| Caldbeck Moor Quarry is a disused quarry, set on the fells, about three miles west-north-west of Caldbeck. It faces east and has an open aspect. The climbing is contained on the one hundred and fifty metre long back wall and has a maximum height of ten metres. The rock is limestone, of variable quality, requiring some care on finishes. Belays are absent on top and stakes could be useful.
The wall has few distinguishing features and the established climbs are on the more obviously stable sections. More climbs could be available for the determined trundler.
Approaches & Access
The best approach from Penrith and the M6 (Junction 41), is to follow the B5305 (Wigton road) through Sebergham to the crossroads at Goose Green (String Of Horses Public House) and turn right on the B5299 for Caldbeck. Follow this road, uphill and over Warnell Fell, passing the turn off for Park Head Quarry on the left at the sharp right-hand corner. Continue to the next crossroads a distance of just over one mile and go directly across onto the unfenced fell road. This is followed for two and a half miles to another crossroads where a signpost points right to Wigton and westward. Turn right and, after another mile, the quarry will be seen on the left-hand side of the road by a disused building. It is possible to drive into the quarry. The quarry belongs to the local council and access is not a problem.
However Barry Clarke notes: still more potential here, but cleaning and trundling required. There are two stakes atop the Main Wall. Access: It is 1.7 miles to the crossroads across the moor, rather than 2.5 miles. The right turn here is signposted to a caravan park and after half a mile the quarry appears on the left. You can't drive in any more as there is a metal gate across the track. Finally, the building has been demolished!
The climbs are described from left to right. Descent is via a grassy ramp towards the left end of the wall and all the routes are to the right of this. |
