Condition Analysis
AI-powered assessment using site data and 14-day weather history
Quayfoot Buttress has had five consecutive dry days with warm temperatures and southerly sun exposure, providing excellent drying conditions on this non-porous Borrowdale Volcanic rock. The crag should be thoroughly dry and offering superb friction today.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The upper left section beneath tree canopy can retain drips long after rain has stopped — though after five dry days this should not be an issue today.
- The south/south-west aspect and low altitude mean the crag catches sun for much of the day, making it one of the fastest-drying venues in Borrowdale.
- The sheltered valley position reduces wind-assisted drying but also provides protection from wind chill — a comfortable venue in changeable weather.
- A significant wet spell is forecast from August 17–19 with up to 25mm of rain; conditions will deteriorate markedly by mid-week.
Reasoning
After five consecutive dry days including two warm days reaching 25–26°C with southerly winds, the non-porous volcanic rock surface will be thoroughly dry.
Despite the sheltered position, the south-facing aspect and extended dry spell have provided ample drying time — non-porous rhyolite in these conditions would dry within hours, let alone five days.
No structural risk — Borrowdale Volcanic rock is non-porous and does not weaken when wet; the only concern is friction loss on damp surfaces, which does not apply today.
Mid-August provides long daylight hours and reasonable temperatures; the recent dry spell is a welcome window before the forecast deterioration later in the week.
Contributing Factors
6
No rainfall since August 9, giving the rock surface ample time to dry completely even in this sheltered position.
The S/SW aspect at low altitude has received direct sun during a spell that included two days above 25°C, accelerating surface drying.
Borrowdale Volcanic rhyolite does not absorb water, so surface moisture is the only concern and it evaporates quickly.
The sheltered setting reduces wind-assisted drying, but after five dry days this is immaterial — and it provides comfort for climbers.
Today's 82% humidity is moderately high but with no precipitation and warm temperatures, it does not impede already-dry rock.
Heavy rain forecast from August 17–19 (up to ~25mm) will end this dry window, so climbers should make the most of today and tomorrow.
Recommendations
3
- Climb today or tomorrow to take advantage of this dry window before the significant wet spell arriving August 17–18.
- Check the upper left section beneath the tree canopy for any residual dampness, though it should be dry after five rain-free days.
- Carry a light waterproof for the approach as conditions may become changeable later in the day with the front approaching from the west.
Previous Analyses
Likely Safe to Climb
92%
2 days ago
Quayfoot Buttress has had four consecutive dry days following only light rain, with warm temperatures up to 26°C and a south-facing aspect ensuring excellent drying — the rock should be thoroughly dry today. A deteriorating forecast from tomorrow onwards means today is the best window for climbing this week.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The upper left section beneath tree canopy can hold drips long after rain has stopped, but four dry days should have eliminated any residual canopy drip.
- This is one of the quickest-drying crags in the Lakes thanks to its south-facing aspect and non-porous Borrowdale Volcanic rock, and it often comes into condition within hours of rain ceasing.
- The sheltered Borrowdale valley position reduces wind-assisted drying but also shields climbers from gusty conditions on exposed days.
- Roadside access means no walk-in penalty — climbers can make the most of short weather windows and retreat quickly if conditions change.
Reasoning
Four consecutive dry days after only light rain (5mm on Aug 9) on non-porous volcanic rock with a south-facing aspect mean the surface should be completely dry.
Despite the sheltered position, warm temperatures (up to 26°C today), moderate southerly winds, and direct solar radiation on the S/SW face have provided ample drying time — far exceeding the hours typically needed for non-porous rock.
Non-porous Borrowdale Volcanic rhyolite does not absorb water and is not at risk of structural weakening or hold breakage from recent moisture.
Mid-August is prime summer season with long daylight hours and warm temperatures; today's conditions are excellent for Lake District climbing.
Contributing Factors
5
No precipitation since August 9 (5.0mm), giving non-porous rock ample time to shed all surface moisture.
