Derwent Fells

Downs, Moorland in Cumberland Allerdale

England

Derwent Fells

Force Crag Pudding Beck has accumulated enough water to form a spectacular waterfall, Low Force, by the time it encounters the eponymous Force Crag. Although it hasn&#039;t cut much of a notch, and certainly nothing deep enough to be called a canyon, it nonetheless looks as if it would be a splendid venue for the sport of canyoning, albeit on a warmer day with perhaps less flow than today. To the right, the screes show evidence of mining activity which continued until quite recently, leaving scars which remind everyone that much of the Lake District National Park is, in fact, a highly degraded, post-industrial landscape slowly returning to nature, not helped one iota by the ugly buildings being declared an ancient monument rather than the former owners being pursued assiduously to cover the costs of removal and remediation. — Force Crag Credit: Andy Waddington

Derwent Fells, located in Cumberland, England, is a picturesque area encompassing a range of hills, downs, and moorland. Situated in the northwestern part of the Lake District National Park, it boasts stunning natural beauty and offers a wide array of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

The landscape of Derwent Fells is characterized by rolling hills, expansive downs, and vast stretches of moorland. The hills rise gradually, providing gentle slopes that make for pleasant walking and hiking trails. The downs, with their open grassy spaces, offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, while the moorland provides a rugged and wild terrain, dotted with heather and bracken.

The area is intersected by several rivers and streams, the most prominent being the River Derwent, which meanders through the Fells, adding to the charm of the landscape. This water also provides opportunities for fishing, with the River Derwent being renowned for its trout and salmon.

Derwent Fells is a haven for nature enthusiasts, as it is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Visitors may catch a glimpse of red deer, foxes, and various bird species, including buzzards and curlews. The flora is equally impressive, with colorful wildflowers adorning the hills and moorland during the spring and summer months.

The Fells are a popular destination for outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. There are numerous well-maintained trails and paths that cater to different levels of difficulty, ensuring there is something for everyone. Additionally, the Fells offer opportunities for rock climbing, horse riding, and picnicking, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Overall, Derwent Fells, Cumberland, is a captivating region filled with natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and a plethora of outdoor activities, making it an idyllic location for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

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Derwent Fells Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.581369/-3.2168972 or Grid Reference NY2121. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Force Crag

Pudding Beck has accumulated enough water to form a spectacular waterfall, Low Force, by the time it encounters the eponymous Force Crag. Although it hasn't cut much of a notch, and certainly nothing deep enough to be called a canyon, it nonetheless looks as if it would be a splendid venue for the sport of canyoning, albeit on a warmer day with perhaps less flow than today. To the right, the screes show evidence of mining activity which continued until quite recently, leaving scars which remind everyone that much of the Lake District National Park is, in fact, a highly degraded, post-industrial landscape slowly returning to nature, not helped one iota by the ugly buildings being declared an ancient monument rather than the former owners being pursued assiduously to cover the costs of removal and remediation.

Andy Waddington

Grisedale Pike summit

Anthony Foster

Force Crag Mine, Coledale

At the head of Coledale is the Scheduled ancient Monument that is the Force Crag Mine processing plant. The mine variously mined silver, lead and barytes, closing in 1990 and passing into the care of the National Trust. In 2023 there were three open days at the processing plant but this wasn't one of them. The walk in is approximately 4 kilometres.

Chris Allen

Force Crag Mine, Coledale

Chris Allen

Force Crag Mine, Coledale

Chris Allen

Force Crag Mine, Coledale - processing plant

Chris Allen

Force Crag Mine, Coledale - processing plant

Chris Allen

Force Crag Mine, Coledale - Level 1 entrance

At the head of Coledale is the Scheduled Ancient Monument that is the Force Crag Mine processing plant. The mine variously mined silver, lead and barytes, closing in 1990 and passing into the care of the National Trust. In 2023 there were three open days at the processing plant but this wasn't one of them. The walk in is approximately 4 kilometres. This shows the entrance to Level 1 that is above the processing plant. This has a gate just inside the opening. The manhole in the foreground covers the drainage water that can be heard rushing forth below.

Chris Allen

Force Crag Mine, Coledale - grizzly

At the head of Coledale is the Scheduled Ancient Monument that is the Force Crag Mine processing plant. The mine variously mined silver, lead and barytes, closing in 1990 and passing into the care of the National Trust. In 2023 there were three open days at the processing plant but this wasn't one of them. The walk in is approximately 4 kilometres. This shows the very coarse sieve or grizzly where the ore is tipped out to be screened and then transported to the processing plant below.

Chris Allen