3 Lakes Panoramic challenge
A panoramic low level challenge - perfect throughout the seasons!
This challenge offers the chance for groups to complete a challenge route based around 3 of the Lake Districts most superb stretches of water. By the end of the challenge, you will have walked along the full length of Bassenthwaite, the full length of Derwent Water and complete a full circum-navigation of Buttermere to finish! Each of the three Lakes has a completely different character and atmosphere; Bassenthwaite to the North, with its open views and wide vista and resident ospreys. Derwent water, nestled in the jaws and slopes of Borrowdale near Keswick, biodiverse and full of natural interest; Buttermere; a small and tranquil lake setting in the steep shadow of the ridges of some of the famous mountain giants of the North Western fells.
This route is a suitable choice for those with limited mountain experience as the terrain is low lying and technically straightforward in the most part, and a good choice for those who might not feel experienced or physically prepared to tackle a mountain challenge, but still want something to get their teeth into. It also serves as a good choice for those wanting to complete a challenge in the winter months when the higher fells are often under snow and ice and impassable for those undertaking challenge style events on the normal routes.
There are ample options for accommodation in the town of Keswick, which sits approximately at the mid point of our route, so offering short shuttle times for transport to and from either end of the route. Penrith is approximately a 30 minute drive from here which offers easy access to the M6 at junction 40 and mainline train station located here too.
This challenge is suitable for average fitness levels ; however, we recommend participants work on building up their stamina with weekly cardio-vascular exercise of a minimum of 1 hour per day, 5 days per week to build up their calf + quad muscles. We can help you prepare for this event – for information about our pre-selection / training day click here.
Itinerary
Arrival day
Check into your accommodation in Keswick followed by early evening team briefing. Alternatively, we can arrange transfers from Penrith Rail Station.
Second day - Walking
We start our route at the Northern end of Bassenthwaite; After crossing Ouse bridge and rounding the end of the Lake, we quickly join the main route of the Allerdale Ramble on the Eastern shore. We stay close to the Lakeshore for the first few kilometres, moving through picturesque flat pasture land and traditional Lake District places, ancient and modern building including the beautiful 17th Century building of Mirehouse and the ancient site of St Begas Church. Next we enter the tree line and traverse through the steeply wooded slopes of Dodd wood, offering an elevated viewpoint to look out for the osprey on the opposite side of the Lake. We’ve now passed the Southern end of the Lake and join the path alongside the river Derwent, which links Bassenthwaite to Derwent Water. After a couple of kilometres and passing through Portinscale village we join the Western edge of Derwent Water following an undulating route through ancient woodland and shingle beach. On reaching the Southern end of the Lake we move Eastwards using a series of board walks that help us cross the marshy ground deeper into Borrowdale. Here, having achieved two out of your three objectives, your transport will pick you up and drive you to the end of the Borrowdale valley and over the Honister mountain pass into the Buttermere valley. We will complete an anti-clockwise journey circumnavigating the whole lake and have a chance to gaze up towards the higher summits, ridges and river ravines above to finish the route in style. On reaching Buttermere village at the end of our journey, there will be a chance to enjoy some well-earned refreshment before your onward transport back to your accommodation.
Distance 28km, Ascent 300m, Descent 300m, Target time 9-10 hours excluding shuttle to Buttermere, Terrain – Easy walking trails.
Duration: 1 Day
Activities: Walking
Suitable for: Private or corporate groups looking for a charity fundraiser, personal development and/or team building event
Comments: A superb low level route which presents an excellent challenge throughout the seasons. Ideally suited to groups with no prior mountain walking experience whilst offering a fulfilling experience covering 28km in circa 9-10 hours walking time.
Prices from: £275
Call: 017687 75337
Booking Enquiry
Package Prices
Standard
Guest House – bed & breakfast + packed lunch
15% off Cotswold voucher
Head torches and Trekking poles included
Price is per person
Budget
Hostel – bed & breakfast + packed lunch
15% off Cotswold voucher
Head torches and Trekking poles included
Price is per person
Premium
Hotel – bed & breakfast + packed lunch
15% off Cotswold voucher
Head torches and Trekking poles included
Price is per person
