Eskdale, Hard Knott, Harter Fell & Green Crag

A long drive for me today to Eskdale and the small car park at Wha House Farm. This is a lovely part of the lakes and one of my favourite areas, but it's probably one of my least visited, as the journey there and back can be close to a six hours round trip. That's certainly at my limit for a day's drive. But, it's always worth the effort.

A casual stroll along the lane as I leave the farm behind.

First sighting of Bowfell in the distance with Crinkle Crags to the right and then Hard Knott in the foreground.

A left turn by the red phone box signifies the start of the walk into Lower Eskdale at Brotherilkeld.

Looks like I'm in for a good day - 9:30 and the sun is shining with clear skies and no wind.

I took the path that follows alongside the River Esk. There are points where you can turn right and head directly up the side of Hard Knott and reach the summit much quicker - but it is steep, off path and won't be as enjoyable as walking down the valley and then having the more gradual ascent from the North.

Eskdale Pools - It must be great to have a swim in here on a warm summers day.

Lincove Bridge. A packhorse bridge at the confluence between the River Esk and Lincove Beck. A stunning place to visit.

I leave the bridge behind and head uphill skirting round the northern extremity of the Hard Knott range. Again, the prominent Bowfell can be seen straight ahead.

As I head up the grassy end of Yew Bank in the direction of my first summit of the day, the view Northwards is breath taking. The Scafells can be seen, along with Ill Crag, Great End and Esk Pike

A side view of Crinkle Crags

As I say, it's such a stunning view, it's difficult to stop taking photo's - this one sneaks in Slight Side on the far left.

Walking parallel with the 'Crinklies' now on the soft grassy bulk of Hard Knott.

Hard Knott summit with Harter Fell in the distance.

Another shot from Hard Knott summit with some of the Coniston Fells on the other side of the Hard Kott pass road (Great Carrs & Grey Friar)

Having successfully reached the correct Hard Knott summit (something that I've occasionally failed to do in the past !) - I head down the southern end of Hard Knott, cross the road and then head straight up Harter Fell by the direct route.

Approaching Harter Fell summit.

And there we have it. One of the more interesting of summits (this is the official one by the way). An undulating and rocky arena with space to sit and enjoy the views in all directions, that's if your not wanting to press on like me.

Next stop - Green Crag in the distance - Well it's between here and Devoke Water on this photo.

The direct descent path takes you alongside the tree line where it meets the Harter Fell circular or Duddon Valley path. I turned left here and walked through the woods for a short while rather than 'yomping' across the boggy no-mans land towards Green Crag.

Hard Knott Wood

After the brief walk through the woods, its out into the open where there is a half decent path (after the gate) across a very damp area between Green Crag & Harter Fell.

Looking back towards Harter Fell and the grassy path.

Approaching Green Crag summit. Now being a bit of a chatter-box myself, I spent 15 minutes chatting away to someone at the top and forgot to take the mandatory photo of the summit. Well - I can honestly say I got there ,but no proof I'm afraid. Green Crag is not a large fell at all, but I think it's quite a dramatic little fella with quite a few jagged associates as neighbours. Always a good fell to visit.

Looking back on the impressive little Green Crag.

One of the outlying fells in this area - Tarn Crag (Yes ! another one)

Low Birker Tarn

Looking over the edge towards the Woolpack Inn as I gradually start to descend back down towards Eskdale

A few clouds roll in as the last of the sun disappears

Now this is the sort of path you want as you make the final descent of the day. Usually you lose height down a steep staircase or a uneven rocky path which can be uncomfortable on your tired legs after the days walk. But this is a gradual zig zag on a carpet of grass - I assume a throwback from old mine working days. Certainly welcome after todays walk.

Back walking alongside the River Esk

If walking with friends - I would expect to have paid the Woolpack a visit today. But as I'm on my own, I decided to crack on with the long journey back home. But I'll be back here in the summer, so will certainly enjoy a pint or two in the beer garden soon.