The Duddon Valley begins west of the Three Shires stone on Wrynose Pass, where the river heads south from Pike o’ Blisco. In the west are Harter Fell and the Ulpha Fells, while to the east are Dow Crag and Coniston Old Man.

Duddon seems to encapsulate the essence of the Lakes, with Herdwick sheep roaming the fells and highland cattle grazing near Cockley Beck. It is home to Red Squirrels, Buzzards and Peregrine Falcons, while wildflowers such as Violets, Primroses, Bluebells and Wood Anemones can be found in spring and summer.

The woods at Duddon are also noted for the presence of Wood Ants, the nests of which can be seen on the woodland floor, appearing as if they are simply piles of twigs.

Within the valley is Wasdale, scene of England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike and England’s deepest lake, Wastwater. This wild area of the Lake District is renowned for its remote, quiet and dramatic landscape.

Walkers can follow the old Walna Scar road to Coniston and along it is found the village of Seathwaite, which contains the 16th century Newlands Inn, a most refreshing stopping-off point.