“The western aspect is best known to Bassenthwaite folk, who enjoy a secret delight few others have discovered”
A Wainwright
The fourth highest peak, Skiddaw, in the Lake District is usually climbed from the south, where a direct path climbs from Keswick. Although this route has some wonderful views it can be a bit monotonous trudging up and down the 'Pony Track'.
Instead we climb from the north western side, here we begin with wonderful views over Bassenthwaite Lake and out towards the Solway Coast before the views expand to take in Borrowdale and Derwent Water and the higher fells beyond.
The Ullock Pike ridge is a great ridge walk, usually well away from the masses.
“Heed not the disparaging criticisms that have been written from time to time, often by learned men who ought to have known better about this grand old mountain”
A Wainwright
By far the best route up Skiddaw. We climb from High Side onto Ullock Pike continuing over Long Side and Carl Side before climbing to the summit of Skiddaw.
Throughout the ascent we will have wonderful views over Bassenthwaite on a good day and as we reach Long Side the views over Borrowdale and Derwent Water will be revealed to the south.
We will descend the northern slopes over Bakestall to meet the track at Dash Falls, following the track back to Peter House Farm and crossing the fields back to High Side.
Each participant will be required to bring suitable equipment for their chosen event, please see Kit List tab above.
Where to meet: High Side, Bassenthwaite
Postcode: CA12 4QG
Grid Reference: NY 236 310
Directions
From Keswick: High Side is located on the A591, the main road between Keswick and Bassenthwaite. Leave Keswick on the A591, signposted to Carlisle crossing the A66 at the roundabout, follow this road trough Dodd Wood and continue until the Ravenstonedale Hotel is passed on the right.
A short distance after the hotel a lane will lead of to the right, signposted to Orthwaite, follow this lane for approx. 400m until a lay by is seen on the right, we will meet here.
Bus Services
High Side is well served by buses, the bus stop is 5 minutes walk away from the meet point at the end of the Orthwaite Road.
The 555 bus runs between Keswick and Carlisle.
The X4 runs between Workington, Cockermouth, Keswick & Penrith.
Stagecoach bus timetables can be viewed here
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