Blakethwaite Dams, Gunnerside Gill

Starting at Surrender Bridge on the Low Row to Langthwaite Road, we follow the old miners’ trails on a steady ascent of nearly 1000′ over four miles past the Old Gang Smelt Mill to the large Blakethwaite Dams.  The upper dam is made of massive stone blocks and the lower dam mainly earth and rough stones.  These dams provided waterpower for mining in the upper part of Gunnerside Gill.

Cost: £8.00

Time 4-5 hours, 9 miles, difficultly moderate (but hard in hot weather).

Please bring packed lunch.

Dogs welcome.

Please note that we will not descend into Gunnerside Gill so this walk will visit the Blakethwaite dams only. There will be however the opportunity to discuss/describe the principal mining in the Gill such as St. Francis and Bunton mines, plus Blakethwaite Peat Store/Smelt Mill and inform another days walk!