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Keswick 3 Peak Challenge

Stay at Hassness Country House and experience the adventurous side of the Lake District on this guided walking holiday. Explore dramatic ridges, remote valleys, hidden tarns and classic mountain passes, before joining fellow walkers at the Keswick Mountain Festival to take on the renowned Keswick 3 Peaks Challenge.

  • Lake District

  • Full Board (excluding one evening meal)
  • Landscape

    Mountains

  • May

  • Average group size: 10-12

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Walking grade

Grade 6

Full day walks with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent and longer distances covered.  Whilst you will be mainly on paths, these may be rough, steep, and loose at times. We take the whole day to enjoy some fabulous walks.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 8 miles; Ascent/Descent 850m; Terrain: sometimes rough, loose or steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs / Full Day walks.

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s key walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

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Meticulously curated, guided walking holiday itineraries that delve into the culture, wildlife, cuisine, and rich history of the world.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Take on the Keswick 3 Peaks Challenge
  • Explore the wilder side of the Western Lake District
  • Enjoy the atmosphere of the Keswick Mountain Festiva
  • Experience the wild beauty of Ennerdale
  • Discover iconic Lakeland landscapes

Experience the adventurous side of the Lake District on this guided walking holiday based at Hassness Country House, beautifully situated on the shores of Buttermere. Designed for experienced walkers, this holiday combines classic Lakeland routes, dramatic mountain scenery and a memorable day at the renowned Keswick Mountain Festival.

Throughout the week, you'll explore some of the Western Lake District's most spectacular landscapes. Venture along rugged ridges, discover hidden tarns and walk through remote valleys as you tackle a selection of rewarding routes showcasing the very best of Lakeland walking. From the dramatic summit of Haystacks, Alfred Wainwright's favourite fell, to the wild beauty of Ennerdale and the stunning viewpoints above Buttermere and Crummock Water, every day offers a new perspective on this remarkable region.

A highlight of the holiday is the opportunity to take part in the Keswick 3 Peaks Challenge as part of the Keswick Mountain Festival. Joining fellow walkers in this iconic event, you'll experience the festival atmosphere while taking on a rewarding challenge that visits three classic Lake District summits. It's a fantastic opportunity to test yourself, share the achievement with the group and enjoy some of the finest panoramic views in the National Park.

Alongside the walking, you'll have time to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the Keswick Mountain Festival, one of the UK's premier outdoor events. Bringing together walkers, runners and outdoor enthusiasts, the festival celebrates adventure, community and the incredible landscapes of the Lakes.

Each evening, return to the comfort of Hassness Country House, where hearty home-cooked meals and warm hospitality await. Nestled beside Buttermere, this unique country house provides the perfect place to relax and recharge after a day on the fells.

Combining challenging walks, iconic mountain scenery and the unforgettable experience of participating in the Keswick 3 Peaks Challenge, this holiday is ideal for walkers looking to enjoy the Lake District at its adventurous best. 

  • Transport and entry to the Keswick Mountain Festival
  • Entry to the 3 Peak Challenge
  • Comfortable double, twin and single rooms, most en suite
  • Cooked or Continental breakfast each morning
  • Three course evening meals (except on Wednesday)
  • Packed lunches on each organised walk day
  • Complimentary tea & coffee always available and cake after each walk day
  • Renowned Hassness House hospitality
  • All public or private transport to / from the trailheads as required
  • Services of a Classic Tour Leader
  • One evening meal per week - the house manager's day off is on Wednesday.
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill
  • Travel insurance
  • Food and drink at Keswick festival

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

70250

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Hassness!

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

We wish you a very warm welcome to Hassness Country House. 

Your hosts will be there to welcome you and ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible. Your holiday starts upon arrival at Hassness Country House in Buttermere where you are welcome to arrive from 3pm. Your evening meal will be served at 6.30pm. If you anticipate arriving after this time, we kindly request that you telephone Hassness Country House to confirm your expected arrival time.

Days 2-7

Conquering the Lakes

Meals

Full Board (excluding one evening meal)

Accommodation

Your holiday includes five days of guided walking and a free day to relax or explore at your own pace in the stunning Lake District.

Based at Hassness Country House on the shores of Buttermere, you'll enjoy a varied programme of walks through some of the National Park's most celebrated landscapes. From high mountain passes and panoramic ridges to remote valleys and hidden tarns, each day offers a rewarding blend of scenery, challenge and classic Lakeland walking.

The routes featured below provide an indication of the walks typically enjoyed on this holiday. Walks may vary depending on weather conditions, ground conditions and the needs of the group. As this holiday explores more challenging terrain, the programme is particularly dependent on favourable weather, and alternative routes may be selected where necessary.

