What a day to book a day off work with the unseasonal high temperatures continuing, todays walks see's me in the far east of Lakeland taking in Birketts Cawdale Horseshoe. These are exceptionally lonely fells more so during the week when all the crowds have gone home which is one of the reasons why I choose to walk this route midweek just so I could soak up the solitude that I often crave for. Cawdale lies between Bampton and Heltondale and time has done little to change this valley, accessibility is still the same as it was in bygone times with just one narrow road in, and one out. At the head of Cawdale is Wetner Hill, this alternative aspect of the popular Wainwright summit was enough to visit Cawdale alone, I thought so anyway.
After crossing Cawdale Beck Low Kop is gained via The Hause, a distinctive narrowing of the ridge distinguished by woodland either side. Haweswater can now be seen in particular the Dam wall below the Naddle Fells. Continuing from Low Kop the parent summit of High Kop is gained as views unfold over Keasgill Head with Red Crag beyond. Red Crag is next which is easily gained before returning to the top of Keasgill Head before the gentle ease on Wether Hill, the head of the Cawdale valley. Loadpot Hill is next gained by following the High Street Roman Road passing the remains of the Lowther Chimney, a former shooting lodge. Due east from Loadpot Hill is Hart Hill from where the Pennines command the horizon before the ground underfoot levels as The Pen is reached as views open out northwards over Heltendale towards Heughscar Hill before arriving back Moorahill Farm. |