Blencathra and Bannerdale Crags

Blencathra, also famously known as "The Saddleback" is an impressive mountain in the northern Lake District. Due to offering many different routes to suit walkers of all abilities and having a commanding presence on the landscape, Blencathra is a very popular walking destination. 

The overall trail amounts to 11km, or 6.5 miles, and is expected to take 5 to 6 hours at a moderate pace with regular stops.

My route for this outing avoids the more "hands on" areas of the mountain and utilises good, safe paths throughout. We will begin the walk from the little hamlet of Scales by the White Horse pub. The climb leads us up Scales Fell, which is a steep but gradual ascent up to the summit of Blencathra, Halls Fell Top. As we reach higher elevation, views across the whole of the northern Lake District open up nicely, weather permitting, and the terrain becomes more mountainous. 

There are several other approaches to Blencathra, including Halls Fell Ridge, Gategill Fell and Sharp Edge - while we won't be tackling any of these more technical routes, it should be possible to observe the dramatic landscape and view other walkers scrambling across Sharp Edge. 

From Blencathra, we will head across to a neighbouring summit, Bannerdale Crags. This is quite an easy traverse and will allow for a totally different perspective of the area, including a view over to Souther Fell that is reportedly haunted by a ghostly army of Jacobite soldiers.

As far as Lakeland routes are concerned, this is neither a difficult or technical walk. However, a reasonable level of hill fitness is required to take part. There are steep sections to tackle and almost eight hundred metres of ascent involved. 

Please bear in mind that I have calculated the route duration based on average speeds of clients. The walk may actually be done in a quicker time, but also may take longer than expected based on individual fitness levels within the group. As mentioned, a reasonable level of hill fitness is required to this route.

Upon booking a space, please don't overlook Moors to Mountains Footwear, Clothing and Equipment Requirements.

It is imperative to wear clothing that is suitable for both the activity and the time of year. Weather conditions can change very quicky while out and about in the hills. All participants must wear sturdy footwear, approved for use for the booked activity. Advice can be found from any reputable outdoor clothing retailer, and I am personally happy to give guidance prior to the activity. If you have not used an item of footwear, clothing or equipment for a similar activity previously, you must seek advice from me on the durability and suitability before the activity takes place.

Unless advised otherwise, a list of items that participant must have on their person (other than approved footwear) should include:

• Rucksack suitable for the activity. Minimum 20 litres, unless otherwise stated.
• Waterproof coat is essential, and trousers if possible.
• Mid layer, such as a fleece or gillet (synthetic or hydrophobic down).
• Suitable base layers and walking socks. Synthetic materials and Merino wool work best by wicking away sweat.
• Hat and gloves, stowed away in your pack if it is not perceivably cold at the start of the walk.
• IN SUMMER – cap or other sun hat, sunglasses and sun cream!
• Lunch and adequate food provisions..
• At least one litre of water.
• Personal medication, accessible and labelled with dosage information where necessary
• Headtorch, fully charged or with spare batteries.
• Mobile telephone fully charged.