Blencathra, also known as Saddleback, is found in the Northern Fells and is arguably one of the best mountain hikes in the Lake District. With many routes up Blencathra to the summit, a firm favourite is definitely via Sharp Edge, a grade 1 scramble. Standing proudly overlooking Keswick, this popular hike in the Lake District is definitely not one to be missed; with it’s stunning views and added excitement of a ridge scramble, you’re guaranteed to have a great day outdoors.

Starting location: Roadside layby on the A66 (CA12 4SG)
 You can use one of the roadside laybys as close to the White Horse Inn as possible. There’s also a small gravel carpark near the Inn and some extra layby parking slightly further down the road.

Distance and ascent: 7.23km/756m

Difficulty: Hard – this is a hike which involves a grade 1 ridge scramble with exposure and steep drop offs. Confidence on this type of terrain is necessary.

Time taken: 3-4 hours with a short stop for lunch. Remember that this is dependent on fitness level and you may need to allow yourself more – or less- time.

Facilities: The White Horse Inn at the start of the route is a great place to stop for some food and a drink afterwards.

Sharp Edge route up Blencathra

From the roadside parking, you can’t really see the fun that awaits you as much of Blencathra, including the ridge of Sharp Edge, is out of sight. Head to the left of the White Horse Inn up a small set of stairs and straight up the hill at the back. There is a clear path so it’s hard to get lost but this bit always gets my lungs working. After a very short climb, you will join with the main path which you need to follow to the right. The path gradually rises back on itself in elevation and you will find yourself skirting to the right, up and back around the hill. Keep following the main, gravel/stone path and eventually Blencathra and the mighty Sharp Edge will come into view. 

To reach the ridge you need to head downhill towards the right of the tarn which is one of my favourite Lake District locations for a wild swim (if it’s warm enough). The path is obvious and cuts back up towards the bottom of Sharp Edge. When you reach the bottom, you will see a well-worn path which starts to cut through and over the top of the ridge. This is where the fun starts!

My personal favourite way to tackle this is to stick to the top of the ridge. You will need to be stable on your feet and may need to use your hands occasionally to steady yourself. If this gets too much you can veer off to the right side (but not too far over) where there is a path which avoids the top of the ridge and will help you avoid most of the trickier stuff.

All you need to do now, is carry on following the ridge all the way to the top. The last part can cause a bit of difficulty – you need to pick your way up carefully and think about where you are putting your feet and hands. Don’t rush this part.

Once you get to the top, you will be treated to amazing views looking back down Sharp Edge and the valley below.

Once you have had your eyeful, follow the path to the left and up to the summit of Blencathra.

To get back down to the main road, you can either retrace your route down the ridge or follow the path on the other side of the tarn. This winds down in a zig zag and eventually you will meet up with the original path you followed up. 

Is Sharp Edge hard?

Like many people, you many be wondering how hard a Grade 1 scramble is. On a scramble like this, you can expect to use both your hands and feet while on the ridge but ropes or technical experience is not usually required. Once you are on the ridge you need to have a head for heights and be confident with your agility. This isn’t a technical ridge at all but there have been many times where I have wandered up behind a poor hiker, petrified and adamant they can’t continue. If you are at all unsure of whether you have the experience to attempt Sharp Edge, always consult with a qualified guide first.

Map and route for Sharp Edge, Bencathra

For the Ordnance Survey route which you can download to your phone straight from the OS app, click here.

Top Tips for Sharp Edge

• This is a grade 1 route which means no technical experience is required however be aware that this route still carries an element of danger and there are steep drop offs when you are on the ridge. Care and attention is needed especially when wet as the rock becomes very slippery.
• The final section of the ridge involves a steeper incline where you need to use your feet and hands. There are plenty of holds for your hands and feet alike. Head straight up and don’t veer left or right.
• There is no get out option or an alternative path on this ridge – once you’re on the ridge, then it’s either carry on or retrace your steps back down.

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