Northern Ireland Outdoors Forum - Hiking, camping and more

General => Meets, places, trips and reviews => Topic started by: RedLeader on August 22, 2013

Title: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: RedLeader on August 22, 2013
(http://i.imgur.com/wB2Bh5i.jpg)

The summer has been a bit quiet, everyone's been very busy and we're bored on the sofa so Annalong Wood ahoy for some camping, bivvying and hammocking and as ever, copious amounts of meat.

We're just thinking of a quick night around the campfire for a bit of a laugh, I'll probably give the hammock a spin. Everyone's welcome and as ever, it will be family friendly. People can feel free to hike in from wherever they fancy, we'll be parking at Carrick Plant Hire and hitting the road probably about 7pm.

We'll ease ourselves back into it gently before we hit the summits again. I've a few extra pounds to shift first :D

The usual safety and responsibility notice applies, please read, inwardly digest.
http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/forum-news-information-and-help/ni-wild-meets-safety-and-responsibilty/

Tentative attendees
Redleader +1
specimanYak
Dowser
Glenn B +1
Matt
Landyliam
Kayakgirl
Georgei81
Fourman

I can't tell if Aragorn is coming or just very excited about meat :D
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Ed on August 22, 2013
Quote from: RedLeader on August 22, 2013
(http://i.imgur.com/wB2Bh5i.jpg)

The summer has been a bit quiet, everyone's been very busy and I'm bored on the sofa so Annalong Wood ahoy for some camping, bivvying and hammocking and as ever,
copious amounts of meat
.
Awwwwww yeahhh
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: specimanYak on August 22, 2013
Count me in for this, i haven't camped out yet in August (the only month i haven't this year) so this should be ideal.
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Dowser on August 22, 2013
I need this so badly... The summer has disappeared and I have done next to nothing.  I even got the hammock for my birthday and it's still in it's bag  >:(

I'm defo in for this!!!
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: whoRya on August 22, 2013
I'll have had two weekends out in a row by that stage, I'm not brave enough to ask for a third!  Good to see it all getting going again. 
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Glenn B on August 23, 2013
As Churchill says ohh yesssss. Me and my wingman haven't been out under canvas for months so we are all for this will be good to get out again..
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Matthew on August 26, 2013
Sounds great, count me in.
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: LandyLiam on August 26, 2013
maybe  ;)
Title: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Kayakgirl on August 27, 2013
I might be up for this.. although I've been camping for 4 days and might not be as keen to get back under the canvas. I will see how I feel on Friday.
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: RedLeader on August 27, 2013
If you've been working all week then the absolute best thing to do is have a night round the fire on Friday night :D You know it makes sense!

Quote from: Kayakgirl on August 27, 2013
I might be up for this.. although I've been camping for 4 days and might not be as keen to get back under the canvas. I will see how I feel on Friday.
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: george81 on August 28, 2013
I think I might have to try and get away from work nice and early on Friday and head down, sounds like a laugh. Aghh the big choice of hitting tent city or just bringing the bivvy bag?????
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: RedLeader on August 28, 2013
Great stuff. At the mo the weather looks dry, fingers crossed it will stay that way. It might be lateish before I can get up, maybe 8-9, whoever's there first just grab a decent spot, probably the big stone firepit is best assuming there's not too much broken glass around. Think we're going to go for big steaks for a change :)

Am very much looking forward to it, has been a very quiet summer for camping.
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Glenn B on August 28, 2013
Fingers crossed for the weather think its gonna be ok over night.   We're thinking of heading down early as well hopefully leaving Belfast at about 3:30 and get a good wood pile started and maybe go for a wee explore.  Dont know who's looking forward to it more me or Tom..... ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Rumblebum on August 28, 2013
Sadly il not be able to make this one guys, but hope you have a great time  :)
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Mourneman on August 28, 2013
WARNING-  ::) ::) ::) the midges are horrendous anybody camping may arm themselves with flame throwers
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Ed on August 28, 2013
Quote from: Mourneman on August 28, 2013
WARNING-  ::) ::) ::) the midges are horrendous anybody camping may arm themselves with flame throwers

