Doggy time

Today was forecast to be beautiful and it didn't disappoint. We left the Langdales early, as the road was due to be closed for urgent repairs for the day, and headed over to Grasmere for breakfast in the van followed by a walk from near Rydal.  We mooched through the trees in stunning light and heard first, what we thought were geese and then, maybe a pack of hounds but it soon sounded like geese again.  

We took our time walking the short path to Grasmere where Little Dog enjoyed a paddle and some skittiness (extra). Strolling back on the other side of the river, there was a clearing up ahead where we heard the 'geese' coming.  We paused and looked up to whooper swans all whooping away - first in formation and then splitting into groups. Very low. Lots of them.  We guessed they're gathering for their return journey and later saw they'd landed on Rydal Water as we headed on home. Nice place to break your journey!

Update: I've just realised I caught the swans in this picture before we'd seen them! Spot them?!

Time for a snack at the Goat Gap cafe and an easy journey home in continuing sunshine.