The sun, in one of its rare moments, shines through a gap in the clouds, casting a spotlight upon the charmingly named Pikeawassa, a ridge of modest distinction dividing Martindale and Fusedale—perhaps two of the quietest dales in the Lake District.
What history led to this delightful collision of syllables? The etymology of “Pikeawassa” is uncertain. Some scholars, perhaps clutching at straws, suggest a Norse origin. “Piki” they say, might mean “pitch” or “tar,” while “awassa” is believed to be a watercourse, thus rendering Pikeawassa a veritable homage to the glorious fusion of black sludge and running water. One can only imagine the joy of its ancient inhabitants as they gazed upon the ridge and thought, “Yes, that’s exactly what it resembles.”
Others, not to be outdone in speculation, point to Cumbric origins—a dead language no one remembers, which conveniently allows them to attribute whatever meaning to “Pikeawassa” they like. Perhaps it was once a great centre of culture, now lost beneath centuries of sheep grazing. One mustn’t quibble though; after all, what’s in a name, especially one no one truly understands?