Priest Hole Cave - Wild Camping With a Difference

Jun 16

A cave hidden high up on the side of Dove Crag, the "Priest's Hole" makes for a great micro adventure. Upon arrival, you’ll feel almost as though you’ve stumbled into a bothy; there was a collection of tarps & groundsheets left by previous users, a couple of cup-a-soups and even a visitors book and a pen - although there isn't much space left! We were lucky enough to only have to share the cave with one other person but it could easily sleep 8-10 people. No reservations can be made however, so you never know who you might be sleeping next to. Id definitely recommend carrying a tent in case its full and you end up having to sleep on the summit of Dove Crag.

The letterbox entrance sits at an elevation of over 2,100 feet and has a low wall to keep out the worst of the elements. On a clear day you can see the cave whilst following the route from Brothers Water, the path is clear and easy to follow. The cave appears as a dark egg-shaped shadow near the top of the crag - try and find the path that weaves its way up to the opening from a large Boulder, perhaps use Google images before your trip to familiarise yourself with what your looking for. Hey, we found it in the dark!

Waking up in the morning you will be greeted by probably the best sunrise in the Lake District and after a strong coffee you will be ready to bag some wainwrights. Fairfield is accessible after reaching the top of Dove Crag. I would highly recommend spending a night in the Priest's hole it's almost a rite of passage for outdoor enthusiasts I will be spending many more summer nights there!