Monthly Archives: July 2011

Cumbria and the Lakes

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To many people Cumbria and Lakeland are synonymous, but the latter is but a part of a much larger whole. Of the two, it is Lakeland which is the better known. Even those who have not visited the area have been aware of it through its associations with famous literary figures such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. For similar reasons, the Lake District is the best known of England’s eleven National Parks. It includes much of the most beautiful and dramatic scenery in Cumbria but makes up less than one third of its area Windermere spa hotel .

The remaining two thirds of Cumbria not only contains much beautiful landscape but has its own share of historic towns and villages, monasteries, castles, gardens and fine houses. The county has 150 miles (240 krn) of coastline and three areas designated as being of outstanding natural beauty: on the edge of Morecambe Bay, the Solway coast and the North Pennines. Finally, the southeast corner of the county lies within the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

If the character of Cumbria is to be epito missed by a single word, it is variety. Lakeland offers immense variations, with each valley notably different from the next, and no two lakes or mountains alike. Outside Lakeland, the range of diversity between the lowlands of the Solway Firth and Morecambe Bay and the high fells of the Pennines parallels that between, for example, the Channel Islands and the far north of Scotland.

The county is roughly diamond shaped, with its northern and southern limits the Scottish border and the Furness peninsula respectively. The westerly tip is St Bees Head and the easternmost point on the A66 where it runs over Stainmore beyond Appleby and Brough. The Lake District mountains are linked by the fells around Shap and Kirkby Stephen to the Pennines which run up the northeast face of the diamond towards the uplands of the border country. Between these two mountain masses lies the Vale of Eden, which opens out into the Solway Plain.

The Lake District This part of Cumbria is a product of multiple earth movements over five hundred million years. The result is a deeply gouged out dome shape with valleys radiating from the highest central fells. The whole can be divided into three broad areas corresponding to the rock types which are found at the surface. The first is Northern Lakeland, broadly the country to the east, west and north of Keswick. Here there are high fells composed of old sedimentary rocks known as Skiddaw Slates. Because of their susceptibility to weathering they have broken down readily to produce the rounded hills, of which Skiddaw, overlooking Keswick, is typical.

A feature of these fells is that they are often heather clad. The Central Fells, that is those south of Keswick and north of Ambleside, are made up of a series of tough volcanic rocks. These present rough craggy profiles as found in the Scafell Range or the Langdale Pikes. Southern Lakeland is an area of newer and softer sedimentary de posits, and this area is typified by the low wooded hills which surround Windermere and Coniston. All have been greatly influenced by a series of glacial periods which ended only ten to fifteen thousand years ago. These were responsible for the formation of both the major lakes and the countless small ones which are found at all levels.

Lakes and Mountains Holidays: Best of Both Worlds

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The United Kingdom is home to many great lakes which are worth exploring; the Lake District in the North of England being one of the most popular destinations.  The United States is also famous for its many scenic lakes and mountains; from Lake Michigan and its beautiful white beaches, to Eufaula Lake in Oklahoma. Switzerland however remains one of the most appealing countries to enjoy lake holidays in, and Lake Lucerne is one of the most famous destinations where visitors are able to enjoy the beauty of both lakes and mountains.

Lake Lucerne, also known as the Lake of the Four Forested Cantons, is located in central Switzerland. Even though it is only the fourth largest lake in Switzerland, it is one of the most visited destinations due to its interesting shape, nearby cities and tourist attractions. The lake boasts many arms and tributaries with endless bends and twists that make it the perfect lake to enjoy hiking around. The mountains tower above the lake from most sides and the picturesque views are second to none. Mount Rigi and Mount Pilatus are the two most prominent mountains and the views from the mountain sides are breathtaking. The lake itself is 214m deep and is fuelled by the Reuss River that flows into the lake along with the Muota, Sarner Aa and Engelberger Aa rivers.

The stunning scenery made up from the lakes and mountains at Lucerne are what make it so popular. The lake can be circumnavigated by road as well as on foot. The Swiss Path built in celebration of Switzerland’s 700th anniversary leads visitors on a scenic hike around the lake. Many hikers take this opportunity to camp while on their adventure. Visitors to Lucerne include both Swiss and foreign tourists staying at a range of hotels located alongside the shoreline. Pedalos, a type of paddling boat, and canoes, can be hired out on the shore. Swimming is one of the more popular activities at Lake Lucerne.

