“All natives of Caldbeck and district have a deep rooted respect for High Pike”
A Wainwright
A wonderful linear walk crossing the northern fells of the Lake District from north to south crossing High Pike at the northern edge of the Lake District National Park before climbing over the huge Skiddaw, the 4th highest mountain in the Lake District and descending to Keswick.
“Heed not the disparaging criticisms that have been written from time to time, often by learned men who ought to know better, about this grand old mountain”
A Wainwright
In this route we take in a great route snaking through the Northern Fells, passing from Caldbeck in the north of the range to Keswick in the south. For the route we will be following the Cumbria Way up to High Pike, before a long gradual valley walk to Skiddaw House.
It is here that we have a choice, either to continue along the Cumbria Way south to Keswick, or to include Skiddaw on our route, summiting from Skiddaw House and returning south to Keswick from there. As the 4th highest mountain in England Skiddaw has fantastic views south over the Lakes and north to the Solway Firth and Scotland.
If Skiddaw is not attempted, the walk as a whole is still extremely enjoyable, and you will experience a side to the northern fells rarely seen by those who stick to the high peaks.
Each participant will be required to bring suitable equipment for their chosen event, please see Kit List tab above.
Where to meet: Moot Hall, Keswick
Postcode: CA12 5JS
Grid Reference: NY 266 234
Directions
Keswick is easily found just off the A66 and A591, there is plenty of parking around the town, the Moot Hall is easily found in Main Street in the centre of town, we will meet outside the entrance.
Bus Services
Keswick is well served by buses throughout the year, the Moot Hall is around 5 minutes walk from the main bus stops.
Stagecoach bus timetables can be viewed here
Each participant is expected to have suitable personal equipment for their activity this should include the following:
- Walking shoes / Boots
- Waterproof clothing (Jacket and trousers)
- Suitable clothing for walking (no jeans)
- Warm tops
- Packed lunch
- Spare clothing
- Water
- Hat
- Gloves
For winter walks (November to March) events please also bring the following:
- Torch (preferably a headtorch)
- Spare batteries for the above
- Spare Gloves
- Flask & Hot Drink
The Following equipment may also be useful if owned:
The following equipment will be provided by The Lake District Walker should winter conditions require: