The crag has received persistent rain over recent weeks with 2.2mm today, high humidity (90%), and zero consecutive dry days — the rock surface is very likely wet or damp right now. While dolerite doesn't suffer structural damage when wet, the dense black rock will be extremely slippery in these conditions, posing a serious safety risk.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
How accurate is this verdict?
Climbing Outlook
Site Details
Dramatic Whin Sill dolerite crag on Hadrian's Wall — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unlike sandstone, dolerite is non-porous and can be climbed much sooner after rain, often within hours. North-facing and very exposed on the high ridge. The dense, hard black rock lacks friction when damp but doesn't absorb water. Series of buttresses like wrecked castle towers. Peregrine nesting site in spring.
Condition Notes
Non-porous dolerite can be climbed much sooner after rain than sandstone — often within hours. However, the dense black rock is extremely slippery when wet. Loose blocks and active freeze-thaw at crag bases are a hazard in winter.
- Rock Type
- Whinstone
- Wind Exposure
- Exposed
- Altitude
- 260m
- Climbing
- Trad Bouldering
- Aspects
- N
Site Data
- Name
- Crag Lough
- County
- Northumberland
- Rock Type
- Whinstone
- Climbing Types
- Trad, Bouldering
- Aspects
- N
- Wind Exposure
- Exposed
- Altitude
- 260m
- Latitude
- 55.003
- Longitude
- -2.382
- Condition Notes
- Non-porous dolerite can be climbed much sooner after rain than sandstone — often within hours. However, the dense black rock is extremely slippery when wet. Loose blocks and active freeze-thaw at crag bases are a hazard in winter.
- ID
- e42f24af-6990-4c70-b606-93d1a3b22bde
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