My answers:

(a) - Yes - unless your equipment is a rocket launcher or suchlike.

(b) - Definitely no rope! (rocket launchers excepted) Wainwright is mental - it's one little rock step. My dog needs a lift up but he's only a terrier.  

The Band is an OK quick route down to Langdale but a bit stompy on the pitched path. I'd still say go over the Langdales to Harrison Stickle at least and pick up the path down Mill Ghyll - there's a massive NT carpark at the bottom and there's only a small amount of climbing to do.

So I'll be camping at either Esk Hause or Angle Tarn

Is the ground suitable for 'normal' tent pegs , ie ids there a good enough depth of soil here ?

I remember years ago camping in the site a few miles NW of Keswick and the rock was at about 50mm depth, every peg took several attempts to get in

Should I bring a few special pegs just in case ?

thanks !

So I'll be camping at either Esk Hause or Angle Tarn

Is the ground suitable for 'normal' tent pegs , ie ids there a good enough depth of soil here ?

Esk Hause is stoney and very exposed, around Angle Tarn is grassy (and popular - beware of poo)!

Should I bring a few special pegs just in case ?

If you insist on Esk Hause I'd recommend rock pegs! Normal (ie hooked skewers) pegs should be fine around Angle Tarn.

Well, that has been a weekend not to forget.

Saturday, Crinkle Crags, Climbers Traverse, drink at the spring, up Bowfell and overnight camp at Angle Tarn

Sunday, walk back to car

VERY VERY VERY TIRED !!!

Was it worth it ?  I'll tell you when my calfs recover

Just realised how unfit I was 

AGH !!!!!!!!!!!!!