Brock Crags

Brock Crags is a fell in the English Lake District, rising above the village of Hartsop in Cumbria. It sits on the long ridge that stretches from Rampsgill Head to Place Fell, forming part of the perimeter of Martindale. The fell includes a narrow climbing ridge that leads eastwards to Rest Dodd, with steep ground on both sides. Satura Crag overlooks the head of Bannerdale on the north face, while Prison Crag is halfway down the southern flank. Goldrill Beck flows from Hayeswater Gill near Hartsop village and continues northwards towards Ullswater. Brock Crags is worth the journey for its dramatic topography and fine views. The fell has two main tops, with the lower one marked by an OS spot height. A higher unnamed top at 1,870 ft was ignored in Wainwright’s guide, highlighting differences between his Pictorial Guide and more systematic hill lists. The fell’s circular high ground is about half a mile across, with several rocky knolls and subsidiary heights like Cat Crag at 1,645 ft. The steeply gouged head of Bannerdale forms the northeastern flank, adding to the fell’s rugged character. A visitor finds a small tarn between the two highest knolls at the summit, offering fine all-round views. The ascent from Hartsop is short and simple, though the upper section has no clear path. The main walkers’ route from Patterdale to High Street follows a clear path along the ridge, passing just below the true summit. Below Lingy Crag on the western side, there is an area of broadleaved plantation above Goldrill Beck. The steep slopes and rocky outcrops make Brock Crags a rewarding destination for walkers seeking varied terrain and scenic views.