South Lake District Pilgrimage
Introduction (6 days/7 nights)
This stunningly beautiful 6 day walk (7 nights) follows a 40 mile (65km) route through delightful South Cumbria and the magnificent scenery of the English Lake District. The walk takes you from the Norman village of Natland, past stately homes and castles to Scout Scar and Cunswick Scar – with their sweeping and far-reaching views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District. Alfred Wainwright described the walk along Cunswick and Scout Scars in his book, The Outlying Fells of Lakeland, as –
A walk above others: a pleasure every step of the way.
From Burneside, we trace the final leg of the popular Two Dales Way to Windermere, before continuing northwards past the famous Orrest Head viewpoint and through delightful Troutbeck – a classic Lakeland village. After meandering old fell lanes, wooded ghylls and the popular Jenkins Hill views we will arrive in Ambleside. For those who are feeling fit and strong we could include a small deviation to climb Wansfell Pike with its 360 degree panorama.
From Ambleside we explore beautiful Loughrigg before continuing via the Coffin Route to picture postcard Grasmere.
…for Loughrigg has delightful grassy paths, a series of pleasant surprises along the traverse of its summits, several charming vistas and magnificent views, fine contrasts of velvety turfs, rich bracken and grey rock, a string of little tarns like pearls in a necklace, and a wealth of stately trees on the flanks.
Alfred Wainwright
On the last day we follow tumbling streams and cascading waterfalls, pass high mountain tarns and craggy slopes to finish at the foot of the Langdale Pikes – perhaps the most recognisable mountain group in the Lake District.
Within its boundaries is one particular concentration of mountains, crowded into a small space, that, for popular appeal and scenic attractiveness ranks second to none: The Langdale Pikes.
Alfred Wainwright
This amazing and varied walk, which provides a perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, relax and reflect is suitable for people of all ages and abilities. Walking in a small group (maximum size 2) we will have plenty of time to visit places of interest, enjoy the scenery, connect with nature and feel close to God. As John Muir said –
I’d rather be in the mountains thinking of God, than in church thinking about the mountains.
What to Expect
Itinerary
Our itinerary includes 6 days walking and 7 nights accommodation. A brief route is provided below with an estimate of the miles walked each day.
- Start – Meet in Natland, Kendal at your holiday accommodation.
- Day 1 – Natland to Sizergh Castle (via Levens Hall) – 6 miles (10km)
- Day 2 – Sizergh Castle to Burneside (via Scout and Cunswick Scars) – 7.5 miles (12km)
- Day 3 – Burneside to Windermere (via Dales Way) – 7.5 miles (12km)
- Day 4 – Windermere to Ambleside (via Orrest Head and Troutbeck) – 7 miles (11km)
- Day 5 – Troutbeck to Grasmere (via Loughrigg Fell and the Coffin Route) – 6 miles (10km)
- Day 6 – Grasmere to Great Langdale (via Easedale Tarn and Blea Rigg) – 6 miles (10km)
- Day 7 – Finish – Depart from Natland after breakfast
Fitness and Experience
During this pilgrimage we walk 6-8 miles per day on good paths and tracks. Generally there is one easy climb per day otherwise the gradients are generally flat and gentle. The hill climbs are non-technical of between 100-300m and never steep for long. Perhaps the hardest day is day 5 when we climb on good paths from Grasmere to Easedale Tarn (220m) and from Easedale Tarn to Blea Rigg (220m). This is not a strenuous walk and no mountain experience is necessary. We will walk at a comfortable pace with plenty of time to visit sights and enjoy the magnificent lake and mountain scenery. If you are walking fit and can carry a small daysack with your food, water and waterproofs you should be able to complete this walk.
If you would like to include a rest day please let us know. We can then omit the first days walking and take a day off mid-week. Alternatively, we can still walk for 6 days but include an extra day in your package and provide 8 nights accommodation. We hope to provide a personal and tailored service so please let us know your requirements.
Your guide is Lathan. Lathan has over 35 years walking experience, is a qualified Mountain Leader and holds a current mountain first aid certificate.
Transport and Meeting
This walking holiday starts and finishes in Natland, Kendal. We will all meet in Natland in the afternoon at your accommodation where we will get to know one another, discuss the walk and talk about the days ahead.
The nearest international airports to Natland are Glasgow, Glasgow Prestwick and Manchester.
For those of you travelling by public transport we also include pick-up and drop-off at Oxenholme railway station or Kendal coach station. Oxenholme lies on the Main West Coast Railway Line providing direct links to London, Glasgow, Manchester Airport and Windermere. Oxenholme railway station is less than a 5 minute drive from your accommodation – so just let us know what time you will arrive.
Accommodation
During this walk you will stay in our comfortable accommodation in Natland and travel each day to the start and finish of your walk. Travel to and from the walk is included in the holiday.
Payment
The cost of this fully guided walk is £1180 per person.
We require a deposit of 50% at the time of booking and the balance is usually due 2 months before the walk starts.
During 2021, the maximum group size is 2. Young people are welcome but under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Booking
To book your walking holiday please contact us with your preferred dates and the party size. We will then confirm availability and forward payment details.
Covid-19 Statement
Updated 18th January 2021
We are currently working as normal, whilst doing all we can to maintain social distancing, minimise transmission risks and respect those around us. We are operating in line with government guidance and advice from the British Mountaineering Council and the Mountain Training Association.
If we need to cancel your holiday because of changes in the government Covid-19 guidelines we will provide you with a full refund or help you organise alternative dates. We hope this gives you peace of mind.
The World Health Organisation provide useful advice on how to protect yourselves and others from Covid-19.