countryside that includes following streams past idyllic waterfalls,
ascents up memorable fells with views along fantastic Borrowdale and
rough walking through the wonderfully secluded Langstrath valley.
Route:
From the start point, we cross Stonethwaite Beck and head
south-easterly using the well-defined track. After a few minutes
walking, Eagle Crag appears in full, and we will walk by its eastern
side, following Greenup Gill.
Shortly after a waterfall
we ascend steeply, behind Pounsey Crag, and make our way to the first
summit of the day, Eagle Crag (526 m). The view from here is lovely and
we’ll linger a while to appreciate the views.
Following
a brief walk southwards we reach our highest point of the walk,
Sergeant’s Crag. From here, we begin a gradual descent over rough ground
into the Langstrath valley. Using the route of the Cumbria Way, we’ll
amble our way back to Stonethwaite, taking in the atmosphere of this
lonesome valley and enjoying places such as Tray Dub and Black Moss Pot.
Once back at the start, we’ll find a suitable café or pub for a hot chocolate and slice of cake!
Grade: Moderate
High Point: Sergeant’s Crag (571 m)
Height gain: Approx. 560 m (1,850 ft)
Distance: Approx. 7 miles (11 km)
Meet Time: 09.45 am
Start Time: 10.00 am
Time: Approx. 6 hours
Start / Finish: Outside the front of the Langstrath Country Inn, Stonethwaite, CA12 5XG (grid reference NY 262137).
Car Parking:
Either in Stonethwaite villages (approx. grid reference NY 262137,
postcode CA12 5XG), or the layby just before it. If there is
insufficient room to park courteously in Stonethwaite, there are a
couple of car parks in Rossthwaite (including a National Trust one)
about a mile away.
Buses: The Stagecoach 78 bus service from
Keswick passes Rossthwaite General Store, which is just less than a mile
from the walk start point. (Public transport is available to Keswick:
from Lancaster & Kendal it is the Stagecoach 555, from Carlisle
the 73, and from Workington & Penrith the X4 & X5
buses.)
Leader: Wayne
Please let Wayne know in advance by 6.00 pm on Saturday if you are coming on this walk (text 07753 121168)
If
the conditions are bad I reserve the right to modify the route or
cancel the walk. If insufficient interest is shown in the walk it may be
cancelled.