Lake District: heaven on the rocks

The 'Priest Hole' Cave, Dove Crag, Dovedale. The history behind the cave remains a mystery. It is probably a natural cavity which has been modified by generations of hill users for use as a shelter
Photograph: Alastair Lee/Frances Lincoln Limited

The Lakeland crags attract climbers of all levels. Here local stoneworker and rock climber Dave Birkett battles a vicious overhang on Cam Crag above Wasdale Screes
Photograph: Alastiar Lee/Frances Lincoln Limited

The view from the top of Nab Scar above Rydal Water, in spectacular autumn colour
Photograph: Alastair Lee/Frances Lincoln Limited

Chapel Stile in the mist, Great Langdale. This shot illustrates the fact that you do need to get some height in order to apreciate the scene
Photograph: Alastiar Lee/Frances Lincoln Limited

For many, Buttermere occupies the most beautiful and tranquil dale in the Lake Distict. This shot captures the head of Lake Buttermere flanked by Grasmere, Robinson and Fleetwith Pikes
Photograph: Alastair Lee/Frances Lincoln Limited

One of Lakeland's most impressive hills - Blencathra or Saddleback. The weather clears after an autumn storm enhancing the hill's distinctive scalloped flanks
Photograph: Alastair Lee/Frances Lincoln Limited

Tucked away out of sight in the hanging valley of Comb Gill above Borrowdale lies one of Lakeland's most aesthetic - and fleeting - climbs. When caught in the wintery maw of a hard frost 'Raven Crag Gully' is transformed: the final slab becomes a rippling cascade frozen in mid-flight - providing the Lakeland climber with a glittering prize
Photograph: Alastair Lee/Frances Lincoln Limited

Smouldering summits as seen from the top of Great Gable
Photograph: Alastair Lee/Frances Lincoln Limited

Panoramic view from just below Helvellyn's summit. The popular Striding Edge and St Sunday Crag take centre stage. Being on the tops in late evening light can be a magical experience, just make sure to bring a head torch to get down
Photograph: Alastair Lee/Frances Lincoln Limited

Scafell Pike reveals itself after a winter storm in a 360-degree panorama from Bowfell's summit. Everywhere you looked something was happening, as if you were surrounded by a fast-moving light show
Photograph: Alastair Lee/Frances Lincoln Limited

Grizedale Tarn as seen on the descent from Dollywaggon Pike. Windermere and Morecambe Bay glisten distantly beyond the snowy mountains
Photograph: Alastair Lee/Frances Lincoln Limited