Cumbrian Estuaries 26/27 Jan 2008

Forecast for gale force winds, but Jim was convinced the estuaries would be sheltered - and he was proved right (mostly!). But setting off from Ravenglass up the Esk into the teeth of the stiff breeze took a bit of effort.

At a stop on a sandbank to let the tide catch us up, Tweedledum and Tweedledee modelled the latest fashion for paddlers stormbound on an inhospitable shore. (Photo by Liz Jordan)
But the garments proved excellent as spinnakers













Conditions were a little quieter as we paddled further up the river - Muncaster Castle looked quite peaceful
The limit of tidal waters (according to the OS) is this rather rickety bridge over the river. It was well draped with flood debris from earlier in the month.

So to the return journey, and this rather fine road bridge over the Esk, largely constructed of the local Eskdale granite.

Back at Ravenglass in calmer winds (and in time for a pint in the hostelry at the back of the slip). From there we repaired to Kate's place near Kendal for dinner and wine - so many thanks to Kate for her hospitality.
On Sunday, a very late start (because of the tide....). Three members of Duddon Canoe Club joined us at Arnside for an exploration of the lower Kent. The wait for the Arnside bore was in vain, but there was some moving water around the bridge piers, before a leisurely paddle almost to the tidal limit.

Thanks to Jim for organising the weekend.