Temperatures reaching 25–26°C today with direct solar radiation on the S/SW face accelerate surface evaporation.
Daytime humidity dropping to 50–55% supports rapid evaporation and good friction on the volcanic rock.
2.3mm forecast for August 14 with a wetter spell building through the week, making today the prime climbing window.
The sheltered aspect slows wind-assisted drying but is offset by four dry days and strong solar heating.
Recommendations
3
- Climb today if possible — this is the best window before a wetter spell arrives from tomorrow.
- Avoid the upper left section beneath tree canopy first thing in the morning as overnight dew and canopy moisture may linger until sun hits the face.
- Keep an eye on the forecast for tomorrow; conditions will deteriorate through the week with significant rain expected on August 17.
Likely Safe to Climb
92%
3 days ago
Quayfoot Buttress is in excellent condition today. Three consecutive dry days with warm temperatures and a southerly breeze have thoroughly dried the non-porous Borrowdale Volcanic rock, and no rain is forecast until tomorrow evening at the earliest.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The upper left section beneath the tree canopy can hold drips long after rain has stopped — check this area before committing, though three dry days should have cleared residual moisture.
- Quayfoot's south-facing, low-altitude position in the Borrowdale valley makes it one of the fastest-drying crags in the Lakes, often climbable within hours of light rain ceasing.
- Despite the sheltered valley position reducing airflow, the sustained southerly wind today (15–19 km/h) is blowing directly onto the face, aiding drying.
- The recent unsettled spell (late July through early August) deposited ~37mm over 28 days, but the last meaningful rain was 5mm on Aug 9 — three full dry days ago.
Reasoning
Three consecutive dry days since 5mm of rain on Aug 9, with warm temperatures (up to 25°C today) and falling humidity (down to 47%), mean surface moisture on this non-porous volcanic rock will have fully evaporated.
The south/SW aspect receives strong solar radiation through the day, and despite the sheltered valley position, the sustained southerly wind directly onto the face has accelerated surface drying well beyond the minimum needed for non-porous rock.
Borrowdale Volcanic rhyolite is non-porous and extremely hard — there is no risk of structural weakening or hold breakage from recent moisture.
Mid-August is peak summer season with long daylight hours and warm temperatures, providing ideal drying and climbing conditions.
Contributing Factors
6
No precipitation since Aug 9 (5mm), giving non-porous rock ample time to shed all surface moisture.
Temperatures reaching 25°C with humidity dropping to 47% provide excellent evaporative drying conditions.
The south-facing crag receives direct solar radiation for most of the day, maximising surface drying.
Today's 15–19 km/h southerly wind blows directly onto the S/SW face, boosting airflow despite the generally sheltered position.
Borrowdale Volcanic rhyolite does not absorb water, so surface drying is the only concern and it is rapid.
The past month has been showery (~37mm in 28 days), but the three dry days and today's warmth have comfortably overcome this for non-porous rock.
Recommendations
3
- Climb with confidence today — conditions are dry and warm, with the best window from late morning through early evening.
- Inspect the upper left section beneath the tree canopy for any residual drips before climbing routes in that area.
- Plan to make the most of tomorrow (Aug 13) as well, since rain returns from Aug 14 onward and the weekend looks very wet.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
72%
5 days ago
Yesterday's 5mm rain and a generally wet recent period mean the rock has had only one full dry day to recover, but today is dry with dropping humidity through the afternoon and the south-facing aspect should help surface moisture evaporate. By early-to-mid afternoon the main slabs are likely climbable, though sheltered or tree-shaded sections may retain dampness.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The tree canopy above the upper left section can cause persistent drips for hours after rain stops, so check that area carefully even when the main slabs feel dry.
- Quayfoot's sheltered valley position reduces wind-assisted drying despite the favourable south-facing aspect — surface moisture lingers longer here than at more exposed Borrowdale crags.
- The Brown Slabs area relies on friction-dependent slab climbing where even a thin film of moisture dramatically reduces grip, so conditions need to be genuinely dry before committing.
