Description

The steep, juggy walls of Windgather host a delightful selection of short but spectacular routes, mainly in the lower grades, though difficult-to-arrange protection on certain climbs means novice leaders need to choose carefully. The crag sits in lofty hilltop position, offering panoramic views across the surrounding landscape. Inevitably, with such a wealth of short, low-grade routes, Windgather tends to attract instructional groups...

Conditions and Aspect: The cliff faces due west and is fully exposed to the prevailing weather, be it afternoon sunshine or storms blowing in from the Irish Sea. The hilltop position means seepage is minimal and this, combined with its open aspect and lack of tree cover, allows the crag to dry very rapidly after periods of rain.

Windgather Rocks

The area is access sensitive!

The crag and the land beneath it are owned by the Peak Park Planning Board, who are very happy for people to climb here. However, users must stick strictly to the marked approach path and under no circumstances cross the barbed wire fences holding livestock.

Approach: The crag overlooks the village of Kettleshulme, which is situated on the B5470 Whaley Bridge-to-Macclesfield road. Approaching from Whaley Bridge, approximately 300m after passing a signpost marking the boundary of Cheshire, turn left onto Clayhall Road (signposts for Goyt Valley and Saltersford) and follow the narrow lane steeply uphill for about 2km to park in lay-bys directly below the crag. Approaching via Macclesfield it is quicker to turn right onto Side End Lane (the first right turn on entering Kettleshulme) and follow this to its junction with Clayhall Road. From the parking area, cross the stile and follow the fenced-in walkway to the base of the crag (2 minutes).