“Bracken and heather, some ragged patches of juniper and well-timbered estate woods, many crags and a delectable little tarn, all combine to make this fell a colourful addition to the varied attractions of the Langdale area”
A Wainwright
A wonderful route climbing Lingmoor Fell, the lower ridge splitting the Langdale and Little Langdale valleys, taking in the rock summit of Side Pike, Blea Tarn and the spectacular Cathedral Quarry along the way, a real treat with ever changing scenery throughout the route.
“There is no better place than the top of Lingmoor Fell for appraising the geography of the Langdale district”
A Wainwright
From Elterwater we take the track up to Banks Quarry, climbing above the quarry to reach the main ridge leading to Brown How, the summit of Lingmoor Fell.
The rambling ridge of Lingmoor Fell gives great views over both valleys and some of the best views of the Langdale Pikes.
As we reach the summit of Brown How the view west over the Crinkles, Bowfell and Scafell Pike.
Following the ridge west we descend towards Side Pike, a short detour from the path can bring us down to Lingmoor Tarn before returning to the path along the ridge.
A rocky path along the southern flank of Side Pike leads us up onto the only walkers path to the summit, a short climb brings us up to this great little viewpoint.
From Side Pike a short descent brings us down to the road and the path around Blea Tarn, the view from the south shores of the tarn looking towards the Langdale Pikes must be one of the most photographed views in the Lake District and adorns many postcards, after the customary photo stop we will continue to the lane leading down into the Little Langdale Valley.
The track around the south side of Little Langdale Tarn brings us to the entrance of Cathedral Quarry and a short tunnel into the cavern, lit from above by a large gap in the roof, a shorter tunnel bring us out into the open and the view down into the cavern.
A longer tunnel now leads east, torches will be needed for this section until we emerge into the sunlight and the track below.
A short walk now brings us to Slaters Bridge, another popular postcard view.
From Slaters Bridge a good path leads north, crossing the road and taking us back to Elterwater.
Each participant will be required to bring suitable equipment for their chosen event, please see Kit List tab above.
Where to meet: Outside the Britannia Inn, Elterwater
Postcode: LA22 9HP
Grid Reference: NY 327 048
Directions
From Ambleside take the A593 (Coniston) for 3 miles, turning right at Skelwith Bridge onto the B5343. After 2 miles turn left into Elterwater Village and The Britannia Inn is on the village green.
Bus Services
The bus stops in Elterwater opposite the meetpoint.
The 516 runs between Ambleside and the Langdale Valley.
Stagecoach bus timetables can be viewed here
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Lingmoor Fell and Cathedral Cavern Review by Martin Smith
My second trip with TLDW - this time Lingmoor Fell and Cathedral Cavern. Neil and I agreed that the best Lake District experience is not necessarily always to be found on the highest peaks and fells. This trip was the evidence. A beautiful Spring day - May Day actually - wild flowers, lambs abundant - misty rain pretty abundant too, but only partially and occasionally obscuring the view. Neil was so informed and enlightening - there was scarcely a topic that passed without his cultivated opinion and believe me the topics were diverse - flora, fauna, cultural, social and industrial history, geology, topography, etymology and more. Such a massive contribution to a very enjoyable day. I was delighted to just walk along and absorb it all. Oh, and of course, also enthusiastic, professional, confident and reassuring. Such a memorable day, thank you . (Posted on 02/05/2019)
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Lingmoor Review by Tony Palmer
My wife and i had a great days walking with John who geared the pace of the walk really well to suit our level of fitness. He was very knowledgeable on local fauna and history which he presented without being patronising or overbearing. Great investment in a stunning days walking without the worry of reading a map or following a guide book. Thanks John (Posted on 23/05/2018)
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