It is tempting to think that Grasmoor is named as such because of it's 'grassiness' but the name has only a single 's' and derives from the same root as its neighbour Grisedale Pike referring to 'Grice' or wild boar. It is the highest of the north western fells at 852 meters.
After being dropped off near to the cattle grid opposite Lanthwaite Green Farm we walked along the road towards the car park to join the path (NY159209) taking us steadily uphill along the lovely Gasgale Gill with Gasgale Crags and Whiteside on our left and Grasmoor on our right.
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We were surprised at how much water was flowing down Liza Beck, the sound of cascading water accompanying us all the way up to Coledale Hause, particularly towards the top of the gill where there are several waterfalls. The path was fairly easy although at one or two points care had to be taken where the path had eroded. This was a great start to a wonderful Lakeland walk - fantastic views, sunny with a gentle breeze and the constant sound of rushing water. We stopped here for a coffee break overlooking the beck.
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By now there was a gentle cool breeze which took the edge of the increasing heat and made us glad we had chosen this walk instead of the lower level walks which we suspected would have been a lot hotter.
By the time we reached Coledale Hause we had a good view of the ridge joining Whiteside, Hopegill Head and Grisdale Pike. This looked impressive so we mentally noted it for another day. From here we turned south towards Grasmoor. Not far from here the map shows a Y-junction where the right fork is the 'right of way' to Grasmoor but we couldn't see it on the ground. Instead we continued on a very clear, well maintained path until reaching the path on our left coming down from Crag Hill. Here we turned right and after a short walk uphill found a suitable spot for lunch.
We continued climbing and after a false summit, marked with a cairn, arrived at the summit of Grasmoor. From here there are stunning views of many summits including High Stile and Red Pike close to Buttermere as well as many further afield. Of course we had to pose for photographs at the summit cairn. |
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We retraced our steps for a while before joining a path taking us to Whiteless Pike via Wandhope Moss and Whiteless Edge.
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More stunning views from here including the Red Pike, High Stile, High Crag and Haystack ridge, Robinson, Fleetwith Edge and the three lakes of Buttermere, Crummock Water and Loweswater. A couple with a large terrier walked by, the dog looking hot and dejected. We had another refreshment stop before continuing steadily downhill towards Buttermere. |
We came across the dog again but by now it had slipped it's leash and was looking much happier, enjoying itself chasing sheep! It would look a lot less happy if a farmer turned up. Later we could see the couple looking for the dog but it didn't seem in any hurry to rejoin them on their walk.
When we reached the road we had a decision to make - do we turn right back to the bus to get rid of our rucksacks and boots or do we go straight to the pub. Surprisingly enough the pub option won so we had a short walk to the Fish Inn where we found some seats in the shade and drunk our cool drinks while we waited for the other groups to arrive from their walks. A great end to a brilliant days walking! |