“If Catstycam stood alone, remote from its fellows, it would be one of the finest peaks in Lakeland”
A Wainwright
The dramatic scenery to the east of Helvellyn around Red Tarn should be experienced by all walkers, whether they are comfortable taking on Striding Edge or not.
This route takes on the summits of Birkhouse Moor and the wonderful top of Catstycam by Red Tarn, nestled between Striding and Swirral Edges below the huge eastern face of Helvellyn.
“The pines here are a joy to behold, framing very beautiful views of the nearby lake and fells”
A Wainwright
From Glenridding we will climb to Lanty's Tarn and follow the ridge-line to climb to the summit of Birkhouse Moor, with possible the best view of Helvellyn and an equally good view east overlooking Ullswater and towards the Pennines.
From Birkhouse Moor we will follow the ridge west, following the wall along the ridge as far as the 'Hole in the Wall' before turning off on the old mine track traversing to Red Tarn.
From Red Tarn the craggy faces of Helvellyn and the Edges can be fully appreciated, towering above the beautiful tarn.
From Red Tarn we will climb north on the path heading towards Swirral Edge, but as the path reached the ridge we will turn east climbing to the wonderful summit of Catstycam.
If Catstycam were not in the shadow of Helvellyn it would be one of the most prised summits in the Lake District, steep sided with a small summit and a wonderful viewpoint.
A grassy descent from Catstycam will bring us down onto the main path to the old Greenside Mines and on to Glenridding.
Each participant will be required to bring suitable equipment for their chosen event, please see Kit List tab above.
Where to meet: Outside Glenridding TIC
Postcode: CA11 0PA
Grid Reference: NY 386 169
Directions
From the South Lakes: From the A591 between Ambleside and Windermere turn onto the A592. Follow this road over the Kirkstone Pass descending to Brothers Water. Continue on this road to the village of Glenridding. A car park will be found to the left in the centre of the village, park here (pay and display) we will meet outside the Tourist Information Centre on the car park.
From the North Lakes: From the A66 between Keswick and Penrith turn off onto the A592, near the Rheged Centre, signposted to Ullswater, follow this road south along the shore of Ullswater to the village of Glenridding. A car park will be seen on the right (pay and display), just after the garage, we will meet outside the Tourist Information Centre in the car park.
Bus Services
Glenriddingis served by a seasonal bus service from Ambleside and a more regular service from Penrith.
Stagecoach bus timetables can be viewed here
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