This is slightly embarrassing. Our second consecutive Journal post relating not to the feverish creation of new leather goods, but to a little down time. On this occasion an inspirational weekend visit to the heart of the English Lake District – the original, and spiritual home of Cherchbi – is our justification for the story.

Our trip to one of Englands most beautiful cricket grounds is becoming an annual summer fixture. The home of Ambleside Cricket Club has an enviable aspect, nestled in the densely wooded valley between Rydal Water and Ambleside itself. While much of the British Isles suffered torrential rain and flooding a small window of warm dry weather opened on our little corner of the country. We enjoyed Barngates Brewery ale and caught up with friends, including Olly Waters of fine furniture maker (and Cherchbi Herdwyck No.10 stockist) Waters & Acland, whilst watching Ambleside and Burneside play out a draw.

A little west of Rydal Water a woodland walk leads to the southern end of Grasmere lake. Sunday morning saw five of us removing the previous evenings cobwebs, and our clothing, with a swim in the still, dark lake. Invigorating, and warm compared with our recent Baltic dips.