Gateway To Ennerdale

In between heavy showers, I managed to grab this shot of Ennerdale Water. Each time I take in the views of my favourite location, the vista invariably leaves me spellbound at its magnificence.

Fewer people are out and about in Ennerdale during the winter months, meaning more peace and quiet for those that prefer it that way – and I’m one of them.

I’ll be heading into the valley soon, as the temperature begins to plummet. The cold doesn’t bother me too much, as brisk walking keeps me warm. It’s quite invigorating to tell you the truth.

The cold is also very revealing. In winter, when the bracken has died back, archaeological sites in the valley show up most clearly.

The Smithy Beck settlements date back over 600 years containing a collection of buildings that resemble long-houses. These archeological sites are classified as scheduled ancient monuments – meaning that they are legally protected.

The lake and the mountains have become my landscape, my real world. 

Georges Simenon