- Roadside access means a quick retreat is easy — worth arriving and doing a touch test before gearing up rather than committing to a full session blind.
Warnings
2
- Friction-dependent slab climbing on BVS rock becomes dangerously slippery with even a thin moisture film — do not climb if the surface feels greasy to the touch.
- The recent fortnight has been persistently damp; seepage from vegetated ledges above may still be active on some lines.
Reasoning
5mm fell yesterday (Aug 9) following a persistently damp fortnight; the rock has had roughly 24 hours of drying with today's dry, mild conditions and humidity dropping to ~57% by mid-afternoon.
The south/south-west aspect captures good solar radiation but the sheltered position limits airflow, so drying is moderate; the main sunlit slabs should be surface-dry by early afternoon, but shaded zones may retain dampness.
Borrowdale Volcanic rhyolite is non-porous and extremely hard — no structural weakening or hold-breakage risk from recent moisture.
Mid-summer provides long daylight hours and reasonable solar angles, maximising the drying window; however the recent spell of above-average humidity (81% 7-day average) slows evaporation.
Contributing Factors
6
5mm fell on August 9 with only one dry day since, meaning residual surface moisture is likely in sheltered spots.
The S/SW aspect receives strong afternoon sun in August, accelerating surface evaporation on the main slab faces.
The sheltered Borrowdale valley position limits wind-assisted drying despite moderate regional winds today.
BVS rhyolite does not absorb water, so only surface moisture needs to evaporate — no prolonged internal drying required.
The 7-day average humidity of 81% and overnight readings above 85% slow evaporation and may cause condensation on cool rock surfaces.
Humidity drops to 57–59% between 14:00 and 17:00 with partial sun, creating a viable climbing window this afternoon.
Recommendations
3
- Arrive mid-afternoon (14:00–16:00) for the best drying window and do a thorough touch test on the slabs before climbing.
- Avoid the upper left section beneath the tree canopy where drips may persist — focus on the open Brown Slabs area.
- Take advantage of the easy roadside access to inspect conditions before committing; if the rock feels greasy, wait for tomorrow's warmer, drier forecast.
Do Not Climb
45%
5 days ago
Today has seen 4mm of rain with high humidity (83%), so the rock is currently wet or damp. Although Quayfoot's south-facing BVS rock dries quickly, the sheltered valley position and tree canopy will slow drying, and conditions are not suitable right now.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The tree canopy above the upper left section will cause persistent drips for hours after rain stops, even when the main face appears dry.
- Quayfoot's sheltered Borrowdale valley position reduces airflow despite today's moderate SW wind, meaning surface moisture lingers longer than aspect alone would suggest.
- The crag has experienced a notably wet spell with over 21mm in the last 7 days and only one fully dry day (Aug 8) in that period, so background moisture levels in seepage lines and shaded nooks will be elevated.
- Brown Slabs relies heavily on friction on delicate slab climbing — even a thin film of residual moisture dramatically increases the risk of a slip on these routes.
Warnings
2
- The rock is currently wet from today's rain — slab climbing on wet BVS rock is a serious slip hazard.
- The prolonged wet spell means seepage lines may be active even when the main face appears dry.
Reasoning
With 4mm of rain today on top of a wet week (21mm in 7 days), the rock surface is currently wet and the sheltered position means drying has barely begun.
The south/SW aspect is favourable but the sheltered valley setting and tree canopy significantly slow wind-assisted drying; even with afternoon sun, full drying from today's rain is unlikely before evening.
Non-porous BVS rhyolite suffers no structural weakening from moisture — the risk is purely friction loss on wet surfaces.
Mid-summer provides long daylight hours and reasonable temperatures for drying, but the recent unsettled pattern with above-average humidity (79% average over 7 days) is slowing the recovery between showers.
Contributing Factors
7
4mm of precipitation today means the rock is currently wet with no drying time elapsed.
Over 21mm in the last 7 days with only one dry day means background moisture in seepage lines and shaded areas is elevated.