Keswick 3 peaks

This is a mid-level, circular hike over the three peaks surrounding Derwentwater Catbells, Walla Crag, and Latrigg. The route takes in a distance of 18 miles, with 1,050m ascent. Your expected completion time is between 7-10 hours and suitable for novice walkers through to experienced hikers. 

 Grade 6 Walks

The Robinson Ridge

A classic high-level traverse overlooking Buttermere and the Newlands Valley. Starting at Honister Pass, the route climbs steadily to Dale Head before following an airy ridge across Hindscarth and Robinson. Throughout the day, walkers are rewarded with spectacular views towards Great Gable, Helvellyn, Skiddaw and the surrounding fells. The route returns via Buttermere Moss and lakeside paths back to Hassness Country House.

Distance: 7.7 miles (12.4 km)
Ascent: 745m

False Esk Hause, Angle Tarn and Rossett Pike

This superb crossing from Borrowdale to Langdale explores some of the Lake District's finest high-country scenery. From Seathwaite, the route climbs through spectacular mountain terrain to False Esk Hause and the beautiful waters of Angle Tarn. An optional ascent of Rossett Pike offers even wider views before descending into the dramatic Langdale Valley beneath the famous Langdale Pikes.

Distance: 7.3 miles (11.7 km)
Ascent: 720m

Barrow, Outerside and Sail Pass

A rewarding linear walk linking the valleys east of Buttermere. Beginning in Braithwaite, the route climbs steadily onto open fellside, crossing Barrow and Outerside before reaching Sail Pass. Stronger groups may also have the opportunity to visit Causey Pike, one of the area's finest viewpoints. The descent follows Sail Beck back towards Buttermere and Hassness.

Distance: 8.5 miles (13.7 km)
Ascent: 700m

The Three Tarns

One of the most scenic walks of the week, this route explores a collection of beautiful mountain tarns nestled amongst the central fells. Starting in Borrowdale, the walk follows Langstrath before visiting Angle Tarn, Sprinkling Tarn and Styhead Tarn. Surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery and crossed by historic packhorse routes, this is a day rich in both natural beauty and Lakeland heritage.

Distance: 9.9 miles (15.9 km)
Ascent: 700m

Ennerdale, Black Sail and Wasdale

Experience the wilder side of the Lake District on this memorable journey between valleys. From Hassness, the route crosses Scarth Gap into remote Ennerdale, home to one of the UK's most significant rewilding landscapes. After a break at Black Sail, England's most remote youth hostel, the walk crosses into Wasdale before continuing alongside Wast Water, England's deepest lake.

Distance: 8.5 miles (13.7 km)
Ascent: 700m

Day 8

Departure day

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

After a hearty breakfast, your hosts wave you goodbye when you'll leave with memories from your Lake District experience. Check out is by 10am. 

We hope you enjoyed your stay and we look forward to welcoming you again soon.

Departure dates for your selected tour

Travel Details

Private or public transport to and from the trailheads, if necessary, is included. 

See our Holiday Information Sheet for more details on how to reach Hassness Country House by car or public transport. 

Nearest railway station: Penrith (approx. 28 miles)

Nearest bus station: Keswick (approx. 9 miles)

Parking is available at Hassness County House. If driving, please note that there is no opportunity to fuel vehicles in the immediate Buttermere area, so please ensure you have enough fuel to get you to the house and away on your return journey. The nearest filling station is in Keswick or Cockermouth. There is no electric charge point at the property. 

If you are travelling by train, we offer a taxi transfer service from Penrith Railway Station on your arrival day at 16:45 and on your departure day at 09:30. To add the transfers to your booking, please telephone our Sales & Reservations Team on 01707 331133.

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

Hassness County House Hotel

  • Traditional country house accommodation in a peaceful and secluded setting
  • 11 comfortable bedrooms, many with stunning views across the lake and surrounding fells.
  • Majority of rooms are lakeside-facing, creating a truly immersive Lake District experience
  • Welcoming communal spaces ideal for relaxing and socialising after a day's walking.
  • Hearty home-cooked meals served in a friendly atmosphere
  • Direct access to walking routes around Buttermere, Crummock Water, Haystacks and Ennerdale.
  • Ideal for solo travellers, friends and walking groups, offering a warm and supportive environment.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

Full day walks with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent and longer distances covered.  Whilst you will be mainly on paths, these may be rough, steep, and loose at times. We take the whole day to enjoy some fabulous walks.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 8 miles; Ascent/Descent 850m; Terrain: sometimes rough, loose or steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs / Full Day walks.

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s key walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

Walks & Excursions

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Swimwear & towel (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Holiday booking confirmation document
  • Travel insurance details (if applicable)
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

You may wish to look at the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination; BBC weather or MyWeather2. 

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for United Kingdom

No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses, mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable travel insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.


Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilise this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en-route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimise the use of mobile devices. Your co-operation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

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