From the high ground of Greenup Edge, the upper Langstrath Valley unfolds below — a rugged corridor of water and stone. Here, Allencrags Gill plunges between the towering faces of Allen Crags and Tongue Head before merging with Stake Beck beneath Low White Stones. This upper reach marks the headwaters of Langstrath Beck and the end point of the Cumbria Way ascent over Stake Pass from Martcrag Moor.

The Cumbria Way keeps to the east bank of Langstrath Beck, but a smoother path follows the western side as far as Blackmoss Pot. Beyond that point, it becomes rougher and fades into rock and bracken. Many hikers therefore take the west-bank trail to the Pot before crossing back to join the Cumbria Way near Johnny House, where a series of footbridges span the beck along this beautiful glacial valley.

Langstrath Beck is alive with waterfalls and cascades along its entire length. In wet weather they become spectacular — white ribbons tumbling from ledge to ledge through the narrow glen. The roar and spray fill the air, and even the most seasoned walker pauses, unable to resist the elemental power of the valley.

At Smithymire Island, the meeting of Greenup Gill and Langstrath Beck marks the beginning of one of Borrowdale’s most beautiful valleys. From here, the path leads into Langstrath’s long glacial corridor, where each step reveals grander mountain views and the unfolding elegance of rugged Lakeland scenery.