Near Keswick and situated just off St John’s in the Vale is a walk up the little fell of High Rigg. It is a rugged little fell, full of interest with great views over Blencathra and Skiddaw.
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. At that stage some family friends owned one of the lovely white washed cottages on its western slopes. The fell is over run with faint sheep tracks heading in all directions, rarely useful but interesting to follow. You will need to follow one to the summit however as there are no public rights of way of any use (except on the lower slopes). 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, 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 although for some reason I never seem to see anyone up there. They should be.
Walk the full ridge if possible and not just the quick 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.
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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