View of Brothers Water from Brock Crags
View of Brothers Water from Brock Crags
Highlight • Viewpoint
Hiking
4.9
(38)
The "View of Brothers Water from Brock Crags" offers a classic Lake District vista from a prominent fell in the Far Eastern Fells. Brock Crags, standing at 562 meters (1,844 ft), is part of the perimeter of Martindale and lies on a long ridge stretching from Rampsgill Head to Place Fell. This intermediate viewpoint provides a stunning perspective over Brothers Water, one of the region's smaller and more tranquil lakes, nestled in the picturesque Hartsop valley.
What truly captivates visitors…
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June 25, 2021
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Best routes to View of Brothers Water from Brock Crags
4.8
(15)
132
hikers
14.9km
05:19
800m
800m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(2)
19
hikers
16.0km
05:57
980m
980m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
22
hikers
7.98km
02:54
430m
430m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Elevation 550 m
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Brock Crags stands at an elevation of 562 meters (1,844 ft) above sea level. A large cairn typically marks its summit.
Parking is available in the vicinity of Hartsop village, which is near Brothers Water. However, parking areas can fill up quickly, especially during peak season or on weekends. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of Brothers Water and Brock Crags are limited. It's advisable to check local bus services operating in the wider Lake District area, particularly those serving Patterdale or Glenridding, and plan for a longer walk or taxi connection to reach the trailheads near Hartsop.
While the main ascent to Brock Crags is considered an intermediate hike with steep and potentially boggy sections, there are more family-friendly walks around Brothers Water itself. The flatter paths along the lake shore offer a gentler experience, and families with older, experienced children might enjoy the challenge of the fell walk.
Yes, the area is generally dog-friendly, offering many opportunities for walks with your canine companion. However, dogs should be kept on a lead, especially when passing through farmland where livestock may be present, and during ground-nesting bird season. Always remember to clean up after your dog.
Winter hiking on Brock Crags can be challenging. The terrain can become very boggy, icy, or covered in snow, making navigation difficult. Shorter daylight hours and rapidly changing weather conditions require hikers to be well-prepared with appropriate winter gear, including warm layers, waterproofs, sturdy boots, and potentially ice axes or crampons depending on conditions. Experience in winter fell walking is recommended.
Beyond Brothers Water, the area boasts several interesting natural features. Angle Tarn, a scenic mountain lake, lies just west of the depression between Brock Crags and Angletarn Pikes. Brothers Water itself is shallow and rich in reeds, with water lilies blooming in July, and is home to a rare species of fish called schelly. The surrounding fells also showcase diverse geological formations.
A popular circular route from Low Hartsop includes Brock Crags, extending to Rest Dodd and The Nab. This walk typically takes around four to five hours and offers a chance to bag three Wainwrights in one outing. Hikers can find detailed route descriptions and maps to plan their journey.
The immediate vicinity of Brothers Water and Hartsop is quite rural with limited facilities. However, you can find pubs and cafes in nearby villages such as Patterdale or Glenridding, which are a short drive or a longer walk away. These establishments offer a chance to refuel and relax after your hike.
The terrain on the hike to Brock Crags is varied. While there are clear paths, sections can be steep and rocky. Hikers should also be prepared for boggy ground, especially after rainfall, which can make some parts of the ascent and descent challenging. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential.
From Brock Crags, the primary and most celebrated view is the picturesque panorama over Brothers Water towards the fells of the Fairfield Horseshoe. Additionally, hikers can enjoy wide views of surrounding fells like Hartsop Dodd and Gray Crag. On a clear day, glimpses of other bodies of water such as Ullswater, Angle Tarn, and Hayeswater can also be seen, offering a truly expansive vista.
Brothers Water was originally known as 'Broad Water'. Its name reportedly changed in the 19th century after two brothers tragically drowned there. Historical accounts suggest this event may have occurred twice, with different pairs of brothers, one instance potentially in the late 18th century and another around 1812.