One of the most noteworthy new boulder problems of recent times has been climbed in Eskdale, with Dan Varian delivering a stunning first ascent of Seam Engine on a quality craglet atop Hollinghead Crag, which I discovered a number of years back. The problem checks in at a formidable 8B+, firmly placing it among the hardest lines on Lakes’ granite.
Seam Engine takes on a brilliant seam on the centre-right of the wall — the kind of feature that demands attention, whatever your level. Over a few sessions Dan, along with a varying crew, put some effort into overhauling the landing, making the upper moves a slightly safer proposition. A reminder of the unsung groundwork that often goes into bringing a quality problem to life.
Adan Roberts came tantalisingly close to cracking it, before relocating to the States and leaving the door ajar. Dan stepped up and ultimately sealed the deal on what is, by any measure, an incredible line and one of the best hard blocs in the UK.