Classic Circuits

The ‘Classic Circuits’ represent the most famous walks and climbs in the Lake District. Many of them are well known (Helvellyn via Striding Edge, the Langdale Pikes, Scafell Pike). However I have included many that are less well known. They may be away from the popular central spine of Lakeland, such as Wasdale and Ennerdale, or provide more unusual, and in my opinion better, routes over the more familiar summits.

Linking two or three fells together often brings out the best in Lake District walking. The linking ridges are either dramatic and rocky or pleasantly smooth and grassy. Only 2 things are guaranteed on these Classic Circuits. They are hard work and they are exceptionally rewarding.

Climbing Blencathra

Climbing Blencathra via Hall’s Fell and returning via Blease Fell is the best way to enjoy my favourite mountain. Halls Fell has some minor scrambling but leads directly to the summit trig.

Skiddaw via Ullock Pike

The climb of Skiddaw via Ullock Pike is a fine way to approach this 3,000 foot popular summit. The Ullock Pike ridge is full of interest with spectacular views.

Newlands Round

A fine walk along good paths with outstanding views, the Newlands Round covers three main Wainwrights but can be extended to two more.

Steeple and Haycock

This is an unusual route to approach the high fells. Walk along the shores of Ennerdale before striking steeply up the direct ridge of graceful Steeple and on to Haycock.

St Sunday’s Crag

The name is enough to attract the interest of walker and St Sunday’s Crag does not disappoint. It is a graceful ridge above Ullswater leadig to Grisedale Tarn and a return via the Grisedale valley.

Hayeswater and Angle Tarn

From Hartsop head up steep slopes to picturesque Angle Tarn. Continue east on to the main High Street Ridge with Hayeswater below and circle its head. Drop on to Grey Crag for a spectacular descent with amazing views.

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Blencathra via Sharp Edge

The climb of Blencathra via Sharp Edge is one of the most famous walks in Britain. Scales Tarn makes a beautiful backdrop to the ridge. Blencathra itself stands isolated from other fells, enhancing the walk considerably.

Scafell Pike from Seathwaite

The climb of Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route is the best way to arrive at the highest place in England. In addition the circuit passes two of the best tarns, Styhead and Sprinkling.

Dow Crag via Seathwaite Tarn

Starting from the Duddon Valley the walk heads towards the Coniston Fells via Seathwaite Tarn. From here climb the steep slopes to Dow Crag and enjoy the wonderful views.

High Street Ridge

From Haweswater a rocky climb past two idyllic tarns leads on to the broad, grassy High Street ridge. Once on the ridge the views are excellent and the walking easy. The return is via the shores of Haweswater.

Coledale Round

The Coledale Round dominates the northern lakes near Keswick. Many do part but those who complete the full round are rewarded with ever changing views, many summits and an immense satisfaction.

A Fistful of Dodds

The long northern ridge from Helvellyn comprises a number of rounded lumps. It offers some easy walking, an easy climb from Dockray and superb views. The name Fistful of Dodds is courtesy of Clint Eastwood.

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