8:00 start with 16:30 return
11¾ miles (19km) with 2070ft (360m) Total Ascent
This walk is dedicated to the memory of Ken Brooks WCFA, who first led it way back in January 1998. It traverses two distinctive limestone hills of similar height and separated by the broad strath of the River Winster.
We start from Mill Side on the A590 west of Levens and seek out the meandering track through woodland to gain the plateau above Whitbarrow Scar, traversing this north-westward to the large summit cairn at Lord´s Seat (215m/706ft), the highest point on Whitbarrow with magnificent views all round. It´s then down to Witherslack Hall and the track leading through the wooded escarpment of Yewbarrow to the village of Witherslack. Our route continues across the Winster Valley to Lindale and an ascent of the slightly higher Hampsfell (222m/727ft), with its characteristic ‘Hospice’ view finder close to the summit. We finally descend to Grange and the coach by way of Spring Bank.
11½ miles (18.5km) with 1000ft (305m) Total Ascent
Starting at Grange-Over-Sands we head through Eggerslack Wood to Hampsfell. We then follow the Cistercian Way to and through Cartmel near Cark.
Next we head east to Allithwaite and south to Humphrey Head; 15th Century legend states this was the dwelling place of the last wolf in England. After soaking in the atmosphere, we stroll back to Grange-Over-Sands via the Cumbria Coastal Way.
8 miles (12.9km) with 800ft (244m) Total Ascent
From Grange we head up Windermere Road to find the path to Hampsfield Fell, from there through the woods to Hampsfield Farm. We then progress along the top of the ridge overlooking Morecambe Bay and surrounding country side with its panoramic views. We then continue to the Hospice and onto Cartmel where we re-trace our way back to Grange for a well earned glass of mulled wine or whatever refreshment you require.
HAPPY DAYS.
5¾ miles (9.2km) with 500ft (152m) Total Ascent
Starting from the ornamental lake we go promenading along Grange front. Once past the old Lido building we walk along the shore line until we are able to cross the railway line. We then follow the side of the railway to Kents Bank. From here we have a combination of green lanes, field track and road walking, until we get to the foot of Fell End. We now have a gradual climb (200 feet) towards Hampsfell. Weather permitting, after our climb we should have excellent views of the lakeland hills and Morecambe Bay. We now head eastwards and downhill, mainly via farm track, back to our start point and refreshments..
