Glaramara and Allan Crags

The southern end of the valley is split by a series of off-shoots and looks like a hand on the end of an arm. The middle finger of this complex of corries and ridges is the mini massive of and . Set somewhat apart from the main bulk of the central it shares all the same qualities as it's neighbours but has its own unique feel and outlook.

A walk over these two peaks allows you to sample the softer delights of Borrowdale with its mixture of woodland, becks and crags whilst at the same time experience the drama of all the great peaks that ring Upper Eskdale and of from an elevated position. You will encounter narrow paths and the odd bit of rock that might force you to take your hands out of your pockets but essentially this is an out and out walk.

Grade: Intermediate Start/Finish: Tilberthwaite (NY307009) Distance: 7.7 miles (12.5km) Time: 4 hours Height gain: 816m Maps: British Mountain Maps, (1:40 000), OS Explorer OL4&6, Harveys' Superwalker (1:25 000) Lakeland West Terrain: Steep sided Valley, deep gill, boggy corrie floor, steep narrow ridge high rounded ridge, craggy summit cone, steep craggy ridge, col, steep fell-side

1. From the car park at Seatoller head East down the valley road to Strands Bridge. Just over the bridge turn right and follow the track by the river South to a path on the left after 200m. Turn off up the path and follow it generally South as it climbs through trees into the mouth of The Combe.

2. 200m past the gate in the wall the path splits (vague). Take the right branch and follow it as it climbs South West up onto the bounding western ridge of The Combe. As height is gained the path becomes more distinct and swings round to the South. Follow it over the shoulder of Combe Head to the craggy summit of Glaramara.

3. The connecting ridge between Glaramara and Allan Crags is broad and littered with tarns and rocky knolls. It makes an interesting place to linger and investigate and is well worth taking a bit of time over. The views from each side are stupendous so as you make your way along the ridge, make the most of them. You head South West to Allen Crags from where you can make the short descent to .

4. The path from Allen Crags intersects the main bridleway by Esk Hause, turn right on to the bridleway and follow it North West for 500m to the head of a ravine. This is Ruddy Gill, at the top of Grains Gill, and the start of the descent. You will notice down the side of Ruddy Gill, where it turns North East, a pitched path. Descend the pitch path and cross Ruddy Gill to gain another section of pitched path on the other side. This is in turn followed North – North East down the East side of Ruddy Gill. It is narrow in parts so take care; eventually it leads to a footbridge. Cross it and follow the West side of Grains Gill all the way down to Stockley Bridge.

5. Cross Stockley Bridge and follow the bridleway/track North to the farm and road head at Seathwaite. Continue North along the road back to the car park at Seatoller.

Walking route: Glaramara and Allan Crags Page 1 of 2

Map

Walking route: Glaramara and Allan Crags Page 2 of 2