Start Time: 10.00 am
Start Point: The National Trust Car Park in Rosthwaite CA12 5XB (Grid Reference NY 257 148)
Car Parking: There are three options for parking in Rosthwaite (all are within a short distance of one another):
-There is a large car park next to the Scafell Hotel (which is on the main road as you go through the village) where you can park for £3/day (payable at the hotel reception).
-The National Trust Car Park, just off the main road (signposted to the right if approaching from Keswick)
-The village hall (right next to the NT car park) has an honesty box requesting £3 and has a small area for parking.
Description: This circular route follows well maintained footpaths and bridleways exclusively with no walking on roads. A short section along the riverbank is quite rocky and on the final ascent towards the summit of Castle Crag the path briefly winds steeply through slate scree.
Route: A chance to explore Wainwright’s ‘loveliest square mile in Lakeland’. From Rosthwaite we walk south eastwards through quiet farmland past Borrowdale YHA and then follow the River Derwent as it meanders through mixed woodland towards Seatoller. Gaining altitude as we emerge from the canopy and onto the open fell, we are greeted by classic Lakeland views across the Borrowdale valley and to the high fells beyond. We continue to climb gradually as we skirt around Seatoller and up onto the gently undulating path which traverses the fell side towards Castle Crag. Upon seeing the rugged, angular crag ahead it is easy to see why an ancient hill fort is believed to have existed upon the summit. Beginning the final ascent up the wooded hillside, we then wind our way up through slate scree and into a fascinating landscape littered with slate sculptures erected by previous visitors. Not far above is the summit bringing spectacular views through the jaws of Borrowdale, across Derwentwater and Keswick to Skiddaw looming beyond. Descending back to the main path we are then soon back into woodland where we find Millican Dalton’s cave, a previous summer home to the self styled ‘Professor of Adventure’ during the 20’s, 30’s and 40’s. A gentle amble alongside the river takes us back to Rosthwaite where we’ll find the Flock In tearoom.
Distance: Approx 9.5 km (6 miles)
Highest Point: Castle Crag summit (290 m)
Grade: Leisurely/Moderate.
Time: Approx. 4.5 hrs
Leader: David
If you would like to go on the walk please text 07767416090 by 6pm on Saturday.
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