The Skiddaw Slates of Whiteside, Gasgale and Grasmoor (1:25 000 map NY 12)

Abstract

The Skiddaw Slates are the oldest rocks in the Lake District and form the smooth rounded hills of the north. They contrast strongly with the sharp crags of the Borrowdale Volcanics further south, although there are exceptions, for example the steep crags of Saddleback and Grasmoor. However, since they were formerly muds and sands they are understandably more easily weathered and eroded than the volcanic rocks.