Bicentenary of the First Ascent of Pillar Rock

A meet to celebrate the first ascent of Pillar Rock on the 9th July 1826.

Pillar Rock was first climbed on the 9th July 1826 by John Atkinson, a farmer’s son from Croftfoot, Ennerdale. The main aim of the meet will be to repeat The Old West Route (Moderate) with the party starting the ascent at 11.30am on the Saturday. If the weather is good it is hoped that many other climbs of a harder nature will also be done. There will be a communal meal in the evening (time rather weather dependent!) and all who are attending the meet will be asked to bring a contribution.

Please Note: Although The Old West Route is only graded Moderate, due to its length, exposure, some vegetation and loose rock, not to mention the problem of getting down from the summit, it is not a climb for the inexperienced. However, walkers could combine a visit to the Rock via the High Level Route and the Shamrock Traverse with an ascent of Pillar Mountain. 

If the weather is terrible, the Beacon Museum in Whitehaven are planning to mount an exhibition on the Pillar Rock to mark the bicentenary which might make an agreeable alternative to soggy fell walking.