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Rock climbing

The limestone scars are used by rock climbers, both those living locally and those driven away from the Lake District in their search for dry rock. There are many small outcrops, some of which form valuable gymnasiums for dedicated unroped climbers to train on problems of great difficulty. (Note This brief résumé of the climbing in the area is intended to enlighten non-rock climbers using this guide. Climbing should only be done with proper equipment and the necessary knowhow.)

On the edge of Warton village there is a car park in a small quarry, where climbers can often be seen. On a terrace about half-way up the hill and almost directly above the Main Quarry is another little horizontal scar, the Pinnacle Crag, named after a small pinnacle at its foot. After playing here, climbers move on to the short open scar which crowns the top of the hill. This is Warton Upper Crag, the most popular for climbers of medium standard.

Warton Main Quarry is a complete contrast. Climbs here are up to 70m long on loose rock in very serious situations. Since the first climb was made in 1970 it has been networked with routes, the best of which are very impressive. Quarry climbing is a relatively recent development which caused concern on the part of quarry owners. It is a shame that in these days of increased leisure activities quarries are not recognized for what they are: valuable assets as a sporting facility for young people. Some councils spend thousands of pounds on creating climbing walls and bar access to natural facilities! Climbing is allowed at the quarry but access is restricted during the peregrine falcon nesting season from March to June.