We began our exploration of the Lake District at Grasmere. After being forced to follow a slow-moving vehicle for the first half of the journey, there was the scent of road rage in the air. However, our hostess provided tea and smiles, and we were soon feeling much better. I tried my new walking boots out with a walk round the lake (about 2 miles). In the absence of decent walking socks, my feet cried blister.