Dave Birkett claims that the rock offered by Black Crag, on the southern slopes of Pike of Blisco, is among the best that the Lakes, and for that matter, the Peak has to offer. The guidebook describes it as, "A marvellous outcrop of excellent clean rock - its roughness matches the best of gritstone and Skye gabbro."

Praise indeed, and, as a result, us rock jockeys were desperate to make our way over to Wrynose to give it a try. Although the crags themselves lie almost as high as the langdale Pikes themselves, the walk in is relatively short and simple thanks to being able to park by the Three Shires Stone, at the top of Wrynose Pass.

There are, however, several outcrops in the area so it is important you get the right one. The bouldering potential in the area must be among the best in the Lakes, and it is common to see a fair few crash mats with legs wandering around.

It can also get quite cold due to the height of the crags and their exposed nature, but the fact that they extend round a corner means you can generally find somewhere reasonably sheltered.

The routes we did when we went certainly didn't disappoint. Classic lines, classic rock and classic holds in a great situation. All the routes are single pitch and are reasonably well protected.

Definite ticks:

The First Touch (E1 5b)
Anne's Agony (HVS 5b)
Glass Slipper (E2 5b)
The Pinnacle (VDiff)