This walk takes you on a west to east route from coastal Ravenglass to Penrith, with between 9 and 13 miles walked daily and ascents and descents ranging from under 500ft to over 2,000ft.
We'll walk towards remote Wastwater, the most atmospheric of all the lakes, through spectacular scenery over Black Sail Pass and then under the shadow of the high peaks - Great Gable, Scafell Pike, Pillar and Haystacks being amongst them.
Continuing east there's another stunning high level route to the gentler scenery of the Newlands Valley and the shores of Derwent Water, before arriving at Keswick. From here we gently ascend to the Castlerigg stone circle, with far reaching views back to Derwent Water and Bassenthwaite Lake. We then pick up a lonely coach road through thousands of acres of high moorland to walk down into Dockray and Ullswater. Journey's end and celebratory drink is at Eamont Bridge near Penrith, before returning to Hassness for a farewell dinner.
Meals: Most meals are included each day (excluding Tuesdays, when dinner can be taken in one of Buttermere's village pubs) and whenever possible, we'll use local produce. Picnic lunches are included on days including a guided walk. Accommodation: Hassness House, Buttermere. Hassness is beautifully located in its own extensive Western Lake District grounds. Hassness House sits in a clearing in some woodland; there aren't any real fences around so you can find sheep grazing the grounds and red squirrels scurrying around the place. It is one of the remotest parts of the Lake District, has been recognised as offering some of Britain's best views, and is a perfect starting point for some truly remarkable days in the hills.
You can walk the mile into Buttermere village (a tiny hamlet) for a drink or something to eat at one of the two pubs, but otherwise you can just get away from it all.
There's no TV, no phones in the rooms, and mobile reception is dire. You have to talk to one another, read a book, or simply enjoy one of the most dramatic vantage points in the world. The madding crowds don't come anywhere nearby, and the hills around here are generally less well stomped than the more readily accessible peaks. And the food's great.
Accommodation is in twin and single rooms with hot and cold water and the showers are just down the hall.
(Number of rooms: 12) Travel: Transportation to and from the trailheads, if necessary, is included. |