Many tourists choose to experience the beauty of the lake by boat. Steamers plow through the water throughout the day taking tourists to and from various parts of the lake and this is the most popular way to get around. The Lucerne lakes and mountains do not disappoint as they are equal in their offerings to any other popular tourist destination around the world.

There are many restaurants, found mostly at the top hotels, for visitors to choose from. These eateries offer views out over the lake as well as into the mountains. In terms of accommodation, there are a handful of privately owned villas and cabins to stay in as well as hotels. If anyone is looking for a more rustic approach to their accommodation, they could also opt to stay in a tent. Lake holidays at Lake Lucerne can be great fun for a range of people; from couples looking for a romantic getaway through to families looking to take their children on an exciting and entertaining holiday.

Whether you want to sit back and relax on the shoreline and take in the subtle magnificence of the mountains or you want to put your walking boots on and really explore; Lake Lucerne has something for everyone to enjoy.

Leo Houlding shares his favourite Lake District climbs – Scafell
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Lake Windermere: England’s Largest Lake And Its Surrounds

Lake Windermere: England’s Largest Lake And Its Surrounds

At ten and a half miles long, and less than a mile wide at its widest, Lake Windermere is not enormous compared with some of Europe’s biggest lakes (such as those in Sweden). But Windermere is England’s largest lake and there is a great deal of diversity along its length.

Ambleside

At the head of the lake is Ambleside. This bustling tourist town has a great deal to offer the visitor. It has loads of shops and cafes, snuggled below the mountainous hills and mountains that hint of the awesome scenery of the rest of the Lake District, northwards of the gentler scenery of Windermere and the southern Lakes.

Close to the town are the lower, easily-accessible peaks of Todd Crag and Wansfell, both of which afford astonishing views of the whole length of Windermere. There is also Stock Ghyll with its beautiful waterfalls.

In the centre of town there is the famous ‘Bridge House’ and there are plenty of places to eat and things to see and do. Zefferelli’s movies and pizzeria is an excellent concept and amongst places to eat, tapas from Lucy 4 U is another good option.

The part of Ambleside closest to the lake is known as Waterhead. Here there is a pleasant park, a sheltered bay, some hotels, cafes and a youth hostel, as well as the piers for the cruises on the lake. From here you can take one of the old, traditional boats (such as the Swan or the Tern) to Bowness-On-Windermere, or Lakeside, or a smaller puddle jumper on a round trip, or to Wray Castle or Brockhole.

Bowness-on-Windermere

The main tourist centre on the lake is Bowness (which is attached to another village called Windermere). Bowness Bay is always busy with tourists, even in the off season, and pleasurecraft of various sorts power, sail, steam and row around the host of islands that scatter this part of the lake (made famous by Arthur Ransome in his Swallows and Amazons series of novels for children).

Another writer for children who often visited this area was Beatrix Potter, and the ‘World of Beatrix Potter’ is one of many places of interest in the village. Across the intriguing little chain ferry from Bowness, you can also visit Beatrix Potter’s house at Hill Top Farm.

Also nearby is Blackwell House – a beautiful home designed in the Arts and Crafts style and featuring a wonderful collection of Arts and Crafts items.

Brockhole

The National Park visitor centre at Brockholes is perfectly situated. What was once a private home and gardens is now an informative and enjoyable visitor’s centre, with extensive grounds housing an adventure playground, attractive gardens, a woodland walk, a long stretch of lake shore and a small steamer pier.

Lakeside

At the foot of the lake is Lakeside. Here you can visit the Aquarium of the Lakes. One of the highlights of the aquarium is the presence of wild diving ducks (such as tufted ducks) who frequent one of the tanks and can be seen from underwater.

Also at Lakeside there is the beautiful scenery of the quieter south end of the lake and relaxing Fell Foot country park, there is a steam railway. The pleasant village of Newby Bridge is also just minutes away.

The West Shore of Windermere

Apart from Lakeside, which is essentially at the foot of the lake, the western shore of Windermere is largely undeveloped and mostly unpopulated. This is totally different to the bustling tourist areas of the eastern side.

