13th March 2023

Skiddaw from Keswick

One of the most popular walks in the Lake District takes you to Skiddaw from Keswick and offers fantastic views of the surrounding scenery at every juncture.

You’ll reach 931 metres at the summit and it’s a 10-mile route in total – so worthy of a full day out. Plus you have the added bonus of returning home to Keswick, where there are plenty of places to refuel, including our collection of self-catering holiday cottages.

The Route

Begin by following Victoria Street from the centre of Keswick, in the direction of Windermere, then head to the nearby War Memorial, taking a left then right turn after onto Station Road.

Walk past Fitz Park and cross the bridge at the YHA hostel, before continuing to pass Keswick’s Museum and Art Gallery, as far as the leisure pool. Head out of the car park to the rear, crossing the mini roundabout and follow the steps to the footpath, which runs along the road.

Cross a side trail and stay on the same footpath until it disappears. Here, the hill you can see to your left is Latrigg – head in that direction for 200 yards, before turning off to the bridle path which is signposted “Skiddaw 4 miles”.

Follow Spooney Green Lane over the A66 via a footbridge and steep hill. Keep left when the path forks and head towards Mallen Dodd – passing through the gate and along the conifer plantation, which is fenced. You then follow the path up / around a car park, where you can choose to start, if seeking a shorter stroll.

Walk to the top of the car park and ahead you will see Blencathra. Turn left and head towards the kissing gate, then continue through another gate beyond this. You will eventually pass the Hawell Memorial (a stone cross) and then follow the fence line which leads to a widened gravel path and on towards the mountain.

Pass through a further gate, which leads to a zigzagged path and the steepest section of the trail, where you can spot the Little Man peak ahead. Turn right just before approaching its summit and pass through a final gate to follow the gentle incline up to Skiddaw.

Once you reach the end of this ramble, climb to a cairn and admire the panoramic views beyond! Meanwhile on the way home, simply retrace the trail back to Keswick.

Recommended For …

This is a relatively long but slower paced stroll and there are very few hazards or difficult terrain along the way. It could easily be enjoyed by walkers of most ages and experiences and the route is perfectly ok for canine companions.