The western Lake District in Cumbria is more sparsely populated, and less visited, than some of the 'honeypot' centres in the centre of the county. This is less a reflection of the scenery - where rugged mountains swept westwards towards the Irish Sea - and more an indication of the increased travel time to reach these beautiful valleys. Going the extra distance is worthwhile though, as this view proves.
Slightly right of centre, almost due north, is Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain. To the right, following up the valley, the steep road of Hardknott Pass climbs upwards. This is one of England's more challenging roads; steep gradients and single tracked, it follows an ancient route through the mountains. The square outline of the old Roman military fort can just be made out part-way up the hill.
This was photographed during a short trek from Duddondale across to Eskdale.
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