Wild Ennerdale
“Ennerdale is a spectacular upland landscape with rock outcrops, extensive woodland, dynamic natural rivers, a glacial lake and highly valued flora & fauna. Established in 2003, Wild Ennerdale is a partnership of people and organisations led by the principal landowners in the valley, The Forestry Commission, National Trust and United Utilities with the support of Natural England.”
From the Wild Ennerdale Partnership Briefing Notes.
“To allow the evolution of Ennerdale as a wild valley for the benefit of people, relying more on natural processes to shape its landscape and ecology”
The Wild Ennerdale Vision.
For more information on the Wild Ennerdale Partnership please see their website at www.wildennerdale.co.uk
This is one of a series of caches that follows the ‘Big Valley’ cycle route in Ennerdale. The route is wholly on good forest roads. There is a ford that has to be crossed at the head of the route. This may be impractical during, and just after, periods of heavy rain. The total distance is around 11½ miles. A shorter loop is available by crossing the river at the Middle Bridge, giving a ride of about 7½ miles. The whole route is virtually traffic free. There is no vehicular access to the general public beyond the car park at Bowness Knott. See waypoint.
Bowness Knott is located at N 54° 31.537 W 003° 22.601
British Grid: NY 10999 15351
The route is not waymarked, but should be fairly obvious – up the north side, and back down the south. An OS map may be useful – or the ‘Big Valley Cycle Ride’ map is available from local accommodation providers in the valley, Caravan sites and Tourist Information centres at Whitehaven, Cockermouth and Egremont or you can download one from the Wild Ennerdale website.
The caches are all placed with the agreement of the Forestry Commission. All the caches are simple 330ml clip lock boxes. As ever with me, they are ‘tat free zones’ containing only a log book and pencil. Please use the hints as we want minimal disturbance to the area.
Refreshments are available at Ennerdale Youth Hostel between April and October, which is located at Gillerthwaite, between the caches at ‘Irish Bridge’ and ‘Gillflinter Beck’.
I am aware of two places locally offering cycle hire.
Braemar Bikes in Whitehaven, 01946 813112
Ainfield Cycles in Cleator Moor, 01946 812427
They both have a bike collection service for the very popular C2C ride, so may well be prepared to arrange to meet you at Bownesss Knott car park - you can but ask!
Middle Bridge
This is the place to cross over the river if you are only doing the shorter circuit. Your next cache will be High Beck. The River Liza is considered one of the 'wildest' in England, in that no attempt has been made to contain it. It is known for its braiding and frequent changes of course.