Ski Club of Manchester, May Walks 2026

Leader: Dave Miller

This walk will be a circular route from nearby to Eskdale Green up through Mitredale Forest and along the ridge above Wasdale to the tops of Illgill Head and Whin Rigg. This circular will be around 8 miles and around 2335 feet of ascent.

This should be within the capabilities of fit and active walkers who are in good practice for this type of walking. The walk should take around 6 hours depending how long we spend sight seeing, eating, and of course walking.

Meeting time is 10:00 to start walking at 10:15

The route starts at the parking area shown on the OS large scale map at grid reference NY146012 and is accessed via the lane running northeast from near to Irton Road station (this lane runs past ST. Begas C of E primary school CA19 1TW. Be aware that postcodes in rural locations can cover a wide area). Due to restricted parking it will be of benefit if any of those taking part can arrange to car share for the short drive from Boot.

The route will be up onto and along the Whin Rigg / Illgill Head ridge as described above and on reaching the northeastern end of the ridge descends towards Maiden Castle before turning back southwest and following the course of the Mite back to the start point.

This will be a full day out on the fells so you will need to bring enough food and drink for the day. Good walking shoes or boots are recommended and enough variety of clothing to cope with the English climate.

Note that local weather and ground conditions may determine that lower level alternative walks may prove more suitable on the day and this will be decided at the time.

If you intend to join the walk please advise Dave Miller by Friday 1st May by email.

Click here to download the route in GPX format.