Barf (Lake District) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Barf |
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Barf and Beckstones
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 468 m (1,535 ft) |
| Prominence | c. 20 m |
| Parent peak | Lord's Seat |
| Listing | Wainwright |
| Geography | |
 Barf
Location in Lake District
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| Location | Cumbria, England |
| Parent range | Lake District, North Western Fells |
| OS grid | NY216267 |
| Topo map | OS Landranger 89, 90, Explorer OL4 |
Barf is a special hill, known as a fell, located in the north-western part of the Lake District in Cumbria, UK. It stands proudly on the south-western shore of Bassenthwaite Lake. Barf is well-known for a unique white stone pillar on its lower slopes. This pillar is often called the "Bishop's Rock" or "Bishop of Barf." The name "Barf" might come from an old word meaning "burgh," which refers to a fortified place or hill.
Contents
Exploring Barf: A Lake District Fell
Barf is actually connected to a larger hill called Lord's Seat. However, Alfred Wainwright, a famous author who wrote guides about the Lakeland Fells, decided to give Barf its own special status as a separate fell.
The Steep Eastern Side of Barf
The eastern side of Barf is very steep. It's like a big wall of loose rocks, called scree, that goes all the way down to the road between Keswick and Cockermouth, and also to the edge of the lake. This steep slope drops about 900 feet in just a quarter of a mile! Higher up, the scree turns into rough and loose rocky cliffs, with Slape Crag being the main one.
Barf's Boundaries and Surroundings
To the south, Barf is bordered by Beckstones Gill. This is a stream that flows down from near the top of Lord's Seat, creating small waterfalls along the way. At the bottom of the hill, it passes by the old Swan Hotel and flows into the lake.
North of Barf, there's another stream that flows into the lake at a place called Woodend. While the areas around Barf are covered in conifer trees, Barf itself is mostly bare. There's only a small section of leafy trees at the very bottom.
Connecting to Lord's Seat
You can reach Lord's Seat from Barf by walking across a wide, heather-covered area to the west of Barf's summit. It's generally an easy walk, though you might find a few wet, boggy spots.
The Mystery of the Bishop of Barf
One of the most interesting features of Barf is the "Bishop of Barf." This is a white-painted stone that stands about 700 feet up the hill. You can see it clearly from the road!
The Legend of the Bishop
Local stories say that the Bishop of Derry was killed here in 1783. The legend claims he fell from his horse after a challenge that he could ride up the steep hill. People say both the Bishop and his horse are buried near a smaller stone at the bottom of the hill, which is called the Clerk.
However, this story isn't quite true. The real Bishop of Derry at that time actually died 20 years later in Italy. But his interesting life probably inspired this imaginative tale!
Keeping the Bishop White
For many years, staff from the nearby Swan Hotel would whitewash the stone every year. Now, members of the Keswick Mountain Rescue team continue this tradition, keeping the Bishop of Barf bright and visible. The Bishop stone is about 7 feet tall on its shortest side, while the Clerk is a much smaller, cone-shaped stone.
Rocks and Old Mines of Barf
Barf is made up of Ordovician rocks, which are very old. These rocks are mostly a type of sandstone called Greywacke. You can also see older rocks from the Skiddaw group on the lower eastern slopes.
Mining History
There's also evidence of old mining activity near Barf. People used to mine small amounts of lead and zinc here between 1532 and 1891. The main minerals they found were blende, cerussite, and galena.
The View from Barf's Summit
The very top of Barf is a small, grassy area, not far from the steep eastern slope. From here, you get an amazing view! You can see Skiddaw and Longside Edge to the east, with Bassenthwaite Lake sparkling in front. You can also spot some of the Eastern and Southern Fells. While Lord's Seat blocks some of the view to the west, you can still catch a glimpse of the sea.
Climbing Barf
If you're thinking of climbing Barf, there are a few ways to do it.
The Direct Route via the Bishop
Climbing directly up the hill, past the Bishop stone, is a very challenging route. It's described as a "very stiff scramble" and is only for people who are very strong and energetic. It's not really a gentle walk!
Easier Paths
A path further to the south, following Beckstones Gill, might be a better choice if you're looking for an easier climb. You can also reach Barf by first climbing Lord's Seat and then walking over to Barf.
