Blencathra & Sharp Edge Public Walk

Duration: Around 5-6 hours Distance: 11.8km / 7.3 miles Total Ascent: 870m / 2854ft Wainwrights: Blencathra (868m) Meeting Point: Near Scales Farm on the A66 Blencathra is a real classic. The ascent up Sharp Edge is an adventure you will never forget. The famous old mountain, known until recently as Saddleback, is one of the best known in the Lake District and is a true mountaineers’ mountain. Standing high over the road that links Penrith and Keswick, Blencathra compels attention from all. We begin the trail behind Scales Farm, working our way up Scales Fell until we reach Scales Tarn, one of the most characteristic mountain tarns in the Lake District. From here, we carefully ascend the famous Sharp Edge to Atkinson Pike and across the Saddle to the summit. The views to the north and west are simply brilliant as we walk along the ridge and make our way down from Knowe Crag. “Blencathra is one of the grandest objects in Lakeland.” “Sharp Edge is a rising crest of naked rock of sensational and spectacular appearance, a breaking wave carved in stone. The sight of it at close quarters is sufficient to make a beholder about to tackle it forget all other worries, even a raging toothache.” – Alfred Wainwright WHAT TO BRING - Walking boots (waterproof recommended) - Clothing suitable for walking (no jeans) - Rucksack (waterproof liner recommended) - Waterproof jacket and trousers - Warm layer, hat and gloves - Sun hat, sun glasses and sun cream - Water bottle (minimum 1 litre) - Packed lunch - Head torch (charged) - Any personal medication including Epipens This list is mandatory year round. If you are missing any items please get in touch. Arriving to a walk without these items may result in you being turned away. THIS ACTIVITY REQUIRES A MINIMUM OF 4 PARTICIPANTS TO RUN. Participants must be 12 years or older with a good level of fitness. For younger participants, smaller groups, or bespoke options, get in touch to book a Private Guided Walk.