Birks Bridge
Birks Bridge crossing over the ravine on the River Duddon
The River Duddon flows through some of the most beautiful, remote and least-visited areas of the Lake District National Park. Narrow lanes and difficult access to major roads make the Duddon Valley one of the most unspoilt areas of the National Park.
The first time I arrived in the Duddon Valley (also known as Dunnerdale) I had driven from Ambleside over Wrynose Pass, a single track road with gradients of 1 in 4. The experience of meeting large amounts of traffic on this narrow pass and the number of knocks to my side mirrors made me reconsider continuing on to the much steeper Hardknott Pass. I decided that both me and the car had suffered enough so took the safer route through Cockley Beck and the Duddon Valley.
Between Cockley Beck and Seathwaite is the small hamlet of Birks, with a cluster of old buildings that are now used as an outdoor centre. Immediately after the centre you come to Birks Bridge, on an old track next to the road. Travelling towards Seathwaite the bridge is easily missed but it is more visible from the opposite direction.
The fast flowing River Duddon passing through a narrow ravine immediately upstream of the bridge
Birks Bridge is a typical old stone Lakeland packhorse bridge across a ravine on the River Duddon. The name originally comes from the large number of birch trees in the area; and over time 'birch' has changed into 'birk'. The picturesque bridge dates to the 18th century.
The bridge is listed Grade II for its historic interest. One interesting feature is a series of drainage holes built into the bridge parapets that also provide viewing windows of the river below.
The narrowness of the bridge has caused some problems over time; according to a local legend there was a resident of Birks who used to go into the Newfield Inn in Seathwaite for a drink, and when he tried to drive his horse and cart home after too much to drink he would regularly become stuck on the bridge. The Inn is said to have been one of Wordsworth’s most favourite places to stay in this area of the Lake District.
Downstream of Birks Bridge the River Duddon is transformed into quiet pools that have become a popular location for wild swimming
The ravine beneath the bridge has been smoothed by by erosion due to the water and just downstream of the bridge the river becomes calmer with clear pools set amongst the large boulders that form its banks. These pools have become popular as a place for wild swimming, though high water levels after heavy rain can make this a dangerous pastime.
Continuing on from the bridge the road rises above the river before eventually descending into Seathwaite. To the side of the road the river drops through a series of cascades that provide a series of viewpoints for the photographer.
Photography
There are a number of opportunities at the bridge itself and access to the river is available on both sides of the bridge so you can get some low level images (above and main image). The rocks downstream of the bridge are sharp and slippery though so care must be taken.
About half a mile north (upstream) of the bridge there is a set of stepping stones across the river at Dalehead. These are only suitable for crossing when the river is low and can become slippy and dangerous at higher water levels.
Downstream of the bridge on the approach to Seathwaite the river falls through a series of cascades that can be seen from the side of the road. There is parking at the bottom of the hill just as you enter Seathwaite where you can walk back up alongside the river to gain views of the falls.
Additionally, there are numerous views within easy reach of the road as you travel from Cockley Bridge to Seathwaite as long as you can find somewhere safe to park.
The River Duddon passes over a series of cascades between the large boulders as it drops towards the village of Seathwaite
Stepping stones across the River Duddon at Dalehead
Getting There:
Approaching from the south along the A595 at Broughton in Furness take the road on the right just before the bridge with the traffic lights, signposted to Ulpha. Continue on this road through the villages of Ulpha and Seathwaite and carry on for a further 2 miles or so and the bridge is on your left in a little dip at the side of the road. It is easy to miss, but just before the bridge you will see a flat section alongside the River Duddon.
Alternatively, from Ambleside head out along the A5933 towards Skelwith Bridge. Soon after Elterwater Park Guest House turn right onto Side gates towards Little Langdale and Wrynose Pass. Go over the pass and immediately before the signposts for Hardknott Pass turn left towards Cockley Beck. After approximately 2 miles you will arrive at Hinning House Outdoor Centre. Continue for another ½ mile and you will see a carpark on the right. Park here or continue for a further 200yds to the bridge.
Grid Ref: SD 235 994