Blease Fell and Blencathra

Starting near the picturesque village of Threlkeld in Westmorland and Furness, England, the Blease Fell and Blencathra trail offers a captivating loop hike of approximately 8 km (5 miles) with an elevation gain of around 600 meters (1,970 feet). This medium-difficulty trail is perfect for those looking to experience the rugged beauty of the Lake District.

Getting There

To reach the trailhead, you can drive to Threlkeld, where parking is available near the village. If you prefer public transport, the nearest train station is in Penrith, about 20 km (12 miles) away. From Penrith, you can take a bus to Threlkeld, which is well-connected by local bus services.

Trail Overview

The hike begins in Threlkeld, a village steeped in history, with its origins dating back to the medieval period. As you start your ascent, you'll pass through lush meadows and farmland, gradually making your way up Blease Fell. The initial part of the trail is relatively gentle, allowing you to warm up before the steeper sections.

Ascent to Blease Fell

At around 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, the trail begins to climb more steeply. The path is well-marked, but it's advisable to use a navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. As you ascend, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding fells and valleys. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including red squirrels and various bird species.

Reaching Blencathra

After approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) and an elevation gain of about 400 meters (1,310 feet), you'll reach the summit of Blease Fell. From here, the trail continues towards Blencathra, also known as Saddleback due to its distinctive shape. The final push to the summit of Blencathra involves some scrambling, so be prepared for a bit of a challenge.

Summit Views

Standing at 868 meters (2,848 feet), Blencathra offers breathtaking views of the Lake District. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Scottish Borders and the Isle of Man. The summit is a great place to take a break, enjoy a snack, and soak in the scenery.

Descent and Return

The descent begins by following the ridge down towards Scales Fell. This part of the trail can be steep and rocky, so take your time and watch your footing. After about 6 km (3.7 miles) into the hike, you'll start to descend more gradually, eventually looping back towards Threlkeld.

Historical Significance

The area around Blencathra is rich in history. The fell itself has been a source of inspiration for poets and writers, including Alfred Wainwright, who described it as one of the grandest objects in Lakeland. The village of Threlkeld has historical ties to the mining industry, and remnants of old mine workings can still be seen in the area.

Final Stretch

As you make your way back to Threlkeld, you'll pass through more farmland and meadows, completing the loop. The entire hike takes around 4-6 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, challenging terrain, and historical intrigue, making it a must-do for any hiking enthusiast visiting the Lake District.