Circular Walks in Yorkshire and Cumbria: My Diary of Adventures

Reaching Helvellyn Via Striding Edge and Visiting Nethermost Pike and Dollywaggon Pike

On Saturday, my friends Sandra, Jeff, and I visited the Lake District to tackle the Helvellyn via Striding Edge walk, with stops at both Nethermost Pike and Dollywaggon Pike. What a day it was! The weather was fantastic, providing excellent visibility throughout our journey.

We started in Patterdale and began by climbing the southern slopes of Birkhouse Moor to reach the junction of paths at Hole-in-the-Wall. From there, we embarked on the exhilarating trek across Striding Edge and up to the summit of Helvellyn.

After reaching Helvellyn, we headed south to Nethermost Pike, then continued to High Crag, and finally on to Dollywaggon Pike to complete the high part of the walk. We then descended to Grisedale Tarn and took a long north-east traverse through the Grisedale valley. By the time we got back to Patterdale, we were quite exhausted. However, the experience was incredibly enjoyable and rewarding, especially with the stunning views afforded by the clear weather.

During the walk, I took 62 photos, which I have included on the website page along with descriptions. These should give you a good idea of what to expect if you decide to embark on this walk and are fortunate enough to have a clear day like we did.

Check out the full details of the walk and see all the photos here:

https://www.paulbeal.com/helvellyn-via-striding-edge

The Ard Crags Walk for Stunning Views of Crummock Water and Buttermere

I’m thrilled to announce that I have just rewritten and republished the details of the stunning Ard Crags walk on my website!

This 8-mile circular walk in the Lake District is perfect for those who crave breathtaking views and a bit of adventure. Here’s a sneak peek at the journey:

• Start in the charming village of Little Town, nestled in the beautiful Newlands Beck valley. Cross Chapel Bridge and head west along a minor road, passing the quaint Newlands Church.
• Veer south-west towards Low High Snab, following the picturesque path through the valley alongside Scope Beck.
• Pause at a serene reservoir near the head of the valley – the ideal spot for a coffee break.
• Embark on a south-westerly climb to the summit of Robinson for incredible views.
• Descend the western slopes, traverse Buttermere Moss, and reach High Snockrigg for stunning vistas over Crummock Water and Buttermere.
• Visit the Moss Force waterfall near Newlands Hause before a steep climb to Knott Rigg.
• Continue south-east along the ridge to Ard Crags, enjoying panoramic views into the valleys on either side.
• Finish your adventure by descending to Aikin Knott and wandering back through the charming farms to the start.

Ready to explore? Head over to my site to check out the full guide and plan your next adventure.

https://www.paulbeal.com/ard-crags-walk

Exploring Grasmoor A Top Choice Among the Lake District Fells

I reckon I’ve got a good idea of the six most well-known fells in the Lake District: Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, Skiddaw, Great Gable, Blencathra, and Coniston Old Man. These names pop up a lot whenever there’s a chat about which Lake District mountains people have scaled or are aiming to conquer. And rightly so—they’re brilliant peaks, each with their own unique quirks and challenges.

Yes, they’re lofty and all offer sweeping views of the Lake District’s mountains, valleys, and lakes. Climbing them can be tough, but it’s always rewarding. However, there are plenty of other grand fells in the Lake District that, in my opinion, match or even surpass these in terms of the views they offer. One of my favourites is Grasmoor.

If you’re after some of the most stunning vistas the Lake District has to offer, along with a thrilling climb, let me share a route my friends and I tackled a couple of years back. We kicked off from a car park on the eastern shores of Crummock Water and took the path along Liza Beck through the scenic Gasgale Gill. This lovely valley is dotted with charming waterfalls, and the trail occasionally calls for some mild scrambling over tricky spots.

After about two miles, we reached Coledale Hause, a saddle nestled between Sand Hill and Crag Hill, which offers a fantastic lookout east across the Coledale Beck valley. Following a brief pause at Coledale Hause, we began our ascent up the grassy slopes to reach the summit of Grasmoor, home to some of the finest views in the Lake District.

The descent was just as delightful, taking us across Whiteless Edge to Whiteless Pike, with striking views down to Crummock Water and Buttermere. We wrapped up our 8½-mile trek by following Squat Beck through the valley beneath Rannerdale Knotts. It’s a route that offers a blend of captivating views and a bit of a challenge, making for an unforgettable day in the hills on a clear day.

You can find all the details on my website, as usual:

https://www.paulbeal.com/grasmoor-walk

A Guide to Understanding Wind Speeds on the Mountains

During a recent walk along the Pennine Way, my friends and I discussed the impact of wind speeds while crossing the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District mountains. To better understand this, I’ve conducted some research and compiled a straightforward guide on how different wind speeds can affect our walks.

Less Than 20 Miles per Hour
At this wind speed, the effect on walking is negligible and will not cause you any problems.

20-30 Miles per Hour
These winds are unlikely to affect your balance and may only be a slight inconvenience.

