Castle Rock Climbing Circus

 23 March 2022

High pressure seems to be in charge, so maybe time to up the ante with a venture further afield and some longer routes.  A quick text from somewhere near Lyon on Sunday set us up for a Wednesday excursion - one day to recover from a week on the slopes and two days on the road.  Plenty of time to build gumption for a return to the always inviting Mecca-crag that is ;

Castle Rock of Triermain

Walking in we were greeted by the sight of a lonely figure atop the crag dragging a bag up a route on the S Face.  Cue various low grade puns (bit of a drag, in it for the long haul, etc.).  Quickly geared up and climbing under way at 10.30, after an enjoyable banter with the adventurous guy bagging a route (oops, there we go again) ) before his day at a screen somewhere.

AT tops out on Via Media.  

CB had toyed with Gazebo but switched to a romp up this route in the interest of a no-stress starter with fun-filled moves.

And consideration for the general state of his partner.

The descent path passed by the sunny ramps of Yew Tree climb, so AT jumped on the route. CB on belay exchanged pleasantries and intelligence with a couple of parties just arriving.

They seemed to know who he was.  

Pic features an unknown climber later in the afternoon.

CB leads P2 above a belay featuring two bomb proof wires (10 and 11) sunk behind the break.

As the day progressed numerous teams arrived and joined in what turned out to be something of a climbing circus, about six teams in action, all very social, the usual to and fro that climbers are prone to exchange.  About seven dogs of various genres added to the general sense of melee.  All very relaxed.

Here's Fiona S on Kleine Rinne, reflecting the happy atmosphere at the crag.

CB showed the way up the two big VS's, and AT finished the day with a long lead up the terrific arete, ramp and finishing slabs of Gangway Climb.

Here's BP making a great shape on the eponymous gangway (2019)

L- R

Via Media (featuring climber)

Direct Route

Kleine Rinne

Yew Tree Climb

Gangway Climb

Time to head out for a well earned libation.  

Sportsman - for sale

Herdwick - closed

Thought the day was going to have a sting in the tail.

But a quick google and phone call led us to the Beehive.  It was buzzing in there.