The Coniston Range and Coniston Water

We visited this spot in February 2013 when the weather was absolutely superb with reflections of the mountains in a mirror like lake. We were wondering if going back would be a mistake as it can so often be, but we need not have worried. It was a wonderful day, bright sunshine, blue skies, light winds and great visibility. This shot was taken about 3.00pm, when the light was still harsh and bright but trying different settings on the camera gave this image.

Our early morning walk took us across Windermere on the ferry so that we could walk the western shore for a few miles north before turning around in time to catch the ferry back. It was a very enjoyable walk along the lake shore and through woods in bright sunshine. We met a solitary canoeist paddling gently down the shoreline at the place where we turned around. She was looking for otters but found us instead.

We briefly had a look at a property in Levens, but it was not suitable for our needs neither did it do anything for us. That was a quick in and out before going to Low Sizergh Barn for lunch. A good lunch too, soup with "artisan bread" and another scone towards the survey. One of the best too. Scores below.

The afternoon took us to Coniston Water to travel along the quiet eastern shore of the lake stopping off at different places to take in the view and passing John Ruskin's old pad at Brantwood.

Finally we set off for Lindale to see Alan and Irene in the baronial pile at Hampsfield House. The journey was very pleasant through Hawkeshead and past Esthwaitwater to pick up the A590. We spent a lovely hour or so on the expansive lawn in front of house which contains their apartment, enjoying a beer and a Pims. Irene prepared a super supper of flan, potatoes and salad with a strawberry cake to follow. We talked until late evening, driving home in the slowly dimming light. The end of a very good day.

Scores on the scone:

Size: has to be big 4
Shape: pleasing to the eye, top, bottom and sides 4
Colour lightly browned 4
Texture that craggy bit around the side to show it has risen 4
Breaking open tears apart easily 4
Smell must make your mouth water 3

Taste and flavour:
Crunch first bite impact 3
Churn how it breaks down when chewing 4
Crumb how well it holds together when putting on cold butter 4
Initial taste the impact of the first mouthful 3
Full taste how the flavour develops with eating 3

Score 40/44. One of the best so far.