4.8
(8)
88
hikers
20
hikes
Mountaineering routes around Ireby And Uldale offer access to the rugged fells and dramatic landscapes of the northern Lake District. The region is characterized by prominent peaks like Blencathra and Skiddaw, featuring challenging ascents and expansive views. Mountaineers can expect a mix of open moorland, rocky paths, and the occasional tarn. These routes provide a true mountain experience within a classic English fell environment.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
10
hikers
11.7km
04:48
710m
710m
Hard mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
9
hikers
12.7km
04:55
680m
680m
Hard mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

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9
hikers
11.0km
04:04
680m
680m
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
10.5km
03:54
650m
650m
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
5
hikers
11.4km
04:14
710m
710m
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ireby And Uldale
Blencathra offers many things. Very easy access from A66 with parking spaces near Scales (with a Pub there if you need one). Steep (depending route) and with exciting Sharp Edge (not for faint hearted). Very popular with fell runners, hikers and mountain bikers... Seen Paragliders in the area as well but not sure where they start from. Can be done in an hour (for runners) or longer depending on your stamina and determination. Gorgeous views in all directions, ideal for sunrise and sunset. Well worth a visit.
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Decent walk either up to Blencathra, or on the way back down. Fantastic views over Keswick
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Get there early as spaces fill fast. I'd recommend reverse parking to make it easier to drive away after. It can get a little cramp
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Both decent options between Skiddaw South Top and Skiddaw, south west heading towards Carl Side, require sure footedness and appear rather treacherous as you head off the top down the scree.
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Fantastic walk via longside edge ullock pike longside and carl side
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A really simple one to tick off. But if you are going to accent via Carl Side, the climb up Carl is steap.
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There are over 25 mountaineering routes around Ireby And Uldale, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult. This area is known for its challenging fell ascents and dramatic ridges.
The routes in Ireby And Uldale are primarily categorized as moderate or difficult. You'll find 15 moderate routes and 10 difficult routes, providing options for experienced mountaineers looking for a challenge.
Yes, many of the mountaineering routes around Ireby And Uldale are circular. For example, the Blencathra loop from Scales is a popular circular option, as is the Blencathra loop from Threlkeld.
Mountaineering routes in Ireby And Uldale feature a mix of open moorland, rocky paths, and the occasional tarn. You can expect challenging fell ascents and dramatic ridges, characteristic of the northern Lake District.
Many routes offer stunning views and pass by significant natural features. You might encounter the Blencathra Summit, Skiddaw Summit, or the scenic Scales Tarn. The Scales Tarn – Blencathra Summit loop from Threlkeld is a great way to experience some of these.
The routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from around 10 reviews. Mountaineers often praise the challenging ascents, expansive views, and the true mountain experience within a classic English fell environment.
Yes, for a different perspective, consider the Blencathra – Blease Fell loop from Scales. This route provides an alternative approach to Blencathra, showcasing varied landscapes and views of Blease Fell.
The best time for mountaineering in Ireby And Uldale is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when weather conditions are generally more stable and daylight hours are longer. However, the fells can be enjoyed year-round with appropriate gear and experience.
Absolutely. The Stone Sculpture on Skiddaw loop from Applethwaite offers a moderate challenge and takes you towards Skiddaw, allowing you to experience its slopes and potentially reach the Little Man (Skiddaw) summit.
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many popular starting points, such as Scales or Threlkeld, have designated parking areas, though these can fill up quickly during peak season. Always check local signage and consider arriving early, especially for weekend hikes.
While not directly on every mountaineering route, the region is home to beautiful tarns and lakes. Scales Tarn, located beneath Blencathra, is a notable spot that some mountaineers enjoy for a refreshing dip after a challenging ascent, though caution is always advised in mountain waters.
The duration of routes varies significantly based on distance and difficulty. For example, the difficult Blencathra loop from Scales typically takes around 3 hours 46 minutes, while longer routes like the Scales Tarn – Blencathra Summit loop from Threlkeld can take closer to 4 hours 47 minutes.


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