As anticipated, the Cornwall trip was very much a family affair. With three families, plus three further couples and a solitary Jim, we made the most of all that the south west tip of Britain had on offer. The first day set the tone, with Che and Andrew climbing at Sennen before meeting up with Louise and walking along the coast path to Land’s End.
By Saturday morning, most of the team had gathered and it was off to Bosigran. While James and Devious Dave Smith had an epic on Bow Wall (Hard Rock E2), Che and Andrew hung around on Doorpost (Classic Rock HS) taking photos and enjoying the steep granite. Meanwhile, over on Bosigran “Commando” Ridge (Classic Rock VD), Jim and Dan were
having an alpine adventure. It was a great way to start the trip.
Afternoons were generally spent in more leisurely pursuits, for example swimming, body-boarding and eating pasties and ice cream at Sennen; exploration of Pednvounder Beach below Logan Rock with its pristine sand and small crags coming right off the beach (UKC –“simply a stunning place”).
Sunday looked like being a write-off for climbing, with heavy rain predicted for the whole day, but Sean and Jim managed to get in an ascent of Alison Rib at Bosigran, one of three ascents of this Top 50 route during the trip. Monday saw two teams set out very early. James and Dave headed south to Chair Ladder on their Hard Rock mission and climbed Bishop’s Rib (HVS). Meanwhile, Jim and Andrew went in the opposite direction to find Gurnard’s Head with the aim of ticking Right Angle (HS), a route that most people agree should have made it into Classic Rock. Having overcome the intimidating atmosphere and the traverse across onto the wall, they had to climb back again as the waves were crashing up onto the lower reaches of the final two pitches. We will return.
By Tuesday, everyone was just far too relaxed and enjoying themselves in other pursuits. However, Andrew managed to persuade Dave and Dan to head to Kenidjack for Saxon (HVS), a stunning climb up the middle of a steep, slate slab. There was also time for a last foray to Sennen and Bosigran before the big rain arrived on Tuesday night.
Big thanks to James and Mary for hosting a BBQ at their Airbnb, celebrating Dan and Esther’s first wedding anniversary as we watched the sunset. Most other nights were spent in the North Inn at Pendeen, where many chicken-and-leek pies were consumed. Well done also to everyone for getting on the rock. It was a delight to see partners and children getting involved, and credit must go to Jim, Dave and James for facilitating this.
We had a wonderful time.
