Wednesday, September 18 – a long and varied day up in the Lakes. Today we moved accommodations, so had to get our bags packed up for transport to our next location. Once that was completed, it was time to head to the boat dock.

The lake was fogged in, so we had to wait a bit before the boat across the lake could depart, so we wandered about Brockhole, something that appears to be some sort of “family fun” resort with all sorts of activities.

Fog soon burned off and we were on our way to Wrays Castle, which has nothing to do with royalty and everything to do with a guy using his wife’s money to build the 1840s equivalent of a McMansion. It contained some beautiful woodwork and an interesting exhibition on the 100th anniversary of the 1924 British expedition to Mr Everest, so it was worth the visit.

Today’s hike took us along the lakefront and into the woods and it was a perfect day for both. We stopped for a picnic lunch in the woods before embarking on an “optional” hike extension up to the summit of Latterbarrow.

This trail was less than 2 miles, but was filled with rocks, roots and mud pits that rivaled La Brea. Felt like spring hiking in New Hampshire! Despite the challenges, we made it to the top and enjoyed some beautiful views.

After descending back through that obstacle course/trail, the path then took us down a logging road, through a field of sheep and past some cows who clearly used it as their personal bathroom area…some interesting terrain today.

We arrived in the village of Hawkshead and stopped by the Red Lion Inn for some well-deserved refreshments. The final part of our journey was by bus, so we wandered around the town a bit while we awaited its arrival.

The bus ride was short, but memorable, as the road was ostensibly two lanes but seemed barely wide enough for the bus. When the driver got to a blind curve, he simply honked his horn and hoped for the best…he had a delightful sense of humor, guess that’s probably required for that job!

We checked into our hotel, and the front desk guy, who doubled as the bartender, was another fun personality. Our bags were waiting for us, and we headed for the elevator, looking forward to showers and then dinner.

We noted how the elevator seemed larger than usual and, just after hitting the button, noticed the sign that said that the capacity was no more than two people plus luggage. Oooops. A minute later, we were stuck.

Fortunately, the check-in, bartender guy is also, apparently, the elevator repairman, and after about 30 minutes of talking and a few clunking noises, we were out, embarrassed, but no worse for the wear. Pro tip–always a good idea to look at signs posted outside of elevators.

Crisis averted, we got cleaned up and enjoyed a nice dinner (yes, of course, the guy was involved in that, he definitely needs a raise).

Looking forward to more adventures tomorrow, though none involving being trapped in small spaces.

28,194 steps;13.4 miles