(http://cdn.meme.li/i/oe0zl.jpg)
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Glenn B on August 28, 2013
MIDGES I remember a really bad night at the other side of Annalong many many years ago, it was horrific can anyone recommend a good insect repellent ie one that actually works.
Thanks  Glenn.
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: specimanYak on August 28, 2013
I've been using 'Smidge that Midge' the last few trips in July and it worked a treat, along with a midge head-net, the little blighters got nowhere near me. I'll bring the Smidge along so you can try it out.
Both the head-net (£3) and Smidge (£6-£7) can be bought in Trespass in town.

Smidge: http://goo.gl/kryIbc

Head-net: http://www.trespass.co.uk/midge-00460


Quote from: Glenn B on August 28, 2013
MIDGES I remember a really bad night at the other side of Annalong many many years ago, it was horrific can anyone recommend a good insect repellent ie one that actually works.
Thanks  Glenn.
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Glenn B on August 28, 2013
Cheers Yak I'll give them a whirl I wouldn't want to be put off my beers lol.... ::) ::)
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Mourneman on August 28, 2013
Hearing very good reports about 'Smidge' & skin so soft by Avon.iI camped under Spellack on Monday & awoke at 6am to a swarm of midges,had to fold the tent up while on the move,every bit of exposed skin was bitten
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: RedLeader on August 29, 2013
I was really hoping that the midges would have been dying down by now, I really do hate the little blighters. I do have a headnet but I'd not have a chance to get any repellent between now and then. Maybe we should pray for rain after all :)
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: george81 on August 29, 2013
Bit of rain or smoke the buggers out!!! a few heineken and you ll become immune :)
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Fred on August 29, 2013
The weekend forecast is for fresh breezes which should hopefully keep the midges at bay.
Theres a small chance that I may be able to attend this camp if I can get out of work early. Is the camp visible from the main annalong valley path?.
Fred
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: RedLeader on August 29, 2013
Here are directions for anyone that needs them:
http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/routes-and-camping-spots/annalong-wood-campsite/

It's defo not hard to find.


Quote from: Fred on August 29, 2013
The weekend forecast is for fresh breezes which should hopefully keep the midges at bay.
Theres a small chance that I may be able to attend this camp if I can get out of work early. Is the camp visible from the main annalong valley path?.
Fred
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: fourman on August 29, 2013
Im gonna head up for this , havnt been in the mournes all summer  :(
By the sound of things id better stock up on midge repellant
Will buy in bulk and set up a stall at Carrick Little.  ;D
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: RedLeader on August 29, 2013
Great stuff. Looks like we're getting the old band back together :)

Quote from: fourman on August 29, 2013
Im gonna head up for this , havnt been in the mournes all summer  :(
By the sound of things id better stock up on midge repellant
Will buy in bulk and set up a stall at Carrick Little.  ;D
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Eamonn on August 30, 2013
Hey folks, if anyone is heading too the camp tonight could you bring tripod for some star pics
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Rumblebum on August 30, 2013
Enjoy the camp folks!  :)
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Dowser on August 31, 2013
Another great night and as per usual, here's a few snaps for those whose memories may be a little fuzzy  ;)

I got to test out my new Hammock.  Unfortunately I couldn't find my paracord before setting out so I just had to grab the first string I could lay my hands on.  Turns out I didn't lift enough so it took a bit longer to hang the hammock and tarp than I expected. 

Always learning though... Next time I'm going to have paracord pre-attached to my tarp, and six pegs packed in my kit, as it was the tarp that took up most of the time.  The hammock was the easy bit because it comes supplied with all the cord and rope etc in the bag and ready to go!

