Due to ground nesting birds the land owners have been granted a 5 year dog ban.
Some of the routes contain blocks and flakes that are not above suspicion. Although there are some fine routes, the top-outs are generally serious, comprising loose peaty earth and insubstantial heather. It is not unusual for climbers to complete their routes by making sketchy traverses onto adjacent climbs with marginally better tops. There are rumours of the odd belay stake and one block, but most leaders "body" belay from a trench some metres back from the outcrop edge.
Parking and Approach
Although Esklets is situated on Open Access Land, negotiations have taken place with the land managers to minimise conflicts of usage which have caused issues in the past. The historical approach from Ralph’s Crosses (GR676020) is very hard going through thick heather and across prime grouse moor. An easier alternative approach has been suggested by the head keeper and is recommended by the BMC. This commences at a green barrier on the left hand side of the road (GR666045), approximately 2.2km from Ralph’s Crosses when heading (NW) towards Westerdale on the unclassified road. There is room to carefully park several cars on the grass verge. Take the very well made “shooters’ road” SSW initially, cutting through the attractive Clough Gill and on to the northern end of Esklets Crag after approximately 2km.
The alternative approach from Waites House Farm and along the public right of way, remains available.
CRoW Information
Open access land, designated under the Countryside & Rights of Way Act (2000) give area access rather than linear access as provided by public rights of way. It also gives a legal right of access specifically for climbing, as well as walking and other quiet recreation on foot.
Please bear in mind however that the landowner still has the right to restrict access for up to 28 days per year (often used on public safety grounds for shooting in moorland areas), and can also apply for longer term restrictions with Natural England (such as bans on dogs, or regular restrictions during particular times of year). It is important to check for these restrictions regularly as they can be added at short notice – all details for open access land in England can be found on Natural England’s website .
No Dogs (except guide, hearing or assistance dogs)