Today's 83% humidity significantly slows evaporation from rock surfaces.
The S/SW aspect maximises solar radiation which will aid drying once rain stops and any cloud breaks.
The sheltered Borrowdale valley setting limits wind-assisted drying despite moderate SW winds in the wider area.
Rhyolite does not absorb water, so once surface moisture evaporates the rock will be climbable — no extended internal drying needed.
Trees above the upper left section will continue dripping well after rain ceases, keeping parts of the crag wet.
Recommendations
3
- Wait until tomorrow (Aug 10) which is forecast dry with lower humidity — the rock should dry through the morning and be climbable by midday.
- If visiting today, avoid the upper left section beneath the tree canopy where drips persist longest.
- On slab routes like Brown Slabs, test friction carefully on lower holds before committing — even a slight residual dampness makes these routes significantly harder and more dangerous.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
62%
6 days ago
Today is the first fully dry day after a week of intermittent rain totalling 17mm, with the last measurable precipitation (0.6mm) falling yesterday. The south-facing aspect and non-porous BVS rock should allow the main slabs to dry during the day, but sheltered areas and tree-canopy drip zones may still be damp, so a visual check on arrival is essential.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The tree canopy above the upper left section can hold and drip residual moisture for many hours after rain stops, even when the main slabs appear dry.
- Quayfoot's south/south-west aspect and roadside position make it one of the fastest-drying crags in Borrowdale — surface moisture on open slabs can clear within a few hours of sunshine.
- The sheltered valley position reduces wind-assisted drying; despite today's 20 km/h southerly breeze, air circulation at the crag face will be limited.
- Brown Slabs routes rely heavily on friction — even a thin film of residual moisture on these delicate slabs dramatically increases the risk of a slip.
Warnings
2
- Brown Slabs routes are friction-dependent — even a thin moisture film on these delicate slabs creates a serious slip hazard; do not climb if the rock feels at all greasy.
- Heavy rain (10.5mm) is forecast for tomorrow (Aug 9), so today's window may be brief.
Reasoning
Light but repeated rain over the past week (17mm across six wet days) with only one dry day so far means surface moisture is likely still present in sheltered pockets and canopy-drip zones, though open south-facing rock may be drying through today.
Today's dry, 17.9°C conditions with a southerly breeze should allow the south-facing non-porous rock to shed surface moisture within a few hours of sun hitting the crag, but the sheltered position limits airflow and slows the process.
Borrowdale Volcanic rhyolite is non-porous and does not suffer structural weakening when wet — hold breakage risk is negligible.
Mid-summer daylight and sun angle are optimal for drying this south-facing crag, though the recent unsettled spell with above-average humidity (78%) has slowed the typical rapid turnaround.
Contributing Factors
7
17mm fell across six of the last seven days, with the last 0.6mm recorded yesterday (Aug 7), leaving limited drying time.
No precipitation today with 17.9°C and a southerly breeze should allow progressive drying of the south-facing rock through the afternoon.
The S/SW aspect receives strong solar radiation in summer, making Quayfoot one of the fastest-drying crags in Borrowdale.
Despite a 20 km/h regional breeze, the sheltered valley setting reduces effective wind-drying at the crag face.
Average humidity of 78% over the past week and 72% today slows evaporation and may leave a residual film on the rock.
Overhanging trees above the upper left section channel and release water long after rain stops, keeping that area damp.
BVS rhyolite does not absorb water, so drying is purely a surface phenomenon and proceeds quickly once conditions allow.
Recommendations
3
- Visit in the afternoon to maximise solar drying time on the south-facing slabs, and physically touch the rock before committing to climb.
- Avoid the upper left section beneath the tree canopy, which is likely to remain damp from residual drips.
- Prioritise routes on the open Brown Slabs area where sun exposure is greatest and drainage is best.
