Dave Wylie, Roger Dyke and I took a gentle amble up the stunning valley from the YHA to Laddow rocks to meet paul, who had scurried over from 'the other side'.

Stories of the hardy KMCers of old abounded and we revelled in nostalgia as we peered up the rocks and sat in the somewhat unexpected sunshine. 

We snacked and cup of tea'd, and just as we were getting going Colin Maddison and Roisin Maddison appeared. We'd already decided that no-one was really up for a bivvi - the days of home comforts, busy lives and more exotic adventures have taken over, so we readied ourselves for the climbing and enjoyed a few of Laddow's classics, before we parted ways again, with Dave, Roger and I meandering down just in time for an ice cream at the campsite cafe. Times have most definitely changed. 

A trip down memory lane will take us to this esoteric gritstone mecca, so much loved by our KMC forebears. They seemingly couldn’t get enough of the place, with regular meets and bivvis throughout the club’s history. 

The lovely meander up from Crowden YHA, in the stunning Londgendale Valley, is worth it just for the quality of the landscape. These days, Laddow has fallen somewhat out of favour, so we are likely to have the place to ourselves, to enjoy the glorious September warmth and sunshine*.

*Possibly Manchester ‘sunshine’. Inclement weather options include a run/ walk up Black Hill followed by a nice tea shop and a trip to the pub....

Meet at 9.30am at Crowden Car Park for a leisurely walk-in to Laddow. 

Add yourself to the 'Add-Me' if you're planning to come and we can share resources if needed for the bivvy.