Barrow walk - walks near Keswick - lake district walks

Route: Barrow

Area: North Western Lake District

Date of walk: 11th July 2019

Walkers: Andrew and Gilly

Distance: 3.4 miles

Ascent: 1,200 feet

Weather: Cloudy with occasional sunny patches and some light rain

The weather was dull in the morning, with low cloud shrouding the fells. However the weather forecast gave cause for optimism, with sunny spells predicted later in the afternoon. We decided to climb Barrow, which is a good choice when the fells beckon but time is short. Barrow is a relatively small fell at a height of 1,494 feet, but ‘it is set in a wonderful position overlooking a scene as fair as any in the kingdom’ in the words of Alfred Wainwright.

We parked in free National Trust car park by the methodist church the village of Braithwaite. Shortly after passing by the village shop we turned off the road and joined the track leading up to Braithwaite Lodge. Beyond the lodge we were soon climbing up open fellside, following the line of the ridge to the top of Barrow. Just as forecast there were some patches of sunshine as we ascended, which enhanced the superb views over Newlands Valley, Derwent Water, Blencathra and Bassenthwaite Lake.

When we reached the summit we had a brief debate as to whether to continue to the neighbouring fell of Outerside. This would have added about 1 hour to the walk but time was running short so, well contented with our lot, we set off on the descent. This must be one of the easiest in lakeland, being set at a very gentle gradient and with no navigation issues whatever. We first descended to Barrow Door and then followed the path which leads as straight as an arrow back into Braithwaite to end a great little walk

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