BORROWDALE

Maiden Moor and Black Crag, Borrowdale

In yesterdays blog I made mention that on our recent trip to Cumbria we had enjoyed some what wetter weather than most of England (that was basking in the warmest spring for many a year).  It was not that much of a surprise as we were staying in Borrowdale at the foot of Derwent Water, Borrowdale and in particular Grange is allegedly the wettest place in England, and I suspect would rival any challenger in Scotland, Wales and Ireland!

Not that the weather can detract too much from the beauty of Borrowdale.  There are Four main hamlets in the valley, Seathwaite, Seatoller, Rosthwaite and Grange but geographically the valley stretches from Honister Pass in the south to, and encompassing in my view,  Derwent Water to the north.

From south to north of the valley the River Derwent, from humble beginnings grows in size until it fills Derwent Water just above Grange. The scenery within and around Borrowdale is immensely varied, Crags and open fell to thick Oak woodland, open meadows to the damp peaty marsh of the flood plain.  This lush vegetation continues to surround much of Derwent Water.

Borrowdale is to-day home of many Herdwicks and perhaps just as many walkers and visitors yet still remains tranquil. Yet over recent centuries it has seen much activity.  Slate Quarries that once scared the hill sides are slowly being swallowed by woodland, the miners tracks now great pathways for the tourist.  But perhaps it was Graphite that was the most priced mineral to come from the valley.  Obviously it had much value for the munitions industry but locally it created a community that developed into a world  wide famous pencil industry.  Once literally a cottage industry it became a major employer in Keswick and one of the very first ‘household’ brands.  The company is still as innovative to-day. (http://www.pencils.co.uk The home of Cumberland Pencils).

The River Derwent flows over the marsh to Derwent Water

 

Literary interest has also increased visitor numbers.  Sir Hugh Walpole used the area as a backdrop for many of his novels, whilst for children Cat Bells will always be the home of Beatrix Potter’s ‘Mrs Tiggy Winkle’

 

Cat Bells from Otter Bay, Derwent Water

It is true that the weather makes the scenery and from Borrowdale to Derwent Water it is just perfect….well it is for me.

………AND of course the Team – any one for Walkies……you bet!