Mike, Marianne and I headed out on a grizzly morning with a promise of improving weather for a day of bolt clipping near Appletreewick in the Dales. We were not disappointed as the weather steadily improved
Trollers was already reasonably crowded when we arrived but importantly dry. Unfortunately midge nets were in evidence on many of the belayers on the harder routes. We climbed on the shorter easier right wall where there are a few 5 and 6as to keep us busy, swapping leads.
After Mike had onsighted a 6c we headed just around the corner to see if we could escape the midges at the 'Old Mans Wall' None of us had climbed there before but its more open and catches a bit more breeze meaning midge free.
We did a few 5s, 6as and 6b+ and cajoled Mikey onto a 7a, which of course he flashed. I foolishly suggested the route in the trees – which awoke the midges so after a quick ascent we ran away.
Trollers is by far the closest of the limestone crags being just beyond Bolton Abbey, about 40 miles away, free roadside parking in a beautiful valley, quite popular with walkers. Recommended outside midge season or if there is a good breeze.