Black Fell (Black Crag 322m), Holme Fell (Ivy Crag 317m) - 28/04/2021
Distance: 11.4km; Ascent: 700m; Time 4h 30m
1h 30m drive from Smithy House to get to the NT car park at Tarn Hows - to bag 2 of the 3 lowest Wainright hills. Tarn Hows is a very popular spot but few people seem to venture far from the tarn. The whole walk was through fine woodland and moor with great views - the photos do not do it justice as it was a largely dull overcast day. Much work was being done around Tarn Hows to take out diseased larch trees. We headed for Black Crag via Iron Keld, then made our way to the north of Holme Fell. Stopped for lunch by a disused quarry, where a Wood Warbler sang at us and a flock of Redpoll bathed in the stream. Then up Ivy Crag with good views of Coniston Old Man. Back down on a steep path to reach the A593. Then back to Tarn Hows via Glen Mary. A very enjoyable day out.