At 1000ft (300m) above sea level, Castle Crag is the smallest Wainwright included in Alfred Wainwright's Pictorial Guide to the Lake District Fells.
However despite it being the smallest, it’s not necessarily the easiest. We followed the National Trusts route from Seatoller (though we did it backwards!), which took us around half a day including a lovely stop in the small village of Grange for a hot chocolate and toilet break. The car park is National Trust which is free for members and pay & display for everyone else.
It’s a dog friendly route, however there are some scrambly bits so proper walking boots are required for the walk along with the usual preparations such as a map and waterproofs. There are also stiles and other obstacles that some dogs may struggle with.
As we climbed the final section - a zig zag walk up an old slate spoil heap from the quarry, we were overtaken by 2 very eager dogs Dotty and Storm, who raced ahead from their owners. Once we got to the top we had a quick moment to capture their portraits before the rain came in, unfortunately the weather conditions weren't perfect but we still love the images of our first Wainwright dogs.
Recommended for well prepared walkers and dogs who are used to rough terrain, unpredictable weather and obstacles such as stiles!