Blencathra

The fell is often called Saddleback, a reference to its distinctive skyline. Its highest point, Hallsfell Top, reaches about 868 metres, with views over the northern Lake District when conditions allow.

Blencathra can provide a satisfying mountain day without taking Sharp Edge. Our Blencathra via Blease Fell walking route describes a strenuous non-scrambling approach from Threlkeld, with the mapped route and preparation advice. Decide whether you want a walking route or a scramble before planning the ascent: familiar names and popular photographs do not indicate an easy route.

Choose a complete route for your starting point, including the descent. Use a current map and the full route description when planning your walk.

Expect steep climbing, rough paths and an exposed summit ridge. Scrambling routes require additional skills and judgement. Conditions at Scales can be very different from those on the upper ridges, and the descent deserves its own plan.

Do I have to cross Sharp Edge?

No. Walking approaches avoid Sharp Edge. Use a complete route description to select an ascent and descent appropriate to your experience.

Is Hall’s Fell a beginner route?

It involves scrambling and exposure. It needs a different assessment from a straightforward fell path, even though it is often discussed alongside walking routes.

Is Doddick Fell a separate mountain walk?

Doddick Fell is a subsidiary top on one of Blencathra’s southern ridges. It can be included in a researched Blencathra route, but reaching it still involves steep fell terrain.