button to main menu   West's Guide to the Lakes, 1778/1821

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Page 237:-
rays of our candles, so as to form the most romantic vibrations and appearances upon the variegated roof. The sides too, are not less remarkable for fine colouring: the damp, the creeping vegetables, and the seams in the marble and limestone parts of the rock, make as many tints as are seen in the rainbow, and are covered with a perpetual varnish from the just-weeping springs that trickle from the roof. The curious in grottos, cascades, &c. might here obtain a just taste of nature. When we arrived at the mouth, and once more hailed all-chearing day-light, I could not help but admire the uncouth manner in which nature has thrown together those huge rocks, which compose the arch over the entrance; but, as if conscious of its rudeness, she has clothed it with trees and shrubs of the most various and beautiful verdure, which bend downwards, and with their leaves cover all the rugged parts of the rock. As I never met with an account of this place in any other author, I therefore think it the greater curiosity; but its obscure situation I take to be the reason.
(Parties, returning from the tour of the lakes to Lancaster, who choose to see the above natural curiosity, must leave the Lancaster road to the left, at the guide-post for Kellet, about four miles from Burton. When in the village (a mile farther on) enquire for the road to the mill, which is then near two miles distant. Perhaps, when arrived at the cavern, if the traveller should not think it equal to his expectations and trouble, it may yield him some compensation to enjoy one of the better prospects in the country, which is then about a mile off. Though hitherto unnoticed, a good deal, I think might justly be said in its praise; but previous description is generally more tiresome than welcome. To find this view, proceed eastward, in the direction of the last lane leading to the mill, to the top of the highest rise that you will see on the common before you, and you will be at the station. A very little to the east, you will see a good road on the moor leading to Lancaster, distant about four miles, and the ride will soon entertain with several agreeable objects on the banks of the Lune.)
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