The section of the western shore most people see is just across the ferry from Bowness. There is a car-park here, and on sunny days people park further up the road that heads north from here towards Belle Grange house. Along the grassy lake shore, people have picnics and look out across the islands in the middle of the lake.

Much of the lake shore to the north and the south of this small, populated strip can be accessed by foot but is often very quiet. It can be an oasis of calm on a warm summer holiday when Bowness and Ambleside’s car parks are full and the roads are jammed with cars.

The Belle Grange shore can be reached from the other side. Driving from Ambleside towards Hawkshead, turn off for High Wray, then follow the signs for the lake (a sign states that the road is unsuitable for motor vehicles after one mile). It feels like a long mile, through the woods, but suddenly one arrives at the lake shore and there is a small car park.

One can walk north along the lake shore to the dramatic Wray Castle (where again, one of the lake’s many pleasure boats can carry visitors back to Ambleside or Brockholes). Alternatively, the walk south beside the lake, through a forest rich with red squirrels, jays and other gems of local wildlife, leads back down towards the Windermere ferry. It is also possible to turn aside from the lake and explore further paths through the wild, wooded (and reputedly haunted) Claife Heights.

So if you are seeking a family day out, a floating adventure, good nosh, or a quiet peaceful amblel, Lake Windermere offers it all.

For suitable Windermere Hotels you can try this site for all the information relating to how to select a Hotel on the shores of Windermere.

Lake Windermere Cruises

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The 10 nautical miles per hour speed limit was put into force on 29 March 2005. This has been a contentious issue for the residents, users and businesses around the lake with everyone having strong views either for or against the speed limit. At first, it was thought that no waterskiing of any nature would be allowed but through working with the Lake District National Park, waterskiing and wakeboarding etc can still be done at a specialist centre on the Lake.

Lake Windermere is of course quieter now but there are people that are still wanting fun to be had on the lake but in a different form. Lake Windermere now has a privately owned 50 foot Sealine Y50 Flybridge motor yacht that can be hired out for Windermere lake cruises and both private and bespoke charters. This has brought the glitz and glamour back to the lake and is bringing some different clientele to the area.

With such spectacular scenery, Lake Windermere attracts thousands of tourists each yeaar from anglers, to canoeists to yachtsmen and dingy owners. The cruises on Lake Windermere are truely worth a go as the magnificent scenery can be taken in fully. Starting from the south of the lake and Newby Bridge is where you will be.
Continuing up the lake and you pass Cartmel Fell, Far Sawrey, Bowness-on-Windermere, High Wray and the lake comes to an end at Waterhead, only a short walk into the centre of the bustling Ambleside. The views are of course sights to be hold all the way down but the most spectacular are towards the north of the lake where the Fairfield Horseshoe, Great and Little Langdale and Coniston Old Man are in view. The Windermere Marina continues to thrive with around 400 boats having mooring there, the largest inland marina in the North of England.

Sailing on Lake Windermere is an excellent way to travel. In the summer moths the roads are blocked continually due to the high number of visitors or when essential roadworks are being carried out . Sailing on the lake is direct, allows the stopping off at the top destinations along the lake such as Bowness, Ambleside and to the many Lake District hotels and makes for a very relaxing journey with not a hint of road rage!

Taking out a Lake District boat charter is an excellent way to celebrate a special occasion. Windermere Lake cruises can be taken out for half days, full days or as bespoke charters. High quality food and beverages are served and it makes a very memorable day. A cruise on Lake Windermere is a really nice extra treat for a bride and groom on a wedding day. Special birthday treats and celebrations are great on a cruise. Leisure is not the only reason for a cruise. Business meetings, conferences and crucial pitches can also be taken on a boat. A luxury cruise on Lake Windermere is something different and projects a very good image it can also boost employee’s morals especially in conference or team building situations.

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White Cross Bay Holiday Park – Scenic Holiday Location in the Heart of the Lakes

White Cross Bay Holiday Park is without a doubt one of the best around. With a fantastic range of , a superb range of facilities and not to mention the fact it is right on the shores of Lake Windermere, is a where there’s something for everyone.

Firstly, the options range from simple but comfortable to the luxury surroundings of with plenty of options in between.

As mentioned, the is simple but comfortable, but most importantly includes every essential you could need for a great including a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable bedrooms, a spacious lounge area and extras such as a colour TV and full bathroom facilities.

