Sam on 'Lateral Flow' - Rock Climbing near Coniston
Betsy Crag Slabs, Tilberthwaite: Wonderful Rock Climbing near Coniston
Last autumn I’d heard about a newly cleaned slab of rock near to Tilberthwaite. These slabs apparently gave some excellent climbing in a fine setting. And with access being easy, one would assume this place would become busy. So, along with my friend Rachel, we had a quick blast up there to have a look.
As it was late in the day, we didn’t bother taking any climbing gear. This was to be purely a recce mission. What we found was promising. A fine looking slab of Lakeland Volcanic set above a grassy base and with the most glorious of outlooks.
We decided this was one to come back to in the new year, after the vagaries of winter had passed and a hint of spring would warm us once more.
And so yesterday I find myself back at Betsy Crag Slabs. This time with long time climbing partner Sam who was equally keen to check the place out. I think we both had in mind this could well be a really nice place to bring our clients on Rock Climbing days. But only us actually climbing the routes will we find out if it is a suitable place to bring our clients. And this is what we addressed yesterday.
First thing to say is, the climbing is really pleasant. The rock is of excellent quality, extremely rough and grippy, and for a newly developed crag it is surprisingly sound. We noticed only the occasional loose hold, but noting to cause concern.
I kicked things off with the climbing, leading a route called ‘Slavi Ukraini’ MVS 4b. This was a beautiful pitch of just over 20m and although it looked like the crux would be at the top, it was the mid-height slab that provided the excitement.
Then it was time for Sam to get on the sharp-end of the rope and he led us up a very lovely HS 4b that was fittingly called ‘Protuberance’. This gave a sustained pitch with fairly thin protection. Actually, protection in general is thin at this crag.
By now the wind was making us chilly and it wouldn’t be long before we’d need to head for home. So I took the reins once more and led ‘Lateral Flow’ S 4a. This starts up the VD but after a few metres branches off left onto more exciting terrain. And this was to be the final climb of the afternoon, the chilly breeze now getting the better of us.
At the top of the crag we found an in-situ abseil station and had used this each time for our descent. The 50m rope we had being just sufficient to get us back to the grassy base. Note that this isn’t the only descent method, there is a small path leading back to base too.
There is some more general information about the crag here
So, will we use this as a work venue?
Absolutely yes. It is ideal for a wide range of climbers and can be used as an introductory climbing venue. It has an easy and fairly short approach walk, the base of the crag is flat and grassy, there are wonderful views, and the rock is good. And at the top of the crag there are some excellent anchors.
Are you thinking of trying outdoor climbing here in the Lake District? If so, we can help.
We provide all the equipment and are qualified Rock Climbing Instructors. We have lived in the Lake District for approaching 20 years now and have climbed on a huge number of crags here. So we can confidently say we know the climbing here very well. But above all this, we are passionate about all things climbing.
So please do get in touch and let’s go climbing.
Thanks for reading
Mark & Kate    Â
Gearing up below the crag - Rock Climbing near Coniston
Betsy Crag Slabs - Rock Climbing near Coniston