Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Wetherlam from Tilberthwaite by the old mine tracks and Wetherlam Edge. It is 9.1 km long with 823 m of ascent, reaching the 762 m summit before returning by the same general line. The route packs a lot into a compact distance: quarry workings, rough upland tracks and a steep rocky ridge with some easy hands-on ground.
Leave the Tilberthwaite parking area and follow the track past the old workings into the upper valley. Continue towards Dry Cove Bottom, then use the miners' paths climbing towards Birk Fell and Birk Fell Hawse. From the hawse, turn onto Wetherlam Edge. The ridge rises about 200 metres in a short distance and becomes rocky, with several places where hands help balance, but difficulties can usually be avoided on the worn line. The gradient eases near the broad summit plateau and the main cairn. Return down Wetherlam Edge to the hawse and retrace the mine tracks to Tilberthwaite.
Mine entrances, shafts and spoil heaps are dangerous and should be viewed only from the path. The upper route is exposed to wind, while wet or icy rock makes Wetherlam Edge much harder. Take a map and compass because tracks split repeatedly around the workings, and leave time for a careful descent. If the ridge is beyond your comfort level, turn around at Birk Fell Hawse rather than searching for an easier line on steep ground.
The mine tracks tell the story of Tilberthwaite; Wetherlam Edge supplies the steep finish.
TrailTrack
Route Waypoints
Start from the parking area at Low Tilberthwaite. Take the established track into the old quarry and mine landscape.
Follow the main track past spoil and stone buildings. Keep away from fenced shafts, adits and unstable quarry faces.
Continue uphill on the miners' route beside the gill, checking the GPX where tracks branch around the workings.
Reach the rougher upper valley and keep west towards Birk Fell. Wet ground can collect around the flatter sections.
Climb the pitched and stony path through further mine remains, keeping to the established line.
Reach the small col at the foot of Wetherlam Edge. This is the place to assess wind, cloud and the condition of the rocks.
Climb the steep rocky edge, using hands where helpful, then cross easier ground to the 762 m summit cairn.
Descend Wetherlam Edge carefully to the hawse and retrace the miners' tracks through Dry Cove Bottom to the start.
Essential Tips
Old shafts and adits may be hidden or unstable. Stay on the path, obey barriers and never enter the workings.
The ridge is steep and rocky. If wet rock, ice, wind or cloud make it uncomfortable, turn back from Birk Fell Hawse.
There are short rocky steps where three points of contact are sensible. Poles may be better packed away for the steepest section.
Quarry and mining tracks criss-cross the lower route. Use the GPX with a map and compass rather than assuming the widest track is yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is Wetherlam Edge?
It's a steep rocky ridge with about 200 metres of climb where you'll need to use your hands in places for balance. The route is graded 'Severe' and the difficulties can usually be avoided on the worn line, but wet or icy rock makes it much harder.
Where should I park for Wetherlam from Tilberthwaite?
Park at the Tilberthwaite Car Park at Low Tilberthwaite (grid reference NY 305 010). The route starts directly from there.
Can I turn back if Wetherlam Edge looks too difficult?
Yes, absolutely. Birk Fell Hawse at 3.6 km is the place to assess conditions and turn around if the ridge looks uncomfortable — don't search for easier lines on steep ground.