Black Combe & the Irish Sea

• Outstanding views throughout
• Follow the splendid grassy path
• Aloof from the nearby hills

William Wordsworth once described Black Combe as having the ‘amplest range of unobstructed prospect may be seen that British ground commands’. The reality is that only in Scotland do you find such hills that rise almost from the sea itself and present themselves so dramatically. To the North and East the long Ulpha ridge leads in to the heart of the Lake District The views out to sea are simply stunning; my recommendation is to climb Black Combe on a summer’s evening where the soft light does give a real feeling of peace and tranquility.

The climb is quite steep, particularly initially, but the path is excellent and height is quickly gained. Soon the western end of the Lakes proper appear and it is well worth taking time to view these from a direction almost never seen. A map helps! However the views to the sea need no map; Wales, Ireland and Scotland can all be seen along with the Isle of Man as this whale back hill has sea views in 3 directions. The only problem with the walk is the access due to the long drive to the village of Whicham whether via the north or the east. Maybe though that is part of the appeal.

Recommend. Best done on a warm summer’s evening where you can stop and relax in to the views

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© Crown copyright 2010 Ordnance Survey. Image produced from the Ordnance Survey Get-a-map service. Image reproduced with kind permission of Ordnance Survey and Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland.

OS Map:	O/S 1/25,000. OL6 Lake District South West Section
Start Point:	827135. Pull off the main road near the church at Whicham and aim for the obvious fellside path
Terrain:	Black Combe is at 1970' and the start is low. The pull up is steep but for once the path is so good it is hardly noticeable!
Eating & Drinking:	The local pub appeared on the verge of closing when I visited and the recommendation anyway is to travel to the village of Millom or further afield.
Similar Walks Nearby:	Fells over the Duddon Valley Craggy frolics over Eskdale Muncaster Fell, Ravenglass
Places to Stay: