Where to go Rock Climbing in the Lake District
With spring only just around the corner, it'll soon be time to dust off the trad climbing gear and start heading back out onto the wonderful rock faces of the Lake District.
With some much to choose from and spread all over the National Park, there really is a climb to suit everyone, from complete novice to experienced pro. With so much choice, the question often arises - Where to go rock climbing in the Lake District?
Our knowledge of the area and its crags is extensive. As well as all the well known spots, we've visited many of the more esoteric venues, made a few 1st ascents, and even had our hand in the Eskdale section of Lake District Rock (FRCC) guide, an award winning publication too.
The photos give a quick visual tour and go like this:
Wallow barrow crag - in the glorious Duddon valley, this secluded gem is perfect for those looking to gain mileage on top quality routes from V'diff - VS standard and most climbs are multi-pitch. A sheltered and sunny setting with an easy approach walk and far reaching views over the wooded valley.
Black crag, Borrowdale - set in another wooded valley, this time with Derwent Water in the middle too. This crag offers classic routes of the highest quality from Severe - Extreme. If I remember correctly, the photo is whilst on Troutdale Pinnacle Superdirect - Kate climbing.
Gowder crag, Borrowdale - this is more adventure climbing, this route pictured is a 3 star VS but is sadly overgrown on the lower pitches and the upper pitches contain too much suspect rock for it to be a worthy route. The main traverse pitch is however excellent.
Black crag, Langdale - set high above the Langdale valley on the slopes of Pike O'Blisco. The nuts and bolts of rock climbing, placing protection. Here we are slotting a nut into a crack and 'seating' it so it won't pull out of its own accord. A crucial skill for the trad climber.
Scout crags, Langdale - our local crag and an area we use extensively for work and play. There are 3 crags here set one above the next and all offering different climbing. Lower Scout is a good introductory venue. Middle Scout is very steep and hard! Upper Scout (pictured) is pleasant multi-pitch offering wonderful view along the valley in both directions.
Tremadog, North Wales!! Yes this one is definitely outside of the Lake District boundary. We like to visit other climbing areas around the UK and North Wales is a fairly popular one for us. Here we are climbing the steep corner of a VS. The slippery nature of the crux meant we both slipped on this climb, thankfully neither of us actually fell off.
Whether you're a novice thinking about having a go at climbing for the first, a regular indoor climber wanting to progress to outdoors and 'real rock', or a seasoned outdoor climber wanting to learn more advanced skills and techniques. We can tailor days / courses to suit your individual requirements. Our extensive knowledge of Lakeland rock will benefit you during any course as we are able to pick the best venues for your aspirations.
Want to find out more, see our Climbing page here or get in touch anytime and let us put together a plan to get you climbing higher and better.
Happy climbing
Mark
