River Brathay

The Brathay is a river in north-west England. Its name comes from Old Norse and means broad river. It starts near the Three Shire Stone at the highest point of Wrynose Pass. The river flows through Elter Water, which marks the division between its upper and lower catchments. Its catchment area includes the northern flanks of Wetherlam and Great Carrs in the Lake District. The river also runs parallel to the Wrynose Pass road for about two miles. The Brathay is known for its fast-flowing stretches that are popular with canoeists. It descends 930 feet in a short distance after rising near Wrynose Pass. The river falls 40 feet at Colwith Force before flowing into Elter Water. It then passes under the A593 road at Skelwith Bridge and continues eastward. The river joins the River Rothay near Croft Lodge before flowing into Windermere. The river forms part of the boundary between historic Lancashire and Westmorland. It now lies within the administrative county of Cumbria. The Brathay estate, named after the river, is home to the Brathay Exploration Group and the Brathay Trust youth-development charity. The river’s stretches around Clappersgate and Skelwith Force attract visitors for canoeing. The landscape around the river includes fells and tarns, offering scenic views.