***

Burnbank Fell, Holme Force and the woods

Burnbank Fell is situated to the west of Loweswater village and south west of the body of water with the same name. Its steep grass slopes rising above Holme Wood make for an impressive looking fell given its modest height of 475m. Its little summit cairn beside a fence corner some way back from the good views, doesn't really do the fell justice.

Holme Wood with the delightful Holme Force is a pleasant stroll in itself without any of this bagging summits stuff(!). In spring before the tree canopy shades everything below, bluebells cover the woodland floor with a sea of beautiful blues and greens. The trees are mixed conifers and deciduous.

Linking the woods with Burnbank Fell above is a remarkable terraced track giving sensational views to the Grasmoor range, and to the pastoral Vale of Lorton and Loweswater. A bench on the terrace makes an excellent lunch stop.

It is worth noting here that the route of ascent described in Wainwright's Western Fells: Burnbank Fell page 3, has little to recommend it. An easy grass slope to above an old mine level is far preferable especially as it has a good path. If wishing to view the entrance you can drop down to it from the path.

Park in the informal layby at the telephone box near Waterend at the northern end of Loweswater, where there is space for a dozen cars.