Scaling Blencathra: Thrilling Ascend via Scale Tarn and Hair-Raising Sharp Edge
October 13, 2023
Embrace the serenity of the Cheviot Hills, exploring Harthope Linn & Hedgehope Hill
October 27, 2023
Scaling Blencathra: Thrilling Ascend via Scale Tarn and Hair-Raising Sharp Edge
October 13, 2023
Embrace the serenity of the Cheviot Hills, exploring Harthope Linn & Hedgehope Hill
October 27, 2023

Conquering Skiddaw via Longside Edge, Tracing Wainwright's Steps

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable hiking adventure in the stunning Lake District? Join us on an exhilarating journey through the heart of nature as we set out to conquer Skiddaw via Longside Edge, retracing the legendary footsteps of Alfred Wainwright. This hiking adventure promises breathtaking vistas, challenging terrain, and a deep connection with the Lake District’s untamed beauty. Join us as we explore Skiddaw and discover the magic of Longside Edge.

Other resources:

Don’t forget to access/download the full route and mapping on OS Maps for this route.

Choose the best equipment at Plan Watch Walk equipment reviews.

All of our Lake District walk videos can be found here

Why not sign up to Plan Watch Walks ‘Outdoor Catch-Up’, a fortnightly circular with all of the best deals Sign up here

Turn by Turn Directions

Upon arriving at the Ravenstone Hotel, our hiking journey commences with a scenic trek through Dodd Wood, as captured in Video 1:10. We follow a trail that leads us southward, just adjacent to the hotel. The climb through Dodd Wood offers breathtaking vistas of Bassenthwaite Lake, as showcased in Video 2:10. Our path proceeds towards Ling How, marking our route southward to The Edge, as seen in Video 2:30. From The Edge, we enjoy a splendid perspective of our onward journey, taking in the route toward Ullock Pike and beyond to Skiddaw.

 

The ascent of Ullock Pike is showcased in Video 3:10 and rewards us with awe-inspiring views, as highlighted in Video 3.20. Continuing along Longside Edge, we arrive at Carlside Tarn, featured in Video 4:50. Although it may be small and somewhat uninspiring, the panoramic views across to Keswick and Derwent Water more than compensate for any initial disappointment. The final leg of our journey to the summit is a scree-covered terrain, which can be quite demanding. Don’t forget to pause and glance behind you at Video 5:25, as the views are truly breathtaking.

Upon reaching the plateau, a relatively short trek brings us to the summit of Skiddaw, as depicted in Video 6:20. Here, a trig point and information plate await, providing insights into the points of interest visible from the summit. It’s an ideal moment to take a break and savor the awe-inspiring scenery.

Leaving the summit of Skiddaw, we head northward towards Broad End, as shown in Video 6:55, before embarking on our descent, which boasts a manageable gradient. Continuing northwest through the heather-covered terrain, we must locate a less-defined path, as illustrated in Video 8:10. It’s advisable to download the route and use the OS GPS App, the link to which can be found below, to ensure you don’t miss this trail. While navigating around Barkbethdale/Barkbeth Gill horseshoe, you’ll have ample time to contemplate the walk, as indicated in Video 8:55, and appreciate the remarkable adventure it has been.

Our route then leads us to Little Knot, where we are treated to a fantastic view of the path we’ve just completed, as showcased in Video 9:50. Subsequently, we follow a small ridge that reconnects with the path we ascended earlier. As we make our way back from the fells, we cut through Dodd Wood to return to our starting and ending point at the Ravenstone Hotel, where a visit is highly recommended.

Upon completing this exhilarating hike, one can easily understand why this trail was cherished by Alfred Wainwright as one of his favorites.

 

Outdoor Catch-Up:

Why not sign up to Plan Watch Walk ‘Outdoor Catch-Up’, a fortnightly circular with all of the best deals.

Resources used whilst bringing you this walk…

 

Mapping and Directions:

OS Map AppOrdnance Survey Maps and routing

Maps Ordnance Survey Maps

Compass Must have

 

Equipment used:

JacketRab Microlight Alpine JacketEquipment Review

Jacket Montane Gravity Gore-Tex Jacket

FootwearMerrell Accentor Sport GTX

Boots – Scarpa Rush Trek GTXEquipment Review

TrousersMontane BMC Terra Pants

Waterproof TrousersMountain Hardwear Epic Pant

Socks1000 mile wool fusion double layer

Head TorchLifesystems Intensity 220 Head TorchEquipment Review

Backpack Hi Gear Active22

BladderCamelbak 2.5L Hydration Reservoir

 

Camera Kit

GoPro 5Go anywhere action camera

hohem iSteady Pro 4-Gimbal stabiliserMaking your video professional

Lavalier MicrophoneCapture professional audio

Insta360 ONE X2-360 Degree Camerabringing video to a new dimension

Insta360 3M (10ft) Invisible Selfie Stickmake it look like a drone

This post contains some affiliated links, and I may earn a small commission when you click and purchase through these links.  This is at no cost to you.  Thank you for your support.