Blencathra
About Blencathra
Blencathra, also known as Saddleback, has several ridges offering varied routes. Sharp Edge provides one of the Lake District's finest scrambles.
Height & Prominence of Blencathra
Blencathra stands at 868 metres (2848 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 558 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Blencathra is part of the Lake District. The OS grid reference is NY 323277, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Blencathra carries the classifications of Wainwright, Hewitt, Nuttall, Marilyn.
Location & Nearest Towns
Blencathra is located in England, Cumbria, within Lake District National Park. It sits in the Northern Fells area.
For official access information and any seasonal restrictions, check the Lake District National Park authority.
Safety Tips
Always check forecasts before setting out. Summit conditions differ dramatically from valley level.
Carry map, compass/GPS, water, food, first aid, whistle, torch, and waterproofs.
Tell someone your route and return time. Stick to marked paths. Be ready to turn back.
Ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Know your grid reference.
On the Mountain: Walking Blencathra
Blencathra is a moderate walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 868m, where conditions can feel distinctly different from the valley — wind speeds are typically 30–50% stronger above 800m, and the temperature drops roughly 1°C for every 100m of ascent. In cloud, the cairn at the top can be hard to spot, so keep a map and compass to hand even on well-marked paths.
After your walk, the nearest village is a good place for a pint and a debrief. For detailed route descriptions and trip reports from other walkers, Walkhighlands is an excellent resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Blencathra one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Blencathra is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 868m elevation, and moderate difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Blencathra?
Blencathra has a difficulty rating of Moderate. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Blencathra?
The best season is Spring to Autumn. Summit temperatures are typically 5–10°C colder than the valley, and conditions can change rapidly.
Why Visit Blencathra?
Blencathra stands at 868m (2848ft) in England, Cumbria. Classified as a Wainwright and Hewitt and Nuttall and Marilyn, it is a rewarding destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers.
Browse our UK mountains directory to discover more peaks, or see all mountains A–Z.
Nearby Peaks to Explore
Looking beyond Blencathra? These peaks are close by and worth exploring.