Do Not Climb
40%
7 days ago
Quayfoot Buttress has seen repeated rain over the past week (18mm in 7 days) with today recording 0.9mm and humidity at 79%, meaning the rock is likely still damp despite its quick-drying reputation. Although the S/SW aspect and non-porous volcanic rock favour rapid drying, the sheltered valley position and persistent high humidity have limited evaporation, and conditions are not yet reliable.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The tree canopy above the upper left section will be dripping for hours after the most recent rain, making those routes slippery even when the main buttress appears dry.
- Quayfoot's sheltered Borrowdale valley position, while protecting it from wind, also traps humidity and reduces air circulation needed for drying.
- The Brown Slabs area relies heavily on friction — even a thin film of residual moisture on these delicate slabs dramatically reduces grip and makes them dangerous.
- Being roadside with a minimal approach, it's easy to drive past and visually check conditions before committing, which is strongly advisable given the recent wet spell.
Warnings
2
- The delicate slab climbing on Brown Slabs is extremely friction-dependent — even a thin film of moisture creates a serious slip risk on these low-angle routes.
- Repeated rain over the past 10 days means dampness may persist in sheltered recesses even when exposed surfaces appear dry.
Reasoning
With 0.9mm today, 5.6mm yesterday, and 9.8mm two days ago, the rock surface is very likely still wet or at least damp, particularly under the tree canopy and in any recesses.
Despite the south-facing aspect, the sheltered position and high humidity (79%) severely limit drying potential; with no consecutive dry days recorded, the crag has had insufficient time to dry since the last significant rain.
Non-porous Borrowdale Volcanic rock does not absorb water and faces no structural risk from wet climbing, but friction loss on damp surfaces is a serious safety concern.
Mid-summer provides the best solar angle and longest days for drying, but the recent unsettled Atlantic weather pattern with repeated fronts has kept conditions poor for over a week.
Contributing Factors
7
Over 18mm in the last 7 days across multiple rain events with no sustained dry period means the crag has been repeatedly re-wetted.
0.9mm recorded today with zero consecutive dry days means the rock has had no opportunity to fully dry.
Average humidity of 79% over the past week significantly slows surface evaporation even on non-porous rock.
The S/SW aspect maximises solar exposure during summer, which will accelerate drying once rain stops and the sun breaks through.
The sheltered position limits wind-assisted drying, trapping moist air around the crag despite moderate regional wind speeds.
BVS rhyolite does not absorb water, so once rain stops and conditions improve, the surface will dry relatively quickly.
Trees above the upper left section will continue to drip well after rain ceases, keeping those routes wet for extended periods.
Recommendations
3
- Wait for at least a full dry day with sunshine before climbing the friction-dependent Brown Slabs routes.
- If visiting tomorrow (Aug 8), drive past and visually inspect the rock surface — check for sheen and test friction by hand before committing.
- Avoid routes beneath the tree canopy on the upper left section, which will remain damp longest after this wet spell.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
60%
9 days ago
Rain fell through the early morning (last at ~06:00) following a prolonged wet spell, but the south-facing aspect and a dry afternoon window from midday onward should allow the non-porous volcanic rock to shed surface moisture by early-to-mid afternoon. Climbers visiting this afternoon should visually check the rock — the main slabs may be climbable, but tree-drip areas and shaded sections could remain damp.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Tree canopy above the upper left section will cause persistent drips well after rain stops, so avoid routes in that area today.
- The sheltered Borrowdale valley position limits wind-assisted drying despite the moderate westerly breeze — allow extra time compared to more exposed crags.
- Brown Slabs and other south-facing sections will catch afternoon sun (cloud permitting) and dry fastest; prioritise these.
- The last 10 days have seen frequent rain totalling ~23mm in the past week, so seepage from saturated ground above the crag may feed moisture onto some routes even when the rock surface appears dry.
Warnings
2
- The prolonged wet spell means some routes may have seepage from saturated ground above — check for wet streaks even where the main face appears dry.
- Friction on BVS slab routes like Brown Slabs is critically dependent on dry conditions; do not attempt delicate slab climbing if the surface feels even slightly damp.
