“There are splendid crags and waterfalls, of which Fisher Crag and Launchy Gill are outstanding”
A Wainwright
Above the forested western slopes of Thirlmere rise several summits, most of the tops with the exception of Raven Crag are grassy summits, hope to red deer and infrequently visited by walkers.
This route takes in four of these summit, Armboth Fell, High Tove, High Seat and the rocky viewpoint of Raven Crag, a great walk for views of the Helvellyn range and Thirlmere, High Seat is also a wonderful viewpoint over Keswick and Bassenthwaite.
“High Seat is a first class viewpoint, with much of interest to see in all directions. The serrated skyline from south to north-west is remarkably good and will gain most attention”
A Wainwright
From the Armboth car park on the western shores of Thirlmere we will climb by Fisher Gill to the open fellside above the tree line. The rambling fellside to the south leads us to the summit of Armboth Fell, a small cairn marking the summit rock.
From Armboth Fell we head off to the north west and climbing to the summit of High Tove, crossing the saddle between Armboth Fell and High Tove we often come across red deer, especially during the winter months.
From High Tove we follow the fenceline to the north, climbing to High Seat, our highest point of the day and a great viewpoint to the north with a wonderful view over Keswick and Bassenthwaite with Skiddaw towering above.
From High Seat we descend to the east, over grassy ground, until we reach the fenceline at the top of the forest land and onto the forest track beyond. The track takes us to the north, passing Castle Crag, an ancient hill fort, and then to the path up onto Raven Crag, another great viewpoint, this time over the length of Thirlmere.
From the summit of Raven Crag we drop down through the trees to the roadside at the northern end of Thirlmere, here we follow the lane to the south back to the car park at Armboth.
Each participant will be required to bring suitable equipment for their chosen event, please see Kit List tab above.
Where to meet: Armboth car park, ThirlmerePostcode: CA12 4TUGrid Reference: NY 305 171
Directions
From Keswick:
Follow thee A591 south from Keswick, Signposted towards Windermere, and continue until a short section of dual carriageway is passed, take the first right turn after the dual carriageway and follow this road across the dam, turn let at next junction and continue until the Armboth Car Park is seen to the left, this is a pay and display car park (£7 in 2014).
From the south lakes:
Follow the A591 north from Windermere, Ambleside and Grasmere, crossing Dunmail Raise and descending towards Thirlmere, just before Thirlmere is reached turn left and follow this lane around the western shores of Thirlmere until the Armboth Car Park is seen on the right, we will meet here. This is a pay and display car park (£5 in 2010).
Please note that there are several car parks on the shore of Thirlmere, make sure you park in the ARMBOTH Car Park, it will be named.
Bus Services
Armboth is not on a bus route, the nearest bus stop is at Legburthwaite, 3km away
- The 555 bus runs between Kendal and Keswick, passing through Windermere, Ambleside and Grasmere and stopping at Legburthwaite
Stagecoach bus timetables can be viewed here
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Armboth Review by Pennie Drew
We had an excellent day out on the fells with our guide, Tom, who had to re-route for us on the day due to footpath closure as a result of storm Emma a week earlier. It was a great experience all round and we really appreciated the fact that we did not have to look at a map for once but could relax and take in the incredible views knowing someone else was in charge. We would certainly recommend your company to others and consider booking another walk with you when we return to the Lake District. (Posted on 14/03/2018)
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