Chapel Head Scar is an imposing limestone crag above the Witherslack valley in South Cumbria. It’s loved by many outdoor enthusiasts. Whitbarrow Scar above provides great walking when the higher fells are clagged in. The cliff is undoubtedly Cumbria’s premiere hard sport climbing crag. It is unique and many of its routes are of good quality, hence it’s enduring popularity but it also provides an important refuge for peregrine falcons which nest on the crag during the spring. James Bumby, BMC Volunteer Access Co-ordinator for the Lakes gives some background to why restrictions are needed to protect cliff nesting birds in the Lakes and for this crag in particular... Read more »
Ravensdale - a fantastic trad limestone crag in the Peak District - has once again fallen victim to precautionary restrictions imposed by Natural England this year. It is a disappointing development after a number of years of established restrictions, following the BMC's standard principles for agreeing climbing restrictions working well. Read more »
Colin Knowles is one of a dedicated team of climbers using their skills and know-how to help with peregrine ringing in the South West. We asked him to tell us more about his work with these elegant falcons, and explain how other conservation-minded climbers can get involved. Read more »
The disappearance of peregrine chicks from the Roaches Upper Tier in Staffordshire is a bitter blow following five years of successful breeding and an immense co-operative effort between nature conservation bodies, local volunteers and user groups – including climbers. Read more »
The BMC recently accompanied John Lawton-Roberts (expert on birds of the Eglwyseg Valley) on a site visit to review the area's nest sites. Read more »
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