The Adventure
This one-day adventure starts from one of the most photographed spots in the Lakes, before a steep but rewarding climb takes us onto the high ground. You’ll experience the contrasts of wild fellside streams, open peatland, and hidden valleys — before descending to the secluded hamlet of Watendlath, complete with its historic packhorse bridge and welcoming tea room. Along the way, you’ll learn about the landscape, local history, and the unique character of this central ridge, guided by leaders who know the fells inside-out.
Trip Itinerary
Who Is It For
This trip is perfect for walkers with moderate fitness who want to enjoy a classic Lake District summit without venturing into overly technical terrain. You should be comfortable spending most of the day on your feet over varied ground, with some steep sections at the start and one or two boggy patches later on. Alongside the physical challenge, the real reward is a deeper connection to the landscape — learning its stories, discovering its hidden corners, and experiencing some of the best views the Lakes have to offer.
Trip Itinerary
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A classic Lake District beauty spot, with its narrow stone bridge (mind the 6ft 6 restriction!) and views down to Derwentwater.
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We climb steeply via Barrow Beck before levelling out to follow Ashness Gill towards the summit plateau. The terrain here is rugged but rewarding, with the 608m summit of High Seat coming into view.
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If weather allows, we’ll pause for lunch on the summit, soaking up huge panoramic views across the Lakes.
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Our route continues gently southward, crossing restored peatland on the flagstone path to High Tove. It can be boggy in places, but avoids the mire of Bleaberry Fell that even Wainwright famously dismissed.
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An easy-angled descent on a quiet country road takes us back to Ashness Bridge by late afternoon, finishing where we began
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The trip starts and finishes at Ashness Bridge National Trust car park (CA12 5UN, one of the most photographed locations in the Lakes.
By train: The nearest mainline station is Penrith North Lakes, with direct services from Manchester, Glasgow and London. From Penrith, continue to Keswick by local bus or taxi, and onwards to Ashness Bridge by taxi (a 10-minute ride).
By car: From the A66 at Keswick, follow signs for Borrowdale. Ashness Bridge car park is well signposted from the valley road. Note the very narrow bridge (6ft 6 vehicle restriction). Parking is pay and display.
By air: The closest airports are Manchester and Newcastle. Onward travel is easiest by train to Penrith, followed by bus or taxi connections.
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Group size: Small groups of no more than 10, keeping things friendly and personal.
Guides: Experienced, trusted guides who know the Lake District intimately, with stories and insight to bring the fells alive.
Fitness: Expect a full day of steady hiking, with a steep initial climb and some boggy ground, balanced by plenty of breaks, relaxed pace and outstanding scenery.
Flexibility: Routes may be adapted depending on weather and group ability, with safety and enjoyment always the priority.
Why Book with the GBAC?
Adventure, Authentically Delivered
Every journey with GBAC is led by passionate outdoor leaders who design their own adventures—trips as unique and inspiring as the guides themselves. Expect one-of-a-kind experiences that dive deeper, excite the senses, and promise memories no ordinary itinerary can match.
The UK’s Most Trusted Guide Network
Join the adventure community built by outdoor lovers, for outdoor lovers. With one of the largest guide networks in the UK, there’s always support, if a guide is unwell, your trip goes ahead with someone just as qualified and enthusiastic.
Create Unforgettable Memories
Our trips are crafted to leave a lasting mark—whether it’s summiting a new peak, discovering hidden wild places, or simply sharing laughter around the campfire. With GBAC, every adventure becomes a story worth telling, and the moments you share become lifelong memories.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Our guides are handpicked, fully insured, and qualified. Every one of them holds an enhanced DBS check and meets strict GBAC standards, so you can relax knowing your adventure is in safe, expert hands.
Feel-Good Booking, Fair Pay, Real Impact
GBAC guides and outdoor leaders are valued and fairly rewarded. We pay better by taking only a commission—helping expert guides earn more and focus on the experience, not just the job. Every adventure booked helps sustain a thriving, passionate community of outdoor leaders.
Small Groups, Big Adventures
Our trips aren’t crowded. Smaller groups mean a friendlier, more personal atmosphere—letting journeys unfold naturally, stories get shared, and every moment feel memorable.
Ready to create unforgettable memories in the wild? Choose GBAC—where every booking powers a more passionate outdoors, one unique journey at a time
Kit List
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Clothing & footwear
Walking boots (broken in — not fresh out of the box)
Walking poles with snow baskets (recommended, but optional)
2 pairs of socks (1 for walking, 1 spare)
Waterproof jacket & trousers
Gaiters (optional but useful)
Appropriate clothing for a day in the hills
Hat & gloves (even in summer)
Sunglasses & sunhat
Backpack & kit
20L+ backpack, suitable for hillwalking, with a waterproof cover
Sitting pad (optional, but keeps your bum dry)
1.5L of water
Water filter
Food & drink
Sufficient food for a full day (inlcude some snacks!)
Safety & essentials
Personal first aid kit (your guide will carry a kit, but bring your own for blisters & small scrapes)
Foil survival blanket (tiny and light)
Whistle
Head torch
Personal medication (your guide will ask you for any relevent medical information prior to your departure)
Miscellaneous
Mobile phone
Debit/credit card
A bit of cash (just in case)
Insect repellent
Don’t worry, your guide will be in touch in advance of your trip, including links to recommended products, so you can get set up as easily (and cheaply!) as possible.
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You’ll need to be fit enough to manage a 11km hike carrying around your days kit over undulating terrain. The pace and intensity can vary depending on the group, and we’ll always do our best to accommodate everyone — but an okay level of fitness is essential for this adventure.
About your Guide
John – Qualified Mountain Leader
John’s outdoor journey began in the scouts, where he first found joy in leading others on adventures and helping people connect with wild places. Nearly a decade on, he’s made Britain’s uplands his second home, pairing his teaching background with his passion for the hills to create trips that challenge, inspire, and teach.
Now based near Edinburgh, John is a qualified Mountain Leader and Rock Climbing Instructor. He’s guided countless adventures across the country, bringing infectious enthusiasm and deep expertise to every outing. Whether he’s helping someone bag their first Munro or sharing a quiet moment on a remote summit, John makes sure every day is memorable and everyone leaves having learned something new.
He has a real love for expedition travel, recently completing the challenging Cape Wrath Trail across Scotland. When he’s not leading groups, John is often off climbing in the Lake District, plotting his next multi-day adventure into the wild, or ticking off Munros one by one. With his reassuring presence and knack for making everyone feel welcome outdoors, John ensures every experience is both safe and unforgettable.
Got Questions?
Feel free to contact us with any and all questions. We always aim to reply within 24 hours.
