Blencathra via Blease Fell

The Direct, Scenic Route to a Famous Summit

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Want to conquer Blencathra (aka Saddleback) without tackling infamous ridges like Sharp Edge? The Blease Fell route gives you serious summit vibes—sturdy, straight‑forward, and stunning. Ideal for fit beginners or anyone seeking a rewarding peak experience without scrambling.

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Walk Snapshot

• Location: Northern Lake District (start near Threlkeld or on Blease Road)
  
  
• Distance: ~8–11 km round trip (6.7 miles / 10.8 km common GPS loop)
  
  
• Time: 3–4.5 hrs
  
  
• Elevation Gain: ~600–800 m (summit is 868 m high)
  
  
• Difficulty: Moderate – steep but non-technical ascent
  
  
• Trail Type: Out-and-back (option to loop via Scales Fell)
  
  
• Start/Finish: Threlkeld village car park or Blease Road car park
  
  
• Dog Friendly: Yes
  
  
• Summit Vibe: Panoramic summit, cairn, and iconic mountainscape experience
  
  

Route Description

1. Start – Threlkeld or Blease Road

Pick your start point: Threlkeld village or the higher Blease Road car park, cutting off lower ascent. From either, the graded path leads into the lower slopes of Blease Fell .

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2. Steep Ascent to Blease Ridge

The climb is direct—gradually steepening through grass and stone pitches. This route avoids Sharp Edge but still powers you straight to Blease Fell ridge.

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3. Ridge Walk to Summit

Once on the ridge, follow a clear, undulating path to Hallsfell Top, the main Blencathra summit (868 m). You’ll pass secondary tops like Gategill Fell and Doddick Fell if you want extra distance and views.

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4. Summit – Hallsfell Top

At the trig cairn, enjoy sweeping views: Skiddaw, Derwentwater, Helvellyn, and across the Northern Fells. Photo-worthy vistas await.

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5. Return – Retrace or Create a Loop

Most return via the same route. Alternatively, continue west to Scales Fell and circle back via a loop (adds ~2–3 km) for variety.

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Highlights

• Safe high walk: Non-technical but still full of ridgeline drama
  
  
• Summit reward: Full 360° panoramas, cairn, and spacious peak experience
  
  
• Historic name: Known locally as Saddleback—classic Lake District icon
  
  
• Option for extra: Add Gategill or loop via Scales Fell for more ground
  
  

Facilities & Nearby Stops

• Parking: Threlkeld village or small car park on Blease Road
  
  
• Toilets & Cafe: Available in Threlkeld; refreshments at Horse & Farrier pub
  
  
• Extensions: Combine with sharp Edge or Hallsfell Ridge if confident, or detour to Scales Fell for variety
  
  

Tips for Hike Success

• Sturdy footwear: Steep grass pitches need grip
  
  
• Take poles: Helpful both on ascent and descent
  
  
• Layer up: Ridge is exposed—bring windproof and warm mid-layers
  
  
• Check weather: Summit elevation means conditions can change fast
  
  
• Start early: Summit crowds thin out by midday
  
  

Final Thoughts

Blencathra via Blease Fell offers a rewarding Lake District classic with none of the nerve-wracking scrambling. It’s steep, yes—but the views, summit aura, and sense of achievement are all there. A top-tier summit day for the capable hiker.

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Photo by Jonny Gios on Unsplash