Skiddaw via Ullock Pike

• An undulating ridge full of interest
• Ever changing views of the north west
• Skiddaw slates are exposed high

There is no finer approach to Skiddaw than via the arched bow of the Ullock Pike ridge. Skiddaw is much maligned, and the approaches from Keswick are certainly tedious (but safe) but scrambling up to the 3,000 foot contour over the exposed Skiddaw Slates is a dramatic and immensely satisfying experience. Climbing Skiddaw should be part of any walkers itinerary if they are based in the Keswick area but I would urge anyone to travel round to Bassenthwaite village and tackle the northern ridges – they offer some great walking, the paths are not yet scarred and there is a haunting loveliness to the entire area. The Ullock Pike ridge offers some fabulous views both north over Bassenthwaite Lake and the Solway Furth to the hills of Galloway and to the south and west once the Peak is achieved and the full glory of the north western fells opens up. Sadly I was looking in to a low winter sun on my most recent visit but the cap of frost over Skiddaw itself did add considerably to the effect. The descent is quick and good underfoot albeit steep in places but this circuit offers one of the easiest and most pleasurable walks of a 3,00 foot peak in England.

Recommend: For a young one aiming to clock his first 3,000 foot mountain this is the best choice – full of interest, safe and not too long.

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© Crown copyright 2010 Ordnance Survey. Image produced from the Ordnance Survey Get-a-map service. Image reproduced with kind permission of Ordnance Survey and Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland.

OS Map:	O/S 1.25,000. OL4 The English Lakes North western area
Start Point:	236310. There is parking for a few cars a few hundred yards off the A on the road to Orthwaite. Strike up the bridleway before cutting on to the obvious start of the ridge. If the parking spot is full Bassenthwaite is only 1/2 a mile distant.
Terrain:	Walking on slate country to the north is always easy and pleasant - this is no exception.
Eating & Drinking:	The Sun Inn at Bassenthwaite is pleasant, serves standard pub food and is ideal for an after walk pint.
Similar Walks Nearby:	Climbing Blencathra from Threlkeld The Coledale Round Classic Derwentwater via Walla Crag
Places to Stay: