Guided Rock Climbing - Classic Rock | Lake District Mountaineering

guided rock climbing

CLassic Rock

This week-long guided experience is designed for climbers who want to explore the very best of traditional climbing in the Lake District, inspired by Ken Wilson’s iconic book Classic Rock. You’ll tackle every classic route in Lakes; all while building skills, confidence, and a deeper connection to the heritage of British climbing.

This day is delivered by a mountain professionals that are affiliated with the Association of Mountaineering Instructors

7 DAY ITINERARY

1:1 £1800

1:2 £2100

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OVERVIEW

A famous collection of great climbs from the 'Classic Rock' book by Ken Wilson (1978), covering routes from all over the UK originally up to a grade of Hard Severe, although some have been subsequently upgraded to VS.

Hire a guide to climb the 'classic' routes we have in the Lake District. The aim to climb them all - 15 routes, 7 days.

Routes of history, lure and significance. Maximise your time, knowing your climbing routes of high quality and getting the best from the area. Our guides are on hand to help choose the right for your skill level and experience.

OUTLINE:

The itinerary:

Day 1 – Borrowdale Classics (3 routes)

Little Chamonix
Troutdale Pinnacle
Gillercombe Buttress

Big valley day, perfect to start the ticklist.

Day 2 – Langdale Mountain Crags (3 routes)

Ash Tree Slabs (VD) & C Route (S) – Gimmer Crag
Bowfell Buttress – Bowfell (HS)

Iconic high crags; big mileage and great scenery.

Day 3 – Dow Crag

Murray’s Route
Optional: Add a second non-Classic Rock route for mileage

Shorter day after Day 2; saves energy for bigger Scafell outing.

Day 4 – Rest or Flex Day

Use for skills, weather adjustments, or catch-ups
Option to fit in short route if you’re ahead

Day 5 – Scafell Massif

Jones’s Route
Moss Ghyll Grooves

Long, serious mountain day – strong fitness and early start needed.

Day 6 – Great Gable Trio

Needle Ridge
Tophet Wall
Napes Needle

Day 7 – Western Finale (Pillar Rock)

New West Route
Rib & Slab

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Classic multi-pitch trad routes from Diff to Hard Severe (VD–HS)
Routes on legendary crags: Scafell, Gimmer, Dow, Pillar, and Great Gable
A mix of valley crags and long mountain days with scenic walk-ins
Historic routes first climbed by the pioneers of British climbing
Opportunity to improve movement, gear placement, and ropework skills in real terrain

THE ROUTES

Little Chamonix - VD
Gillercombe Buttress - S
Troutdale Pinnacle - S
Bracket & Slab - S
Ash Tree Slabs - VD
'C' Route - S
Bowfell Buttress - HS
Murray's Route - S
Jones's Route - S
Moss Ghyll Grooves - HS
Napes Needle - HS
Needle Ridge - VD
Tophet Wall - S
New West - VD
Rib & Slab - HS

WHO IS THIS FOR?

Those that have some trad climbing experience, comfortable leading or seconding at grades around Severe (S) to Hard Severe (HS)
Are familiar with basic multi-pitch techniques and want to improve your efficiency, confidence, and mountain awareness
Are passionate about climbing history and want to tick the iconic routes from Ken Wilson’s Classic Rock
Want expert guidance in challenging mountain terrain, including exposed crags and routes
Are ready for a commitment to a full week of climbing, walking, and learning, with some flexibility for weather and conditions