R*n 566: Kendal

Fearing the worst after the recent floods, we decided to make the journey to Kendal using a boat, rather than our usual motor car. Alas, it wasn't actually necessary because by the time we arrived at the multi-purpose boat / car park, the floods had receded and it had actually stopped raining for once.

Our erstwhile hares got us underway shortly after 11am, having waited for Speedbump and Doormouse, just in case they had decided to arrive by pedal cycle, but there was no sign, so off we went.

A quick ascent up to Kendal Castle afforded fine views over the town and across to the snow capped lakeland fells. We then dropped down and navigated through a housing estate before breaking out into open country once again. Up towards Oxenholme and under the West Coast main line before the beer stop, which again gave us fine views of the surrounding area, as well as beer, soft drinks and biscuits.

An hour or so later we were heading back into Kendal, with Lurch very kindly having given me detailed instructions on how to locate a road that I was interested in, for future railway photographic opportunities. (yes, anorak and all that…………).

Walking back into the town near to the railway station provided plenty of evidence of the extent of the flooding the previous week, with lots of ruined goods awaiting collection outside empty properties. A great shame.

Back at the car park and no sign of Highway, but that being nothing unusual, we completed the customary down down's without him, before making for cheap beer and food and Wetherspoons.

A great hash was had by all. On-on to boxing day.

Bitter. XX.