I have explored most corners of the Lake District, and in the process have become acquainted with much slimy rock, tufty grass and loose blocks. Whilst I have discovered many horror shows, I have also unearthed some worthwhile routes where you are very unlikely to meet anyone else. These carry a sense of exploration and hark back to the days of the Victorian pioneers. Hobnail boots would certainly come in handy on some of the crags. It goes without saying that you should have some experience and be prepared to turn back to explore these forgotten corners in a safe manner.
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| Exploring the North face of Lingmell - grass, loose rocks and all |
The routes listed below are by no means exhaustive, but represent a good cross section of exploratory scrambles. See the scrambling guides for more details.
Buttermere Gully, Grasmoor - a sister to Lorton Gully.
Fleetwood's Folly, Gunson Knott - better than it sounds! A good mountain line after Crinkle Gill.
Hobgrumble Gill, Swindale - the name alone makes this worth a visit. It's an impressive ravine, but unless you are very brave and it's very dry, the top has to be avoided.
Pinnacle Ridge, Lingmell - one of the lines on the impressive North face of Lingmell.
Pinnacle Ridge, Red Pike, Wasdale - a mountaineering type route with a remote feel
Poor Man's Via Ferrata, Gray Crag, Hartsop - a chance discovery of a dilapidated via ferrata half way up the fell.
Sunday Best, Chapel Crags - very poor quality rock (mostly vegetation), but a good line.
Tongue Tied, Ill Crag - a nice little route near Esk Hause