Some say this dry gorge was cut by glacial meltwater, but I'm sceptical and favour the other common theory, that it was formed by the collapse of the roof of a subterranean cavern in the Gaping Gill system.
Either way, it's now a spectacular gateway to the National Park and popular with climbers. There are 44 recognised routes up the north (left) wall, with a further 21 on the south (right) wall.

Thwaite Scars are in the background, on the other side of Clapdale.