The gives you the same basic features as the , but includes luxurious extras such as a DVD player, a TV in the master bedroom, decking or a balcony equipped with patio furniture which is great for dining outside on a summer’s evening and so much more.

White Cross Bay Holiday Park boasts a wide range of facilities within the park for the whole family including an outdoor play area for the kids, an outdoor sports area, a gym, sauna and indoor swimming pool and so much more.

Because you are on holiday, you’re not going to want to cook all of your meals for your whole stay which means you will want to eat out. Within you’ll find a newly refurbished restaurant and bar with an incredible menu as well as a takeaway which serves selected dishes from the main restaurant menu.

Being in the heart of the Lake District, there’s always something going on as well as plenty of attractions a short distance away from the park. Proving that are , the area is home to such attractions as the South Lakes Wild Animal Park, The Aquarium of the Lakes, The World of Beatrix Potter, the Lakeland Miniature Village and so much more.

If you’re looking for somewhere a bit different to go on holiday this year or want to see more of England before seeing the rest of the world, why not spend your at White Cross Bay Holiday Park where you are sure of a great reception and an even greater time away from home.

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Great Attractions in the English Lakes

Honister slate mine is located in Cumbria, in the English Lake District. It was reopened in 1997 by Mark Weir and now, in addition to being a working mine, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Lake District, with numerous activities for its visitors.

The Romans mined the area for slate in small quantities, but mass mining did not begin until the late 18th century. Some of the mining skills of those days can still be seen today in tourist demonstrations.

One of the most popular things to do at Honister is the ascent of the Via Ferrata – Italian words which mean “iron road”. It is the only one of its kind in the UK and allows the average person to climb all the way to the top of the Honister Slate Mine. The system was originally built in Victorian times as a transportation system: due to the steepness of the rock face, all normal transport methods were unsuitable. The newly renovated ascent consists of ladders, bridges and well-fixed cables to which you’re firmly attached with modern safety harnesses as you climb.

At the Honister slate mine, anyone over 10 years old can take part in this exhilarating activity which allows them to climb 650 meters up to the top of Fleetwith Pike. All the groups are accompanied by a knowledgeable via ferrata guide who ensures everything is safe and secure. The expedition is a great adventure for everyone in the family, with an exciting zig-zag route which disappears up the cliff face, burrows through shafts and tunnels, teeters along narrow bridges, and requires you to climb steep ladders on sheer rock faces.

You really have to experience this to realise how much of an undertaking it must have been for the constructors of the via ferrata in Victorian times without today’s modern machinery. Broaching the summit is an extraordinary experience as you take in the view of the outstanding scenery and marvel at the surrounding fells and mountains of the English Lake District.

Prices for this unique activity at the Honister Slate mine are around £25 for adults and £20 for children under 16, though family tickets can also be purchased for £85. And once you’ve braved the via ferrata, there are plenty of other exciting activities to experience such as an underground tour, slate mining demonstrations and beautiful walking routes. There’s also a caf?nd, better still, there’s even a charming and tasteful gift shop where you can get slate name plaques, decorative memorabilia, and many other worthwhile souvenirs.

A more sedate activity, but equally popular, is a trip on the Windermere “Steamers”. Windermere is the largest natural lake in England; it is one area within the Lakes National Park, located in the county of Cumbria. The cruisers which travel along Windermere have existed in one form or another since the 19th century, when the influx of tourists and increased popularity of the Lake District as a holiday destination created a demand for lake trips.

Certainly the Lake and its surroundings are just as beautiful now as they were then! No doubt that’s the reason why Lake Windermere and its cruisers are still one of the most enduring and appealing attractions in the Lake District.

The original boats were powered by steam, so the modern cruisers are still often referred to as steamers, even though today they all have diesel engines. A boat trip along Lake Windermere provides lots of chances to explore the area around the lake, from the little port of Lakeside near Newby Bridge in the South, to the bustling activity of busy Bowness, and charming Ambleside at the head of the Lake. And there is a wide variety of boats to choose from, including the vintage “Steamers” which can carry up to 350 passengers. (Although, if taking a cruise isn’t your thing, you can rent your own boat and go on a journey of your own making from all of the main landing stages.)

