free to be able to rate and comment on reports (as well as access 1:25000 mapping).
Finally got the chance to get out and decided on a route we had not done since 2008. A direct ascent of Ill Bell up its NE arm and then carry on round the recognised route for the Kentmere Horseshoe, only missing out Yoke.
- Ill Bell, Froswick and Thornthwaite Crag.
Setting off from Kentmere village, we took the Low Lane track up to Kentmere Resevoir, where, though the weather threatened, it managed to stay in our favour.
- Looking to High Street from the resevoir.
Carried on round the east side of the resevoir, then started our ascent.
- Ascent route.
With the snow line being quite high, this wasn't too difficult an ascent and we soon reached the top.
- Froswick & Thornthwaite from near the summit.
The summit of Ill Bell is quite distinct, as it has three large cairns.
- Ill Bell cairns, and Raven!
From here, it's an easy traverse across Froswick and Wander Scar to Thornthwaite Crag and its impressive beacon.
- Thornthwaite Beacon.
After a short stop, we headed across to High Street, were there was great views back across Froswick to Windermere.
- Froswick & Windermere.
From here, made our way across to Mardale Ill Bell and got our first sight of Haweswater.
- Blea Water and Haweswater.
Descended to Nan Bield Pass before ascending Harter Fell.
- Kentmere Res. Yoke & Ill Bell from Nan Bield Pass.
After Harter Fell, it is a long hike across the tops of Kentmere Pike and Shipman Knotts to end up at the path that will take you back to Kentmere.
- Back to Harter Fell from Kentmere Pike.
- Sundown from Shipman Knotts.