Valley of Desolation

This tranquil valley owes its name to the desolation caused by the great storm in 1826. Nature has long since repaired the devastation. In 1999 eight thousand trees were planted and interpretation introduced to illustrate the natural succession of plants and trees thought likely to have developed along the valley and on the immediate fells since the end of the last Ice Age.

Follow the trail up the valley and see how the landscape has changed over the last 14, 000 years. Since the ice retreated the waters in the gill have deepened the valley creating spectacular waterfalls.

Please note dogs are not allowed on this path and it may be closed for shooting between August and December or if there is a risk of fire.