Reasoning
Rain fell until approximately 06:00 this morning (~2.7mm total today on top of heavy recent rainfall), so the rock surface is currently wet but should be drying through the afternoon dry window.
The south/south-west aspect will receive solar radiation from midday onward (cloud cover dropping to ~60-70%) with moderate westerly winds, giving perhaps 6+ hours of drying by late afternoon — adequate for non-porous BVS rock on exposed faces, but the sheltered position slows this.
No structural risk — Borrowdale Volcanic rock is non-porous and does not weaken when wet; the concern is purely friction loss on damp surfaces.
Mid-summer conditions with long daylight hours favour drying, but the current unsettled spell with high humidity (80% average over the past week) means ambient moisture levels are elevated and drying is slower than typical summer conditions.
Contributing Factors
7
Approximately 2.7mm of rain fell between 02:00 and 06:00 this morning, leaving rock surfaces wet heading into the drying window.
No precipitation is forecast from midday onward, giving 6+ hours of potential drying time on the south-facing rock.
Over 23mm in the past 7 days with rain on most days means ground saturation above the crag may feed seepage onto some routes.
The S/SW aspect will catch afternoon sun through partial cloud breaks, promoting faster surface evaporation on the main slab areas.
The sheltered valley setting reduces airflow across the rock face, slowing wind-assisted drying compared to more exposed crags.
Humidity around 66-70% this afternoon with 80% average over the past week slows evaporation rates.
Borrowdale Volcanic rock does not absorb water, so only surface moisture needs to evaporate — no internal drying required.
Recommendations
3
- Visit in the early-to-mid afternoon (13:00–17:00) to allow maximum drying time, and touch-test the rock on Brown Slabs before committing to a route.
- Avoid the upper left section beneath the tree canopy, where drips are likely to persist for hours after rain.
- If the rock still feels greasy or damp on arrival, consider the short drive to nearby Shepherd's Crag which has a more open and exposed aspect.
Do Not Climb
45%
11 days ago
Quayfoot Buttress has received intermittent rain throughout today (9.3mm total) with the last significant shower at 14:00, and a dry window is forecast from 15:00 onwards — however, with 93% humidity, 100% cloud cover, and the crag's sheltered position limiting airflow, surface drying will be very slow. Tomorrow brings 25mm of heavy rain, making conditions clearly unsuitable for the next 24+ hours.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Tree canopy above the upper left section will continue dripping for hours after rain stops, keeping those routes wet well into the evening.
- The sheltered valley position that normally protects the crag from wind also significantly hampers drying when humidity is this high (87–93%).
- The south-facing aspect is largely negated today by persistent 96–100% cloud cover eliminating direct solar radiation.
- Brown Slabs and other friction-dependent slab routes are especially sensitive to residual surface moisture — even a thin film dramatically reduces the famous BVS friction.
Warnings
2
- Slab routes on Brown Slabs are extremely friction-dependent and dangerous when even slightly damp — a thin moisture film is hard to see but dramatically reduces grip.
- Heavy rain forecast tomorrow (25mm) will make conditions clearly unsafe; do not plan to climb August 5th.
Reasoning
The rock surface is currently wet from 9.3mm of rain spread across the day, with the heaviest burst (5.1mm) at 14:00, and humidity remains at 85–93% through the evening.
Despite a dry window from 15:00 onwards, the sheltered position, near-total cloud cover, and extreme humidity (85–93%) mean surface evaporation will be very slow — non-porous rhyolite can dry quickly, but not in these conditions.
Borrowdale Volcanic rhyolite is non-porous and structurally unaffected by moisture; there is no hold-breakage risk.
Mid-summer should offer the best drying conditions, but this unsettled SW airstream with high humidity is delivering poor drying weather atypical of August.
Contributing Factors
7
9.3mm fell today with the main burst of 5.1mm at 14:00, leaving the rock surface thoroughly wet.
Humidity remains at 85–93% through the evening, severely inhibiting surface evaporation even on non-porous rock.
