“Sharp Edge is a rising crest of naked rock, of sensational and spectacular appearance a breaking wave carved in stone”
A Wainwright
During the summer months we take on one of the major edges of the Lake District, Sharp Edge on Blencathra. With it's high levels of exposure the adrenaline will be pumping.
This is not a walk to be taken lightly it requires a guide or a good level of skill with many years experience to enjoy this ridge safely.
Many inexperienced walkers have been fooled into thinking they can make the edge walk and the local mountain rescue reports can tell you the outcome, we ourselves have had to guide strangers down to safety!
The views from the ridge are breathtaking this is definitely a walk you will be talking about for some time.
Sharp Edge is a classic edge, shorter but a little harder than Striding Edge. Why not join one of our guided walks and let our experienced instructors guide you up this classic route in safety.
“The route has a long established reputation and is deservedly popular”
A Wainwright
Similar to our Blencathra and Mungrisdale Common route we climb directly to the summit of Blencathra via the wonderful Halls Fell ridge, but after a stop on the summit we then descend to the east. We drop down to Scales Tarn before re-climbing along the famous Sharp Edge ridge, a short rocky arête with steep drops on either side. We make our way along this ridge to climb steeply at the far end over Foule Crag, this brings us back onto the summit ridge.
Our planned descent route is via the Doddick Fell Ridge, this descends alongside Halls Fell on a fine ridge with great views over the surrounding fells where a good path at the base takes us back to Threlkeld.
Obviously Sharp Edge is a very severe mountain route, and should not be attempted in bad weather, it is at our guides discretion whether we will undertake the ridge, and if not, a suitable alternative will be offered.
Each participant will be required to bring suitable equipment for their chosen event, please see Kit List tab above.
Where to meet: Threlkeld
Postcode: CA12 4SQ
Grid Reference: NY 322 254
Directions
Threlkeld is just off the A66 main road between Keswick and Penrith, follow the signs into the village. We meet outside the Horse and Farrier Pub in the centre of the village, please do not park in the pub car parks, plenty of parking can be found a short distance in either direction from the pub.
Bus Services
Threlkeld is well served by buses, the bus stops at the meet point.
The X4/X5 bus runs between Workington, Cockermouth, Keswick and Penrith.
Stagecoach bus timetables can be viewed here
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Blencathra - Saturday 16 July 2016 Review by Jim
I just wanted to say how much our group enjoyed our trip up Blencathra and over Sharp Edge yesterday. Andy was absolutely first class as a guide and looked after us very well.
Many thanks and best wishes
Jim (Posted on 17/07/2016)
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