Distance: 4.5km, Ascent: 75m
Time: 50Mins

The car park at the start of this walk was nearly full despite gale force winds; this fell seems to be popular with dog walkers. Given the very windy conditions, Ann-Marie opted to wait in the car while I ascended the hill .

Route:


Concessionary Footpath:


The initial walk was fairly pleasant via a wide grassy track.

Looking towards the summit of Longridge Fell:


Beyond the nice grassy track, the track then deteriorates significantly.

Following the wall to the summit:


Fairly awful track:


With some relief I reached the summit, took a few pics then returned immediately back towards the car.

Summit trig point:


During the walk back, I stopped to take a photograph of the bogfest that masquerades as a track. Given the popularity of this hill, it could really do with some path restoration.

Bogfest:


During the drive back to the Lakes, we passed a peacock at the side of the road. We stopped to take some photos as it's not something you see everyday in Aberdeenshire .

Peacock:


While Longridge Fell is my first new Marilyn of 2024, it's definitely not a hill I will be repeating.