There are many reasons why people take a cruise on Lake Windermere: to see the awe-inspiring landscapes and views, perhaps, or to enjoy the simple pleasure of a slower, more relaxed form of transport, or maybe even to use the steamers as a way of commuting from one part of the lake to another.

The steamers offer visitors great flexibility. You can buy a day ticket to travel along the lake as you wish, which allows you to disembark at any point and go for a leisurely stroll through the amazing countryside the Lake District has to offer. When you’ve walked enough, or had your fill of the glorious Lake District scenery, you can simply hop back on the boat.

Travelling the length of the lake takes around three hours, while the popular journey from Lakeside to Bowness takes around one and a half hours. Both trips provide plenty of time and opportunity to enjoy some amazing sights and beautiful places along the way.

A scramble to the summit of Blencathra via Sharp Edge.(Cumbria, Lake District)
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Andalucia – Spain’s Lake District with Sun

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Costa del Sol is made up of two provinces, Malaga and Cadiz although the majority is within Malaga, which is the capital city of the Costa del Sol. All of this sits within a region (the equivalent of a UK county) called Andalucia.

Andalucia is one of Spain’s prettiest and most historical regions as it is a clash of many different cultures. Having been invaded many times over the centuries the most influential and longest occupiers were the Arabs.

It is clear to see when you look around Andalucia the Arabic influences in the architecture and culture. In fact the area was once know as Al Andalus, which gave way to Andalucia.

During their conquest of Spain the Arabs built many magnificent buildings and forts, many of which are still around today.

Some of the most famous Arabic influenced parts of Andalucia are Seville, Ronda, Granada and Cordoba. In all of these cities you will see magnificent Arabic architecture alongside Christian and Jewish buildings. In fact way back when the Arabs first invaded the three main religions lived side by side in harmony with each one respecting the others religious beliefs.

The Arabs gave Andalucia many influences that will continue forever such as Flamenco and many of the spices used in the food. In fact not many people knew that the Arabs were the first people to introduce under arm deodorant to the west.

Although the Arabs were overthrown once again by the Christians after centuries of occupation, Andalucia would not be the beautiful and cultural place it is today without the Arab occupation. Just look around at the Andalucian people, they are dark skinned with amazing eyes.

When the three main religions lived in harmony many inter-married which gave the real Andalucian’s their unique appearance.

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Two Fabulous Attractions in the English Lake District

Gondola is a reconstructed steam yacht which offers a wonderful, nostalgic sailing experience on Coniston Water in the amazing scenery of the ENglish Lake Distroct.

The original Gondola was launched in 1859 and is perefectly recreated in today’s Gondola which certainly reflects the elegance and splendour of the Victorian era. Passengers can relax as they watch the stunning scenery of the Coniston Fells glide past the windows of the opulently upholstered saloon. While evoking memories of a distant era, Gondola glides almost silently along, powered by a very modern eco-fuel: wonderfully clean burning logs made from waste wood chips.

Although a reconstruction, Gondola is part and parcel of the history and heritage of Coniston and the Lake. She plies the lake every year between the months of April and October. The service operates seven days a week, running from Coniston Pier to Brantwood jetty. The round trip takes about 45 minutes and up to 86 passengers can be accommodated comfortably.

In 2008, Gondola’s route was extended to call at Monk Coniston Jetty at the far northern tip of Coniston Water. This gives passengers the opportunity to combine a cruise on Gondola with a gentle walk to Tarn Hows.

The route takes you through the grounds of the Monk Coniston estate, famed for its arboretum and beautiful woodlands, to Tarn Hows and back to Coniston village. This walks enables you to see Pier Cottage, Gondola’s home and Donald Campbell’s base for his world speed record attempts in “Bluebird” in the 1950s and 1960s.

All sailings in Gondola are weather dependent. If the weather looks doubtful, please call 015394 41288 to check whether Gondola is sailing.

A wonderful christmas treat for all the family is on offer at the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, at the Southern end of Lake Windermere. This superbly preserved steam railway is part of the old branch line from Ulverston to Lakeside, where Victorian travellers would embark on the steamers to sail along to Bowness and Ambleside.

