Sharp Edge on Blencathra: The Most Underrated Ridge in the Lakes

Blencathra is one of the best fells in the Northern Lakes and it does not get close to the attention it deserves. Ask most people who have done both Sharp Edge and Striding Edge which is better and the answer is usually Sharp Edge, quietly, as if admitting it might diminish Helvellyn somehow.

It is narrower. The exposure is more continuous. The scrambling is more technical in places. And the approach from Scales makes for a better day than the Glenridding grind. If you have done Striding Edge and want something more challenging on a similar day out, this is the obvious next step.

The Approach from Scales

Park at the small roadside car park at Scales, CA12 4TN, on the A66 east of Threlkeld. It is free and usually has space. From here, follow the path up towards Scales Tarn, the dark corrie lake that sits below Sharp Edge. The approach takes about an hour and is straightforward. The tarn comes into view before the ridge does.

Standing at the tarn and looking up at Sharp Edge for the first time, it looks serious. The ridge rises at an angle and the rock on the crest is visibly narrow. That is an accurate impression.

The Ridge Itself

Sharp Edge is shorter than Striding Edge, around 400 metres, but the scrambling is more sustained. The crest is a sharp fin of rock with steep drops on both sides. Some people straddle it. Most people walk along the edge or just below it on the southern side.

The crux is near the end of the ridge where a step across a gap requires commitment. It is not technical in a climbing sense but it does require you to move confidently on exposed ground. People who are uncomfortable with heights will not enjoy this. People who are comfortable will find it excellent.

In the wet, the rock on Sharp Edge becomes dangerously slippery. More so than Striding Edge because the holds are smaller. If there is any chance of rain, either go early before it arrives or choose a different route up Blencathra.

The Summit and Descent

After Sharp Edge, a steep section of loose ground leads up to the summit plateau. The top of Blencathra sits at 868 metres and the views on a clear day are extensive: the Northern Fells, the Eden Valley east, the Pennines on the horizon.

Descend via Hall's Fell Ridge for the best circular route. Hall's Fell is a direct ridge descent back towards Threlkeld, steep and rocky near the top but on a clear path. It brings you down to the valley and a short road walk back to Scales.

Practical

• →Start: Scales roadside car park, CA12 4TN (free)
• →Sharp Edge is not suitable in wet conditions
• →Do not attempt in winter without crampon experience
• →Descend via Hall's Fell Ridge to complete a circular route
• →The Horse and Farrier in Threlkeld is a good pub for after
• →Less busy than Helvellyn routes, especially midweek