Skiddaw and Sale How from Keswick

Starting from the bustling market town of Keswick, this classic Lake District hike covers approximately 16 km (10 miles) with an elevation gain of about 900 metres (2,950 feet). The trailhead is conveniently located near the Keswick town centre, close to the Moot Hall, which serves as a popular meeting point and orientation spot for walkers. Keswick is well-served by public transport, with regular buses from Penrith railway station, making it accessible for those arriving by train. For drivers, several pay-and-display car parks are available in Keswick, including the Central Car Park on Heads Road.

Initial Ascent and Spoilbank Views

The route begins with a gentle walk out of Keswick, quickly transitioning to steeper terrain as you ascend the lower slopes of Latrigg. The well-maintained path offers panoramic views over Derwentwater and the surrounding fells. After about 2 km (1.2 miles), you’ll reach the Latrigg car park, a common alternative starting point for those seeking a shorter route. From here, the climb intensifies as you follow the broad, grassy ridge towards Skiddaw Little Man, a prominent subsidiary summit. The landscape is open and exposed, with sweeping vistas across the Northern Fells.

Summiting Skiddaw

At around 6 km (3.7 miles), the path steepens further as you approach the summit ridge of Skiddaw, the sixth-highest mountain in England at 931 metres (3,054 feet). The summit is marked by a trig point and a wind shelter, offering breathtaking 360-degree views that, on clear days, stretch as far as Scotland and the Isle of Man. The terrain here is rocky and can be windswept, so extra layers are advisable. Skiddaw’s summit has long been a destination for Victorian tourists, and its name is thought to derive from Old Norse, reflecting the area’s Viking heritage.

Descent via Sale How

The descent follows the less-travelled path over Sale How, a rounded grassy outlier that provides a quieter alternative to the main Skiddaw route. This section, around 9 km (5.6 miles) into the hike, is notable for its solitude and the chance to spot upland birds such as skylarks and meadow pipits. The slopes are often grazed by Herdwick sheep, a hardy local breed. The path gradually loses height, winding through heather and bracken before rejoining the lower valley tracks.

Return to Keswick

The final stretch leads you back towards Keswick, passing through the patchwork of fields and dry-stone walls typical of the Lake District. The last few kilometres are relatively gentle, allowing time to appreciate the changing views of Skiddaw’s imposing bulk behind you. Navigation is straightforward, but for added confidence, the entire route is available on HiiKER, which provides detailed mapping and waypoints.

Points of Interest and Practical Tips

• Moot Hall in Keswick is a historic building dating back to the 16th century and serves as a focal point for many Lake District walks.
• The area is rich in wildlife, with red squirrels occasionally seen in the lower woodlands and buzzards soaring overhead.
• Weather can change rapidly on Skiddaw’s exposed summit, so check forecasts and carry appropriate gear.
• Keswick offers a range of amenities, including outdoor shops, cafés, and accommodation, making it an ideal base for walkers.

This route combines the challenge of a major Lakeland summit with the tranquility of lesser-known paths, offering a rewarding day out for those with moderate hiking experience.