96–100% cloud cover through most of the day eliminates solar heating that would otherwise aid drying on this south-facing crag.
The sheltered Borrowdale valley position reduces wind across the rock face, slowing evaporation despite moderate regional wind speeds.
No rain is forecast from 15:00 onwards, giving a few hours of potential drying before dark.
BVS rhyolite does not absorb water, so only surface moisture needs to evaporate — no internal drying required.
24.9mm forecast for tomorrow makes any partial drying today irrelevant for multi-day planning.
Recommendations
3
- Do not climb today — the rock will remain damp and slippery through the evening despite the dry window after 15:00.
- The earliest realistic opportunity is August 7th if the forecast dry day materialises, but check conditions on arrival as the crag will have received ~40mm in the preceding 48 hours.
- Monitor forecasts closely for August 10th onwards, which may offer the first sustained dry spell.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
70%
12 days ago
Light scattered showers overnight and this morning have dampened the rock, but a dry, warm afternoon window (12:00–22:00) with sunshine, dropping humidity, and moderate breeze should allow the non-porous BVS rock to dry rapidly. However, the preceding wet week and sheltered position warrant a visual check on arrival; heavy rain arrives tomorrow and persists for several days.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The tree canopy above the upper left section can hold moisture and drip onto routes for hours after rain stops — check this area carefully even if the main slabs look dry.
- Quayfoot's south-facing aspect and roadside position mean it catches afternoon sun well, making it one of the fastest-drying crags in Borrowdale.
- The sheltered valley position reduces wind-assisted drying, so despite the favourable aspect, residual dampness can linger in shaded nooks and horizontal breaks.
- A prolonged wet spell from 25 July onwards (multiple days of rain totalling ~15mm) has kept background moisture levels elevated across Borrowdale.
Warnings
2
- Heavy rain (18mm) is forecast for tomorrow — do not rely on a late arrival or plan a multi-day trip expecting dry conditions.
- Tree canopy drips on the upper left section may persist even when the main slabs appear dry — test friction carefully before committing to moves.
Reasoning
Light intermittent rain through the morning (~0.9mm total by 08:00) will have wetted the rock surface, but by early afternoon the combination of sun, warmth (23°C+), and dropping humidity (~45–50%) should evaporate surface moisture from the non-porous volcanic rock within 2–3 hours.
The south/SW aspect receives strong afternoon solar radiation today with clear skies from midday, and a moderate SE breeze at 14–18 km/h aids evaporation despite the sheltered setting — surface drying should be effective by early-to-mid afternoon.
Borrowdale Volcanic rhyolite is non-porous and does not suffer structural weakening when wet; there is no hold-breakage risk from moisture.
Mid-summer conditions with long daylight hours and warm temperatures are favourable for drying, though the recent unsettled spell and high forecast rainfall from tomorrow make today's afternoon the only realistic climbing window for several days.
Contributing Factors
6
Scattered light showers through the early morning (totalling ~0.9mm) will have wetted the rock surface, requiring a drying period before climbing.
Clear skies, temperatures reaching 23–24°C, and humidity dropping to 45% from midday create excellent drying conditions for non-porous rock.
The S/SW aspect maximises afternoon solar heating, accelerating surface evaporation on the volcanic rock.
The sheltered setting limits airflow across the rock face, slightly slowing wind-assisted drying compared to an exposed crag.
Approximately 15mm of rain fell between 25 July and 2 August, keeping the surrounding ground and any drainage seeps active.
Tomorrow brings 18mm followed by further heavy rain (10–13mm/day), meaning today's afternoon is the last viable window for potentially several days.
Recommendations
3
- Target the afternoon window from approximately 13:00–19:00 today, allowing the morning moisture to dry in the sun before committing to routes.
- Visually inspect the rock surface for dampness on arrival — particularly the upper left section beneath tree canopy where drips can persist.
- Avoid planning any climbing from tomorrow (4 Aug) through at least 7 Aug, as heavy and persistent rainfall will keep the crag wet and slippery.
Climbing Outlook