Cathedral Cave from Elterwater

The route

Start at Elterwater and head into Little Langdale, following woodland and valley paths for 12.2km with around 320m of climbing. The loop links the shore of Elter Water, the River Brathay, and the old quarry ground above Little Langdale, before returning through Skelwith. It is a low, sheltered route by Lakeland standards, which makes it a strong choice when the fells are wild.

Cathedral Cave

The highlight sits in the Cathedral Quarries above Little Langdale. Cathedral Cave is a huge worked chamber in the green slate, with a single pillar left to hold the roof and a natural window of daylight breaking through the dark. It is a short detour off the main line and well worth the stop. Nearby, the 17th-century Slater Bridge, a slim packhorse crossing of the Brathay, is one of the most photographed spots in the valley.

Why it works

This is a route about texture rather than height: waterfalls, woodland, slate history and river crossings, all within a compact loop. The ground is mostly good path with some rocky, uneven quarry sections and tree roots underfoot, so it is not fast, but it is endlessly interesting. It suits an easy day, a run with company, or a first taste of Langdale that does not commit you to the high fells. Navigation is straightforward on clear paths, though the quarry area needs care: the caves are unlit, the ground is uneven, and the drops are real. Take a torch if you want to explore inside, keep to firm footing, and treat the wet slate as the slick surface it is. Elterwater village, with the Britannia Inn, waits at the finish. It is a strong choice with kids or less experienced runners, since the distance is short and the interest never lets up.