In June 2022 HSX returned to the Peak District for a weekend of climbing and walking.

16 leaders and young people departed from Hampshire on the Friday night and headed up to Spitewinter Scout Campsite outside Chesterfield. Thankfully it wasn’t raining when we arrived and we could pitch in the dry!

On Saturday morning we were joined by Antarctica Joe and most of the team header to Stanage for a day of climbing. Luke, Tyler and Chris decided Gritstone wasn’t for them and went for a hike instead.

The rest of the team went up to Black Hawk Area on Stanage Popular, setting up top ropes for everyone to climb. Eleanor showed us the way up Black Hawk, though it still stumped a few of us. Joe led a route up Manchester United and almost lost some gear, but Tom was able to liberate it. Thanks Tom.

Later in the afternoon we moved across to Manchester Buttress. A number of us tried Beggar’s Crack, which involved a bold push up about half way up the wall. Mikey and Max smashed it, Rich B not so much. Try harder next time.

The weather had been largely sunny but with occasional rainy spells. A downpour around half four persuaded us (and most of the climbers on Stanage) to retreat to a Hathersage tea shop.

Back at camp we enjoyed a fine selection of cakes that members had brought along. Max proved his scouting credentials by successfully lighting a fire in the rain. Dave and Chardae organised dinner; chicken and tomato with orzo. Delicious, thanks Dave and Chardae.

Incentivised by bacon rolls out of the back of Joe’s van, we packed up early on Sunday morning and headed to Burbage North. Sunday was bright but windy, though fairly sheltered at the bottom of Knight’s Move crag. The crag included a couple of tricky crack climbs but the standout route was the eponymous Knight’s Move. A bold start led into a series of flowing moves with some great views from the top. Josh got a lead route in up the awkward Green Crack. Good job Josh.

By lunch time we were ready to head back to Hampshire. Three hours of Glastonbury live in the bus! What a soundtrack.

Thanks to everyone who came, helped and instructed – it was a great weekend all round.