Catstye Cam & Birkhouse Moor

Friday 30th October 2020

A fell that I haven't actually been to that many times - but one that always helps me identify all the 'Wainwrights' that are on view, wherever I am in the lakes (providing it can be seen of course). Catstye Cam has a very unmistakable shape, and from spotting its symmetrical pyramid profile - I can always work out the surrounding fells - Helvellyn, Dollywaggon, Nethermost etc …. I'd say its downfall is that there's not a great deal of scope for new and different circular routes to climb it. It's either an 'add on' from the standard Helvellyn circular, or a trip up Birkhouse Moor and back to Glenridding. Nonetheless, it's a fine peak - a real mountain profile, best done when the fells have their winter coats on, as the central views are captivating.

Birkhouse Moor - well, nothing much to add there, barely noticeable as you follow the striding edge convoy.

We enjoyed a drizzly morning and a windswept lunch by Red Tarn - but then a wonderful clear afternoon in the sun in still conditions - finished of with beers in the Travellers Test (impressive Beer Garden - that must be new, can't say I've noticed it before), but certainly great views over Glenridding.

Another lockdown looming …. may not see the lakes again for a while - 2020 has been a poor year all round (except for my Grandson of course).

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Distance: 9.3 miles

Duration: 5:30 hours

Ascent: 2753 ft

Difficulty: Moderate

Accompanied By: Brian

Weather: Drizzle am/Dry & Sunny pm

Wainwrights Visited

Birkhouse Moor Catstye Cam

3D outline of route

Parking

So busy recently - but maybe it's easing off- probably helped by all the wet weather. Parked up early by the side of Ullswater just outside of Glenridding.

Possibly the best of the lakes (or Waters- or Meres I should say !) - Stunning Ullswater.

All repaired now and Storm Desmond is just a memory for most.

Looking back towards Ullswater from the path up Birkhouse Moor

Into the clag and drizzle as we approach the 'Hole in the Wall' just after the top of Birkhouse Moor (must have missed the summit cairn as we were chatting !) - it's just off the main path.

Red Tarn - my theory of it being a bit sheltered here from the strong winds and rain were proved unfounded. Soggy sandwich but at least we had hot drinks.

Helvellyn started to become visible as we climbed the diagonal path towards Swirral Edge - maybe it won't be too bad up top ?

A sharp right turn as we reach the ridge - as we head for the pyramid that is also known as Catstye Cam.

Looking back towards Swirral Edge as the sun starts to dry us out and the surrounding views make us feel good about everything in the world - that's the lakes for you ! one minute wet, damp and cold with nothing but mist and cloud - then all of a sudden, rich green and blue views of sumptious mountains and lakes - it makes it all worthwhile.