30-40 Miles per Hour
At this range, winds start to affect the balance of a strong adult.

40-50 Miles per Hour
Walking becomes arduous. You will need to lean into the wind, and your energy output will significantly increase. There is a risk of being blown off balance.

50-60 Miles per Hour
Walking becomes challenging and exhausting. Move between gusts and brace yourself when a gust arrives. Leave the mountain by the easiest and safest route, staying well away from exposed edges.

60-70 Miles per Hour
Attempting to walk in these wind speeds is dangerous, with a high risk of being blown over and suffering injuries. Avoid difficult underfoot conditions or exposed edges and leave the mountain as soon as possible.

70+ Miles per Hour
Extreme danger is present at these wind speeds. If you are caught out in winds of 70 mph or more, proceed with the wind on your back, avoid exposed edges, and link arms. You may even need to crawl to cross particularly exposed sections.

Discover the Enhanced Mellbreak Walk in the Heart of the Lake District

Ready for an adventure that will take your breath away? I’ve just revamped my Mellbreak walk guide. Imagine an 8-mile journey through the heart of the Lake District, where every turn reveals another stunning vista. From the challenging ascent towards Mellbreak’s North Top to the serene stroll along Crummock Water’s western shore, this walk is a treasure trove of natural beauty.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or looking for a memorable day out, my guide has everything you need to make the most of this spectacular route. I’ve included all the insider tips, so you can enjoy the cascading Scale Force waterfall, the tranquil shores of Crummock Water, and the breathtaking views from Mellbreak’s ridge, hassle-free.

Don’t miss out on this Lake District gem. Click the link below to access the enhanced Mellbreak walk guide. Let nature’s majesty inspire you to lace up your boots and hit the trail.

https://www.paulbeal.com/mellbreak-walk

Explore the North York Moors with These Easy Farndale Walks

The daffodil season is coming to an end now, but you can enjoy the Farndale daffodils walk in the North York Moors at any time of the year. On my website, you’ll find two guides that might pique your interest.

The first guide details a linear route, there and back, just a tad under four miles, perfect for the entire family. It’s accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs, starting from Low Mill. A nicely surfaced track leads you alongside the River Dove through the Farndale valley to Church Houses. For the return journey, you’ll retrace your steps back to Low Mill. Discover more at:

https://www.paulbeal.com/farndale-daffodils

The second guide offers a circular route, also just slightly less than four miles. This adventure begins in Church Houses, with the first half taking you across farmland to Low Mill. It involves a bit more ascent, nothing too strenuous but rewarding you with splendid views. The latter half of the walk brings you back along the track by the River Dove in the Farndale valley. For further details, visit:

https://www.paulbeal.com/farndale-daffodils-walk

Both walks are leisurely, enjoyable, and well-documented on my website, where I’ve included all the essential details such as parking, maps, tools, and a selection of my photos to give you a taste of what to expect. Remember, the beauty of Farndale isn’t just for spring; these walks are delightful all year round.

The Helvellyn Summit Adventure From the West

A few months ago, I shared a guide on my website titled ‘Helvellyn Walk from Thirlmere: A Guide to a Less Crowded Ascent’. You can read about the walk here:

https://www.paulbeal.com/helvellyn-walk-from-thirlmere

This 7-mile journey begins at Swirls Car Park and leads to the Helvellyn summit from the west. The guide’s popularity has encouraged me to detail another Helvellyn trek, starting again from the Thirlmere Reservoir side. However, this path stretches over 11 miles, presenting a slightly more demanding challenge.

The adventure kicks off in Legburthwaite, nestled in St Johns-in-the-Vale, where a conveniently located car park awaits near the B5322. After tackling the initial steep ascent to Sticks Pass, you’re rewarded with a magnificent ridge walk. This route covers Raise, White Side, Helvellyn’s Lower Man, and, finally, Helvellyn itself. It concludes with one of the Lake District’s finest descents, meandering above Comb Crags, which boast breathtaking views of Thirlmere. Check out the walk here:

https://www.paulbeal.com/helvellyn-circular-walk

I’ve enriched the guide with numerous details, including a concise route description, maps, statistics, and a selection of my photographs. I highly recommend this walk for those in search of an energetic outing.

Explore the Wainstones Circular Walk in the North York Moors

Prepare yourself for some of the most spectacular views the North York Moors has to offer, as you ascend the heights of Cold Moor on your way to the magnificent rock formations known as the Wainstones. This 8-mile circular route commences at Chop Gate, incorporating exhilarating segments of the Cleveland Way National Trail and skirting Urra Moor, the North York Moors’ highest point, on your return journey.

The route unfolds breathtaking panoramas across Teesside and the Bilsdale valley, complemented by the intriguing spectacle of the Wainstones. Parking is conveniently located at the village hall in Chop Gate, next to the B1257 Stokesley to Helmsley road, with the Buck Inn close by for well-deserved refreshments after your adventure.

