Walk 1134 - printer friendly version

Wetherlam and The Carrs Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 10.8 miles / 17.5 km

Ascent - 3010 feet / 912 metres

Grade - mod/hard

Start - OS grid reference NY316034
Lat 54.421416 + Long -3.0556567
Postcode LA22 9NZ (approx. location only)

This is one of the most satisfying Lake District walks in the south-western sector of the National Park. Relatively quiet the views are superb and the walking varied and often challenging. Like many days the weather started well but reaching the summit of Wetherlam the cloud rolled in and although the tops were still clear of cloud, photography became a useless pastime.

The start for this walk is the Three Shires Inn in Little Langdale (Grid ref. NY316034). It must be stressed we were spending a pleasant few nights here so prior permission ought to be sought before parking if you are no a resident. Parking in this vicinity can be virtually impossible and Tilberthwaite might be better when the area is busy with walkers.

From the Three Shires Inn head south down the lane past the cottages and cross Greenburn into Moss Rigg Wood. This is a wonderful area of woodland and the going is easy so you soon leave the trees to reach Tilberthwaite. On this occasion we took the path on the south side of Yewdale Beck and you are soon gaining height to reach Crook Beck from where there is a superb view of the eastern flanks of Wetherlam.

Turn right across Yewdale Beck and follow a clear path that trends north climbing steadily above the marshes of Dry Cove to reach the site of Tilberthwaite Mine. From here a path zigzags up the fellside to reach Birk Fell Hawse. Reaching this narrow neck of land linking Birk Fell and Wetherlam you are treated to the first of many superb views. Far below is Greenburn and you can trace your return route or instead pick out the many high fells that have come into view.

The onward route up Wetherlam Edge to the summit is interesting with a choice of routes with some offering some scrambling. The summit is a fine viewpoint with the Old Man of Coniston grabbing your attention. The preferred route stays on the ridge descending slightly before reaching the summit of Black Sails. From here descend to Swirl Hause and traverse the rocky Prison Band to reach Swirl How from where there is a wonderful view down into Greenburn.

Keeping the rocky crags of Broad Slack down to your right head north to Great Carrs. Less spectacular than Swirl How there are still wide views especially to the north including Bowfell and the Scafells. Having "bagged" the last summit of the walk descend along Wet Side Edge keeping Wrynose Pass to your left. Stay on the ridge following a path (which at times is indistinct) to reach the intake wall that marks the boundary of Fell Foot Farm. Turn right and descend along the wall to reach a footbridge over Greenburn Beck.

Reaching the other side turn left along the former mine track. This is an easy stroll gently descending into Little Langdale. Pass Low Hall Garth on your left and then cross Slater's Bridge and take the clear path that crosses a pasture to regain the start.

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