Carlisle & District Rambling & Fellwalking Club

Walk & Event Reports

Sunday 31st March 2019

A Walk

Dent Fell

Leader: Phil Howarth

Report by Phil Howarth

Photos by Jim Annels

5 of us embarked on the ‘A’ walk today, walking along the cycle way (former railway line) between Rowrah and Parkside.  There were one or two interesting structures made out of cast iron beams at the side of the path, driven into the ground at odd angles serving as modern art.  I don’t think they will win any awards!  Nonetheless we had a good discussion about the lack of lower flanges to the beams which would have made them relatively weak.  By mid-day we had covered the first 5 miles and stopped for an early lunch by the 2-span masonry arch bridge over the lovely River Ehen at Wath Brow.  Very relaxing which prompted Bernard to discuss whether Bob Dylan sold out (on his artistic integrity).  Whatever the answer is, he’s still performing at 77 years young (last night in Dusseldorf!).  Neil and Clive enjoyed their sandwiches from a distance.

Onwards and upwards to the best bit of the walk, joining the Coast to Coast and ascending Dent Fell.  Despite having lived in Cleator Moor for 20 years I’d never been up the fell ( I know I’m supposed to recce the walk!).  The view as the summit is approached is one of the best kept secrets in the Lake District, it is stunning with a wide panorama from the Buttermere fells right round to the Scafell’s (looking quite magnificent in isolation from any other range).  Then a steep descent into Uldale (which must be the narrowest valley in the Kingdom) and through Nannycatch Gate, all very picturesque.  Jim meanwhile was doing a sterling job taking photos, I hope he is able to supply them as evidence.  We got to The Gather café before our anticipated arrival time so we could relax a bit (not always the case on ‘A’ walks it has to be said).

Thanks to all who came on the walk to make it such an enjoyable day.

Phil