Mosedale and Pillar from Scafell crag
Way back on the 3rd of June 1903 Fred Botterill made the 1st ascent of this beautifully cleaved slab.
The FRCC guidebook quotes 'A compelling line of huge historical significance - outstanding'. I'm inclined to agree.
Since moving to the Lake District over 10 years ago, i've wanted to climb Botterill's Slab. The magic combination of good weather (what I mean here is outstandingly amazing weather), a free day, and a willing partner has taken quite some time to allow this, but the day finally arrived.
Was it worth the wait?
Absolutely. Scafell crag oozes with a powerful atmosphere, it's captivating. The combination of location, altitude, and the many historic ascents played out on these rocks, all come together to grab any climber standing at its base. To stand on Rake's progress and not be moved by all this would be difficult. I loved it.
A more in-depth report is available on our Mountain Journeys website
We will return to this majestic crag, hopefully sooner rather than later. Roll on that long, hot summer.
Thanks to Kate & Don for joining me on this to make it a proper team ascent. Don looked after the bags whilst we climbed.
Thinking of visiting the Lakes and want to sample some of the amazing rock here or enjoy a guided mountain walk? Give us a call and let's make it happen.
Mark
Botterill's Slab, Scafell
Scafell crag
Pikes crag bathed in evening light
RSS Feed
