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The road over Gatescarth, between Branstree and Harter Fell, is
steep on both sides, yet such as a horse may be ridden, or rather
led; and from the highest part there is an extensive view towards
the sea. The pass from Kentmere, over Nan Bield between Harter
Fell and High Street, is still more difficult.
Mardale Green, to which the road descends, is about 15 miles from
Kendal, and the same from Penrith; it is bounded by the mountains
Branstree, Harter Fell, and High Street. From the last of which a
narrow ridge, called Long Stile, projects so far as to seclude it
from the other parts of the valley; and beyond this rises the
apex of Kidstow Pike. Here are two or three dwellings, one of
which is a public-house; and the Dun Bull on Mardale Green will
be no alarming or unwelcome object to the weary traveller.
But it will generally be found most convenient to visit Hawes
Water from Penrith, by way of Eamont Bridge; turning to the right
at Arthur's Round Table, to Askham 5 miles; thence by Helton, and
Butterswick, to Bampton, nearly 5 more. From many parts of the
road, the Castle and noble woods of Lowther, with the lofty
limestone rocks of Knipe Scar, are important objects.
Leaving Bampton Grange, with it church, on the left hand, two
miles more bring us in sight of Hawes Water. Some will content
themselves with travelling a couple of miles along the banks of
the
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