Nowadyas, the steam trains chug along from Haverthwaite to lakeside, offering a magical spectacle for youngsters and the young-at-heart alike! And at Christmas, the volunteers who run the railway ensure the trains are extra special, with Father Christmas and his helpers offering seasonal joy and goodwill! There are presents for the children, christmas cake and seasonal drinks for the adults, and carols and a good time for everyone!

All Santa specials depart from Haverthwaite Station, at 10.30am, 12.30pm, and 2.30pm. The round trip takes one and a half hours and tickets are £13.00 per person for both adults and children. Father Christmas and all his helpers board the train at Haverthwaite, where the seasonal fun begins. Each carriage is a hive of activity, as the chief elf and helpers lead the festivities with Christmas songs. There’s a live band to welcome Santa and plenty of Christmas spirit as Father Christmas visits each family in their seats, where he gives a specially chosen present to each child (it even has their name on it).

If you’re a grown-up, you might want to enjoy the ride with alcoholic or soft drinks and a large slab of Christmas cake. Then, to complete the day, you can dine in the station restaurant and have a delicious two course Christmas meal.

Many families make this a special part of their Christmas, bringing all the family, both young and old – all you have to be is ready for a good time!

Contact the railway at Haverthwaite Station, Nr Ulverston, Cumbria, LA12 8AL, Phone: 015395 31594

Part 1 of 2 – Watercolour landscape painting demo featuring Eskdale in Cumbria near the Woolpack Inn. I’m using 15″ x 11″ Fabriano watercolor paper weighing 130lb. My palette consists of Cotman watercolours Raw Sienna, Burnt Umber, Light Red, Ultramarine, Lemon Yellow, Payne’s Gray and Alizarin Crimson. My main brush is a large Ron Ranson hake — excellent for the fast and loose watercolor painting technique. I also use a number 3 rigger and a ¾” flat. Thanks for watching but why not have a go, it’s easier than you think!

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Lake District rock bars

The succession of small basins with intervening breaks coinciding with rock bars or morainic ridges is a feature of many valleys which once witnessed the passage of ice. Another similar ungraded valley is that of nearby Kent mereLake District Honeymoon Hotel
. Here a much bigger lake once existed in the vicinity of Kent mere Hall in which diatomaceous* deposits gradually accumulated and led in time to its infilling. A major break in the long profile of the valley occurs north of Kent mere Church  where a pronounced rock bar, its edge plucked and accentuated by moving ice, is developed at the junction of the soft and well cleaved Brow gill Slates with the harder volcanic rocks. Against this bar, the glacier rested during its retreat stage and laid down a great boulder moraine just north of the church. Upstream a further rock step occurs near Kentmere Reservoir , although the building of the dam has masked much of this glacially derived feature.

Compared with the outlying valleys like Kentmere and Long Sleddale, Great Langdale experienced a much fuller and more intense glaciation over a long period. Lying in the lee of the highest peaks like Scafell and Great Gable, the valley head never lacked the heavy snowfall to nurture active glaciers. The area also felt the full force of outwardly moving ice streams when the whole central region was blanketed by a more or less continuous ice dome. Even after the Ice Age had ‘officially’ ended, its upland corries once more saw the growth of small glaciers for a short time about 8800 B.C. As at the head of Borrowdale and elsewhere, these grew and ultimately spilled over and moved slowly down into the trough end of Great Langdale at Mickleden to a height of only 400 ft.

There the glacier laid down the same agglomeration of hummocky drift, with hillocks and intervening marshy hollows occurring over a wide area . This was but the final dying phase of glacial activity in the valley. Earlier a more intense glacier action had already transformed what was originally a small V¬shaped valley eroded by normal river action into the Ushaped trough we know today. With its steep rocky sides, scree slopes, abrupt combe end and marshy floor broken only by rock bars, it fulfils all the requirements of a typical glaciated valley. Microfeatures like roche moutonees, great boulder trains left behind after the ice melted and striations* on the exposed rock surfaces, all occur as further evidence of intense local ice activity.

