Mountain Journeys

Lake District Climbing – Duddon valley classics are always amazing

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Stella conditions for climbing at Wallowbarrow

Lake District Climbing - Duddon valley

Having only recently returned from a winter in sunny Spain, I was a little apprehensive about climbing at the weekend, thinking it would be just too cold. Well thankfully the sun worked some magic, there was no wind, and we found rock that was actually warm to the touch. Oh, and it was dry 🙂


Achieving this took some planning, but knowing the crags so well it was easy to narrow things down to just a few candidates. A South Lakes crag was also high on the priorities list and soon we settled for Wallowbarrow. Arriving at the farm it was still feeling positively baltic, but the farmer gave out plenty of encouragement. We actually chatted with him for well over half an hour, trying to learn a little more about the valley and farming & conservation. All this time was allowing the air temperature to rise a little and the sun to saunter on around onto the crag, warming the beautiful Lakeland rock.

We started off with a route called 'Bryanston' a 3 pitch VS. I had a coat, hat, and gloves on! The hat and gloves soon found their way into a pocket, thankfully not being required. The rock was warm and touching it a complete pleasure. Lakeland rock really is glorious. Solid, rough, textured and colourful. I have missed the Borrowdale volcanics and granite, such wonderful rock.

Next route was 'Malediction Direct' which is a 2 pitch VS and a little trickier, with steep moves leading off the 1st belay. And to finish we cruised up the beautiful slab of 'Digitation' VS. The 2nd pitch has got a little bit tougher now a foothold has broken off!
7 pitches of climbing filled our afternoon along with some sitting around gazing at the views, they are spectacular. Time for home as the sun sets, another fine day at the crag.

Thanks to Claire for a top day.

You may now be starting to think about a trip away to the Lakes. It is starting to warm up and Easter is now pretty close. We still have availability during the Easter period. If you'd like to try out some activities please get in touch and let's make a plan.

And if looking for a place to stay in the Duddon Valley, High Wallowbarrow Farm is in an idyllic setting and well worth checking out.

Mark ​

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Enjoying a multi-pitch climb in the Duddon valley

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Good views 🙂

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