Nestled within the North York Moors National Park, the Wainstones are impressive sandstone crags, constituting the moors’ largest such formation. Millennia of resistance to weathering have carved out a dramatic landscape of pillars, buttresses, joints, and fissures.

I’ve recently published comprehensive details of the walk, including all the usual information like directions, maps, statistics, and photographs. Discover the full details here:

https://www.paulbeal.com/wainstones-walk

Embark on an adventure through the Wainstones and experience one of the most captivating circular walks in Yorkshire, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, geological intrigue, and a satisfying challenge for walkers of all levels.

Exploring Walla Crag and Derwent Water with a Scenic Guide

A couple of days ago, I published an article on my website about a circular walk around Derwent Water. You can view it here:

https://www.paulbeal.com/derwent-water-circular-walk

The walk begins in Keswick and circumnavigates the lake in a clockwise direction. Despite being a low-level walk, it boasts some amazing views. However, if you’re in the mood for a walk of a similar length that starts from Keswick but offers a bit more elevation, you may find my guide to the Walla Crag walk more appealing:

https://www.paulbeal.com/walla-crag-walk

Walla Crag is a charming hill to climb, offering views from its summit across Derwent Water and beyond that are truly spectacular. At about 380 metres, its height is modest by Lake District standards. In comparison, giants like Scafell Pike, Scafell, Helvellyn, Skiddaw, and Great End all tower beyond 900 metres. Yet, Walla Crag proves that you don’t need to scale the tallest mountains to enjoy breathtaking views.

On the page, as usual, I’ve included walking directions, photos, statistics, information about which maps to use, and some insights into the fell itself.

The walk is perfect for beginners and seasoned hikers alike; the views are extraordinary, and it’s easily accessible from Keswick. This spares you the drive down some of the Lake District’s winding, narrow roads. Keswick is a delightful town to explore, whether at the start or end of your hike.

A Circular Adventure Around Derwent Water in the Lake District

Have you thought about walking around Derwent Water in the Lake District? If so, you might be interested in a new page I’ve just written on my website:

https://www.paulbeal.com/derwent-water-circular-walk

My Derwent Water circular walk, outlined in a clockwise direction, is a stunning adventure starting and ending in Keswick. This scenic route initially takes you along the eastern edge of Derwent Water. You’ll encounter remarkable landmarks such as Friar’s Crag, The Ings, and the Millennium Seat, where breathtaking views across Derwent Water towards the Borrowdale valley await. Don’t miss the Centenary Stone and the enchanting Scots Pines.

Depending on the lake’s water level, you might continue along the lakeshore to Ashness Gate Landing Stage or take a detour along a roadside footpath. You’ll circle around Barrow Bay, and then consider a detour to Lodore Falls if you’re keen on exploring further. After crossing the picturesque Chinese Bridge, you’ll join the Cumbria Way.

Prepare for an awe-inspiring ascent to higher ground near Manesty and below Cat Bells, where unforgettable views of the landscape await. The final stretch of your walk winds through the village of Portinscale, crosses the River Derwent, and brings you back to Keswick. Covering around 10 miles, this walk offers you an experience to remember.

A Fresh Look at the Classic Route of the Danby Beacon Walk

Hi all, I’ve recently updated my guide to the Danby Beacon walk, and it’s now live on my website. The journey begins in Lealholm, a charming little village with ample free parking in the village centre.

Highlights include a stop at Danby Beacon, the Danby Lodge National Park Centre, and a distant glimpse of Danby Castle. Unfortunately, Danby Castle is private property, so it can only be admired from afar. The trek, one of my most favoured circular walks in Yorkshire, spans approximately 11 ¼ miles. As always, I’ve included maps and tools you’ll need for the walk, along with information on distance, duration, elevation statistics, and a selection of photos.

For more information on the walk, visit my website:

https://www.paulbeal.com/danby-beacon-walk

The history of Danby Beacon stretches back to the 1600s, during a time when England faced the threat of invasion from France. A soldier and his wife were stationed to watch for the anticipated French fleet. Upon sighting, they were tasked with lighting the beacon, signalling the first inland warning of invasion.

For those interested in exploring more about the story of Danby Beacon, I’ve written an in-depth article titled “Danby Beacon: A Symbol of Resilience in the North York Moors,” which you can view here:

https://www.paulbeal.com/danby-beacon

Unraveling the Mystery Behind Witch’s Broom in Trees

For years, whenever I noticed those clumpy bits nestled among the branches of trees, I assumed they were birds’ nests. But after some research using a popular search engine that begins with ‘G’, I discovered it’s actually Witch’s Broom.

Witch’s Broom is a peculiar and fascinating phenomenon where a dense cluster of twigs and branches sprout from a single point, resembling a broom. This growth anomaly can be sparked by various factors, including infections from fungi, viruses, or bacteria. In some cases, insects or mites are the culprits, or it could simply be the result of physical damage to the tree.

Though it may not always be harmful, this Witch’s Broom can stunt the tree’s overall growth and weaken its structure.