One of the most popular routes in the Lake District, this walk takes you to Skiddaw from Keswick and offers fantastic views of the surrounding scenery at every juncture.
You will 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 to Keswick where there are plenty of places to refuel.
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 it onto Station Road. Walk past Fitz Park and then cross the bridge at the YHA hostel before continuing past Keswick’s Museum and Art Gallery, as far as the leisure pool. Head out of the car park to the back, crossing the mini roundabout and then follow the steps up to the footpath which runs behind a hedge and along the road.
Cross over 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 footbridge and up a steep hill. Keep left when the path forks and head towards Mallen Dodd – through the gate and alongside the conifer plantation which is fenced. You then follow the path up and round a car park, where you can choose to start if looking for a shorter stroll.
Walk to the top of the car park and ahead you’ll see Blencathra. Turn left and head towards the kissing gate, then continue through another gate beyond this. You will soon pass the Hawell Memorial (a stone cross) and then follow the fence line which leads to a widened gravel path and on to the mountain.
You will then pass through a further gate which leads to a zigzag path and the steepest section of the walk. Where you can spot the Little Man peak ahead. Turn right just before approaching its summit and head through a final gate to follow the gentle incline up to Skiddaw. Once you reach the end of this ramble, climb up to a cairn and admire the panoramic views beyond. En route home, simply retrace the trail back to Keswick.
Recommended For …
This is a relatively long but gentle stroll and there are very few hazards or difficult terrain along the way. It could easily be enjoyed by walkers of all ages and experiences and the route is perfectly ok for four legged friends.
This route from Keswick to Skiddaw offers some of the most stunning views of the Cumbrian countryside and is just a short jaunt from our collection of Lake District holiday cottages.
