Threlkeld - Skiddaw House - Mosedale

Peter Judd

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This is a linear walk through one of the Lake District's most isolated valleys, between Blencathra and Skiddaw. You need to arrange transport at both ends but the organisational effort is well worth it.

The first part of the walk takes you along an old track beneath Lonscale Fell. Climbing over a shoulder the very remote row of cottages at Skiddaw House comes into view.

Skiddaw House was built in the early 19th century and served to house both gamekeepers and shepherds, as well as acting as a shooting lodge. In the mid 20th century it was leased by the YHA and remained as its highest hostel for several decades. A few years ago, however, it was dropped by the YHA (due to 'disagreements over the terms of the lease') and fell into disrepair. But now it has been taken on again by an independent trust and re-opened as a hostel and bunkhouse.

From this remote spot you descend through another valley, following the river and eventually joining the minor road to Mosedale, where hopefully you'll find your transport.

It's best to organise this walk with two cars, leaving one at the walk finish. It is possible to walk up to Skiddaw House and back, to make a walk of similar length to the full linear one, but you miss the pleasure of making a full transit.

England - North England - Cumbria - Lake District - North East