top of page
Pillar Rock guides

guided mountain days 

pillar rock

This is proper mountaineering in a dramatic location. High in the mountains and dramatic scenery, climb the 'Inaccessible Pinnacle' of the Lake District. 

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

GUIDING PRICES

1:1 £240

1:2 £150pp

IMG_8157.PNG

WHAT IS PILLAR ROCK?

The Inaccessible Pinnacle of the Lake District.

The only Lake District summit that requires mountaineering and rock climbing skills.

Pillar Rock itself sits on the flanks of Pillar, an imposing place looming high above the Ennerdale valley - one of the most remote areas of the Lake District. ​ This summit alludes many hill walkers and is the crown jewel for those completing the Nuttall's and Birkett's.

Pillar Rock and High Man itself stand proud, detached on all sides from the mountain, its a striking place and just to visit is well worth the effort

This is proper mountaineering.

OVERVIEW

Meet at Wasdale Head, the heart of the big mountains. 

We will walk up the Black Sail Pass and over Looking Stead.  From here we will join the High Level Route to Pillar.

The walk in to Pillar Rock is around 2hr 30 mins.

The High Level Route is a highly sought after day in the mountains and is a great day in its own right.  The access to Pillar in this way is a great mountain day. 

On Arrival at Robinson's Cairn, we will gain the Shamrock Traverse and scramble up behind Pisgah to the start of our route of choice - Slab and Notch.

This climb is graded Moderate and is exposed.

We will split the climb into sections known as pitches. This makes the route manageable as we climb upwards onto the summit of High Man.

For descent, it is required to abseil off into Jordan Gap.

We will manage the ropes and control your descent as we lower you down and into the gully below.

After we have climbed on Pillar Rock, we will make our way up and onto the summit of Pillar mountain - an impressive Wainwright fell with far reaching views across the north and west side of the National Park.

We will then begin our descent. 

WHATS ON OFFER?

Experienced Guides

Our certified guides have extensive knowledge of the local terrain and are trained to provide expert instruction, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Tailored Adventures

Whether you're a beginner seeking an introduction to scrambling or an experienced mountaineer looking for a new challenge, our guided adventures are customised to meet your specific skill level and goals.

Unparalleled Views

As you ascend Pillar Rock, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Lake District landscape, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Historical Significance

Pillar Rock holds a special place in the history of British climbing. Our guides will share stories and insights about the pioneers who first ascended this iconic pinnacle.

Equipment Provided

We supply all necessary technical gear, including harnesses, helmets, ropes, and hardware, ensuring you have access to high-quality equipment for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Skill-Building Opportunities

Our adventures offer opportunities for skill development, including route finding, climbing/movement techniques, and navigation in challenging terrain.

Pillar Rock Guides
Abseiling off Pillar Rock - into Jordan Gap

This route is about 14km and the day can last up to 9 hours so expect a big day in the hills.

This is complex terrain in misty or rainy conditions. The rock climbing difficulty increases dramatically in the wet.

 

Get in touch to plan your adventure onto Pillar Rock.

WHY CHOOSE US?

Qualified Guides

  • Our guides are qualified mountaineers with extensive knowledge of graded scrambles. They are certified and trained to a high standard.  This standard is upheld through Mountain Training and our instructors hold the MCI award and are professional members of AMI.

Passion to inspire:

We're committed to leading by example, sharing knowledge, fostering growth and encouraging positivity in all climbing activities we provide. 

Personalised Instruction

Our guides can offer one-on-one instruction, providing personalised tips and techniques to help climbers improve their skills and confidence on the rock.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Your adventure is designed to accommodate your schedule and preferences. Whether it's a single day excursion or a development plan over multiple days, we're here to make it happen.

Passion for Mountains

We are avid mountaineers ourselves, and our passion for the sport is evident in the experiences we create. We genuinely love sharing our knowledge and helping others discover the joy of the mountains

Memories that Last a Lifetime

Mountaineering is an opportunity for personal growth and unforgettable memories. Our tailored approach ensures that your climbing adventure is a story you'll cherish forever.

Ratios

1:2 Ratio

2 people per 1 instructor

Safety is paramount so no more than 2 people per 1 instructor in technical terrain.

 

We can accommodate a party larger than 2 but this will require multiple instructors for the climbing section - we can supply instructors adhering to our ratios - please enquire.  

Pre-Requisites 

No experience necessary

 

We can show you how to wear a harness, tie in to the rope and guide you on the scramble.

The terrain is exposed but not too difficult - expect easy climbing moves and come with a head for heights 

You will need to abseil/lower from the top so be prepared for this

Equipment

All technical equipment is provided. 

Harness & Helmet provided

You will need to wear suitable outdoor clothing (warm and waterproof where possible) and suitable mountain footwear (boots)

A good rucksack to carry everything you need for the day is advisable

Venue

We will meet at Wasdale Head and walk in from this location. 

The walk in to Pillar Rock is 2hr 30min approx

This day is long - Pillar Rock is high above the Ennerdale Valley and one of the most remote crags in the Lakes.

We hope to summit Pillar mountain too on the journey. 

Dates on request

 

Please us the contact form or email us to enquire and we can organise a guided day based on your availability (and ours)

 

We can supply additional instructors for larger groups - 1:2 ratio for safety in this terrain. For every 2 people we can supply an additional guide.

24B1F883-5AA6-4DED-87A6-F34974366D3C.JPG

CONTACT

We look forward to hearing from you and working towards your mountaineering ambitions and helping to achieve your goals. 

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • YouTube
  • TripAdvisor

Phone or WhatsApp:

07458353048

If calls are missed we will respond when possible, please leave a voicemail or text message where possible.

Thank you

bottom of page