Skelwith Bridge - Black Crag - Colwith - Skelwith Bridge

Mike Patefield

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This route starts by climbing from Skelwith Bridge using woodland paths and lanes through breathtaking scenery. As you climb the views get better and better until the route reaches the summit of Black Crag, with outstanding vistas in every direction. This may sound a formidable challenge but it is not, as the views come from Black Crag's position at the heart of the southern fells, rather than any great height. Windermere, Blelham Tarn, Esthwaite Water, Tarn Hows and Coniston Water are laid out at your feet, with glimpses of the sparkling sea beyond. Soon after leaving the summit the route turns north with views of the great peaks of central Lakeland from Coniston Old Man, past the Langdale Pikes with the distant tip of Scafell behind, to the Helvellyn range, seen end-on. On a really clear day, Blencathra can be glimpsed through the gap of Dunmail Raise. These outstanding views are an immense and satisfying reward for the modest effort of the climb. The route then descends to Colwith, with more enjoyable woodland walking before the final return to Skelwith Bridge passing, at the time of writing, a welcome tea garden. Refreshments are also available at Skelwith Bridge at the Talbot Arms and Chesters Cafe.

England - North England - Cumbria - Lake District - South East

Features

Birds, Cafe, Flowers, Gift Shop, Great Views, Hills or Fells, Lake/Loch, Mountains, Pub, Public Transport, Restaurant, River, Tea Shop, Wildlife, Woodland

4/14/2015 - Francine Sagar

At the very end of the walk, instead of going straight back to the car-park, there is a bonus track signposted 'avoiding A593' this is very pleasant and includes a waterfall

4/14/2015 - Francine Sagar

Very dog friendly walk, although many sheep about so have to keep dog on lead a lot of the time. Not many stiles, and only one is slightly tricky.

4/14/2015 - Francine Sagar

At point 5, after leaving the larch plantation and crossing the fence, it is best to bear right and walk up in an arc through grass rather than straight up where the path is very rocky and slippery.