Many of the major features seen by those visiting Great Langdale date from a tinle when a great glacier occupied the whole valley during the Last glaciation. There is evidence to suggest that at its maximum stage of develop¬ment the upper surface of the glacier lay at a height of about 1,400 ft. At this time the snout lay well beyond the mouth of Great Langdale. While advancing in the direction of Ambleside and the head of Windermere it was constantly fed by ice accumulating in its source region around Bowfell. In this active state the sole of the glacier gouged out hollows in the valley floor; these later became the sites of lakes like Elterwater. The present lake is very much the shrunken remnant of a larger original feature. Infilling has taken place and its irregular reedy margins show that the process is still going on and in time no doubt the whole lake will disappear.

This has already been the fate of a similar lake which once occupied the valley floor upstream from Chapel Stile. The glacier, for all its great erosive powers when at the height of its activity, never quite succeeded in removing the harder rock bars which lay across its path as at Chapel Stile and Skelwith Bridge. Both rock bars coincide with beds of a toughened volcanic ash. The ice, by plucking at the well cleaved slates and jointed lava beds on either side of the rock bars, tended to accentuate the features rather than remove them. With such prominent obstacles in its path the river has been forced to cut deep gorges through the rock bars. That at Skelwith Bridge is well known and much visited. Certainly after heavy rain the waterfalls make impressive viewing when seen from the footpath which wends its way up through the wooded glade of the gorge.

Corrie basins in the Lake District

One striking feature of corrie basins is the way in which the majority have a north or northeast aspectThings to do in Windermere
. There are obvious exceptions like those which serrate the southern slopes of Blencathra, but taken as a whole a northeast orientation is dominant. It is this preferential development which gives many 66 of the ridges their asymmetrical appearance. No greater contrast of landforms exists than on the opposing sides of Helvellyn or the internally ridge separating Ennerdale and Buttermere.

On the one side are smooth even slopes broken occasionally by rock crags and low precipices while on the other glacial erosion has bitten deeply and successfully to create what has been called ‘biscuit topo¬graphy’. With rock type not exerting any great influence, other explanations have to be sought to account for the preferential northeast aspect. As early as 1917 Enquist noted that the aorries tended to lie on the lee side of a mountain range, that is in relation to the dominant snow bearing wind. More recently Manley has shown that in this situation the wind which blows over the ridge top the helm wind considerably aids snow accumulation on the upper part of the lee slope through the development of a back eddy. The presence of the eddy can often be detected on the waters of a tarn where wavelets move towards the back¬wall of the corrie basin. During the Ice Age thick snow would be likely to accumulate in any hollow on the lee slope, and through the addition of successive layers be ultimately transformed into ice.

In time this ice would gouge out a deeper hollow and ultimately a true corrie basin. Having reached this stage, the rapid build up of snow and ice would bring about increased erosion of the floor of the hollow. Due to the effect of the helm wind, the greatest amount of snow would accumulate on the upper part of the corrie glacier just below the bare upper part of the backwall. Differential loading on the upper surface of the corrie glacier would tend to cause the ice to move in a rotatory manner. With continuous additions at the head and constant depletion at the snout through melting, the rotatory movement could be instrumental in scooping out the floor of the corrie .

Other processes like frost shattering of the bare rocks of the upper part of the backwall and the grinding action of rock debris within the glacier would also contribute to the enlargement of the corrie basin. It follows that if the prevailing snowbearing wind was from the southwest then the northeast facing lee slopes would become the most suitable sites for corrie development. This northeast aspect also happens to be one of minimum isolation so that snow and ice would persist longer here. When the snow had long since disappeared from the upland peaks and plateau tops, some of the deep shadowy hollows would retain their active glaciers. Even today snow patches last until late Mayor early June in situations like the steep northfacing buttress of Great End.

Wordsworth, in his poem Fidelity, mentioned the persistence of snow under the lee of Helvellyn which he had noticed on a walk across to Patterdale in early June. The ice which was so prominent in fashioning the landscape of the central high part of the Lake District also left its mark in the peripheral lowland, though to different effect. Here various ice streams jostled for occupation of the low ground. In addition to the local glaciers fanning out from the mountainous core, a great wall of ice moved in from the Irish Sea and impinged on the western coasts. Passing over the softer rocks of the lowlands, the ice was able to incor¬porate great quantities of sands, clays and rocks which it subsequently deposited on melting. In contrast to the highland area, the glacial landforms of the margins 68 are nearly all associated with deposition rather than erosion.

A short film of beautiful landscapes in the lake district from corney fell to waswater. Directed & Edited by Pete Johnson