High Rigg is a marvellous lowish fell situated between the A591 near Keswick and At John’s in the Vale. It is a rugged little fell, full of interest with great views over Blencathra and Skiddaw. Amongst the undulating long summit ridge are hidden hollows, tarns and a myriad of rocky outcrops.
High Rigg is a rough little fell situated alongside St John’s in the Vale. I have visited the summit visited on many occasions, particularly as a youngster. We had friends who owned one of the small, white washed cottages at Shaw Bank, perfectly sited on High Rigg’s lower slopes. Amongst the bracken is a multitude of misleading sheep tracks, useful to a point but usually heading somewhere you do not want to go. The wide summit ridge is different, a good path leading between High Rigg and High Tove.
Before arriving on the fell itself the walk takes you through some lanes and farm tracks to the west of the A591. From there the route crosses the road and follows a quiet lane towards St John’s church and youth hostel. When I was young my dad used to drive over this road past the church to our friends (yes it used to be open to cars, rough though!), it is banned and impractical now. From the church (a fine picnic spot) the remainder of the walk is on High Rigg.
There are not many mountains with such excellent views of three of the Lake District giants. The views towards Helvellyn, Skiddaw and in particular Blencathra are excellent. The climb is straightforward for pretty much anyone of any age and full of interest for the young. The undulating ridge hides fellow walkers so you often see nobody at all. A steep descent takes you back to the car park.
Walk the full ridge to fully appreciate High Rigg and not just the quick Wainwright bagging climb to the summit from the church.
High Rigg is typical of a small fell that has multiple paths but it is impossible to know whether they are sheep made or man made. They may lead you astray! Make sure yours is heading, at least roughly, in the correct direction by taking a rough compass bearing.
High Rigg is unusual as there are no Public Rights of Way on the fell itself (except on the lower slopes).
Beautiful walk round high rigg today lovely place very welcoming lady that served us our Lakeland ice cream glad to see somewhere to stop and rest would really recommend it xx
Enjoyed this walk and found a Farm cafe at Low Bridge End. Fantastic cakes and Lakeland ice cream also a toilet. Always open and well worth a visit.
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