Castle Fell

Downs, Moorland in Westmorland South Lakeland

England

Castle Fell

The start of the fun, Borrow Beck Down to about the limit of this view, Borrow Beck rarely rises above grade 2, but here the valley starts to entrench a little and beck becomes steeper and more sporting at grade 3 with perhaps the odd bit of 4. To paddle the full trip from High Borrow Bridge (by the A6 - involving a very long road shuttle compared with the length of the paddle) would need quite a bit more water than this as the channel is wider and shallower, but from here, for 2½ kilometres down to a take-out close to the confluence with the River Lune, you could just about bounce down at this level. With some proper rain rather than today&#039;s half-hearted drizzle, it looks like being a worthwhile trip and the first kilometre of the track is public road, making a carry-in with the boat over your shoulder for the kilometre or so to the bridge here not entirely unreasonable. The course from here is somewhat tree-lined, however, so the usual caveats about running blind round bends apply, especially after the sort of stormy winter we&#039;ve just had. — The start of the fun, Borrow Beck Credit: Andy Waddington

Castle Fell is a picturesque area located in Westmorland, a county in the northwestern region of England. Situated amidst the stunning landscape of Downs and Moorland, Castle Fell captivates visitors with its natural beauty and historical significance.

The centerpiece of Castle Fell is its namesake, a magnificent castle that dates back to the medieval era. The castle, now in ruins, stands on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Its imposing stone walls and remnants of towers provide a glimpse into the area's rich history.

The surroundings of Castle Fell are characterized by rolling hills, vast moorlands, and lush green meadows. The landscape is dotted with charming villages, scattered farms, and quaint cottages, all contributing to the idyllic charm of the area. Visitors can explore the many walking trails and hiking routes that crisscross the region, offering opportunities to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.

Nature enthusiasts will find an abundance of wildlife and plant species in Castle Fell. The moorlands are home to various bird species, including the iconic red grouse and curlew. Rare plants such as heather and bilberry thrive in the acidic soil, adding vibrant colors to the landscape during the summer months.

Castle Fell is also a popular destination for history buffs, who can delve into the area's past by exploring nearby historic sites and landmarks. The village of Fellside, located at the foot of Castle Fell, boasts charming stone cottages and a medieval church, offering a glimpse into the area's rich heritage.

Overall, Castle Fell in Westmorland is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with historical significance, providing a memorable experience for all who visit.

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Castle Fell Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.406915/-2.6652868 or Grid Reference NY5601. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The start of the fun, Borrow Beck

Down to about the limit of this view, Borrow Beck rarely rises above grade 2, but here the valley starts to entrench a little and beck becomes steeper and more sporting at grade 3 with perhaps the odd bit of 4. To paddle the full trip from High Borrow Bridge (by the A6 - involving a very long road shuttle compared with the length of the paddle) would need quite a bit more water than this as the channel is wider and shallower, but from here, for 2½ kilometres down to a take-out close to the confluence with the River Lune, you could just about bounce down at this level. With some proper rain rather than today's half-hearted drizzle, it looks like being a worthwhile trip and the first kilometre of the track is public road, making a carry-in with the boat over your shoulder for the kilometre or so to the bridge here not entirely unreasonable. The course from here is somewhat tree-lined, however, so the usual caveats about running blind round bends apply, especially after the sort of stormy winter we've just had.

Andy Waddington

Borrow Beck

Apart from the occasional short boulder garden and one cattle fence (just round a blind bend), this stretch is fairly typical of the run down Borrow Beck from the put-in at High Borrow Bridge by the A6 (perhaps easiest at the stepping stones where NY5503 : The Breasthigh road crosses Borrow Beck). Despite the low cloud and persistent drizzle, there's not really enough water to paddle this section today, but a kilometre and a quarter downstream from here the river starts to cut down a little, making the channel narrower, and the paddling more interesting and there's just about enough to bounce down the bottom 2½ kilometres.

Andy Waddington

Ashstead Beck beside rural road north of Whelpside

Ordnance Survey documents indicate that a benchmark levelled at 154.171m above Newlyn Datum was verified in 1954 on a stone at the base of the wall (on the right hand side of the beck) its back face 2.4m from its left hand end

Roger Templeman

Benchmark on stone in wall on NE side of road NW of Harewood

Ordnance Survey pivot benchmark levelled at 149.782m above Newlyn Datum verified 1954

Roger Templeman

Dry stone wall and gateway on NE side of rural road between Whelpside and Harewood

There is an Ordnance Survey benchmark NY5500 : Benchmark on stone in wall on NE side of road NW of Harewood on a light-coloured protruding stone near the base of the wall

Roger Templeman

Benchmark on barn at Whelpside

Ordnance Survey cut mark levelled at 158.126m above Newlyn Datum verified 1954

Roger Templeman

Farm buildings at Whelpside

There is an Ordnance Survey benchmark NY5500 : Benchmark on barn at Whelpside on the left hand side of the large barn at its near corner

Roger Templeman

The summit of Winterscleugh

Looking WNW along upper Borrowdale. (Note: this is the other, lesser-known Borrowdale.) Winterscleugh was added to the popular Fellranger list of Lake District hills when the border of the Lake District National Park was moved east.

Michael Earnshaw

Puddles and a waterlogged field

Mick Garratt

Public Bridleway to High Borrowdale

Mick Garratt

Ovine Obstacle

Mick Garratt

Farm track off the A6

The A6 is one of the main historic north south roads in England. At 299 miles long it is the fourth longest road in the country. It currently runs from Luton in Bedfordshire to Carlisle in Cumbria, although it formerly started at a junction with the A1 at Barnet. Wikipedia: Link