December isn't everyone's cup of tea when it comes to wild camping on an island, but I had a couple of free days, the forecast was reasonable and there was a new boat on the rack waiting for proper outing. The new boat was a Swift Prospector in expedition kevlar - a classic design refreshed by Swift and built in light but strong modern materials. The quality of finish and attention to detail was excellent, as you would expect from Swift. I'd had it out on the water a few times since I picked it up, but hadn't had the chance to load it up as it was intended. A winter overnight camping trip, with all the added clothing and kit to make a cold camp comfortable was the ideal test. I chose one of my favourite short trips - a round or Derwentwater from Kettlewell, stopping overnight on St Herbert's Isle. The forecast was set to settle from breezy and overcast to clear and still, but when I arrived by the water having driven from Yorkshire, it was still quite brisk. 'Bracing' even! …
Derwentwater Delight
Back in April, we were just coming out of the long winter lockdown. In the two weeks since restrictions had been eased to allow more than local trips, I had reacquainted myself with waterways not too far from home but not really 'on the doorstep'. Overnight stays away from home were now allowed, and I had a few days free mid-week, so it was with considerable excitement that I readied my kit for an overnight trip on Derwentwater. Its another familiar trip for me, but one I always enjoy. It was also the first time I would have a camping load in the northwind solo, so I was looking forward to testing it out. Arriving at the lakeside carpark late in the morning, I was lucky enough to find a parking space. Plenty of cars parked up, but not very many people on the water. The weather was holding true to the forecast, sunny with light winds, ideal for paddling.The view southwards up Borrowdale was enticing as ever, but I decided that this time I was going to vary my usual routine and make a …