So it was an early off work and onto the M1, M6 to the Lake District . I couldn't wait, I absolutely love it up there, so peaceful and tranquil and in Winter it was going to be even more beautiful. After a 5 hour car journey, a pack of Éclairs, a napping (snoring!)Tidey, and many an irritating song we arrived (via Manchester) to Windermere which was to be our base for the long weekend. We were greeted with a smile and a bottle of wine J always a plus.After a good nights sleep and a fantastic breakfast from our hosts at Hollywood Guest House, we awoke early to set out around the Lakes. We decided to firstly head to Coniston for a scenic drive and once passed Ambleside started to see the most gorgeous snow covered fell and lowlands, including a frozen Tarn - gorgeous. The problem with Winter in the Lakes is that the light fades so quickly and we were losing it bit by bit. We then travelled up to Keswick and through the windy pass to Buttermere, getting completely lost through signs actually pointing around in a circle - god damn those locals! Paul and I got out of the car in the valley and were virtually blown over by the wind, it was so strong. Buttermere is one of my favorite places in the Lakes, surrounded by high fell and accessible though a pass completely void of civilization - well apart from the slate mine. Well worth the drive. And the scenery in the Northern Lakes is stunning, as it is most -places there. But the snow covered mountains make for gorgeous views and photos.We also were stalked at one point by a couple of field mice who came the closest I have ever seen a mouse in the wild, it literally just stared at us when walked by.Unfortunately then the rain hit although this was at 4pm and we also lost the light at 4pm - 4pm! How annoying is that…?????We did catch Derwent water on the way back in the fading light it was gorgeous - misty and spooky JSo it was back for a Chinese and a catch up with the family.