The Adventure
Over the course of the hike you’ll summit a string of Wainwright peaks, stride out along Britain’s highest Roman road, and take in breathtaking views over Windermere, Ullswater, and the remote valleys around Haweswater. Along the way, our guides will bring the landscape to life, sharing insight into Roman history, wildlife, and the human stories that shaped these fells. You’ll return with aching legs, a huge sense of achievement, and an even bigger smile.
Who Is It For
This trip is perfect for keen walkers looking to take on a rewarding full-day hill challenge in the Lake District. You don’t need to be a runner or athlete, but you should be comfortable walking 20km+ over mountainous terrain with sustained climbs and descents. The route offers a mix of physical challenge, spectacular scenery, and the chance to stand on multiple iconic summits — a great choice for anyone keen to tick off Wainwrights or simply immerse themselves in a proper mountain day.
You’ll not only take away a sense of achievement but also knowledge about the landscape’s history, its unique conservation efforts, and some of its rare wildlife, all brought to life by your local expert guides.
Trip Itinerary
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We begin in the peaceful village of Kentmere, heading quickly uphill to Garburn Pass. The steep track is a tough warm-up, but rewards us with sweeping views back over the valley.
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The true ridge walk begins here. With every summit the views grow wider, stretching towards Windermere and out to Helvellyn. The trio of summits provides some of the finest ridge walking in the Lakes, with airy but non-technical paths.
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We reach the imposing Thornthwaite Beacon, its stone pillar marking the perfect pause for lunch. From here, the view north to Ullswater and west towards the central fells is unforgettable. If time and conditions allow, we’ll also detour onto High Street, once an ancient Roman road and still the highest track in Britain.
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The route drops to Nan Bield Pass, a wild mountain col with dramatic views over small mountain tarns and down towards Haweswater Reservoir — an area of conservation rich in wildlife. This was the site of the last breeding pair of Golden Eagles in England, and in autumn the valleys echo with the roar of red deer.
We continue along the ridge to Harter Fell and Kentmere Pike, before beginning the descent back towards Kentmere.
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We return to the start point with a satisfying circuit complete — one of the great classic Lake District routes.
Expect to cover 21km with 1,200m of ascent, over 7–8 hours of walking.
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The trip starts at Kentmere Institute (LA8 9JL)
By train: The nearest mainline station is Oxenholme Lake District, with direct services from Manchester, Glasgow and London. From Oxenholme, continue by local train to Staveley and then by taxi to Kentmere (about 6 miles).
By car: Kentmere is around 20 minutes from the M6 (junction 36) via the A591. Parking is limited in the village, so we encourage car sharing. There is a small pay-and-display car park next to the Institute.
By air: The closest airports are Manchester or Newcastle. The easiest onward route is via train to Oxenholme, before bus/taxi connections to Kentmere.
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Group size: Small groups of no more than ten, keeping things friendly and personal.
Guides: Experienced, trusted guides who know the Langdale Pikes, and their rich stories, inside out.
Fitness: Expect a full day on your feet over rough paths and rocky tops, with sustained climbs. Good hiking fitness is essential, though the pace is steady and we pause often to enjoy the views.
Flexibility: Routes can be adjusted depending on weather, ground conditions and group pace, always keeping safety, learning, and enjoyment at the heart of the day.
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 22km 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 a good level of fitness is essential for this adventure.
About your Guide
Jerry – Qualified Mountain Leader
Growing up in north west England, Jerry has spent a lifetime exploring the mountains and wild places of the UK. After more than a decade living abroad—counting penguins and teaching snowshoeing—he returned to the Lake District to live and work, reconnecting with the fells and landscapes that first inspired his love of the outdoors.
Whether hiking, fell running, mountain biking, or reading about the area’s fascinating history, Jerry is happiest outdoors and continually seeks out new adventures across the Lakes and its surroundings. Having completed all 214 Wainwrights and now training for an attempt at the Bob Graham Round, he thrives on both the challenge and joy found in the hills.
With a background in conservation and zoology, Jerry is passionate about sharing the outdoors, fostering curiosity and respect for the region’s wildlife and natural environment while championing the physical and mental health benefits that mountain experiences offer. His belief that the outdoors should be accessible to everyone guides his approach, ensuring those who join him discover the same sense of freedom and wonder that have shaped his journey
Got Questions?
Feel free to contact us with any and all questions. We always aim to reply within 24 hours.
