The Northern Fells occupy a circular area about 10 miles in diameter. The centre is slightly lower, an area of upland grazing and marshland known as Skiddaw Forest. This name may be misleading since the only trees form the windbreak of Skiddaw House. This isolated building, was once a shepherd's bothy. It currently serves as a youth hostel. Skiddaw Forest stands at the head of the three major rivers of the Northern Fells. The Caldew, Dash Beck and the Glenderaterra. These streams divide the circular area into three distinct sections.
With amber rain warnings and yellow wind warnings, I knew ridge lines would be too dangerous, and many valleys and gulleys would be channelling wind over 60mph. Still keen to make the most of being in the lake district, we opted for a route sheltered from the SW to protect from the prevailing wind direction, with good paths along the old coach road and easy access so we could turn back if it was necessary.
