Traveller's Guide to the South and Central Lakes

golakestravel.co.uk 15 The jagged outlines of Crinkle Crags, Bow Fell and the Langdale Pikes at the head of Great Langdale are an awe-inspiring sight when seen against the dramatic U-shaped trough of the valley. This is a dramatic landscape built by volcanic activity, forged by ice and adapted for human use over centuries. The scene is of white-washed farmhouses nestling at the foot of the fells, valley fields surrounded by dry stone walls, pockets of coppice woodland, and Herdwick sheep contentedly grazing on the lush pastures. Langdale offers easy access to a range of walks, climbs and cycle routes. Dungeon Ghyll nestles at the heart of the Langdale Valley, not far from Dungeon Ghyll Force, which cascades an impressive 40 foot down a steep ravine. It is a great place to start a classic ascent and many people start the climb of England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, from here. There is an abundance of traditional Cumbrian pubs in the area, so there is guaranteed to be great food, real ale and an inviting log fire, waiting for you on your return from the hills. Why not book into the luxurious Langdale Hotel and Spa for some pampering? The valleys’ distinctive green slate houses were built to house the quarrymen from the nearby quarries. Essential Information Ambleside Tourist Information Centre: 0844 225 0544 OS Map for planning walks/rides: OS Explorer Map OL 6 For bus times call: Traveline 0871 200 22 33 The pretty church at Chapel Stile, built in 1857, sits on the hillside overlooking the village and has some interesting stained glass windows. The hamlet of Skelwith Bridge is a fantastic start point for many walks, there is an easy route, accessible to all, from here to Elterwater and you can even catch the bus back if you don’t fancy the return leg. Skelwith Force, near Skelwith Bridge is a well-known, local beauty spot. The waterfall drops a mere 15 ft (4.5 m), but does so with impressive power as it surges through a narrow gap in the rock. Whilst here be sure to stop in at the pub, café and shop for some tasty treats. The rural village of Elterwater and Chapel Stile have a surprising industrial past linked with quarrying and gunpowder manufacture. ‘Elter’ is Old Norse for ‘swan’, and the nearby Elter Water still attracts migrating Whooper and mute swans during the winter months. The reedy shores are a haven for waterfowl including goosander, teal and little grebe. Langdale Skelwith Force The Langdale Valley Langdale