Anyway, enough of my rambling... Here's the photos:

I thought I would try packing light this time, with it just being a quick overnighter, and was able to get everything I needed into a 25lt Ruck

(http://i.imgur.com/f3Fabme.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/nkUaMD5.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Mu0fR4D.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/bFVrtcr.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/MOqFHwA.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/BdmeOKO.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Ldzj3Lb.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/dqIgjiA.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/TzxwulL.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/FziEn6p.jpg)

I think Fourman's Wife has lost her Sunday Roast  :o
(http://i.imgur.com/JUN0NLq.jpg)

Anyone for Cuisses de Grenouilles
(http://i.imgur.com/Iliusni.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/bdWlK7C.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/KSEkHFE.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/ZKExEGO.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Ymb0NcW.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/wkgG4pX.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/HlNWdOr.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/cna0jWF.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/e6qshVh.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/fAiwazS.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/cEGjePL.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/NUcvuno.jpg)

There's something not quite right with your weight distribution here Landyliam!!!
(http://i.imgur.com/0Oyr9eS.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/ECVztER.jpg)

Roadworks are everywhere these days!!!
(http://i.imgur.com/nBUg6hO.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/5nzzHXa.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/4D2TsrC.jpg)

8)
Title: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Spud on August 31, 2013
Looks like a great night lads, even more annoyed now that I couldn't make it! Nice pictures dowser!
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Glenn B on August 31, 2013
It was great to get out again and put some more faces to the names. Was a fantastic wee night and a big thanks to Ed for for a perfectly cooked steak hmmmmmm.
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: phil_b on August 31, 2013
Nice work guys, looks like a great night out.
Love Liams new rucksack too ;D
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Ed on August 31, 2013
Great camp folks.
Walked with specimenyak up the valley and down from the saddle of donard and commedagh into Newcastle.

Had to give night two a miss as my arrangement with cover for work fell through.

Really enjoyed the camp lads
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Rumblebum on August 31, 2013
Jealous as hell folks! It looks like you've all had a great night and the weather stayed good for ya.
Well done all who went. :)
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: LandyLiam on August 31, 2013
another cracking good night, first wild camp for my wee girl

(http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd496/landyliam/P1010504Small_zpsf33edfa6.jpg)
i usually don't bother bringing something to cook and regret it every time (and therefore end up drooling over redleaders shoulder),   :(  next time i'm going to have a feast  :)


(http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd496/landyliam/P1010506Small_zpse2263cd4.jpg)
matthew saying his prayer before meals  ::)


(http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd496/landyliam/P1010525Small_zpscab473cd.jpg)
what a beautiful morning it was


(http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd496/landyliam/P1010530Small_zps81ceb7c0.jpg)
my tent with dowsers treehut looking like a bird table!



Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: Fred on September 01, 2013
It was a great night folks. It was nice to meet more of the forum members. I walked out over hares castle, along the wall and into Newcastle. I had considered going over Donard but my heavy pack discouraged me.

Hope we have many more camps like this.
Fred
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: fourman on September 01, 2013
Enjoyed the camp guys ,
Lucky with the weather in the end ,
And good to see some old buds.
Looking forward to the season ahead, and a few more annalong nights.
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: whoRya on September 01, 2013
Good one lads, looks like a top night was had by all  :)
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: specimanYak on September 02, 2013
That was another cracking night guys, there was a great turn-out and good to see so many hammocks, tents and bivvy in use.
Worked the leg muscles and cleared the head hiking through the valley with Aragorn the next day. Fantastic weekend.
Title: Re: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: RedLeader on September 02, 2013
That was another top night, great to see we avoided the midges! I'd another brilliant night in the hammock, it's seriously hard to persuade yourself to get up when you're swinging there comfortably watching the mountains. It's just a shame it takes me a hour to hang the damn thing!

(http://i.imgur.com/OHCUhoD.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/jeG8oLn.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/SR4axFc.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/IkK0wP5.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Bo4b0xC.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/phetY4j.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/vRcqIVY.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/iePyYtz.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/uL7vUSU.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/9M2StKM.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/pzXfMOS.jpg)
Title: End of Summer Quick Overnighter - Friday 30th August
Post by: clairebear on September 03, 2013
Looks like a good nights Craic and some amount of meat was consumed!  Maybe next time I'll get, good luck with the weather too.