Wasdale Climbing

The traditional center of rock climbing in Britain. Although rock climbs were done prior to the ascents here, it is the ascent of Napes Needle by Hasket Smith in 1886 which is popularly regarded as the UK's first rock climb which satisfied the requirements of such - i.e doing it for its own sake.

Wasdale Head is at the end of the moody valley where lies Wastwater (a large mountain lake) - surrounded by the greatest of English peaks, Scafell, Scafell Pike, and Great Gable.
Notable crags are:

• Scafell Crag
• The Napes
• Pillar Rock

All of them can claim to have magnificent traditional mountain routes.

Where to stay
Although there are some local B&B's and Inns, The Wasdale Head Inn is the place to stay (get reservations) because it is steeped in climbing history and old pictures and climbing gear adorn the walls. An alternate is Strands Hotel at Nether Wasdale, they have mirco-brewery on site!!! There's also a large campsite, for those inclined or short of cash, nice if the weather's fine.