Lake District Rainy Day Activities - Scrambling on The Bell and into Low Water Beck
This afternoon we've been out exploring new ways to introduce others to rock scrambling on The Bell. Following on from this we explored the scrambling potential of Low Water Beck.
The Bell is an excellent and easily accessible rocky dome near to the Walna Scar road. Immaculate rock throughout and fairly sustained scrambling. Our objective today was to find as many belay ledges as we could, there are lots. Good protection is available with a little searching and ledges are big and comfortable. All in all a perfect venue for introducing others to the brilliant activity of Rock Scrambling.
For those reading this and unsure of what 'rock scrambling' is. Think of it as easy rock climbing. And whilst rock climbing isn't so enjoyable on a rainy day, rock scrambling can still be loads of fun.
Later we walked higher up into the mountains to The Pudding Stone. A good venue for bouldering, although this wasn't in our plan today. Behind The Pudding Stone lies the mighty Low Water Beck and it's tumbling waterfalls. This was our target.
A couple of good quality pitches on excellent rock was a promising start. Unfortunately the quality soon deteriorated and we spent more time on steep heather, with only occasional forays back onto rock steps. The atmosphere and situation of the venue is very good, but this isn't a place to visit for anyone seriously interested in scrambling. The rain began to pound down on us, so we made a bee-line back to the Walna Scar and home.
Dow crag amongst others, provide more continuous scrambling opportunities in the Coniston area, that's what i'd be recommending as a 'go-to' place.
Still, this was a good afternoon in the fells, good to be reacquanted with The Bell and good to know of the shortfalls of Low Water Beck. Time very well spent for us. Thanks Si.
For more about the activities we offer please check out our Activities Page
Thanks for reading
Mark
